The annual IU Indianapolis Alumni Leaders Dinner was held last Thursday evening, November 14, where two exceptional alumni from the IU School of Liberal Arts were recognized for their remarkable careers and contributions to both their professions and the community–Belinda Drake and Shehzad Qazi.
2024 Career Achievement Award: Belinda Drake
Belinda Drake, Political Science ’09, received the Career Achievement Award for her outstanding work across nonprofit, government, and civic sectors. A dedicated advocate for marginalized communities, she has championed initiatives in Indianapolis and Central Indiana to uplift youth and create positive social change.
As president of the Indiana Pride of Color and Community Engagement Leader at Engaging Solutions, Belinda thrives in bridging gaps and building strong partnerships in our community. Her leadership at the Edna Martin Christian Center and Indiana Youth Group further underscores her commitment to service, especially for LGBTQ+ youth. Belinda also serves on multiple boards, including those for the Indianapolis Business and Neighborhood Services, the Christian Theological Seminary, and the Liberal Arts Board of Advisors. Her dedication to empowerment and equity makes her an inspiring example of the values instilled by a liberal arts education.
2024 Distinguished Alumni Award: Shehzad Qazi
Shehzad Qazi, International Studies and Political minor ’10, honored with the Distinguished Alumni Award, the School’s highest alumni honor, exemplifies excellence in both his professional career and his ongoing contributions to the IU community.
A 2010 graduate in International Studies, Shehzad has risen to leadership roles in the global business world, currently serving as Chief Operating Officer and Managing Director of China Beige Book International. He has also testified before the U.S. Congress and frequently appears in top media outlets, including Bloomberg and the Wall Street Journal. Shehzad's academic career was distinguished by publications in prestigious journals during his undergraduate years, and his commitment to the IU Indianapolis campus remains strong.
During his undergraduate studies, he founded the Council on Strategic and International Affairs, regularly mentored current students, and is currently serving as the Chair of the Liberal Arts Board of Advisors. Through his work, Shehzad proves the transformative power of a liberal arts education in addressing global challenges.
Both Belinda and Shehzad are shining examples of how a liberal arts background empowers individuals to excel in diverse fields and make lasting impacts on their communities. Their continued engagement with IU, the Indianapolis campus, and the IU School of Liberal Arts reflects their dedication to inspiring future generations and shaping a better world.
The IU School of Liberal Arts, the IU Alumni Association, and the entire IU Indianapolis community congratulate them on their extraordinary achievements.