Boston native Kathy Davis (MBA 1982) never intended to go into politics, or to get her name in the Hoosier history books. But on October 20, 2003, she did both when she was confirmed as the first woman lieutenant governor of Indiana — a vacancy created by the governor’s sudden death and lieutenant governor’s ascension to the top office. The former controller of Indianapolis was confirmed in a unanimous vote by both the State Senate and the House of Representatives.

“Congratulations, senators. You just made history,” said Senate President Pro Tem Robert Garton, according to the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (October 21, 2003). The swearing-in ceremony included an audience of eight hundred enthusiastic supporters, a high-school band, and a heartfelt rendition of the national anthem. “The bipartisan crowd was liberal with its applause and standing ovations,” said the Journal Gazette.

While Davis, a Democrat, has never held public office, she is not new to state governance, having led the state’s budget and family and social services agencies. “I accept my new responsibilities gladly and wholeheartedly,” said Davis, who moved to Indiana after earning her MBA to work for Cummins Engine Company. With a nod to the historic significance of the day, Davis, a working mom, expressed her appreciation to the senate: “The women of Indiana thank you.”

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