GOSHEN, Ind. – Four women leading in healthcare, finance, public safety, and emergency response shared their personal journeys at Goshen’s International Women’s Day luncheon at Bread & Chocolate.
The event, hosted by the City of Goshen’s Community Relations Commission on Friday, March 7, 2025, highlighted stories of perseverance, leadership, and progress under the theme “Breaking Barriers.”
- Julia Chairez, a family nurse practitioner with Beacon Health, spoke about her journey into healthcare as the first in her family to enter the field. She emphasized the importance of patient education and preventive care, inspired by her great-grandmother’s experience with diabetes.
- Amy Sink, CEO of Interra Credit Union, discussed her role in expanding financial opportunities and leading in a male-dominated industry. She shared insights on leadership, financial empowerment, and the impact of credit unions in local communities.
- Tara Powell, a school resource officer with the Goshen Police Department, reflected on her transition from K-9 officer to school mentor. She highlighted the importance of building trust with students and ensuring school safety.
- Hannah Estes, one of Goshen’s first female firefighters, shared her experience breaking into a historically male profession. She spoke about the rigorous training process and her commitment to increasing diversity in emergency services.
An International Women’s Day Celebration of Leadership and Resilience
Each speaker for International Women’s Day delivered a Pecha Kucha-style presentation, a fast-paced format featuring 20 slides shown for 20 seconds each. Their stories sparked conversations about overcoming obstacles, embracing leadership, and mentoring future generations.
Mayor Gina Leichty praised the event’s impact, stating that sharing these experiences strengthens the community and paves the way for future leaders.
The Community Relations Commission thanked attendees for their support. For information on future events, visit goshenindiana.org/government/crc.
2025 International Women’s Day Speakers
Julia Chairez
Family Nurse Practitioner
Beacon Health
Amy Sink
Chief Executive Officer
Interra Credit Union
Tara Powell
Schools Resource Officer
Goshen Police Department
Hannah Estes
Goshen Fire Department
Speaker bios
JULIA CHAIREZ
Nurse Practitioner | Beacon Health System
A family nurse practitioner at Beacon Health, Julia Chairez is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to patients of all ages. The first in her family to enter healthcare, she was inspired by her great-grandmother’s experience with diabetes.
Since joining Beacon in 2010 as an ER nurse, she has focused on preventative care, patient education, and chronic disease management. Chairez specializes in family practice to address the growing need for primary care providers in the community.
As an International Women’s Day speaker, she will share insights on breaking barriers in healthcare and empowering patients through education and trust.
AMY SINK
Chief Executive Officer | Interra Credit Union
Amy Sink is the CEO of Interra Credit Union, leading the Goshen-based institution since 2013 and overseeing its growth to serve 90,000 members. She actively advocates for the credit union industry, serving on multiple national, state, and local boards, including America’s Credit Unions and the Indiana Credit Union League.
Sink earned degrees from Indiana University-Bloomington and the University of Notre Dame, and completed executive leadership training at Harvard. She also serves on the Goshen Health Foundation and Goshen Health System Boards.
As an International Women’s Day speaker, she will share insights on leadership, financial empowerment, and breaking barriers in business.
TARA POWELL
School Resource Officer | Goshen Police Department
Officer Tara Powell serves as a School Resource Officer at Goshen Intermediate School, ensuring student safety and fostering positive relationships. Previously a K-9 handler, she transitioned to school policing, mentoring students and promoting a secure learning environment.
Powell’s dedication earned her a Life Saving Award for quick action in a critical situation. She actively engages with students, building trust and supporting their well-being. Her leadership and commitment continue to make a lasting impact on Goshen’s youth and community.
As a 2025 International Women’s Day speaker, Powell will share insights on breaking barriers in law enforcement and education.
HANNAH ESTES
Goshen Fire Department
Hannah Estes joined the Goshen Fire Department in 2021, becoming one of the first female firefighters in the department’s history. Her hiring marked a significant step toward greater diversity and inclusion in public safety. She trained extensively to meet the department’s rigorous standards and has since served the Goshen community with dedication.Estes is passionate about breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields and inspiring other women to pursue careers in firefighting.
As an International Women’s Day speaker, she will share her experiences, challenges, and the importance of representation in emergency services.
About the Community Relations Commission
The Community Relations Commission (CRC) is dedicated to improving the quality of life in Goshen by creating programs and initiatives that benefit all community members. The Commission is committed to establishing a city free from racism and discrimination. It fosters strong bonds among residents and within neighborhoods, addresses complex issues, advocates for health, safety, and wellness, and encourages courteous and respectful interactions among Goshen’s diverse population.
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