BLOOMINGTON, Ind.—The Indiana University Foundation’s Women’s Philanthropy Leadership Council awarded distinguished IU alumna Cindy Simon Skjodt, BA’80, with its Women Leading the Way Award during the Women’s Philanthropy at IU’s 15th anniversary celebration on Oct. 3, 2025.
The award honors women associated with Indiana University for philanthropic work that improves their communities and inspires others to drive positive change. Simon Skjodt has dedicated her life to continuing her father Melvin Simon’s legacy of generosity, giving her time, leadership, and financial support to IU, as well as national and international charities.
“Through her generosity and service, Cindy has shaped both the athletic and cultural fabric of Indiana University,” said Laurie Burns McRobbie, founder of Women’s Philanthropy at IU. “From her transformational gift to renovate Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall to championing study abroad scholarships and establishing endowments in philanthropy and art therapy, her commitment to helping others is truly inspiring.”
Simon Skjodt provided the largest single donation in the history of IU Athletics to renovate Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall. She has also supported the arts through the Bess Meshulam Simon Music Library and Recital Center.
In June, Simon Skjodt accepted the 2025 Partners in Philanthropy Family Legacy Award on behalf of the Simon family, which honored the family for its legacy of transformative philanthropy that spans several decades at IU. The Simon family’s generosity has significantly supported several fields, including cancer research, athletics, humanities, and the arts.
IU has recognized Simon Skjodt’s impact on the university with several other awards, including the Bicentennial Medal, 2018 Partners in Philanthropy Herman B Wells Visionary Award, and the Presidents Circle Laurel Pin.
The IU Foundation established Women’s Philanthropy at IU in 2010. At its center is the Women’s Philanthropy Leadership Council, the principal body of volunteer advisors committed to leading fundraising and engagement efforts that inspire women to give their time, talent, and resources to IU and to developing female leaders in philanthropy.