Breakthrough T1D Indianapolis Gala 2026

Jen Compton was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 1976 and celebrated her 50th diaversary on January 21, 2026. One of five siblings, Jen’s T1D journey is deeply rooted in family—two of her brothers also live with type 1 diabetes, as do her niece and nephew. Across five decades, Jen has witnessed firsthand the evolution of T1D care and the progress made possible through research, advocacy, and community. She is honored to stand with Breakthrough T1D Indiana in support of continued innovation and the shared vision of a future without type 1 diabetes.

Jackie Adams was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2007. The Breakthrough T1D Walk was her family’s entry point into the organization, and they remained active participants in both the walk and the gala in the years that followed. Jackie later deepened her connection by interning with the Indiana Chapter, where she saw firsthand the meaningful work being done to support her T1D community and advance research. Today, Jackie is is thriving and building a successful career in the hospitality industry, carrying with her a lifelong connection to the mission of Breakthrough T1D.

Keegan Brady is a bright and resilient seven-year-old who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes on September 29, 2024. Keegan’s diagnosis came unexpectedly, reshaping daily life for his entire family. Since that day, Keegan has faced each new challenge with courage well beyond his years. As an honoree, he represents the many children and families who are newly navigating life with type 1 diabetes and the hope that continued research will bring a future free from this disease.

Jennifer Sullivan is a National Director at Experis Health Solutions and serving in her fourth year as Auction Committee Chair. Jenny served on the Breakthrough T1D Indiana Community Board for over 6 years and her family has participated in numerous One Walks throughout her 20-year history with T1d.

A mother of 5, Jenny’s son Aidan was diagnosed with T1D in 2004 at the age of 2. Ten years later, her son Chris, would also be diagnosed at age 10. Jenny remembers the early days of insulin injections and manually calculating Aidan’s insulin injections using pencil, paper, and an algebra equation. By the time Chris was diagnosed, injections were given using pre-loaded insulin pens. The last 20 years have been spent worrying about blood sugars, but the advancements in T1D treatments and technology have been tremendous. Today, both boys wear Tandem TSlim insulin pumps and Dexcom Continuous Glucose Monitors.  It has been life changing for the boys and for Jenny.

Breakthrough T1D has been instrumental in her family’s journey with type 1 diabetes. Jenny believes that she will see a cure in her boys’ lifetimes and continues to support Breakthrough T1D through her volunteer efforts.

Beth Ruge serves as the Gala Chair for the Breakthrough T1D Indiana Gala and is the Senior Director of Marketing at Splenda. She has served on the Breakthrough T1D Indiana Board since 2023, bringing a strong commitment to purpose-driven leadership and community impact. Beth’s professional expertise and dedication help advance the mission of Breakthrough T1D and support those affected by type 1 diabetes.

With nearly 20 years of experience across journalism, storytelling, and marketing strategy, Nicole Pence Becker leads a team at Pence Media Group known for elevating brands through thoughtful messaging, sharp execution, and high-impact campaigns.

Prior to founding the full-service consultancy in 2017, Nicole built a career as an Emmy Award-winning broadcast journalist, earning a reputation for clarity, credibility and connection. Today, she has guided national campaigns, positioned C-suite leaders, and grown PMG into a trusted partner for corporations, nonprofits, and public sector clients alike.

Nicole’s brand of leadership is to be helpful and encourage people and organizations to succeed, grow, and thrive. A proud Hoosier, she holds degrees from DePauw University and a Master’s in Public Affairs from SPEA at IUPUI, both with academic honors.

Nicole lives in Carmel, Indiana with her husband Jason and their four sons—Andrew, Colin, Matthew, and Luke. Following Matthew’s diagnosis with Type 1 Diabetes, their family has become passionate advocates for T1D awareness, research, and support—amplifying the voices of families managing chronic conditions and driving progress through storytelling and community engagement.

Jim Jungers has become a leading auctioneer in the Northwest since starting in the business in 1984. He began his career working with his father, Mike Jungers, conducting commercial auctions along the west coast. A 1986 graduate of Western College of Auctioneering, Jim joined the Stokes Auction Group team in 1992 to help meet the need for experienced charity auctioneers.

Fun, laughter, enthusiasm…these are just a few words to describe Jim’s auction style. There is none other who brings as much energy to the stage as Jim. He commands his audience’s attention and guarantees an enjoyable event. Underneath his merriment lies a compassionate nature that breaks down barriers and encourages others to join him in supporting the cause.