Attorney Nakeina Cane is among the women named to IBJ’s 2026 Women of Influence class. Her work includes designing Marion County’s first felony diversion program and later founding a practice focused on family law.
Cane and the other honorees are scheduled to be recognized at an October 22 breakfast in Indianapolis. The class spans business, government, nonprofits, healthcare, and other fields. Legal professionals feature among the women selected for recognition.
In its announcement of the honorees, IBJ highlights Cane’s work in prosecution, private practice, and youth-serving organizations. The recognition brings those parts of her career into the same account.
Cane’s Career Includes Diversion and Family Law
During her time with the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office, Cane designed and implemented the county’s first felony diversion program. She founded her own firm in 2019. Her practice handles divorce, custody, child support, and paternity issues.
Cane has also served on the board of Reach for Youth. The nonprofit focuses on youth mental health, restorative justice, and prevention programming. Her board service includes Lutherwood Child and Family Services, which supports young people with significant emotional and behavioral needs and their families.
Other Honorees Work Across Legal and Forensic Fields
The class also includes Jessica Benson Cox, a partner at Faegre Drinker. Amber Finley, corporation counsel for the city of Lawrence, is another honoree. Their inclusion places private legal practice and municipal counsel among the professional roles represented.
Krista Latham, a University of Indianapolis biology and anthropology professor, is also being recognized. IBJ describes her as one of Indiana’s first female forensic anthropologists. She oversees the university’s nonprofit Human Identification Center.
The center provides forensic anthropology assistance to law enforcement agencies and coroners across Indiana. It averages more than 100 cases and 5,000 hours of work annually. Latham also founded a humanitarian forensic science team that makes annual trips to the U.S.-Mexico border.
Recognition Extends to Mentorship and Career Achievement
IBJ separately named Melissa Proffitt as this year’s Mentorship Award recipient. Proffitt is partner in charge of client relations at Ice Miller LLP and belongs to the 2008 Women of Influence class. Cathy Langham, founder and chief executive of Langham Logistics, received the Career Achievement award.
The October 22 breakfast is planned for the Indiana Roof Ballroom at 140 W. Washington St. Networking begins at 7:30 a.m., with the program scheduled for 8 a.m. Profiles of the honorees are planned for IBJ’s October 23 issue and online publication.
Frequently asked questions
What legal work is Nakeina Cane known for in the announcement?
IBJ highlights her role designing Marion County’s first felony diversion program and her family law practice.
Which family law matters does Nakeina Cane handle?
Her practice handles issues including divorce, custody, child support, and paternity, according to IBJ’s announcement.
When are the Women of Influence honorees scheduled to be celebrated?
The breakfast is scheduled for October 22 at the Indiana Roof Ballroom, with networking at 7:30 a.m. and the program at 8 a.m.
Who received the 2026 Women of Influence Mentorship Award?
Melissa Proffitt, partner in charge of client relations at Ice Miller LLP and a 2008 honoree, received the Mentorship Award.
