An assistant field hockey coach at Indiana University is shaping more than athletes: She’s helping redefine what leadership looks like in sports.

Dani Castro, a Pacific Islander and assistant coach at IU, is breaking barriers in her field, and also paving the way for future leaders.

Castro has spent years building up IU’s field hockey program, first as a player, and now as an assistant coach.

Since returning to her alma mater in 2019, the 2009 graduate helped lead IU to record-setting success. That includes seven shutout victories in one season (a program best) and back-to-back winning seasons for the first time in nearly a decade.

But the journey hasn’t always been smooth. Early in her coaching career, Castro was often mistaken for head coach Kayla Bashore, who is also of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage.

Despite being overlooked, Castro has become a visible and vocal leader. She recently shared her story on a university panel called Redefining the Game, focusing on representation, microaggressions, and the importance of inclusion in sports leadership.

She hopes her presence sends a clear message to the next generation.

Through her role, Castro is paving the way for others, on and off the field

Castro’s message is clear: Representation isn’t just important, it’s necessary, and it starts with being seen and having a sense of belonging.

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The Burmese population in Indianapolis brings with it rich tradition, strong community ties, and flavorful cuisine.

Tucked inside the south side of Indianapolis is Chin Brothers Restaurant and Grocery, a small space known for its authentic Burmese and Southeast Asian cuisine.

For it’s owner, it’s more than business: It’s a cultural bridge.

From mohinga, a traditional fish noodle soup, to tea leaf salad and spicy curries, Chin Brothers Restaurant and Grocery has many traditional dishes.

It was 15 years ago, when Hre, who’s from Burma (now known as Myanmar) opened up his grocery store. A year later, he opened up the restaurant next door to provide a one-shop stop for his customers.

Indianapolis has one of the largest Burmese populations in the country, with many in Perry Township. Hre’s goal is to expose more people in the Hoosier state to Burmese food. He says that the popular dishes he serves are filled with foods you could get anywhere in Burma, such as kyay oh, teas, and rice dishes.

Hre is proud to own his business in a diverse part of the city, where he and other cultures can grow and celebrate one another.

Whether you’re looking for an authentic taste of Myanmar or just a new spot to try something different, Chin Brothers Restaurant and Grocery offers more than a meal: It offers connection.

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This year marks 60 years since the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 legislation changed who could come to America.

Now, local leaders gathered in Indianapolis to celebrate its impact, especially on Indiana’s growing Asian American and Pacific Islander population.

Before 1965, immigration from Asia was almost entirely banned, but during the civil rights era, the new Act replaced a quota system and opened the door for families to build their lives in Indiana.

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