Ivy Tech Indianapolis magazine, Winter 2023/24: Vol. 03
WINTER 23-24 IVY INDY
State Board of Trustees Terry Anker , The Anker Consulting Group Marianne Glick , Glick Philanthropies Campus Board of Trustees Mario Rodriguez , Chairperson Indianapolis Airport Authority Jean Renk , Vice Chairperson Duke Energy Aaron Williams , Secretary Google Ann Merkel The National Bank of Indianapolis Jason Kloth Community volunteer Aleesia Johnson Indianapolis Public Schools Tracey Tomchick Eli Lilly and Company Ryan Chelli Community Health Network Foundation Darrick Collier Walmart Robert Henderson Indiana State Building & Construction Chancellor’s Cabinet Dr. Stacy Atkinson , Chancellor
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Julie Scholl CHIEF CONTENT OFFICER Shakkira Harris HEAD OF DESIGN Tracy James II
The Ivy Indy magazine is published two times annually by the Ivy Tech Indianapolis Office of Marketing & Communications for stakeholders, alumni, and friends. Reach out to the creators at Indianapolis-Marketing@ ivytech.edu with your comments and thoughts. Address any correspon- dence to Ivy Tech Community College - Indianapolis, ATTN: Ivy Indy maga- zine, 50 W. Fall Creek Parkway, North Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46208. ivytech.edu/indianapolis
Dr. Greg Bond , Vice Chancellor of Enrollment Services Amanda Bonilla , Vice Chancellor of Diversity, Equity and Belonging + Community Engagement Cat Cleary , Vice Chancellor of Development Operations Andy Cummings , Chief Operating Officer Dr. Niki Fjeldal , Vice Chancellor of Student Success Julie Johns-Cole, Vice Chancellor of Career Link Dr. Claire Maxson , Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs Fred Parker, Vice Chancellor of Human Resources
Ivy Indy
Ivy Indy
MESSAGE TO READER Page 2-3 MEET THE CHANCELLOR Page 4-7 CONFIDENTLY COOKING Page 10-13 ‘SEE OUR GROWTH. APPRECIATE OUR EVOLUTION.’ Page 14-17 CHANGING LIVES ONE EIGHT COUNT AT A TIME Page 18-19 STARTING FALL SEMESTER WITH A SENSE OF BELONGING Page 20-21 AWARDS SEASON Page 22-26 MARIO RODRIGUEZ- 2023 DYNAMIC LEADER OF THE YEAR Page 27-28 FROM CAFE OWNER TO CULINARY COMPETITOR Page 29-31 COMMUNITY ART SHOW NOURISHES COLLABORATIVE CREATIVITY Page 32-33
IVY IN THE COMMUNITY Page 34
IVY TECH IS PREPARING HOOSIERS FOR THE HVAC INDUSTRY BOOM WITH SUPPORT FROM THE LOWE’S FOUNDATION’S GABLE GRANTS
PROGRAM Page 35-36
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LIGHTING THE PATH
Photo by: James Johnson II
“I shall be telling this with a sigh Somewhere ages and ages hence: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.”
- Robert Frost 1916
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Read about an alumna helping others who are blind build independence in the kitchen with the help of our faculty members. Learn how one alumna is making dance more inclusive for people with disabilities. Plus, read a Q&A with our new chancellor, who made history as the youngest Latina chancellor to lead an Ivy Tech campus. Despite facing many challenges along the way, our community – students, faculty, and staff alike – perseveres and inspires others to do the same every single day. We hope you find this publication not only insightful but helpful in learning more about the impact Ivy Tech Indianapolis has on our communities, our city, this region, our state – and beyond. Ivy Tech Community College students are the future leaders of our society, and we should support and encourage them every step of the way. If you would like to cheer on our students, follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and X. Watch and read impactful student stories on our website and share them with your colleagues. If you’re considering enrolling at or supporting Ivy Tech Indianapolis, learn more at ivytech.edu/indianapolis.
Photo by: James Johnson II
Students at community colleges are often overlooked because of the college they attend, but here at Ivy Tech Community College, we know they are the ones lighting the path forward. Our students come from all walks of life and work hard to achieve their dreams while building a better path forward for those behind them. Inside this edition of Ivy Indy, you will find stories highlighting trailblazers from our student body, faculty, staff, and alums, who are lighting the way and creating space for entire groups of people who would not otherwise have the opportunity to thrive in these capacities.
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MEET THE CHANCELLOR: Dr. Stacy Atkinson
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“My heart speaks to what Ivy Tech Community College gets to do and the impact we make. It invigorates me to serve,” says Dr. Atkinson. “Serving as chancellor of Ivy Tech Indianapolis has multiplied the impact I can make with a larger employee pool, service area, and student body.” Dr. Atkinson came to the Indianapolis campus with a strong track record of leadership and success at Ivy Tech. Her journey with the College began nearly 10 years ago as a senior instructional designer for academic support services in Ivy Tech’s statewide office, internally referred to as the Systems Office. She later became the vice chancellor for academic affairs at Ivy Tech Richmond, where she was quickly appointed chancellor of the campus. In this role, Dr. Atkinson made history as the youngest Latina chancellor to lead an Ivy Tech campus. She still holds the Richmond campus, its community, and that moment in time dear to her heart. “They are an amazing group of people who continue to do some amazing things. They were my first campus and embraced me so tightly. I would do anything for them. This still holds true today,” Dr. Atkinson said, speaking to her unwavering loyalty to the Ivy Tech Richmond campus. Prior to joining the Indianapolis campus, Dr. Atkinson was the inaugural chancellor of the Ivy Tech Hamilton County campus, where she was pivotal in transforming the then Noblesville site into a full-service campus. The scope of Dr. Atkinson’s accomplishments is long, varied, and impressive. While at Ivy Tech – in addition to building a brand new- campus – Dr. Atkinson was integral to the growth of IvyOnline, the expansion of 8-week course offerings, curriculum redevelopments, and master planning infrastructure. In addition to Dr. Atkinson’s illustrious career at Ivy Tech, she was honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps, where she served as an avionics technician and worked on the F/A 18A fighter jet during both Operation Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. She is a certified SIMPLEX Creative Problem-Solving Trainer for both SIMPLEX I and II, a certified facilitator, and a coach for those seeking facilitator certification. Dr. Atkinson serves in various capacities at AMIGOS Latino Centers, PHASE Foundation, and Central Indiana Girl Scouts. She also serves on the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Commission on Accreditation of Higher Education.
SNAPSHOT
Hometown Brooklyn, New York Education • B.S. Professional Aeronautics, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University • M.A. Elementary & Early Child- hood Education, University of South Carolina
• M.A. Curriculum & Instruction, Lesley University
• Ph.D. Adult Learning & Develop- ment, Lesley University
• Currently pursuing her J.D., Indiana University McKinney School of Law Previous job Chancellor, Ivy Tech Hamilton County Biggest barrier broken Youngest Latina chancellor of an Ivy Tech campus Expertise Helping community college students thrive in their educational journey and developing successful leaders Family Husband, Keith, and her children, Kelsey and Jordan
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Meet the Chancellor: Q&A
What is something you grew to learn about Ivy Tech Indianapolis in your first few months as chancellor that perhaps not a lot of people understand about the campus? The Ivy Tech Indianapolis staff and faculty really love serving our students and really love the work that they do. So many of our students come to us with a goal in mind and then work tirelessly to meet their goal. Many of our students are closely connected to the local community as well and bring their peers tremendous networking oppor- tunities and experiences from their connections outside the walls of Ivy Tech. Our students are incredible. My heart fills with so much pride and joy when I hear of a restaurant that is being led by one of our culinary arts graduates, an initiative in the community led by someone currently enrolled or graduated from one of our programs, or a prod- uct or service sold that one of our students has had a part in. Our faculty are top-notch and have so many accolades they should be proud of, and I love hearing about them all. To make those even more special, I love when a student, beaming with pride, brags on a faculty or staff member. That is when both of my worlds collide, and the pride is tough to express. What excites you about Ivy Tech Indianapolis at this current moment under your cabinet? I love that we get to celebrate at Ivy Tech Indianapolis constantly. Something great happens every single day. We are improving processes, improving organizational structures of departments, hiring and onboarding new team members, and doing all of this in the name of providing the very best service to our students.
What made you want to pursue a J.D. at the McKinney School of Law? I have been extremely fascinated by the law and by advocacy as a whole. My spouse is an air traffic controller with a rather demanding and chaotic schedule. About a year ago, he was promoted and no longer works eve- nings making it possible for me to attend classes in the evenings since he can be home with our two kids. The truth is that going to law school is the dream while being a practicing lawyer is not. I want to be able to learn about the law and learn to think differently about things, and maybe, when this is all said and done, serve as an advocate in the space of adoption law or healthcare law. Community college students often are not only going to school but are working full-time, parents, caregivers, and have several obligations while trying to maintain their coursework. As our campus leader who is also juggling many priorities in addition to obtaining a higher edu- cation, what would be your advice to others who are in a similar situation? My mom raised my sisters and me and often used a phrase that I repeat to myself all these years later. In Spanish, she would say: Lo que vale la pena, no será fácil. Translated to: What is worth it, will not be easy. In every step of my life, I have always remem- bered that if something feels hard or demanding, it is because it is worth it. I also want to recognize that hardships are not often traveled alone. So my advice would be to always remember why you are doing it and then find some people in your life who you trust that can help you do it. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and make lots of lists to pri- oritize what needs to be done and in what order.
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Photo by: Tracy James II
“My heart speaks to what Ivy Tech Community College gets to do and the impact we make. It invigorates me to serve.“ - Dr. Stacy Atkinson, Chancellor
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“Education is the to the future, for belongs to those for it today.”
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passport tomorrow who prepare
-Malcolm X
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CONFIDENTLY COOKING Ivy Tech Indianapolis collaborates with Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired to create innovative new cooking program
Photo by: Jeff Bricker
C ooking is not just about preparing a meal; it’s a journey of independence, confidence, and self-discovery. For stu- dents at the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ISBVI), this journey is becom- ing a reality, thanks to an inno- vative new cooking program developed in collaboration with Ivy Tech Indianapolis. Starting a culinary program at ISBVI has been a dream goal for Judy Reynolds. Reynolds has served at ISBVI for 30 years as a teacher, coordinator of the student training and employment program, and now, as ISBVI’s Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) director. A position of which she will soon retire.
“The idea for the cooking class had been brewing for years, but there were challenges to over- come. Finding the right person with the expertise to teach blind students how to cook confidently was a significant hurdle. We needed someone who not only understood cook- ing but also possessed a deep understanding of the unique challenges and adaptations re- quired for individuals with visual impairments,” Reynolds said. ISBVI’s ECC consists of nine essential areas for the holistic development of blind students. Independent living is one of these critical areas, and cooking is a fundamental life skill within this category. ISBVI students have been limited within a kitchen for decades, only learn-
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ing to work a microwave and an electric frying pan as instructors strayed away from the oven and stovetop. “The kids wanted to learn how to cook on the stove and use the oven, but we didn’t feel confident enough in ourselves to teach all the culinary skills that a blind individual learns intrinsically,” Reynolds said. That was until Jody May, Ivy Tech Indianapolis’ first blind culinary arts graduate, entered the picture. When it was time for May to complete an externship, Chef Jeff Bricker, the department chair of the hospitality adminis- tration at Ivy Tech Indianapolis, called ISBVI and asked if she could be a student teacher in their ECC cooking class. Al- though Reynolds said yes, she was initially wary about how it would work. However, Reynolds says, her fears disappeared on May’s first day. “She just fit in perfectly,” Reyn - olds said. “I think the most im- portant thing was that the kids were being taught by someone who was blind just like them, and that’s inspiring,” she con- tinued,” “Jody was such a role model.” Ever since beginning her stud- ies at Ivy Tech, May’s goal has been to help those blind or with vision impairments learn how to cook a full meal. Since losing her sight in 2012, she has real- ized how much people without
sight are at the mercy of those who do have sight. “I really want to help those stu- dents who are getting ready to graduate from high school and go off to college to be inde- pendent in the kitchen so they don’t have to rely on somebody else to feed themselves or or- der delivery all the time,” May said. May’s classes during her ex- ternship focused on identifying cooking tools, learning how to use knives, and meal prep. Her course was a hit, and her les- sons invigorated the students. May’s expertise was in such demand that she began visiting them in their dormitories in the evening, teaching them how to prepare dishes for dinner, and it continued through summer. Fi- nally, May’s time at ISBVI ended as she prepared to continue her studies at Indiana University - Indianapolis. May says that from there, mul- tiple facets and divine timing finally put the ball in motion for an adaptive culinary arts pro- gram at ISBVI. “For starters, the students re- ally expressed wanting to gain those independent skills. And I think what kind of tipped the ball over the edge was seeing the students I got to work with be in the kitchen and hearing them talk about what they got to do, what they learned, and executing on that,” May said. “Once all parties realized stu- dents not only want this but
need it to be successful, it pushed forward.”
Before you knew it, the Indiana Blind Children’s Foundation (IBCF) and Chef Bricker became involved. ISBVI, IBCF, Bricker, Reynolds, and May helped orchestrate a cooking class for six ISBVI students with Christine Ha, the season three winner of MasterChef, at the Conference Center and Culinary Institute on the downtown Indianapolis campus. Chef May and Chef Bricker were two of several adults in the room helping the students through the virtu- al cooking class in which Ha, known as the blind cook, taught them how to make Chinese cold sesame noodles. The entire course was recorded, and the video played at IBCF’s annual Through the Looking Glass Gala on Oct. 7, 2023. IBCF raised over $200,000 to- wards the first adaptive culinary arts program at ISBVI with the help of Reitano Design Group, whose adaptive kitchen designs helped gala attendees envision an adaptive kitchen. “Learning to cook is such an important aspect of life, and we do our students a disservice by only teaching them how to op- erate a microwave. Many ISBVI students want to move on to four-year colleges, and learning how to cook for themselves is a big part of gaining that in- dependence to continue their education,” May said.
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“I really want to help those students who are getting ready to graduate from high school and go off to college to be independent in the kitchen so they don’t have to rely on somebody else to feed themselves.”
I want to meet every student and their individual needs where they’re at. Whatever life has handed them, we will work with them to find these work - arounds. And from there, I also want to teach sighted parents how to teach their blind or visually impaired children how to cook.” With dedicated advocates like May, Chef Bricker, IBCF, and the support of Ivy Tech Indianapo- lis, the future looks bright for IS- BVI’s visually impaired students as they embark on their journey toward culinary independence. “I’ve always found that being in the kitchen is a way for me to relax and express myself. I want others who are like me to get the chance to experience that,” May said. “My goal is to have the students leave ISBVI and feel confident enough to come to Ivy Tech and continue their education.”
Photo by: Jeff Bricker
Photo by: Jeff Bricker
ISBVI will temporarily occupy In- dianapolis Public Schools’ Floro Torrence School 83 and George Buck School 94 for five to six years while its permanent cam- pus is renovated. In partnership with IBCF, the school has decid- ed to build a movable kitchen that can be utilized while in the temporary location and trans- ported to their new campus down the line. Cunningham Restaurant Group is also part- nering with IBCF and ISBVI to continue monthly cooking class- es with ISBVI students through- out the temporary relocation. The curriculum for the program is still being developed, with plans to start the next academ- ic year. Chef Bricker and May’s expertise and dedication have been invaluable in shaping the program. Although they’re still in the planning phase along
with Reynolds and others, May shares that the course will begin with foundational skills such as tool identification and basic cooking techniques and prog- ress to more advanced topics. The goal, ultimately, is to en- sure that students leave ISBVI with the skills they need to live independently and confidently. As for May’s role in the pro- gram, she hopes to teach at IS- BVI in the future, but until then, she sees herself as a resource and advocate for the students. Her passion for helping stu- dents gain independence shines through, making her an integral part of this transforma- tive initiative. “Once this program starts, we can only grow from here,” May said. “My goal is for ISBVI to be fully adaptive in its classes.
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Photo by: Melanie Lim
“See our growth. Appreciate our evolution.”
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Photo by: Shakkira Harris
How many of you have been told art is not hard?” Stephanie Robertson asked her capstone class.
They conceive of the title, develop an installation plan, manage the marketing, judge each other’s pieces, and price the work. When visiting their class, Robertson was helping them with their art bios and tags. “Always uppercase ‘Associate.’ An Associate of Fine Arts is just as important as a bachelor degree. Give your Associate degree respect. You’ve earned the power it deserves,” she told her students as she wrote on the board. The class said that coming up with Realms of Du- ality was not an easy feat, as there is a wide range of disciplines in the show – fabric, glass, ceramics, paintings, and drawings, just to name a few. Not to mention, each artist has a different subject matter and style. “‘Realms’ kind of started as a joke. Because we all felt like we were in different realms,” Eden Hany said.
All 12 of her students raised their hands.
“And is it hard?”
A resounding “yes” rang through the T203 class- room in response. It’s 6:30 p.m. on an October evening, and Robert- son, the Ivy Tech Indianapolis fine arts program chair, just began working with her ARTS 250 Fine Arts Portfolio students in preparation for their up- coming showcase, “Realms of Duality.” Graduating fine art students spend 10 to 12 weeks curating a collective exit exhibition every semester. Together, they execute every step with the mentor- ship of Robertson.
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“But then we realized we really liked it. It’s fantasy. It’s strange stuff. All of us are a part somehow. And ‘duality’ felt right because there are so many different ideas among us, but they somehow all can work together.” The students did not create any new art for the exit show. The show is a culmination of their artwork over the past two years. At the start of the course, each student brought in 40 to 60 of their pieces, and their very first assignment was to judge each other’s work. When asked if it was hard to be critiqued by their peers – who, mind you, are not of the same culture, heritage, walk of life, back- ground, art style, you name it – they said, “Oh yeah. But that’s art.” “Period,” someone snickered. “Art is hard,” they rang out.
“There is more than just the doing . Being creative is an over-time skill.” “It’s been intense,” Abby Stofferahn said.
Stofferahn is a visual communications major with a fine arts con - centration. She graduated from Ivy Tech over a decade ago with her business associate degree but returned in 2022 in search of a career pivot. Stofferahn says so much goes into an Associate of Fine Arts degree that others who are quick to judge art majors have no idea. “I’ve always done very well academically. But with this degree, I have to physically and academically apply myself. This is hands-on work. A lot more goes into the assignments for this particular de- gree, mentally and physically. I’ve been burned physically because of my art, and I’ve also burned out mentally, earning this degree,” she explained.
Photos by: Shakkira Harris
Everyone in the class echoed Stofferahn’s remarks in one way, shape, or form.
Da’Vion Stewart added that art is not only a mental and physical discipline. It’s also a matter of dedicated time. “A lot of people that don’t make art either professionally or at all have this mindset that you can whip up something in a couple of minutes or hours. In reality, much of what I do is a lot of research. I look into concepts and different aspects or styles of paintings just to figure out what I want to do for one painting, specifically. Painting a piece may only take a few hours, but it took a week of research beforehand,” Stewart said. Hayes Lupin says that they feel like folks only see the end product. As someone with an invisible disability, they are all too familiar with people who do not take the time to think about the steps neces- sary to complete anything, especially from an accessibility stand- point.
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Photos by: Shakkira Harris
“People just think, ‘Oh, you create stuff, and then you’re done.’ And I feel like, as artists, we’re constantly explaining, ‘No. There are a million steps to make first,’” Lupin said. “There is more than just the doing. Being cre - ative is an over-time skill. So, it takes time. And that time takes effort. And that effort takes energy. It’s a host of jumbled things that affect the other, and people often don’t understand that.” “We always hear about how a creative job must be ‘fun.’ But it’s still a job. A job still takes work. You can still get burned out, just like anything else,” Hany said, perfectly encapsulating the forum of artist misconceptions. The student exit art show was held in the Julia M. Carson Learning Re- source Center Gallery. As usual, it was a night full of celebration, a send- off. Some students struggled to explain their emotions as the day they’ve worked so hard for over the last four months – arguably the last two years or so – has come and graduation day nears. “It’s difficult to explain how I’m feeling. I’ve been at Ivy Tech for over a couple of years because I decided to change my major,” Regan McKim said. “I’m moving on to earn my bachelor’s, and it’s kind of overwhelming. It feels like a big step. But I know I’m ready.” Realms of Duality felt just as the students hoped it would – like a variance of art styles and meanings that somehow complemented each other. The showcase also reverberated with the complexities – dare we say, the duality – of art and the artist, just as the students explained in one of their final portfolio classes with Robertson leading up to the big day. Seeing each student’s artwork from the beginning of their studies to the end of their time at Ivy Tech Indianapolis, you’re almost forced to see the artist and their story. “Art is not one thing,” Mauvene Borton said. “It’s the viewer’s interpreta- tion. It’s in the eye of the beholder.” Roxanne Zbikowski agreed with her classmate but still hopes visitors of the Realms of Duality exhibit see that the “art is more than just a pretty picture on the wall … It’s something that is part of ourselves.” Melanie Dawn nodded in approval of what Zbikowski said, adding, “I want people to see us. See our growth. Appreciate our evolution.”
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CHANGING
LIVES COUNT
ONE
EIGHT
AT
A
TIME Photos by: Jessica Brown
An alum’s mission to help children and adults with intellectual disabilities learn how to dance
Danielle Lewis, a former profes- sional dancer and now a resi- dential home care supervisor for adults with intellectual dis- abilities, saw an opportunity to bring joy into the lives of her cli- ents. When they learned of her previous career, their eyes lit up with excitement, Lewis said. She relentlessly researched dance studios in Indianapolis that offered classes tailored to adults and children with intel- lectual disabilities. Unfortunate- ly, she kept coming up short.
“It just wasn’t fair. They should be afforded the same opportu- nities to dance just like anybody else,” Lewis said. Lewis decided to put her danc- ing shoes back on and provide dance lessons for her clients and others in the community with intellectual disabilities who wanted to learn. She adapted her former teaching styles to suit her clients’ attention and learning capabilities. She even developed a nonprofit business
plan and secured studio space through Indy Parks twice a week for the dance classes, which were completely free. Then, March 2020 came. Al- though the COVID-19 pan- demic caused some setbacks, Lewis continued to pursue her new-found passion for inclusive dance instruction and enrolled in Ivy Tech’s Garatoni School of Entrepreneurship and Innovation. With the help of the entrepreneurship program,
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Photos by: Jessica Brown
“This community deserves to be seen and heard. I be- lieve that with the right mindset and patience, you can achieve anything. I strive to be a cat- alyst of change for them because they deserve the same opportunities to dance just like any- one else.”
Lewis was able to turn her passion into a for-profit business called Dannie’s Dance. “Such great things have happened since then,” Lewis said. “My business would not be where it is today without the Ivy Tech Indianapolis entrepreneurship program.” Lewis now does private in-house dance lessons and volunteers her talents at nearby schools and institutions while she works toward securing studio space again. She believes that every- one deserves a safe space to express themselves and wants to provide that for her clients, especially people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. “I want them to learn what self-expression can mean to them because dance does many different things to different people. But one thing I know for sure is it helps them, and it’s therapeutic,” Lewis said. Thanks to her perseverance and the support of the entre- preneurship program, Lewis is providing this community the opportunity to dance just as she would anyone else.
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STARTING FALL SEMESTER WITH A
Photo by: Kenny Rogers
SENSE OF BELONGING The Ivy Tech Indianapolis campus staff and faculty started the 2023-24 academic year with a fall convocation, a professional development day dedicated to leadership, customer service, and student engagement. If there’s anything Ivy Tech Community College understands, it’s the power of community-based learning. When we take advantage of opportunities to learn from those around us, we’re all better because of it. With that said, however, the campus’ nearly 1,000-person staff and faculty members had not all been brought to- gether in at least six years. “The cabinet recognized that there were a lot of changes within leadership, and we wanted to find a way to boost morale and create a sense of belonging among all of us,” Amanda Bonilla, our Vice Chancellor for Di- versity, Equity, Belonging and Community Engagement, said. “We were constantly asking, how do we respect people’s time and still bring them together?” On August 15, all Indianapolis staff and faculty ascended the steps of the Conference Center and Culinary Institute (CCCI) to the ballroom. If you weren’t feeling the light and vibrant energy in the room, you surely were by the time Chancellor Stacy Atkinson took to the stage to welcome everyone. She started with a comedic jab at Bonilla, who told Dr. Atkinson – and the rest of us – to come to convocation in spirit wear. Bonilla herself was
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dressed in business casual attire. “And here I am wearing jeans!” Chancellor Atkinson exclaimed as the crowd rumbled with laughter. After opening remarks, Emily Sellers, from the College’s statewide office, stepped to the podium to share our new strategic plan, “Higher Education at the Speed of Life.” Thanks to the IvyEvents app, we could all inter- act throughout her presentation with live emoji sends, similar to Facebook Live or Zoom Presentations. As Sellers posed a question, we could all type out our answer and send it out to be shared on the projector for all in attendance. From CCCI to Illinois Fall Creek Center (IFC), the rest of the day was full of educational seminars, panels, workshops, and keynotes. The day concluded on a sweet note; an ice cream truck was parked outside IFC, and all employees were invited to grab their favorite flavor, get some fresh air, and connect with colleagues. “I, along with the 2023 Fall Convocation Committee, wanted the day to be useful across all employee job roles. For both faculty and staff, full-time and part-time, from directors to coordinators, and instructors to pro- gram chairs, we wanted everyone to be able to find beneficial takeaways,” Bonilla said. According to the survey results, 87% believed the convocation achieved its goal of providing a successful professional development day. Bonilla said it was great for herself and fellow cabinet members to see people smiling and laughing (not just at the ice cream social that wrapped up the day) but from the start of the day through its entirety. “It was important after a huge leadership change that everyone saw their new cabinet as approachable and open – because we are! We value professional and personal development, and I think that message came across at the fall convocation,” Bonilla said. It was truly a day full of valuable experiences – people who work in different areas seeing and/or meeting each other for the first time, new employees receiving an energetic welcome to the campus, staff getting to hear from faculty, and faculty getting to hear from staff. There will be a 2024 Fall Convocation, and Bonilla looks forward to putting the committee together come spring.
Photo by: Kenny Rogers
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AWARDS SEASON
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INDY ALUMNAE HONORED AT 60TH ANNIVERSARY GALA Ivy Tech Community College celebrated its 60th Anniversary Gala with great pomp and splendor at the JW Marriott in Indianapolis on Friday, Nov. 10, 2023. The event was marked by the recognition of outstanding individuals who have not only excelled in their careers but also made significant contributions to their communi - ties and the College. Among the honorees were 19 Distinguished Alumni and 18 Benefactors, each of whom embodies the spirit of Ivy Tech’s mission to transform lives through education. Two of the honorees are remarkable Ivy Tech Indianapolis alumnae whom we are proud to spotlight and shower with congratulations! Amber Coryell and Catrina Tate’s stories highlight the transformative power of education and the significant impact that dedicated alumni and benefactors can have on their communities. Ivy Tech continues to stand as a beacon of opportunity, empowering individuals to reach new heights and make a lasting difference in the world.
Catrina Tate
Amber Coryell Amber Coryell
Photos by: Ivy Tech Community College
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Distinguished Alumna: Amber Coryell Amber Coryell, a shining star among Ivy Tech’s Dis- tinguished Alumni, has been on a journey of transfor- mation and empowerment. In 2010, she became a first-generation Ivy Tech Indianapolis graduate, earn - ing her associate degree in business administration. Determined to further her education and broaden her horizons, Coryell pursued a bachelor’s degree in tour- ism, conventions, and event management at Indiana University - Indianapolis. Coryell’s commitment to personal and professional growth set her on a path to success. She not only balanced a full-time job with her studies but also sought opportunities for internships and community engagement, which helped her develop her skills and expertise. Coryell’s dedication paid off when she secured a career in finance, specializing in business development. Coryell’s influence extends far beyond her job title. She actively participates in numerous boards, commit- tees, and councils, contributing her valuable insights and experiences to organizations such as Ivy Tech Alumni, Friends of Riley, and Indy Commerical Real Estate Women (CREW). Through these roles, she advocates for positive change and champions the causes she believes in. Coryell’s journey simultaneously showcases the pro- found impact of Ivy Tech’s commitment to providing accessible education and the transformative power of dedication and hard work. Benefactor: Catrina Tate Catrina Tate, an exemplary benefactor of Ivy Tech, has not only achieved remarkable success in her career but has also extended her hand to support Ivy Tech students through the creation of a scholarship. “My support and generosity to Ivy Tech is to allow others the opportunity to be successful in their careers and their education environments. I am Ivy Tech, and I feel like it’s my duty to truly support what Ivy Tech has given me and allow opportunities for others to sustain that,” Tate shared in a video during the 60th Anniver- sary Gala. A graduate of Ivy Tech Indianapolis in 2012, Tate earned her associate degree in business administra- tion, setting the stage for her remarkable journey. Her career began nearly 20 years ago at Everwise Credit Union (formerly known as Teacher’s Credit Union), and she steadily climbed the ranks, showcasing her ded-
ication and commitment. She has assumed various supervisory roles, including managing three locations as a branch manager and, today, serving as the vice president of retail at Everwise. In addition to her impressive professional achieve- ments, Tate is deeply involved in community service and advocacy. She co-chairs Everwise’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Taskforce, working tirelessly to foster a more inclusive and equitable environment within the credit union and the financial industry as a whole. Her commitment to making a difference extends to her role as first vice chair for the Girl Scouts of Central Indiana Board of Directors, where she plays a vital role in empowering young women to reach their full potential. Tate’s dedication to mentorship is also evident through her past involvement with Habitat for Humanity. All of her contributions have also been recognized by the CLD Minority Achievers Awards, where she was honored as the recipient of the 2021 David R. Sage Award.
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Ivy Tech Community College celebrated its exceptional faculty with the annual President’s Awards on Friday, Nov. 3, 2023, at the Black Iris Estate in Carmel. Among the stand- out recipients from Ivy Tech Indianapolis were Gerald Maki , a dedicated English professor, and Ingeborg Crim (Inga) , an adjunct faculty member specializing in obstetrics and pediatric nursing care. Stephanie Robertson, program chair of fine arts, was also recognized at the event for going F5/ Full Professor. These awards recognize the outstanding work of faculty members, both in the classroom and within the broader Ivy Tech community. A rigorous selection process involving input from students, colleagues, and administrators identi- fied the honorees. GERALD MAKI & INGA CRIM HONORED AT ANNUAL PRESIDENT’S AWARDS
Photos by: Ivy Tech Community College
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Faculty President’s Award Honoree: Gerald Maki Maki’s unwavering commitment to student growth and community engagement makes him a stand- out educator. His nomination for and receipt of the President’s Award is richly deserved for numerous compelling reasons. He excels in his field, having showcased his expertise at regional, national, and international conferences, where his thoughtful di- alogues on Rogerian Argumentation and his paper on “The Atopic, Placeless Vision of Kazuo Ishiguro” exemplify his contributions to the English discipline. Beyond conference presentations, Gerald’s com- mitment to global education is evident through his participation in a Collaborative Online International Learning Program. By connecting his class with students in Uzbekistan via Zoom, he facilitated a transformative cross-cultural experience, fostering collaboration and reflection across borders. In the classroom, Gerald’s teaching style stands out, showing that he cares about his students far beyond the syllabus. According to his nominator, Maki fos- ters a supportive and engaging environment where students connect with one another. “It is readily apparent he cares and helps his stu- dents to connect. Not only was the instructional time with the students clear and with purpose and a bit of fun, but his students feel seen and supported by one another,” Maki’s nominator wrote. “At the start of a class I observed, there was a short check- in question related to something the students had read related to sleep. The students went around and shared about how much sleep they had re- ceived recently. As each shared, classmates encour- aged or cheered their efforts to make a change.” Furthermore, Gerald’s advocacy for change within the institution is commendable. His leadership in securing an Innovation Grant to enhance faculty understanding of dyslexia, in partnership with the Dyslexia Institute of Indiana, underscores his com- mitment to improving student support services and advancing education at Ivy Tech.
Adjunct Faculty President’s Award Honoree: Inga Crim In the ever-evolving world of healthcare education, there are unsung heroes who often go unnoticed but play a pivotal role in shaping the future of nurs- ing professionals. Ingeborg “Inga” Crim, a devot- ed nursing faculty adjunct at Ivy Tech Community College, is one such remarkable individual. With her unwavering dedication and passion for nursing education, Inga has become a shining example of what it means to be an exceptional educator in the field of healthcare. Crim’s journey as an adjunct fac - ulty member at Ivy Tech Community College spans nearly two decades. Crim has dedicated herself to assisting both the department and the College in their mission to produce high-quality nursing grad- uates who are well-prepared to face the challenges of the healthcare industry. One of Crim’s standout qualities is her availability and willingness to lend a helping hand whenever it is needed. Whether it’s in the clinical setting or the world of simulation, Crim consistently steps up to the plate, according to her nomination. Crim’s role as a nursing educator extends far be- yond her primary responsibilities. She has taken on an increasingly demanding schedule each semester, conducting pediatric and obstetrical simulations with enthusiasm and expertise. Her commitment to delivering realistic and impactful learning experienc- es is evident in her dedication to producing high-fi - delity simulations that resonate with her students. In the face of a growing nursing faculty shortage, Crim recognized the need to fill this gap and willingly agreed to undertake complex adult med- ical-surgical simulations, a challenging task that required extensive preparation and knowledge. To ensure she was fully equipped for this endeavor, Crim volunteered her time to shadow other faculty members, all without expecting any compensation in return.
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MARIO RODRIGUEZ 2023 DYNAMIC LEADER OF THE YEAR
ON NOVEMBER 14, RODRIGUEZ, AN INDIANAPOLIS CAMPUS TRUSTEE, WAS HONORED AS THE 2023 DYNAMIC LEADER OF THE YEAR BY THE INDIANA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AT ITS 34TH ANNUAL AWARDS DINNER It takes a passion for bridging gaps in higher education and collaborative com- munity partners to do what we do every day at Ivy Tech. That’s precisely what we found in Mario Rodriguez, an indelible member of the Ivy Tech Indianapolis Cam- pus Board of Trustees. We here at the Indianapolis campus are among the many circles throughout the city and the state who are incredibly excited and proud of Rodriguez. He has undoubtedly earned this award through his remarkable leadership of Indiana’s largest airport, one of the best in the country. As the executive director of the multi- award-winning Indianapolis Airport Author- ity (IAA), Rodriguez’s innovative mindset has led to the Indianapolis International Airport being named “Best Airport in North America” every year for over a decade by the Airports Council Interna- tional-North America based on customer satisfaction.
Photo by: Kenny Rogers
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Rodriguez’s list of accomplishments is long and vast.
of education makes people better. And if we can make our organization better by doing that, we will do it be- cause it takes an incredibly talented group of people to do what we do.”
To name a mere few, he has served on three Presiden- tial Transition Teams and served three times on the U.S. Transportation Department’s Aviation Consum- er Protection Advisory Committee. His most recent awards, in addition to the 2023 Dynamic Leader of the Year award, include his 2023 induction into the Indiana Aviation Hall of Fame, being listed as one of the Indi- ana Business Journal’s 250 Most Influential Leaders in Indiana, and receiving the Engineering News Record’s Top 25 Newsmaker’s Award. In addition to his leadership on our Board, he also serves on the boards of the Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce, the Indiana Sports Corporation, and the Indiana Destination Development Corporation Foun- dation. Rodriguez is also the founder of the Hispanic Leadership Council. “The rankings and awards are just a byproduct of having an excellent team and the team having clarity in what they want to accomplish,” Rodriguez told the Indiana Chamber. Similar to Ivy Tech, diversity and inclusion efforts are imperative to Rodriguez. “Inclusion and equity are a moral imperative. Diversity is a business necessity,” Rodriguez told the Indiana Chamber. “If you have one team with the same life experiences, you tend to get social conformity. Alter- natively, if you have a diverse team with different life experiences and thoughts, you have a team that will continue to question the status quo and improve.” Rodriguez says with anything he does, he always asks two questions: “What am I trying to accomplish? What is my why?” And his why for serving on the Ivy Tech board is a simple one, Rodriguez says. “My why is to make the community better. It’s as simple as that.” “Ivy Tech makes our community better each and every day. It’s important to drive our educational system to a greater extent and ensure that they provide more and more as time goes on.” Rodriguez says the partnership Ivy Tech and IAA have is one of the best because it invests in human capital. “Ivy Tech has given us the opportunity to offer IAA employees the ability to better themselves without any barriers,” Rodriguez said. “Our employees can earn a certificate in anything and everything. We need me - chanics. We need technical certificates like electrical and plumbing, yes. But education purely for the sake
“My why is to make the community better. It’s as simple as that. And Ivy Tech makes our community better each and every day.”
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Photo by: Second Helpings FROM CAFE OWNER TO CULINARY COMPETITOR In the world of culinary excellence, few moments are as exhilarating as watching a talented chef rise to the occasion and shine. Brady Foster, an accomplished chef and 2017 graduate of Ivy Tech India- napolis culinary arts program, made waves in the culinary world throughout 2023. His journey from being a local cafe owner to representing Team Indiana at the World Food Championships in Dallas, Texas, is nothing short of remarkable.
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“I’m a proud Ivy Tech grad. If anything else, I hope to make Ivy Tech proud.”
Foster’s journey to the World Food Championships was not without its challenges. He opened Foster’s Cafe and Catering on Ivy Tech’s Lawrence campus in March 2020, just before the COVID-19 pan- demic hit. The pandemic forced Ivy Tech to enforce social distanc- ing, and Foster faced immense un- certainty as a new business owner. “I thank God for Ivy Tech because they allowed me to remain in that space in Lawrence during that diffi - cult time,” Foster shared. “All the savings that I had was gone. All the money friends had given me to help start my business was also gone. And I wasn’t able to get any loans because the
government was like, ‘You’re a new business, and you haven’t lost enough money.’ But God got me through, and we just adapted as best we could until it was time to fully open up.” Building became the thriving hub for delicious breakfast and lunch specialties that we know today. After gaining valuable experience in the cafe, Foster decided to step into the competitive arena in 2023. Eventually, Foster’s Cafe and Catering inside the Fairbanks At the beginning of 2023, Foster threw his hat in the ring for Second Helpings annual Souper Bowl. His Ethiopian Spiced Smoked Lamb Stew came in first
place, showcasing his diverse culi- nary talents. Then, Foster’s culinary journey took a significant leap forward when he claimed the top spot at the TURN Festival’s Perfect Bite Competition, held at the Indianap- olis Paramount Schools of Excel- lence in September. His winning dish, seared lamb chops with pumpkin polenta and sofrito, was not only a treat for the taste buds but also a testament to his culinary artistry. This is a blessing,” Foster ex- claimed. “I went into this competition just trying to do my best. These people are titans in our industry, so to come away with
Photos by: Brady Foster
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a win is just a blessing to me.”
The Perfect Bite Competition featured 20 talented Hoosier chefs, and Foster’s victory earned him a coveted “golden ticket” – an invitation to join Team Indiana at the World Food Championships in Dallas, Texas. Joining Foster on Team Indiana were three other remarkable chefs associated with Ivy Tech: Jenni Schouppe , an assis- tant professor of baking and pastry and hospitality program coordinator at Ivy Tech Indianapolis; Cindy Hawkin , a former baking instructor at Ivy Tech Indianapolis of nine years; and Marcus Daniel , an Ivy Tech Fort Wayne graduate. Together with several of the state’s top chefs in varying disciplines, they formed a formidable team ready to take on the world’s culinary stage. The World Food Championships is a highly competitive event that attracts top culinary talent from around the globe. It’s a platform where chefs can showcase their skills, creativity, and passion for the art of cooking. Brady Foster represented not only himself but also his Ivy Tech family and community. “I’m a proud Ivy Tech grad. If anything else, I hope to make Ivy Tech proud. Ivy Tech is my family, my community. And in whatever I do, I try to make God, my community, and my family happy,” Foster expressed. Foster made it to the World Rice and Noodle Champion- ship finals, where he placed seventh overall. He said that although he didn’t win, he wouldn’t change the experience he had for the world. “We had a ball, made great connections, and met some great chefs and colleagues. We’ll be back next year and better than ever,” Foster wrote on social media. As Brady Foster continues his culinary journey, he not only represents his own achievements but also the strength and resilience of the Ivy Tech community. His dedication, creativity, and passion for the culinary arts are an inspiration to chefs and food enthusiasts alike. “There’s something to be said about the school that you represent, appreciating you back and making you feel so proud to be a part of such a great college!” Foster shared about Ivy Tech and the support he has felt throughout his year of competing. “Thank you, Ivy Tech Community Col- lege, Indianapolis, and a big shout out to the Lawrence cam- pus for loving on me all these years.”
Photo by: Michael Copley
Brady Foster is a culinary talent to watch, and his star is on the rise.
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NOURISHING COLLABORATIVE CREATIVITY
Photo by: Shakkira Harris
Stephanie Robertson, program chair of fine arts at Ivy Tech Indianapolis, has gladly orchestrated the campus’ involvement with the Spirit & Place Festival for nearly 15 years. Her creative leadership has led to stellar collaborations, both internal and external, elaborate community involvement, and award nominations. Robertson has seen the campus’ Spirit & Place involvement through an assortment of community art shows that have included a roller derby team, divers, bodybuilders, boxers, and even a trebuchet and pumpkins. Internally, she has, at one point or another, incorporated the fine arts department, early child - hood education department (ECED), culinary arts, technology, and the English department. Externally, she has worked with the Garfield Park Arts Center, Harrison Center, the National Art Museum of Sport, and many more.
Center, ECED, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, and Mari- an University. “Our printmaking class made special automobile coloring pages; there was a station for making cars out of clay; our automotive center brought in en- gines, simulators, and bodywork. We had a station for making roller derby cars and cardboard cars,” Robertson described. Robertson considers herself more of the project manager than the creative for each event. “We love to do interactive, fami- ly-friendly things,” Robertson said. “What we finally figured out through putting together the automotive art event was we needed about seven different activities. If everybody does their part in one activity, then it’s not too much for any one person.” Buzz & Flutter When Robertson learned the theme of the 2023 Spirit & Place Festival was Nourish, she instantly knew who to call. She orchestrated a meeting with varying faculty members from ECED, Teach2Grow, culinary arts, and, of course, fine arts. They met in February, about nine months before the multi-day festival was slated to
begin, and, as Robertson recalls, quickly came up with the idea of Buzz & Flutter. “The hard part wasn’t figuring out what we were going to do – that all came together very quickly,” Robertson said. “The hard part was figuring out if we wanted to have it on campus, near our community garden, or the culinary building. But then Garfield Park Arts Center reached out to us, and we’ve worked with them several times for Spirit & Place, and it just felt like the perfect fit!” All about cultivating, creating, and caring for our pollinators, Ivy Tech Indianapolis faculty and students alike came up with a plethora of ways attendees could join the conversation, learn, and explore the many ways they could help better our community, our planet, and, thus, their families. In addition to an art exhibit based on gardening, bees, and butterflies, Ivy Tech Indianapolis had informational tables on beekeeping, hive manage- ment, gardening, and monarch but- terfly gardens. Buzz & Flutter also fea - tured honey tasting, a honey-themed recipe station, a do-it-yourself flower pen station, and flower crowns. “We can nourish ourselves through nourishing the earth,” Renee Rule, the
“We love doing fun and funky things!” Robertson said.
In 2018, Ivy Tech Indianapolis won Spirit & Place’s Award of Awesome- ness for its “Explore Art-omotive!” The event explored the intersection of art and automobiles and included Ivy Tech’s Automotive Technology
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