Cover Page: 

Better Together

IU Kokomo partners with communities 

for a stronger, more vital region.

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Image of gears made out of people

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Words from your chancellor

“We’re doing big, bold things on campus every day and it’s a wonderful time for you to get involved in your own way.”

This academic year, we are celebrating a big milestone at Indiana University Kokomo: 75 years as the choice for higher education in our region. As I look back on where it all began in 1945, I think of all the determined, dynamic, and unique students who have walked through our doors – whether at the Seiberling Mansion or our campus on Washington Street – and then gone out to change their corner of the world. Including you! 

For decades, we’ve seen our alumni become our teachers, doctors, nurses, artists, writers, businesspeople, leaders, lawyers, and legacy leavers. And we don’t take that lightly. We’ve been celebrating our 75th Anniversary and all that those years mean to us, our alumni, and our community.

A huge part of the success of IU Kokomo is the important partnerships we’ve developed since the very start. From healthcare to economic development to K-12 initiatives, we have relationships with people with the ability to create change across our region. Donors partner with us and trust our vision for all this institution can be. And, you, our alumni, partner with us to voice your thoughts, attend events, and stay connected with your alma mater. All of these relationships contribute to the success of this campus and to the communities we serve. 

We’re doing big, bold things on campus every day and it’s a wonderful time for you to get involved in your own way. Whether you attend a celebratory event, visit campus to hear a dynamic world-class speaker, cheer on the Cougars at a sporting event, or swing by for a cup of coffee in our new coffeehouse, the Ground Up Café, we’d love to see you around. 

Please follow us on the social media platform of your choice to stay up-to-date as we move forward into the next 75 years! We hope to see you at an event or hear from you! 

Sincerely,

Susan Sciame-Giesecke, Ph.D.

Chancellor

Indiana University Kokomo

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Chancellor’s Signature

Chancellor and woman laughing

Group of people making 75

Chancellor at ribbon cutting

Chancellor speaking at event

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As you’re reading this magazine, know that we consider you a valued partner to Indiana University Kokomo.

Whether you’re a proud alumnus, a supportive friend of the university, or a generous donor, it is your partnership that makes what we do possible. As the name of our alumni magazine indicates, our goal is to leave a legacy – for our students, our community, and the world. In this issue, we take a moment to reflect on the partnerships between our beloved institution and the community. From health care to K-12 initiatives to economic development, it is our honor to partner with you – wherever you are – to truly make a difference. 

As you’re reading this edition and learning about the ways the community has allowed us to play a role in growth and advancement of our region, maybe an idea will spark for you. A way to connect with our campus. A partnership in a new area we hadn’t thought of yet. That’s the goal. As we reflect on our longstanding relationships and new, budding partnerships across the 14-county region in which we serve, we’re always striving to find more ways to impact people and places around us. But, we can’t do it without you. Wherever you are in the community, we value your ideas and connections. Partner with us and help us continue to improve the lives and development of our communities.

Table of Contents

Annual Golf Outing

75 years of IU Kokomo History

Class Notes

Better Together

Partners in Giving

Athletics Update

Winter 2019

5, 6, 8, 10, 18, 22

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IU Tab

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Happy Holidays fellow my Alumni

Campus has been abuzz with students and all things 75th Anniversary for the fall semester, and we are continuing this through the spring.

The major 75th anniversary celebration honors many of you, our alumni. In our last issue, we identified several Legacy Families of IU Kokomo. We defined Legacy Families as families who have two or more graduates within an immediate family, spouses who met and graduated from IU Kokomo, multiple siblings within a family, and parents who have graduated and have students currently attending IU Kokomo. Since that issue hit your mailboxes and was put on our alumni social media channels, we identified even more Legacy Families. Thank you!

We want to honor you by hosting a Legacy Family Dinner to take place on Tuesday, April 7, 2020 in the Kelley Student Center, room 130. We hope you’ll join us as we recognize you for being an intricate piece of the fabric that makes up IU Kokomo. It’s not too late to be included as a Legacy Family. If you feel your family meets the criteria listed above, email me at alumni@iuk.edu by February 10, 2020 so we can add your family to the list and invite you to the dinner. If you’ve gotten married, moved, changed emails, please send me those updates so you can receive your special invitation to the dinner.

I’m looking forward to seeing many of you at the Legacy Dinner and honoring you through a new tradition at IU Kokomo.

For the Glory of IU,

Benjamin Liechty, B.A. ‘06

Director of Alumni Relations and Campus Ceremonies

Benjamin Liechty and Senior Hannah Bourne, winner of Indiana University Distinguished Alumni Service Award scholarship

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Ben’s Signature

Ben Lietchy and Hannah Borune winner of Indiana University Distinguished Alumni Service Award Scholarship

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Foooooreeee!

It was a beautiful day for the annual golf outing on Wednesday, September 11. Nearly 100 golfers teed off the 75th Anniversary of Indiana University Kokomo at this annual event.  

Coaches and players from the men’s basketball, and women’s tennis, soccer, and volleyball teams attended the outing to greet golfers and share updates about their teams.

A special congratulations goes out to the winning team of Jason Banach, Charles Northrop, Jeffrey Kaden, and John Perszyk, representing the IU Bloomington Real Estate Office and the Jackrabbits. Second place finishers were the team of Mike Morgan, Linda Morgan, Tom Lane, and Brandi Jones.

First Farmers Bank & Trust was the presenting sponsor, and Rozzi’s Catering donated lunch. Brad Howell Ford was the hole-in-one sponsor.

A special thanks goes out to all of our sponsors, including:

Eagle Sponsors 

Four County Counseling

Hearn Construction

Kokomo New Car Dealers Association

RL Turner

Birdie Sponsors

E&B Paving

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles

Button Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram

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Man in Hoosier hat posed with backswing

Four people standing and posing at the golf outing

Man golfing with IU in background

Man excited after hitting a good golf shot

Two men walking with their golf bags, celebrating 75 years sign 

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Historically Speaking

From the beginning as the Kokomo Junior College, with only three students in the first graduating class, to the bustling campus and staple institution of higher education, Indiana University Kokomo has always believed in dreaming big and taking bold steps to support the limitless future of its students.

Explore this timeline to learn more about significant people, places, and events that have shaped IU Kokomo from the very start.

View the entire timeline at 75years.iuk.edu/our-history

1947

SOARING ENROLLMENT AND 

EXPANDING FACILITIES

Due to climbing enrollment at the Taylor Street location, the university purchases the Seiberling Kingston mansion at 1200 West Sycamore Street to expand its facilities.

1956-1959

NEW LEADERSHIP

Dr. Smith Higgins is appointed IU Kokomo Director. A Navy veteran who taught mathematics, Dr. Higgins was a champion for IU regional campuses.

1932

NEW BEGINNINGS

Kokomo Junior College begins offering a two-year collegiate program, laying the foundation for Indiana University's presence in Kokomo. 

1945

IU ESTABLISHES 

EXTENSION CENTER

In 1945, Indiana University establishes an extension center in the former Kokomo Junior College building at 508 W. Taylor Street. Dr. Virgil Hunt serves as the Center’s first director.

1952

FREEING UP SPACE

With increasing enrollment, IU buys the neighboring Elliott House. Moving the library and some offices to this new space allows for more classrooms in the Seiberling building.

A celebration 75 years in the making

1930, 1940, 1950, 1960

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Ted Miltenberger, junior at Indiana University Center at Kokomo, studies in front of the West Sycamore Street campus, circa 1950.

Dr. Smith Higgins (left) poses with his predecessor, Dr. Virgil Hunt

Kokomo Junior College, 1932

Dr. Hunt (center) tours the chemistry lab in 1950 with IU President Herman B Wells and chemistry instructor Jack Holloway.

The Elliot House, Moving the library and some offices to this new space allows for more classrooms in the Seiberling building

A student reports on the campaign stop in an issue of The Center Scope, May 1960.

75 Years Anniversary Logo

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1965

IU KOKOMO’S

NEW CAMPUS

IU Kokomo moves to the new 57-acre South Washington Street campus. A number of summer courses are offered despite continuing construction, and the fall semester marks the official opening of the new campus.

1959-1979

NEW LEADERSHIP

Dr. Victor M. Bogle is appointed chancellor. His fundraising and strategic vision shaped the future of the IU Kokomo campus. 

1970

IU KOKOMO’S

FIRST COMMENCEMENT

Associate degrees in nursing and radiological technology, as well as bachelor’s degrees in education, are awarded at IU Kokomo’s first commencement.

1980

EAST BUILDING

OPENS

This building now houses the Nursing Simulation Lab and Division of Allied Health Sciences.

1980-1990

NEW LEADERSHIP

Dr. Hugh L. Thompson is appointed chancellor. He helped lay the groundwork for expansion at IU Kokomo, doubling the amount of land in Kokomo owned by the university and constructing new buildings to meet the needs of present and future students.

1991-1999

NEW LEADERSHIP

Dr. Emita B. Hill is appointed chancellor. In addition to her investment in the IU Kokomo campus as chancellor, Dr. Hill also founded the Emita B. Hill Scholarship to aid students in their international studies.

1960

CAMPAIGN STOP

Then-Senator John F. Kennedy stops by the Kokomo campus while campaigning, greeting students and signing autographs. 

1967

THE WELL HOUSE

COMES TO CAMPUS

The Well House is moved to the new campus and becomes a favorite gathering place for students. Today it lends its name to the Women of the Well House, an organization that supports the philanthropic goals of IU Kokomo students, staff, and faculty.

1985

OBSERVATORY

OPENS

The Observatory opens with a 96-seat lecture hall. Today, in addition to providing space for research and classes, the Observatory hosts special events and free open houses for the campus and community.

We’re commemorating our campus’  75^th anniversary in a big way! Join us as we celebrate you and the legacy of our wonderful campus.

Legacy Dinner

We hope you’ll join us as we recognize you for being an intricate piece of the fabric that makes up IU Kokomo.

Apr 7

carriage house theater reunion

We’d love to bring members of  the Carriage House Theater together for a fun reunion. Keep your eyes
peeled for more details to come. 

Spring 20

1970, 1980, 1990

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Dr. Victor Bogle speaks during Nursing Alumni Day event, 1977

IU Kokomo moves to the new 57-acre South Washington Street campus

Graduates participate in a tree dedication ceremony during IU Kokomo's first commencement, 1970

IUK East Building Opens

Chancellor Thompson proposes expanding recruitment area

Chancellor Emita Hill speaks with Julian Bond, 1992

The Well House is moved to the new campus and becomes a favorite gathering place for students

Students observe the eclipse in front of the Observatory, 2017

Students line up outside of the offices above the IU Kokomo Commons in the new Kelley Student Center

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1995

NEW LIBRARY OPENS

The new building includes the 200-seat Kresge Auditorium and the Art Gallery. The Library Building is connected to the Kelley Student Center by Alumni Hall, a hub of campus activity.

1999-2008

NEW

LEADERSHIP

Dr. Ruth J. Person is installed as Chancellor. She later received an honorary degree from IU in recognition of her significant accomplishments.

2003

LET’S GO COUGARS!

IU Kokomo selects the Cougar as its new mascot in a campuswide election. Later, in 2011, students would name the fixture at campus and athletic events Kingston Cougar.

2012

IU KOKOMO JOINS NAIA

IU Kokomo is approved for full membership in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) conference, paving the way for more robust athletic teams and activities on campus.

2013

COMMITMENT

TO WELLNESS

& FITNESS

The 21,0000-square-foot Milt and Jean Cole Family Wellness and Fitness Center opens thanks to a $1.25 million grant from the Cole family.

2014-PRESENT

NEW LEADERSHIP

After 37 years on campus, Dr. Susan Sciame-Giesecke becomes chancellor of IU Kokomo. Dr. Sciame-Giesecke holds a Ph.D. in Speech Communication from Indiana University.

1989

KELLEY STUDENT 

CENTER OPENS

The building and attached classroom wing provide offices, classrooms, student lounges, a cafeteria, a child-care center, and a campus bookstore.

1996

IUK ON THE WORLD

WIDE WEB

In a news release, IU Kokomo announces its first website “for those who like to cruise the information superhighway.”

2001

HUNT HALL OPENS

A state-of-the-art science facility opens, offering classrooms, laboratories, and offices for faculty and administration.

2010-2012

NEW LEADERSHIP

Michael Harris is installed as Chancellor of IU Kokomo.

2018

BREAKING GROUND

The IU Kokomo community celebrates the ceremonial groundbreaking for the new Student Activities and Events Center. The Center will serve as a venue for campus events and activities, as well as the home for Cougar athletic teams.

Looking for ways to celebrate the 75th Anniversary?

Visit us at 75years.iuk.edu for all the latest info.

2000, 2010, 2020

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Richard Ardrey, Emita Hill, and E.W. Kelley attend the dedication of the new library, April 7, 1995

Chancellor Person receives check from Delphi representative

Members of the women's basketball team pose with Kingston Cougar, 2018

Cougars celebrate victory over regional campus rival IU East, 2018

The Cole Family visits the cardio training area of the completed Cole Fitness Center

The installation ceremony for Dr. Sciame-Giesecke

IU Kokomo student works on the computer, 1996

Hunt Hall opens

Michael Harris is installed as Chancellor of IU Kokomo

Groundbreaking for new Student Activities & Events Center IU Kokomo staff and students participate in the ceremonial groundbreaking for the new Student Activities and Events Center, 2018

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Save the date

Legacy Family Dinner

Tuesday, April 7, 2020

Keep an eye out for the Bicentennial Bus!

Formal invitation coming early 2020. Identify your family legacy by emailing alumni@iuk.edu.

Now through August 2020, Indiana University’s traveling exhibit, All for You, will be touring Indiana, bringing the IU Bicentennial to all of the state’s 92 counties. Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke will be on board to visit every community in our 14-county region. 

This interactive exhibit explores IU’s impact on the state. The exhibit features content from each campus in various mediums, including virtual reality, 3D prints, physical objects from IU’s collections, videos, and historic images. Don’t miss this big red bus when it visits your community!

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IU Tab

IU Bicentennial traveling exhibit

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Class Notes

Dallas Snell, 

B.S. ‘19, 

is a police officer for the Frankfort Police Department.

Kholoud Alharbi, 

M.S.N. ‘17, 

has been accepted into a Ph.D. program for nursing.

Fawaz Alorief, 

M.B.A. ‘17, 

is an administrative specialist for the Shura Council, which is the parliament of Saudi Arabia. 

Nouf ALFares, 

M.B.A. ‘16, 

is an entrepreneur selection and growth manager at Endeavor. 

Khalifa Kulaiban, 

M.B.A. ’15,  

is a corporate workforce planning advisor for Saudi Aramco.

Hattan Almehmadi, 

M.B.A. ’14, 

is general supervisor of ATMATA Training Institute, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

April Name, 

B.S. ’14, 

recently joined IU Kokomo as creative services manager. Previously she was design director and guest relations for Solutions Salon and Spa.  

Mary Olk, 

B.S. ’13, 

recently accepted a new position as a communications specialist and content strategist at IUPUI. Previously, she was assistant director of student life and development at Ivy Tech Community College. Indianapolis.

Alan Biggs, 

M.B.A. ‘01, 

is the chief operating officer at IU Health Bloomington Hospital. Previously he was vice president of EMCARE/EMVISION Physicians Services.

Master Trooper Ron Huff, 

B.S. ’93, 

recently was honored for 25 years as an Indiana State Trooper. He serves in the Pendleton district.

Amber Banks, 

M.S.N. ’19, B.S.N. ‘05, 

recently joined the physicians and nurse practitioners with the Marion General Hospital Hospitalist program. She’s worked at the hospital since 2005, as a registered nurse in telemetry and the critical care department, and later as a unit shift manager.

Ashley (Miller) Leicht, 

M.B.A. ’19, 

is graduate program coordinator for the IU Kokomo School of Business. 

Conner Norman, 

B.S. ’19, 

is a financial analyst for FirstPerson, a benefits and compensation advisory firm in Indianapolis.

Adam Gilbert, 

B.S. ’18, 

is education reporter at the Kokomo Tribune. 

Ryan Bowerman, 

M.L.A. ’16, 

is an assistant coach for the Xavier University of Louisiana volleyball team.

Krysten Hinkle, 

M.P.M. ‘10, 

is project coordinator for the Pulaski County Community Development Commission.

Melissa Hicks, 

B.S. N. ‘09 

was recently promoted to chief nursing officer at IU Health Tipton Hospital. She previously was interim CNO, while also serving as director of nursing operations. 

Ruth Kain, 

B.S.N. ’95, 

was appointed chief nursing officer at Tulane Health Systems, New Orleans. She previously was vice president and associate chief nurse executive at IU Health in Indianapolis. 

Page 11:

Watch Party

Throw on your IU gear and join us as we cheer our Hoosiers on to a win over Purdue!

vs.

Indiana University Kokomo

at the IQ wall in the Cougar Country Café

Cost will be $10, which includes 1 beer or glass of wine and food. Cash bar available.

Show your trivia prowess for chances to win sweet IU swag.

Stay up to date at iuk.edu/ alumni.

Feb 27

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IU journey doesn't end at graduation, Navigate your career, Stay connected, Keep your IU email, expand your network

Purdue Logo

IU tab

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People forming of gears

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Better together

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People forming of gears

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As a regional campus of Indiana University, a core part of IU Kokomo’s mission is to serve as a steward of place, enhancing the quality of life for the people of north central Indiana.

It achieves that mission by partnering with others in its 14-county region — not-for-profits, health care organizations, K-12 school corporations, businesses and others — with similar goals. 

Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke said partnerships go back to IU Kokomo’s beginnings 75 years ago, when area business leaders petitioned IU to adopt Kokomo Junior College as an IU extension center. As the IU campus began, Kokomo Schools offered its assistance, allowing the fledgling campus to use Kokomo High School classrooms before the purchase of the Seiberling Mansion.

The commitment to partnership continues to this day.

“We are committed to being active partners in enhancing the economic development, quality of life, and the educational attainment in our service area,” Sciame-Giesecke said. “As a regional campus of Indiana University  it is our responsibility to partner with the communities in our  region, in an effort to create opportunities for everyone.”

The campus has not only collaborated with area schools, but leaders have worked with organizations such as Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), the Indiana Small Business Development Center, local government units and elected officials, hospitals, and many more.

Each entity benefits from the cooperation, she said, using the example of the long-term work with FCA.

“They employ several of our students as interns each year, and hire many of them when they complete those internships,” she said. “We assist FCA in growing its leaders from within, by providing an on-site Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) program. This partnership continues to grow, and we are excited about future possibilities.”

Partnering with the City of Kokomo and Kokomo Schools allowed the campus to grow its athletic program, with an agreement to allow IU Kokomo to turn the former Memorial Gym pool into Cougar Gym. That gave sports teams a home gym of their own, rather than borrowing space from other area schools. The city also permits the campus to use Kokomo Municipal Stadium, allowing for the addition of baseball and women’s soccer teams.

One of the most important partnerships, however, has been with K-12 schools, working together to increase the number of north central Indiana residents with bachelor’s degrees.

“We want every K-12 student to have the opportunity to have a conversation about going to college,” Sciame-Giesecke said. “ We collaborate with our area school leaders on how we can introduce the idea of going to college at many grade levels.”

The campus has opened the doors to schools for visits by children in elementary, middle, and high school, with more than 2,200 touring in spring 2019. A partnership with the United Way Serving Howard and Tipton Counties, and the Kokomo Family YMCA, 

“We’re committed to being active partners in enhancing the economic development, quality of life, and the educational attainment in our service area.”

Joe Hooper and Chancellor Susan Sciame-Gieseck 

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Joe Hooper and The Chancellor 

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brings about 1,600 kindergartners to visit each September, for the annual Walk into My Future event. 

A new pilot collaboration is underway this school year, the Passport to College Program, with 10 school districts in the region. Students complete activities that encourage and support college-going behaviors in middle and high school, with a scholarship offered to students who complete the program and enroll at IU Kokomo.

“We believe we are having a positive impact on students who may not have had the opportunity to have that college conversation otherwise,” Sciame-Giesecke said.

The following stories highlight a variety of current partnerships between IU Kokomo and others in our region. These are the relationships that not only impact learning opportunities for our students, but strengthen economic growth and quality of life for the communities in which the campus serves.

Abby Vinopal began earning a degree from Indiana University Kokomo during her senior year at Wabash High School, because of a partnership between the two schools.

Twice a week for the first semester of her senior year, she and several classmates boarded a bus at their high school, which brought them to campus for two classes, before returning to school. Second semester, she took an online class, completing it before she graduated.

When it came time to choose her college, the decision was easy.

“I felt comfortable here, and I knew my way around,” she said. “I had credits here, and I knew all the credits I earned in high school would transfer. It made for an easy transition.”

She’s among a growing number of Wabash High School students choosing IU Kokomo since the program began five years ago. 

Angie Siders, director of admissions, worked with guidance counselors from the high school to get it started.

“These students experience what I would consider to be the most real form of dual credit there is,” she said.“Being immersed in a college class is giving them a real taste of what it would be like, allowing them to get their feet wet with the expectations, all while surrounded by the support system they have in high school and at home.”

IU Kokomo provided scholarships for part of the cost, with Wabash Schools paying part of the tuition, and students and their families funding a small portion.

Vinopal is among the one-third of participating students who chose IU Kokomo after graduating. With the credits she earned in high school, she could complete a bachelor’s degree in three years.

Jason Callahan, superintendent of the Wabash City Schools, said this 70 percent of the Class of 2019 went to college, the largest percentage since they began documenting that statistic. 

“This past year, the number one school of choice for our students was IU Kokomo,” he said. “Not only do I think it plays a role in recruiting kids because their experience is positive, but it’s recruiting them to a four-year institution. For the first time in the history of us tracking it, the majority went to a four-year, not a two-year school.”

Students from Wabash High School attending classes on the IU Kokomo Campus.

stronger schools

stronger students

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Students from Wabash Highschool attending classes at IU Kokomo

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The partnership helps both schools in their shared mission of increasing the number of people in north central Indiana with college degrees. Giving students a positive first experience makes it more likely they will succeed in graduating, Callahan said, noting they had seen students flounder because while they were academically prepared, they didn’t know how to be a college student.

“Getting these students, especially those who are first-generation college students, a college campus experience before they go is vitally important,” he said, “Becoming an IU Kokomo student while also a Wabash High School student, and learning how to navigate, shows them they can succeed. If you climb one mountaintop, you can climb one more. I see this as that initial summit of a mountaintop.”

The program is growing in popularity as well — this year’s group of participants is the largest ever, at 18, and Wabash Schools had to increase to a full-sized bus. Many of those students have taken the dual-credit classes offered at the high school, and are ready for the challenge.

Lexi Westendorf and Trenton Daughtry are among those students, and they share a goal of earning all the credits to complete their freshman year while still in high school.

Daughtry said, “It’s good to get on campus and feel what college will be like. It’s a good experience to have.” Westendorf said it allows them to move toward the future.

“This is preparing us at a whole different level for college,” she said, “They’re really giving everyone a step forward in what they’re going to do.” 

Heidi Wright fled an abusive marriage with her purse on her arm, and nothing more.

Because the Family Service Association of Howard County had a domestic violence shelter — that receives part of its funding from an annual IU Kokomo fundraiser — she had a safe place to find her footing, and begin the work to support herself and her children on her own.

Ten years later, Wright gives back as the FSA’s sexual assault advocate, accompanying victims through the criminal justice system and recovery, and teaching about prevention.

These programs rely on donations like those raised through IU Kokomo’s Angel Walk, which has raised more than $212,000 for the shelter since 2004.

“From a personal standpoint, the money donated made all the difference in the world to me,” Wright said. “It meant I could get into a safe place and get out of an unsafe relationship. Being able to stay in a safe place meant I could succeed, and go on to do the work I do. It means I can go to the hospital and be with a victim hours after he or she has been sexually assaulted, and comfort them and help them. I can continue to work with stakeholders in the community to have coordinated efforts to help victims.”

The cause is important to Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke, who serves as president of its board of directors. She joined after hearing the shelter was in danger of closing, due to lack of funding.

“I wanted to be part of the solution,” she said. “The backbone of successful communities are healthy, strong families. We, as a community, are only as strong as our most vulnerable. I am proud to live  in a community that looks out for one another, and FSA’s mission is supporting families to be healthy and strong.”

Hundreds of people — students, faculty, staff, and community members — have attended the Angel 

Heidi Wright (far right) leads IU Kokomo students as they set out on the annual Angel Walk

healthier

relationships

happier

homes

Heidi Wright (far right) leads IU Kokomo students as they set out on the annual Angel Walk.

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Heidi Wright (far right) leads Iu Kokomo students as they set out on the annual Angel Walk

Pg. 17:

Walk each April, raising money for the shelter and awareness of domestic violence. 

Wright noted that the shelter’s annual operating budget is more than $850,000 and it all comes from grants and donations. That makes the money raised through the Angel Walk critically important.

The partnership is about far more than raising money, however. It’s also about education.

Faculty and students have partnered on several projects, including painting rooms in the shelter, teaching digital storytelling, résumé writing and basic computer skills to shelter 

residents. 

Students learn through these service opportunities, Sciame-Giesecke said. “Hopefully, after learning what constitutes unacceptable behavior, and that there is help available, victims of domestic or sexual violence will seek assistance, and help stop the cycle of violence.”

These programs, as well as the Angel Walk, are an opportunity for the FSA to reach college students with a critical message, Wright said.

“It’s helps us get the word out to one of the most vulnerable demographics to sexual assault and domestic or dating violence,” she said. “The partnership gives us an excellent opportunity to educate students about domestic violence. It’s good to know not only yourself, but so you can be supportive and help a friend through that situation.”

With a looming shortage of primary health care providers, IU Kokomo’s School of Nursing and Community Howard Regional Health partnered to address the problem, with the creation of a family nurse practitioner degree.

They announced the start of the program in May 2016, with the hospital providing $500,000 over five years, to get it started. 

Dean Susan Hendricks commended leadership at Community Howard Regional Health for its proactive decision.

“This was a really important gift for us,” she said. “In Indiana, many of our rural communities are underserved by primary health care providers. It’s a serious issue.”

Joe Hooper, president of Community Howard Regional Health, said a recent assessment showed the area is about 17 primary health care providers short of what the population requires. It’s unlikely hospital leadership could recruit 17 physicians in a short time, so partnering to start a family nurse practitioner program is an alternate way to address the need.

He added that in starting the program, preference was to be given to local applicants who want to stay in the area.

“We weren’t interested in training people to then leave the community,” he said. “We wanted to create our own pipeline, for providers to stay in the community.”

It’s beginning to pay off.

Mary Steinke, nurse practitioner track director, said classes are taught in person and in hybrid formula, which combines online and classroom experiences. Students take seven semesters of classes, including summer sessions, to complete in two and one-half years.

Allison Cardwell, F.N.P. ‘19

career

prospects

healthy

communities 

Alt text:

Allison Cardwell, F.N.P '19

Pg. 18:

The first class of 13 family nurse practitioners graduated in May 2019 — and most had jobs lined up when they completed.  Three of them now work for Community Physician practices.

Allison Cardwell is among those new nurse practitioners.

A Kokomo native, her career goal had always been to serve as a nurse practitioner. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from IU Kokomo in 2010, and kept in touch with Mary Bourke, associate dean of graduate programs and associate professor, knowing there was potential for a program to start.

As a working nurse and mother of two young children, going out of town to earn her advanced practice degree wasn’t an option. She applied shortly after the school began taking applications.

            A partnership effort led by Indiana University Kokomo has garnered more than $6 million in grant funding for north central Indiana in five years    — money that has paid for community center construction, storm water planning projects, local street initiatives, workforce development, broadband planning, and other quality of place initiatives in six counties.

Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke facilitated planning for the North Central Indiana Regional Planning Council (NCIRPC), with the goal of assisting with community development in Cass, Clinton, Fulton, Howard, Miami, and Tipton counties.

Steven Ray, NCIRPC executive director, said the organization is separate from the counties’ economic development corporations.

“Our role is to support our local units of government, by being a resource in increasing the capacity in community development projects and initiatives,” he said “That can be everything from infrastructure improvement projects to quality of life projects, or workforce development.”

The six counties involved have a long history of working together, Ray said, having worked together since the early 2000s to promote and market the region and to collaborate on workforce, education and transportation issues.

NCIRPC has brought in grant funding from a variety of local, state, and federal resources, including the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs, U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development, U.S. Department of Defense Office of Economic Adjustment, Indiana Department of Transportation, Indiana Department of Workforce Development, Wabash Heartland Innovation Network, and county community foundations.

Members of the North Central Indiana Regional Planning Council (NCIRPC)

thriving

economies

prolific

job

market

Alt Text:

Members of the North Central Indiana Regional Planning Council

Page 19:

Campus leadership has stayed involved with the council after helping found it, Ray said.

“IU Kokomo is very engaged, very much an active partner in activities that the regional planning council either drives or is part of,” he said. 

Sciame-Giesecke serves on the organization’s board of directors, and Cathy Valcke, director of external relations and public affairs, also is involved. As a regional campus, Valcke said, IU Kokomo serves as a “steward of place,” and its leadership in this organization fulfills that mission.

“As a university, we could convene meetings with a neutral facilitator to help form the organization,” she said. “Then, we were able to bring the campus’s resources, including personnel and experts in the field, to the table to help with projects as needed.”

For example, Alan Krabbenhoft, dean of the School of Business, and his students have assisted with projects in Fulton County. In addition, Leah Nellis, dean of the School of Education, is working with the school corporations in Miami County to bring the Tomorrow’s Teachers programs to those schools, allowing their students to take education classes for credit while still in high school.

Ray said the plan is to start Tomorrow’s Teachers in Miami County for the 2020-2021 school year.

“As the regional planning council, our role is to connect networks and people, outside of pursuing grants for communities,” he said. “These school districts are looking for career pathways. Because of IU Kokomo’s engagement with the regional planning council, we already know about this program that’s up and running. We can bring both sides together, and they can decide if they want to move forward together.”

Sciame-Giesecke and Valcke are both involved in NCIRPC’s effort to pursue designation as an Indiana 21st Century Talent Region, showing commitment to increase educational attainment, raise household income, and grow population. 

Both IU Kokomo and the communities it serves benefit from the partnership, Valcke said.

“When we help raise the educational attainment level, it’s good for everybody,” she said. “Economic development benefits everybody. We want our graduates to have jobs to go to, so they don’t leave the area and the state. Anything we can do to help that along is beneficial to everyone, including IU Kokomo.”

Cultivating the future

As the campus looks toward the future, continued partnerships will be vital not only to the success of the campus, but to the citizens of north central Indiana as well.

 “We are committed to providing the region with degree programs to fulfill changing needs in the years to come,” Sciame-Giesece said. “We hope to grow our partnerships throughout all the communities we serve, and continue to enhance and foster the relationships that have brought us this far.”

Alt Text:

People in the form of gears

Pg. 20:

Donor Spotlight

Partners in giving

Building strong and vibrant communities starts when community members, institutions and organizations are able to come together. Through the gifts of our generous donors, Indiana University Kokomo continues to educate and partner with the communities in our region. We are so thankful for our donors past, present and future. 

Grace Ebikwo

“As much as possible, 

we should extend a

hand of giving

to other people we meet.

That’s the best way to live.”

Giving is the only way to live.

That’s the philosophy Grace Ebikwo grew up with in Nigeria. She continues to live out that philosophy while earning her Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) at IU Kokomo.

“We were brought up to know that it is a privilege to have what we have,” she said, “As much as possible, we should extend a hand of giving to other people we meet. That’s the best way to live.”

That, and her first-hand view of how students are impacted by IU Kokomo, is why her family gives to the IU Kokomo fund through the IU Foundation.

Grace Ebikwo, Kokomo 

Alt Text:

Grace Ebikwo, Kokomo

Pg. 21:

“We see the possibilities that can happen for students here,” she said. “Every time I personally see the trips and opportunities that are here, I wish I could do something. I can’t do much, but with my small contribution, and other people giving theirs, we all make a difference. That’s more motivation for us to give as a family.”

Opportunity is what brought Ebikwo and her five children to the United States. With a previous degree in pharmacy in their home country, she wanted to earn a Master of Public Management. She completed that degree in 2016 at IU Kokomo, and will finish her M.B.A. in December. She’s currently deciding on her next steps, and may enroll in a Ph.D. program.  Her goal is to be a teacher or administrator with programs for young people.

“Ultimately, I hope I am able to impact the lives of younger people from the experiences I’ve had so far, and what I’ve learned from being back in school as a non-traditional student,” she said.

 Ebikwo has worked on campus as a student,  currently as an admissions ambassador. She’s also been an orientation leader, and a student assistant in human resources, career services, and university advancement.

“I love what I see happening for students here, and the commitment IU Kokomo has to student success,” she said. “I can attest to the ease of communication with faculty, and the resources that are poured into students. I want to see more students impacted, and more have the chance to do what they ordinarily would not be able to do, because of my giving.”

As Dr. Robert Christensen worked his way through Indiana University Kokomo, the example of his mother, Doris Alcorn Korba, inspired him. 

In her early 40s, with three children at home, his mother enrolled in the Kokomo School of Practical Nursing, which led to a nursing career of more than 20 years at Dukes Memorial Hospital in Peru.

“She worked very hard. She didn’t have it easy due to her circumstances,” he said. “I feel like earning her degree was a great accomplishment.”

After he graduated from IU Kokomo in 1976, he was admitted to the IU School of Medicine, leading him to a successful career as a family physician, first in Michigan, then in Cicero. He completed his career in the Ball State Student Health Center two years ago.

He’s now teaching a physiology lab in the IU Kokomo School of Sciences.

The Christensens established the Doris Alcorn Nursing Scholarship this year, in honor of his mother, as well as the influence IU Kokomo had on his life. They’ve also made a planned gift from their estate.

“I was very happy I attended IU Kokomo,” he said. “It was probably the best college I could have attended, because of the smaller class size and the excellent professors who really cared about the students. I felt it was a more personal relationship with the faculty. It’s grown and improved since I was here, but I think it’s an outstanding college, and prepared me well.”

Christensen believes his mother would be proud to have a scholarship in her name. He’s pleased to help future nurses.

“I just think nurses are angels, and want to contribute to a scholarship to help students financially, to ease their way through college,” he said.

Dr. Robert and Debbie Christensen, Fishers

Alt Text:

Dr. Robert and Debbie Christensen, Fisher IN

Pg. 22:

City of Kokomo, Mayor Greg Goodnight

The Kokomo City Council recently approved a gift of $250,000 for IU Kokomo’s Student Activities and Events Center, currently under construction on the campus’s east side.

Mayor Greg Goodnight hopes the contribution will encourage others in the community to support the center.

“The council members and I believe this is an important addition to the campus, and we want to make sure it’s completed,” said Goodnight, noting that when the campus thrives, so does the city.

“The Student Activities and Events Center will be an asset not only for IU Kokomo, but for the city,” he said. 

He sees it as an investment in the city and campus’s development.

“If you look at what happened in the great recession in 2008, and you look at the population shifts taking place around the country, cities and regions that have a university are actually doing much better than those that don’t have one,” he said. “Having IU Kokomo here is important for our city.”

The campus can provide its resources in the community, including faculty sharing expertise, and students, faculty, and staff serving as volunteers in the area. It also brings potential residents and entrepreneurs to the city.

“You want people to come to your community, whether it be to visit or go to school,” he said. “Our goal is that they fall in love with Kokomo, and want to make their home here.”

Goodnight was pleased the city could be part of growing the campus, because of its importance to the area.

“I’ve talked to mayors in other cities who are jealous, because they don’t have an IU regional campus in their cities. They recognize the importance of this asset.”

Anonymous 

Donald and Gail Almquist

Don and Gail Beaton 

Elizabeth Tocco Billman 

Robert Blossey 

Dr. Robert and Deborah  Christenson

Dr. and Mrs. Amal K. Das 

The Goad Family

Marc and Tonya Goodier

Mary Ellen Harnish 

Elwood “Bud” Hillis

1. William and Nancy Hunt

Richard and Shirley Lee

Kathleen Ligocki 

Charles McLochlin 

James Pellerite 

Ruth Person 

Glenn Rodgers

Allen Safianow 

Marilyn Skinner 

Patricia Williams 

Members of our Elwood Haynes Society have made planned & estate gifts to IU Kokomo.

Elwood Haynes Society

New state-of-the-art buildings and learning spaces. Hundreds of student scholarships. Experiential, life-changing learning opportunities. The generosity of our donors makes the big things we do at IU Kokomo possible. In addition to supporting our region, these gifts contribute to the $3 billion For All: The Indiana University Bicentennial Campaign goal. We thank our 2018 donors for believing in our mission and providing opportunities for our students, our campus, and our community.

Your gifts. Our Progress.

Alt Text:

Mayor Greg Goodnight

Pg. 23:

Phoenix Society

Members of our Phoenix Society have made gifts of $400-$999 to IU Kokomo.

Katelyn Aguilar 

Susan and Dick Ardey 

Eric and Laura Bain-Selbo 

Don and Gail Beaton 

Michelle Bosworth 

Emily Brandstatter 

David and Donna Brownfield 

Brenda and Dan Catron 

Michael and Sharon Calhoon

Milt and Jean Cole

Lori and Thomas Collins

Cheryl Currens

Joseph and Elizabeth Douglass 

Chad and Christina Downey

Jim and Janetta Duffy 

Debra and David Edwards 

Zach Foland 

Rich Fortner

Margot and William Fox

Todd and Jeannie Gambill 

Karen and Kenneth Gardner

Nancy and Glenn Grundmann 

Joe and Susan Hendricks

Loren and Nancy Henry 

John and Karen Holman

John and Karen Hughey 

Nanette Knuckles

Rebecca and Bart Lefler 

Neil and Cynthia Lipken

Mark and Diane Malson 

Rick and Heidi Martin 

Tracy and Joseph Martino 

Megan Mathews-Wine

Ron and Linda Maus

Kyle McAninch 

Greg and Peggy McCarty 

Nancy and Gene McGarvey

James Mclntyre 

Phil and Ruth Pate 

Tom Poppas and Betty Hegenbart-Poppas 

Victoria and Ralph Rhees

Allan and Dianne Roden 

Matthew and Juli Spielman

Tracy and Chad Springer 

Melinda and Gregory Stanley 

Jenny Stephens

William and Rita Stoller

Art and Carol Stonebraker 

William and Carolyn Stifle

Tom and Nancy Sugar 

Don TenBrook 

Flo Tenbrook 

Terry and Mary Unger

Gabby VanAlstine

Jason VanAlstine 

Scott Voorhis

Sharon and Marvin Wheeler

Pat Williams

Chancellor’s Guild Society

Members of our Chancellor’s Guild Society have made gifts of $1000-$4,999 to IU Kokomo.

American Water Works

Andy and Mary Baker

Willie and Cathy Barnes

Elizabeth Billman

Barnes & Noble College Booksellers, LLC

Mary Bourke

Bucheri McCarty & Metz LLP

Mark and Lisa Canada

Karl and Cathy Clearwaters

Coca-Cola Bottling Kokomo

Cole Family

Steven and Barbara Conner

Timothy and Dana Davis

Melissa Ellis

Frank and Margaret Faulkner

James and Jan Fayle

Randall and Esther Fishman

Janet Godfrey

Marc and Tonya Goodier

Geoffrey and Florence Goodyear

Mary Ellen Harnish

Jack and Charlotte Higgins

Clifford Hunt

Indiana University Kokomo Staff Council

Ivy Tech Foundation

Jan Halperin and Kent Kauffman

Alan Krabbenhoft and Kathleen Klute

Richard and Betty Lasbury

Michelle Lawless

Scott and Cheryl Maple

Steve Daily and Michelle Martin

Patrick and Judith McNarny

Norman and Catherine Mendenhall

Clyde and Claudia Muse

Sonnie Neal

Rodney and Nella Padfield

Sarah Polk

Douglas and Gloria Preece

Pressman Family Foundation

Jean Rinehart

Glenn Rodgers

Robert and Annette Rush

Stephen and Julie Saam

John and Sarah Sarber

Heidi Sebastian

Security Federal Savings Bank

Marilyn Skinner

Angela Smith

Dan and Catherine Valcke

Paul and Julie Wagner

Don and Deborah Zent

Seiberling Society

Members of our Seiberling Society have made gifts of $5000 or more to IU Kokomo.

Anonymous donors

Sita C. Amba-Rao

Michael Anderson

William and Marilyn Bersbach

Button Motors

cfd Investments

Benjamin Chiu and Melissa Hall

Robert and Deborah Christensen

Community First Bank of Indiana

Community Foundation of Howard County, Inc.

Community Howard Regional Health Hospital 

Duke Energy Foundation

First Farmers Bank & Trust

Four County Counseling Center

Judy Golitko

Julie Paris and Daniel Grundmann

1. William and Nancy Hunt

Howard County Government

Harold and Sherry King

Philip L. Kintzele

Kokomo Grain Company, Inc.

Kathleen Ligocki 

Herbert C. Miller

Robert Mullen and Dianna Delgado

NIPSCO

Allen Safianow

Susan Sciame-Giesecke and Dan Giesecke

Brian and Angela Shockney

Charles and Alice Simons

Jeffrey and Lisa Smeltzer

Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union

Paul Stanley, Jr.

Jack and Pam Tharp

Thrush-Thompson Foundation, Inc. 

Pg. 24:

Fired Up and Making Moves

Have you been keeping up with Cougar Athletics? Here’s some highlights so far from this semester:

In women’s cross country, Lexi Jackson is a contender for first place at the RSC Championship. She recorded a time of 18:50.90 at the NAIA Great Lakes Challenge, which is the ninth fastest time in school history. She also won “River States Conference Runner of the Week” twice this season. Jordan Fivecoate is the top runner for men’s cross country, coming in first in three out of the six regular season races. 

The first season of women’s soccer brought an overall record of 7-7-3 and 3-4-3 RSC and earned a bid to the River States Conference Tournament for post-season play, a huge achievement for a first-year program. 

IU Kokomo volleyball, in the West Division of the River States Conference, is currently ranked third out of six teams. Lizzie Sokeland is the top hitter, and ranked No. 1 in hitting percentage out of the entire conference, and Erinn Adams is ranked No. 1 for blocks/set.

For more details on Cougar Athletics, go to iukcougars.com.

Alt Text:

Womens Volleyball team celebrates

IUK Golf Team Photo

Two Womens Cross Country Runners

Womens tennis player laughing

Womens golfer swinging

Women soccer player running with the ball

Mens Cross Country team taking off

Pg.  25:

Building a Legacy, block by block

At IU Kokomo, excitement is building as the Student Activities and Events Center continues to become more of a reality each and every day. We're raising the bar and changing the dynamic of our campus and our community with this brand new space which will host sporting events, dynamic speakers, and a learning environment. Now, all we need is you. 

Play a role in our momentum by donating to the Student Activities and Events Center. Contact Jan Halperin, vice chancellor for University Advancement at
765-455-9415. 

Donate and see weekly updates at iuk.edu/eventscenter.

As always, thank you for your support. 

Fundraising Disclosures: go.iu.edu/89n 

Alt Text:

gorundbreaking for student activities center

Construction worker pointing to steele beams

Two construction workers in yellow in the middle of the sight

Student activities building in progress with signs in front

For all The IU Bicentennial Campaign

Pg. 26:

Let’s keep in touch

Exciting campus updates. Career tips and development opportunities. Interesting stories and news. Information about upcoming alumni events. And so. much. more. It all happens on our social media! 

Keep in touch with your Indiana University Alumni Association Kokomo Region by following along on your favorite platform. 

Facebook.com/IUKAA

@iukalumni

@IUAAKR

linkedin.com/in/iukaa

Magazine cover

legacy

A magazine for Alumni and Friends of Indiana University Kokomo

Summer 2019

Building an IU Kokomo Legacy

Celebrating 75 years

looking forward what’s in store

Page 2

Four pictures of the Chancellor from the previous year are shown. Text on the page reads:

words from your Chancellor

“You have played a role and made an important mark on the success of IU Kokomo.”

The start of IU Kokomo’s 75th Anniversary celebration is just around the corner, this fall to be exact, and I’m excited as I look at all that we have accomplished as well as where our campus is headed in the future.

You have played a role and made an important mark on the success of IU Kokomo. Thank you for choosing us as the place where you would learn, grow, and earn your IU degree.  During my travel around the region, I have met so many alumni in our hospitals, banks, schools, and the list goes on.  The accomplishments of our alumni are impressive and speak to the quality of our degree programs.  In this issue you will meet some of our legacy alumni, families that have earned their degrees together.

I invite you to join in this year-long celebration, as we host a variety of activities that I hope will inspire you to engage with the campus, and reconnect with old friends. You’ll find in this issue a list of events happening during the fall semester.  More information will be coming for spring semester, so be sure to stay up to date by visiting 75years.iuk.edu.

This is a wonderful time to be involved with IU Kokomo as we grow with the needs of our students in mind. Construction is underway for the new Student Activities and Events Center, our first building in 20 years; a coffee house will open in the Kelley Student Center this fall; and a state-of-the-art simulation lab is being built for our popular nurse practitioner program.

Please check the list of upcoming events and mark your calendars! It would be great to have you back on campus. I hope to see you soon!

Sincerely,

Susan Sciame-Giesecke, Ph.D.

Chancellor

Indiana University Kokomo

Page 3

No imagery appears on this page. The text reads:

What’s in a name?

At Indiana University Kokomo, we’re all about leaving a lasting mark. On our students, on our alumni, on our community. And on our campus, it’s a valiant joint effort.

Our Alumni Magazine is a small representation of what binds us all together: students, alumni, donors, and friends of our beloved alma mater. But, as we near our 75th anniversary, we felt the need for a stronger tie, a name that represents who we are and what we do.

This magazine is a small sampling of the big work we’re doing to leave a lasting impact.

As such, welcome to the first issue of: Legacy: A magazine for alumni and friends of Indiana University Kokomo

Table of contents summer 2019

75th Celebration Calendar                                             5

IU Kokomo’s 50th Commencement                               6

Honorary Degree Recipient                                            8

Building an IU Kokomo Legacy                                    10

Athletics Updates                                                        19

Dreaming of the Future                                               22

IUAA Kokomo region

President: Melinda Knudson-Stanley, M.P.M. ‘12

Board Members

Brad Bagwell, B.S. ‘77, M.B.A. ‘88

Brianne Boles B.G.S. ‘03, M.P.M. ‘09

Sharmaine Ellison, B.S.N. ’00

Robert Hayes, B.G.S. ’95

Amanda Hedrick, B.S. ’12

Cameron Huffman B.A. ‘11, J.D. ‘14

Clifford Hunt B.S. ‘54

Gloyd Johnson B.G.S. ‘06

Genie Lalonde B.S. ‘70

Jonatan Lopez Bracamontes B.S. ‘18

Lucien Madding, A.A. ’10, A.S. ’11, B.S. ’13, B.S. ’14

Ann Millikan, B.S. ’59

Amber Moore, B.A. ’17

Mary Olk B.S. ‘13

Sarah Polk B.S. ‘13, M.B.A. ‘17

Marilyn Skinner, Ed.D. ’71

Martha Warner, B.A. ’06, M.A. ’12

Indiana University Kokomo Office for University Advancement

Vice Chancellor for University Advancement: Jan C. Halperin, CFRE

Director of Alumni Relations and Campus Ceremonies: Benjamin A. Liechty 

Media and Marketing

Director of Marketing: Marie Lindskoog

Creative Services Manager: April Name

Graphic Specialist: Terri Hellmann

Communications Specialist: Danielle Rush

Videographer: Mike Glassburn

Web Content Writer: Emily Smith

For Media Inquiries contact:

mrktng@iuk.edu

Page 4

A black and white picture is shown with arrows pointing to and from a picture from the 50^th Commencement. The arrangement of photos and arrows goes with the theme of the page, past and present. The text reads:

Connecting the Past to Our Future

As IU Kokomo prepares to celebrate its 75th anniversary and IU’s Bicentennial, we invite you to join us in commemorating the past, connecting with the present, and dreaming of the future.

Taking pride in our alma mater is something we all can get behind and support together, as one IU. Our beloved alma mater has touched thousands of lives. I do hope you will join us on campus and at upcoming events and help us celebrate 75 transformative years.
Benjamin A. Liechty, B.A. ‘06

Director of Alumni Relations & Campus Ceremonies

Now is the perfect time to join the Alumni Association.

alumni.iu.edu/join

Attend an event

Enjoy the music of the Rolling Stones at Symphony on the Prairie at Conner Prairie in Noblesville on June 28^th

Celebrate 75 years

IU Kokomo is celebrating its 75th Anniversary and we can’t do it without you! Attend any one of our events and connect with alumni and students.

Celebrations kick off September 16th

Recognize achievements

We love recognizing the accomplishments of our esteemed alumni! Nominations will open soon for our Nurses of Distinction event. March 2020

For more information on these events and how you can engage with other alumni in our region, contact Benjamin Liechty at alumni@iuk.edu.

Update your information at alumni@iuk.edu The IU Alumni Association Kokomo Region serves ALL IU Kokomo alumni worldwide, and ALL IU alumni residing in Howard and Tipton counties.

Page 5

Black and white images are shown from IU Kokomo’s past. The text reads:

A celebration 75 years in the making

We’re commemorating our campus’ 75th anniversary in a big way! Join us as we celebrate you and the legacy of our wonderful campus.

September 6: First Friday Downtown Kokomo

We’re joining in the First Friday fun with a celebration you’ll love!

5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

September 11: Annual Golf Outing at Wildcat Creek Golf Course

Enjoy an afternoon on beautiful Wildcat Creek Golf Course in support of IU Kokomo students

and campus. Contact Cathy Clearwaters for more information at cclearwa@iuk.edu.

11:30 a.m.

September 11: 75 Years in Pictures at IU Kokomo Art Gallery

Enjoy a journey through IU Kokomo history.

4 p.m. to 7 p.m. opening reception

September 16: Student Celebration on the Quad

Our student leaders are putting together a very special event that you won’t want to miss!

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

September 16: Bicentennial Historical Marker Ceremony

Join us as we commemorate the Seiberling Mansion for its importance

in the history of IU Kokomo at the Seiberling.

1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

September 17: Community Walk and Picnic

Join IU Kokomo students and community members for a walk to

Foster Park and picnic.

11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

September 18: Culture Fest at IU Kokomo

Take a virtual trip around the world through food, music, and dance, all while

honoring the rich cultural, ethnic, and geographic diversity on our campus.

4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

September 19: Faculty and Staff Scholarship Reception

at IU Kokomo Art Gallery

Join us in celebrating the accomplishments of our faculty and staff.

4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

September 20: Tailgate and Women’s Volleyball vs. St. Xavier

Cheer on our Volleyball team and spend some time with friends old and new!

6 p.m. tailgate 7 p.m. game start

We’ve got more celebrations to come throughout the year! Visit us at 75years.iuk.edu for all the latest info.

Page 6

Pictures of IU Kokomo’s 20^th Commencement are arranged in a collage including students taking selfies, a decorated mortarboard, the grand marshal, and President McRobbie.

Page 7

More pictures from Commencement are shown including a picture of the Chancellor speaking.

Indiana University Kokomo celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2019 at its 50th Commencement on Tuesday,

May 7, 2019. 

A record-breaking 686 degrees conferred 

Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke congratulated the graduating class, noting that IU Kokomo has been the main source for higher education in north central Indiana for nearly 75 years.

“In that time, we have conferred the degrees of 14,000 graduates who have gone out into our region, state, and world, to make a difference,” she said.

50^th Commencement Indiana University Kokomo

Page 8

Pictures of Emita Hill are shown including Emita receiving her honorary degree, another award, and her smiling in regalia.

Deserving of honor

Chancellor Emerita Emita Hill recives honoary degree.

Indiana University Kokomo’s first female chancellor received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from IU during Commencement.

Chancellor Emerita Emita Hill, received the degree from President Michael A. McRobbie, in recognition of her accomplishments supporting higher education, and making it accessible to everyone, and for her trailblazing effort for women in leadership positions.

“IU Kokomo was such an important part of my life,” Hill said. “I’m already so grateful to IU, and for the university to grant this honor is extraordinary. It is like coming home.”

Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke said she personally benefitted from her encouragement, as a faculty member while Hill was chancellor, from April 1991 to August 1999.

“While at IU Kokomo, she not only supported women to develop their leadership skills, she was an advisor to many, including myself,” Sciame-Giesecke said. “I, along with other female faculty and staff, had the benefit of her mentorship and her willingness to support our aspirations for growth in our careers.”

Hill, who lives in New Rochelle, New York, led a period of significant growth at IU Kokomo. She led the fund-raising effort to build the Library Building, and also championed the building of Virgil and Elizabeth Hunt Hall, the campus science building, which was constructed after her departure. She also established partnerships with several international universities, including Jesus University in South Korea, which continues today.

Since leaving IU Kokomo, she has worked in international university development, including serving as executive director and was a board member of the American University Central Asia Foundation, and has served as chair of the Education Awards Committee for the New York Women’s Forum since 2010.

Hill describes herself as an author, grandmother, ballroom dancer, pianist, and scuba diver. She’s proud of the accomplishments of her three children. Julie is a nurse practitioner in oncology; Christopher is a professor of biology at Coastal Carolina University; and Madeleine is a linguist, writer, chef, and entrepreneur.

Hill is the youngest of five sisters, all of whom earned graduate degrees. She grew up in Baltimore, Maryland, and earned a Bachelor of Arts from Cornell University, a Master of Arts from Middlebury College, and a Ph.D. from Harvard University, in romance languages and literatures.

Page 9

Alan Krabbenhoft, dean of the School of Business, poses with the award winners from the Business Persons of Distinction event along with Chancellor Sue Sciame-Giesecke.

Indiana University Kokomo’s School of Business

recently honored three of its alumni at its inaugural Business Persons of Distinction

Nathan Kring, M.B.A. ’16; Annette Russell, B.S. ’14, and Scott Voorhis, B.S. ’05, M.B.A. ’07, earned the recognition for their professional achievements and community service.

Dean Alan Krabbenhoft said the honorees are “exemplary ambassadors of the School of Business,” for excelling in their professions and being active in their communities.

Keynote speaker was Robert E. Knowling Jr., a Kokomo native and IU honorary degree recipient. Knowling overcame poverty and racism to become a successful businessman, and promotes equity and social justice, as well as an agenda for inclusion and diversity for women and persons of color in the workplace.

Knowling shared his story of overcoming obstacles, from a childhood in poverty, attending college as a student-athlete, and the humble beginnings of his career at Indiana Bell. He’s currently chairman of Eagles Landing Partners, a strategic management consulting company. He also met with students in the School of Business to share what he’s learned along his career path, including the importance of surrounding yourself with a community of support.

Page 10

A photo collage of pictures is on this page. Some pictures are black and white and include past students and various campus landmarks. The pictures continue across the top of the next page. There is no text to read on this page.

Page 11

The text on this page reads:

Building a Legacy

They say a tiny drop leads to far-reaching, long-lasting ripples. The same could be said about Indiana University Kokomo.

As the first classes met in the Seiberling Mansion in 1945, maybe they knew they were the start of a tradition of excellence and high quality, life-changing education for north central Indiana for decades to come. As we prepare to celebrate our 75th Anniversary, let’s take some time and celebrate all that our University means to us.

Whether it’s a young adult with big dreams of their own following in the footsteps of his parents and grandparents, a group of siblings who can now also call each other fellow students, or a parent inspired by the brave decision of their own child to reach for more, IU Kokomo is a place where families create a new legacy for themselves and generations to come.

In this new issue – aptly renamed Legacy:

A Magazine for Alumni and Friends – you’ll read about the West family, from Peru, beginning with grandmother Sheryl, her daughter Alyson, and granddaughter Emily; the Jakes family, with parents Angela and Brian, and sons Bradley, Shadrach, and Jeremy; and Stephen Green, whose mother, Mimi Ford, was inspired by his success to return to college for her own degree.

Take a look through the pages of Legacy and see the difference our University has made in the lives of the people featured on these pages. And know that you played a role in this in some way.

Iuk.edu/alumni

Page 12

Legacy Feature

A picture of Sheryl West, Alyson West, and Emily Doran smiling and posed together is shown. The title on the picture reads:

In her footsteps

Page 13

A picture of Emily at the IU Kokomo Daycare, which was in the same location as her current office, is shown in the middle of this page. The text on this page reads. 

For three generations of West women, Indiana University Kokomo represents opportunity.

For Sheryl West, IU Kokomo meant she could go to college in her mid-20s, even though she had young children at home.

IU Kokomo allowed her daughter, Alyson West, to transition from a factory job to a career she loves as a middle school teacher. For her granddaughter, Emily (West) Doran, IU Kokomo is where she found her calling in law enforcement, began a fulfilling career, and met her husband, Andrew.

“The best things in my life have happened here, because of IU Kokomo,” said Emily, B.S. ‘14. “I played volleyball. I got a degree, I met my husband, and I found a career. I’m so glad I came here.”

“This has been a wonderful place for our family,” said Sheryl West, B.S. ’86, M.S. ’90, who retired from Peru Community Schools as a principal, after a 25-year career. “Without IU Kokomo, I would never have had the career I had. At my age, and with a family, I could never have earned a degree anywhere else.”

Sheryl West is proud of the opportunities her daughter and granddaughter have also had, because of IU Kokomo. Even when Alyson planned to be a manager in a factory, Sheryl knew she had a gift for teaching, and is happy she could earn the degree to make that possible.

“I’ve had an opportunity to go into her classroom many times,” she said. “She fits where she is very well. She’s loved by her students. I can’t go anywhere in town without her students running up and giving her hugs, and she is just beaming. I don’t think she would have had that kind of satisfaction in a factory job.”

Emily agreed, adding that going to the grocery store with her mother is like accompanying a local celebrity.

“We really can’t go anywhere in public without meeting people she’s taught,” Emily said. “Every trip to the store gets extended because we stop and we talk, and we chat, and she runs into so many people she knows.”

IU Kokomo has been part of Emily’s life for as long as she can remember — she attended the campus daycare as a toddler and preschooler, while her mother was a student, and even attended class occasionally.

“I remember bringing her in on my first day,” said Alyson, now a social studies teacher at Maconaquah Middle School. “It was the first time she had been anywhere other than with family members. I told her I had to go to class, and I would be back later. She was just like, ‘Bye, Mom,’ and she was ready for me to leave.”

Emily noted that her office in the campus police department is where the daycare used to be.

She blazed trails at IU Kokomo as a student, as the campus’ first signed athlete, the volleyball team’s first libero, as the first female cadet in the IU Police Department at Kokomo, and later as its first female officer. 

She also met her husband, Andrew Doran, B.S. ’13, who was a year ahead of her in the cadet program, and now is a Peru Police Department officer.

Doran found her purpose on campus, after initially enrolling only because of the chance to play volleyball. She’d considered teaching, like her mother and grandmother, but a teaching internship in high school convinced her it wasn’t for her. When she took her first criminal justice class, she knew that was what she wanted to do.

After her sophomore year, she gave up volleyball for the opportunity to be a cadet. Later, she completed the IU Police Academy, then served as a part-time officer in the campus police department, while finishing her degree — a full semester early, she is proud to note.

A full-time job opened shortly before she graduated, allowing her to begin her career on campus.

“I really have spent my whole life here,” Emily said.

Page 14

A picture of Brian and Angela Jakes smiling at the camera appears on this page. Above their picture is a picture of their sons. Text on this page reads:

Legacy Feature

All in the family

With at least one member of their family graduating from IU Kokomo every year since 2016, Brian and Angela Jakes are pros at Commencement. 

And while they joke about asking for a volume discount on tuition, or having a window or bench named after them, they are proud of their tradition and accomplishments.

“It’s pretty special that we’ve all not only gone to the same school, but have done so in a relatively short period of time,” said Brian Jakes, who graduated in May with a degree in elementary education.

“I’m so proud of all of them,” added Angela Jakes, especially that they and their children have all graduated in four years, and that all graduates have jobs in their fields.

She teaches fifth graders at Kokomo’s Wallace Elementary School of Integrated Arts, while oldest son Bradley is a fifth grade teacher at North White... (text trails off and continues on the next page)

Page 15

A picture of the Jakes family talking and smiling is shown. Text on this page reads:

...Elementary in Monon. Next son Shadrach is an e-commerce developer for Purdue Federal Credit Union.

Angela began their family tradition by graduating from IU Kokomo in 2016. Bradley followed in 2017, Shadrach graduated in 2018, and husband Brian recently graduated.

They’ll get a break in 2020 — Angela calls it their bye year — before youngest son Jeremy completes a biology degree in 2021. By the time he graduates, the youngest family member, Molly Kate, will be a seventh grader, so they will have a few years before another Jakes goes to college.

Angela Jakes was first to enroll, waiting until Molly Kate was in kindergarten to begin her degree.

She heard about the cross country program just getting started, and thought it would be a good opportunity for her sons. Without their permission, she contacted Coach Jason VanAlstine for more information, and was impressed with what she heard.

“We’re an academics first family, and he let us know straight away our kids were going to be safe, and grades would be priority,” she said. “I felt his leadership would be essential to getting our kids through college.”

The team played a crucial role in the boys’ success and experience, providing a family experience on campus with values similar to those at home. Study tables were required, and team members were expected to maintain excellent grades.

“I don’t believe for a second I would have done as well academically if I hadn’t been on the team,” he said. “There was very definite peer pressure to perform in the classroom.”

Brian had started an education degree several years ago, and, inspired by his wife’s example, decided to finish it after she graduated. For now, their home routine is that he studies while Angela creates lesson plans, and Molly Kate completes her fifth grade homework.

This year is the first that only two Jakeses are enrolled at IU Kokomo, rather than three. Even with three of them in the same major, they’ve never been in a class together, though Angela and Shadrach were in different sections of the same math class one semester. 

“It was my last math class, and his entry level,” Angela said. “I struggled, and he got straight A’s. He helped me a lot.”

They appreciate the opportunity for their family to earn college degrees close to home.

“It’s meant everything to me,” Angela said, not only as a student, but as a parent.

“I knew my kids were in an instructive and educational environment, where they were able to enjoy their abilities to the fullest extent. I never felt like they were so far away. We never lost that connection.”

Page 16

Pictures and graphics appear to show Stephen Green. In the first image, he sits at his desk at work with a picture of his mom, Mimi Ford, on his desk. There is a colorful map on the wall behind him. The text on this page reads: Legacy Feature

 A Driving Force

Photo by Matthew Baltimore, Lake Forest College

Page 17 

A picture of Stephen and his mom on her graduation day is shown. A picture of Stephen graduating and shaking the Chancellor’s hand on stage is shown. The text on this page reads:

Two days rank as among the most memorable of Stephen Green’s life.

One was the day he graduated from Indiana University Kokomo, in 2014. The other was in 2017, when his mother, Mimi Ford, crossed the stage to receive her own degree.

“Being able to see that was an incredibly proud moment for me,” said Green, who is now the Chicago Program coordinator for Lake Forest College. “I was glad I was able to be there in that moment, which was 26 years in the making.”

Those graduation days are now cherished memories, as Ford passed away just eight months after graduating, at age 51.  She was in the process of applying to Ph.D. programs in English.

“She still had a lot left to do and accomplish in the world,” he said. “We were on the cusp of something new and exciting.”

It was a hard loss for Green, because for years, he and his mother only had each other.

“I think anyone who loses a parent knows it never gets easier,” he said. “For the majority of my life, it was just me and my mom navigating the world together. We had a parent and child relationship, but I also would consider her a friend and confidant.” 

Graduation from college wasn’t a given for either of them. Just a few years earlier, Green was blowing off high school classes, and barely earned a general diploma, while Ford had briefly attended college in the 1980s before dropping out.

“For both of us, IU Kokomo was a fresh start,” he said. “It was our opportunity to make our lives better, in a way we never thought was possible. IU Kokomo allowed us to flourish and thrive in an academic environment, and to reach our goals.”

Neither of them would have had the chance to improve their lives without the opportunities and support they both received on campus, he said.

“Mom would never have dreamed about applying to Ph.D. programs if it hadn’t been for IU Kokomo,” he said. “I would never have imagined I would go to graduate school, or I would be dedicating my career to working in higher education. The fact we had access to it close to home, in an environment that allowed us to stay afloat financially, was a testament to what IU Kokomo meant to us and our journey.”

She was one of the first to encourage him to go to college, even after his less-than-stellar high school performance. Green figured he would go for a semester or two, and anticipated dropping out when it got too hard.

His first academic advisor, Catherine Barnes, set him straight.

“She told me, ‘You are going to graduate, you are going to graduate school, and you are going to study abroad,’” he said, and having someone who believed in him made a difference.

“There was someone on my side supporting me, and who was going to hold me accountable, and believed I could achieve all these things,” he said. “Something clicked inside me, and I thought, ‘Maybe I can do this.’”

Buoyed by his newfound confidence, he excelled, making the dean’s list every semester, serving as a student orientation leader, working the front desk in the student activities office, and also was an assistant teacher in a motivation and self-management course.

As a senior, he earned admission to his top choice school, Colorado State University’s master’s program in Student Affairs and Higher Education. His career aspiration is to be a dean of students. 

Along the way, Ford was his biggest cheerleader — and his success provided the push she needed to restart her own degree. 

“She was the driving force for me to stay with it,” he said, adding that they had some hard times, including Ford losing her job.

“I wasn’t sure that staying in school was the right decision for us, financially,” he said. “She encouraged me to stay and keep with it and to graduate. When she saw me excelling and thriving in that environment, it relit the passion and fire she had for learning before she had to stop out.”

Ford began working on her degree during Green’s senior year at IU Kokomo.

“I remember how proud I was of her and honored that she would confide in me and ask me for advice,” he said. “She had been such a mentor for me in a number of ways, and it was a way I could give back to her.”

Page 18

The text on this page reads:

Legacy Families of IU Kokomo

The legacy we are building here at IU Kokomo wouldn’t be as rich without our alumni and their families. As we dive into our 75th year, we are eager to identify and celebrate families sharing a tradition of graduating from IU Kokomo. While there are many ways to create and define a legacy, the families we are listing share the following unique qualities: 2 or more graduates within an immediate family, spouses who met and graduated from IU Kokomo, multiple siblings within a family, and parents who have graduated and have students currently attending IU Kokomo. We’re excited to be hosting our very first Legacy Luncheon in late spring/early summer of 2020, so stay tuned for more information!

Joe & Liz Douglass

Kyle Douglass

Clayton Douglass

Amy (Schlotterbeck) Lucas

Brittany Lucas

Jonathan & Breanna Guse

Cherri Alexander

Anthony Alexander

Katherine (Alexander) Washburn

Vicki (Kanouse) Boles

Brianne Boles

Mark Renken & Faith Renken

Carol Garber

Brandon Garber

Ashlin (Garber) Hadden

Roberta Heidebrecht

Rebekke Heidebrecht

Jeff & Joni Sedberry

Sarah Byrd

Heather Pickens

David Pickens

Marcia Worland

Beth Chaney

Don & Angie Whetro

Laurie Trlak

Heather Trlak

Rob Trlak

Laura Hill

Stephanie Franklin

Brian & Angela Shockney

Joseph Boike

Taylor Boike

Courtney Boike

Melinda Stanley

Aaron Stanley

Brandon & Emily (Ross) Smith

Alyson (West) McMillen

Emily (West) Doran

Sheryl West

Mark Harsh

Emily Harsh

Amanda Gould-Leffler & Dan Gould

Lara Coles

Alannah (Coles) Scott

Allison Coles

Lindsey Miller

Cindy Coe

Alexius Babb & Leon Babb

Gloria & Doug Preece

Casey Preece

Tara Nicole Lees

Michelle Strong

Victoria Strong 

Jeremy & Micheale (VanWinkle) Gibson

Kathryn (Widman) Stremiecki

Jennifer (Widman) Korous

Lori (Widman) Wiley

Karen Boyd

Allyson Boyd

Eric & Kambren (Stanley) Eramo

Bailey Troutman

Brooke Troutman

Brenna Troutman

Deanna Crispen

Emily Slavens

Mike & Holly (Hill) Glassburn

Claudia Lowry

Kara Keppel

Lori Davis

Nicole Purcell

Rachell Purcell

Joseph & Carly Meck

Brian & Angela Jakes

Bradley Jakes

Shadrach Jakes

Jeremy Jakes

Cheryl Schlemmer

Jonica Cantu

Nick & Lacy (Behny) Capozzoli

Cheryl Swoverland

Craig Swoverland

Olivia Williford

Sarah Williford

Usman, Rabia Ummad

Nida, & Maheen Zia

Brandon & Lael (Burrus) Larrick

Marthann Greeman

Kathleen Deboy

Nolan Deboy 

Stephen Green

Mimi Ford

Micah & Micayla (Speidel) Pier

Donna Hembree

Ashley Lay

Jacob Ridgeway 

Alisha (Willett) Referda

John Willett 

Andrew & Emily (West) Doran 

Kim (Barnes) LaFollette

Kiersten Lambert

Dr. Marley Griffin

Mason Griffin

Lora Brown

Wendy Brown

Lindsey Mongosa

Megan King

Jerome Humphrey

Morgan Humphrey

Dave Van Baalen

Ben Van Baalen

Joe & Tracy Martino

Nick Martino

Starr & Dennis McNally

Danyelle Peebles

Cayte Hiers

Cheryl Zabel-Easley

Josh & Tiffani Barnes

Whitnie Christner 

Anna Owens

Abby Feller

Lesa Beals

Stephanie Killings

Karly (Sprouse) Lucas

Shanon Lusher

Tara Lusher

Lori Collins

Tiffani Collins

Megan Mathews-Wine

 Stephanie Tinkel

Pamela (McGuire) Maurer

April (Maurer) Name

Susie Weaver

Joshua Walden

Mike and Amanda Dunn

Kandi Lucas

Tyler Lucas

AJ Lucas

We are always updating our alumni information! Don’t see your name or have something to add or adjust? Email Ben Liechty at alumni @iuk.edu.

Page 19

A picture of the two soccer coaches is shown at the top of the page. The Cougar athletics logo is also shown on this page. The text on this page reads:

Women’s soccer begins this fall at IU Kokomo

The IU Kokomo women’s soccer program kicks off its inaugural season in August at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. Coach Terry Stewart talks about the first team, and what Cougar fans can      expect from this first season.

1. What’s your vision for the first season of IU Kokomo women’s soccer?

Our goals are to develop some team chemistry, and get everybody on the same page as far as what we expect on the field, off the field, in the classroom, and in the community. We want to win some games and qualify for the conference tournament. That would be a good measuring stick for the first year, and put us in a good spot moving forward.

1. What are your expectations for the team in the community?

We’ve set a goal of 300 hours of community service the first year, which is about 15 hours per athlete, balanced with going to class, studying, playing, and traveling.  We’re going to get into some elementary schools. Talking with some of the principals, they’ve said many of these kids are potential first-generation college students, and they need someone to look up to. A college athlete might be a good start. We want to do what we can to make Kokomo better.

1. Why is community service part of your coaching philosophy?

I think it’s an important part of creating a well-rounded student, so when they graduate, they know there are people in need, and they can help. Growing up in England, our teams would go into hospitals at Christmas time and spend time with the kids. When we came back, that’s all the players talked about for weeks. You could see the kids’ faces light up when we walked in.

1. What is exciting about the first season of women’s soccer?

Whatever happens is a positive. The first win is the first win ever, the first goal is the first goal ever. When that happens all season, there’s a buzz about it. The girls are buying into it, and the parents are buying into it. The campus is excited, and I think the community will be too. Everything is a first, and a lot of excitement comes with that. 

1. Why is soccer a good fit as IU Kokomo’s next sport?

Everybody plays soccer. It’s the world’s game. In America, everybody plays soccer at some point in their life. Whether they are 3 or 30, at some point, everybody will have played. Kokomo has had soccer, and has some very good school teams and leagues. We’ve had everything else, and soccer was the missing piece.

For more information about all IU Kokomo athletic teams,

go to iukcougars.com.

2018-2019

season highlights

Women’s Teams

Basketball

West Division Champions

River States Conference

Program record 112 points

in a single game

Golf

2 team event wins

Volleyball

Conference Champions

River States Conference

Undefeated in regular season

Conference games

Tennis

4th Place Regular Season Finish

1st Post-Season victory

Track & Cross Country

4th Place finish in

River States Conference

2 qualifiers for

NAIA National Championship

Men’s Teams

Basketball

West Division Champions

River States Conference

Sweet 16 round in

NAIA National Tournament

Baseball

2nd Place finish in

River States Conference

2nd straight 30-win season

Golf

Fall Tournament Champions

River States Conference

Track & Cross Country

8th Place finish in the

River States Conference

Page 20

Brian and Angela Shockney pose and smile for a picture. Greg Aaron is shown smiling. Dr. Benjamin Chiu is shown smiling. The text on this page reads:

Donor Spotlight

Legacy of Giving

Indiana University Kokomo is transformed by the generous gifts we receive from our donors, both alumni and friends. Your gifts enable us to continue to build a legacy for our campus, our students, our faculty and staff, and the communities we serve. We are so thankful for our donors past, present and future. Thank you for creating an opportunity for education on our campus!

Dr. Benjamin Chiu, Kokomo

Dr. Benjamin Chiu, B.S. ‘88, honors his parents’ legacy with the Dr. Liang-Hwang Chiu and Fusiang Chiu Scholarship.

His father had a distinguished career in the School of Education, and both parents played a role in preparing their son to succeed in his career.

“The scholarship is a way I can thank him for helping with my success,” said Chiu, a general surgeon in Kokomo. “I wanted to give back to show my parents how much I appreciated what they did. It was a team effort.”

Income from his gift provides two scholarships for incoming freshmen each year, to students from underrepresented minority groups, and those from the School of Education.

“I hope it helps students who don’t have the opportunity or means to succeed despite having all the other criteria for success in place,” Dr. Chiu said.

Page 21

At the bottom of the page, construction photos from the Student Activities and Events Center are shown. Behind the text at the bottom of the page, a faint rendering of the future building is shown. The text on this page reads:

Brian and Angela Shockney,

Martinsville

While working their way through IU Kokomo, Brian and Angela Shockney could never have imagined that one day, they would be able to endow a scholarship.

“We’ve been very much blessed,” said Brian Shockney, B.S. ’90, M.H.A. ‘94, president of IU Health South Central Region. “It’s a joy to be able to give. We would never have thought as students we would have the resources to endow a scholarship. That’s why IU Kokomo is special to us. We wouldn’t be here without it.”

The couple established the Shockney Family Scholarship, which will be given to students with financial need, from one of the 14 counties in IU Kokomo’s service region. Preference will be given to first-generation college students, and to those from Tipton County.

Angela, B.S.N. ‘91, said they both had scholarships, and it is important to them to help first-generation college students have the opportunities they had.

“It’s just about helping out,” she said

Greg Aaron, Community Foundation

of Howard County

Greg Aaron, A.G.S. ‘90, graduate certificate in public management ‘03, is CEO of the Community Foundation of Howard County, which  has granted a $100,000 dollar-for-dollar match to support the Student Activities and Event Center.

“Our board members considered all that IU Kokomo provides for this community, and they were excited to provide the grant,” he said. “They wanted to draw attention to the campus and the promise an IU Kokomo education offers.”

The grant is especially meaningful to him as an alumnus.

“It’s rewarding to watch how the campus has grown over the years from the time I went there. It’s awesome to see this kind of growth, and I’m proud to be part of it.” 

If you’d like more information about giving to IU Kokomo, please contact Jan C. Halperin, CFRE

Vice Chancellor, Office for University Advancement 765-455-9415 or jhalperi@iuk.edu.

We are so grateful for the lead donors to the new Student Activities and Events Center!

Chuck Bartholomew

Community Foundation of Howard County

Randy and Esther Fishman

Howard County Government

Cliff Hunt

Indiana University Kokomo Staff Council

Scott and Cheryl Maple

Dan and Cathy Valcke

Because of the generous $100,000  dollar-for-dollar match given by the Community Foundation of Howard County, there is still opportunity to match $34,800!

Coming in Fall 2020! For weekly updates, visit iuk.edu/eventscenter. 

Page 22 

At the top of this page, a graphic element of colorful silhouettes is shown. Images of the interviewed students are shown next to their quotes. The text on this page reads as follows:

Dreaming of the future

Current students share their hopes for the next 75 years of IU Kokomo

“I am seeing a future where IU Kokomo would expand into a college where master’s degrees are offered in more departments. Students would be able to enjoy campus and its activities even more with the new activities and events center being built.

Khoi Nguyen, nursing, senior

“I see more sports programs and campus activity. We have a beautiful campus already with room to grow, so the future is looking bright!”

Tavon Lindsay, exercise science, senior

“I think that as we grow in student numbers and our campus grows in size, there will be more student life and excitement to stick around after class and hang out with friends at events. I also already see a change in attitude surrounding university pride on our campus. I believe that now, and even more so in the future, IU Kokomo will be seen with an equal respect and admiration that people have for Bloomington.”

Emily Harsh, hospitality and tourism management, senior

“I see IU Kokomo continuing to be a close-knit environment, where students and faculty know one another, even as the campus expands and grows.”

Chelsea Howard, nursing, junior

“I think the next 75 years for IU Kokomo look bright! I imagine expansion of learning space and that it will continue to grow as a well-respected campus in the IU system and will draw students from all over the world.”

Liam Ireland, sports and recreation management, sophomore

What do you think the future holds for IU Kokomo?

Tell us at alumni@iuk.edu and you may be featured in our next issue!

Page 23

A portrait of Kathleen Ligocki, B.A. ‘78, Indiana University Kokomo Donor is shown on this page. She smiles at the camera. The text on this page reads:

Now is the time to define your legacy

One way to create a legacy is a planned gift. One option is a Charitable Gift Annuity. It is a contract that provides you and/or your spouse or other beneficiary a fixed income stream for life, and payments that are partially tax free.

Here’s how it works: You agree to transfer assets as a gift to us and, in return, we promise to pay a fixed amount to one or two annuitants for life. This will allow you to plan for your future, and to define a lasting legacy for the benefit of Indiana University Kokomo.

For your personalized illustration, please contact :

Jan C. Halperin, CFRE

Vice Chancellor, Office for University Advancement

765-455-9415 or jhalperi@iuk.edu.

Kathleen Ligocki, B.A. ‘78

Indiana University Kokomo Donor

For All: The Indiana University Bicentennial Campaign

Fulfilling the Promise

Fundraising Disclosures: go.iu.edu/89n

Page 24

A group of graduates gather in a circle after Commencement talking and smiling. The text on this page reads:

Take your next step

With graduate programs at Indiana University Kokomo

Whatever your story or motivation, we offer several graduate programs at Indiana University Kokomo to help you succeed. Spanning several departments, our graduate program offerings include master’s degrees, graduate certificates, and postbaccalaureate work. It’s our goal and our mission to help you gain the theoretical foundation, experience, and skills you need for your career and professional growth.

Apply today

Masters.iuk.edu