Ivy Tech celebrates 1,481 graduates, including 450 high school students

The Tribune-Star, Terre Haute, Ind.
·2 min read

May 9—Ivy Tech Terre Haute/Greencastle commencement ceremonies Thursday evening honored the accomplishments of 1,481 graduates, including 450 high school students who earned a certificate, technical certificate or associate degree.

Nearly 540 graduates were expected to attend the ceremony, conducted at Indiana State University's Hulman Center.

The event featured guest speaker Nick Givens, a distinguished Ivy Tech alumnus and recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award.

"I am immensely proud of each and every one of the graduates," Givens said. "They've achieved something remarkable, and their journey is just beginning."

The college graduated many students from three key areas.

The School of Arts, Sciences, and Education had 369 graduates, followed by the School of Health Sciences with 357 graduates. The School of Advanced Manufacturing, Engineering, and Applied Science added 354 graduates to the workforce.

Chancellor Lea Anne Crooks emphasized Ivy Tech's role in workforce development.

"Ivy Tech continues to supply our region with a skilled workforce. This graduating class will become the future engineers, healthcare professionals, and educators here in West Central Indiana, and we are incredibly proud of their dedication that brought them to this point today," Crooks said.

The graduates include 450 high school students who earned a certificate, technical certificate, or associate degree before graduating high school.

Through dual credit courses, which are offered in the high school at no cost to families, and tuition-free courses offered during the summer, many high school students were able to earn their credentials for free.

Among the graduates was Mitch Gresham, a Vigo County dual credit, high school student who earned his associate of science in computer science.

Gresham was recognized as an exceptional graduate and shared his gratitude for the opportunities Ivy Tech has provided him.

"Ivy Tech has allowed me to explore my interests and has set me up for success as I pursue my bachelor's degree at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in the fall," he said.

High school students in West Central Indiana can benefit from Ivy Tech dual credit courses while still in high school.

These courses help fulfill the Indiana College Core requirements, allowing students to meet first-year college prerequisites and start as sophomores at any public Indiana institution upon graduation.

Dual credit courses, taught by Ivy Tech credentialed instructors, are available at most Indiana high schools. By taking advantage of these opportunities, West Central Indiana students and families have saved nearly $4.2 million in college tuition fees.

For more information on dual credit, visit https://bit.ly/3UJrh9E

Ivy Tech also awards more than $400,000 in scholarships annually. When combined with financial aid, 82% of Ivy Tech students graduate without any debt.

Prospective students can visit ivytech.edu/terrehaute.