Indiana State University alumni gift $100,000 for student learning opportunities

Indiana State University has received a $100,000 gift from alumni and Professor Emeritus of Indiana State University Dr. Jerry Cockrell and his wife, Jan Cockrell. The gift will establish the Jerry and Jan Cockrell Experiential Learning Endowment for the Bailey College of Engineering and Technology and the Jerry and Jan Cockrell Experiential Learning Endowment for the College of Health and Human Services. 

According to an article on Indiana State University’s website, Mike Godard, the university’s president, is quoted as saying, “Jerry and Jan Cockrell have spent their lives investing in people, and Indiana State is stronger because of them. As alumni, educators, and dedicated Sycamores, they have made a lasting impact on our students and our university. This generous gift reflects who they are: people who believe in opening doors for others. Because of Jerry and Jan, more Sycamores will have access to hands-on experiences that build confidence, strengthen career readiness, and create opportunities that can change the trajectory of a student’s life.”

Dr. Cockrell earned a bachelor degree in electronics technology in 1974 and a master’s degree in industrial professional technology in 1975. He became a professor at the university following his graduation and taught Electronics and Computer Engineering Technology. He retired as a professor emeritus in 2012. Jan Cockrell earned a bachelor degree in recreation in 1975. For four decades she worked at the Westminster Village Life Plan Community. When she retired, she returned to Indiana State as an adjunct faculty member.

Dr. Cockrell said of his and Jan’s desire to provide this gift to the school, “Experiential learning gives students the opportunity to turn knowledge into practice. We wanted to support experiences that allow students to grow, discover their potential, and build confidence in what they can achieve. Our hope is that students carry those experiences with them long after their time at Indiana State."

Their gift will establish the Jerry and Jan Cockrell Experiential Learning Endowment for the Bailey College of Engineering and Technology and the Jerry and Jan Cockrell Experiential Learning Endowment for the College of Health and Human Services. Both funds will support first-generation, non-traditional students through internships, externships, research programs, memberships, and other learning programs.

Andrea Angel, the Vice President of University Advancement and CEO of the Indiana State University Foundation, said, “Because of alumni like Jerry and Jan Cockrell, Indiana State students have more access to opportunities that will shape their academic and professional careers in meaningful ways. Their commitment is a powerful example of how giving back strengthens giving back strengthens our campus and the broader community.”

For more information about Indiana State University, visit the school’s website.