A large group of benefactors and alumni were recently honored at an event thrown by the Ivy Tech Foundation as a way of showing appreciation for their positive impact on the Ivy Tech Community College community.
Recently, Ivy Tech Community College's Ivy Tech Foundation held an event honoring 37 different Distinguished Alumni and Benefactors from all over the state of Indiana. The honorees were recognized for being generous donors and supporters and high achieving graduates who together have served to support Ivy Tech Community College’s mission. Each of the College’s 19 different campuses were represented among those honored, as well as people and organizations that have strengthened Ivy Tech.
Two such honorees were Dave Rodgers and Brian Miles. They were chosen by the Richmond campus of Ivy Tech, and were named Benefactor of the Year and Distinguished Alumni, respectively, for the work they have done supporting the community.
Dave Rodgers has been an important part of the community of Richmond, Indiana. He is known for his firm belief in service and quiet generosity. His work has left a large and sustaining impact on the community. Dave served as the owner of Whitewater Broadcasting for more than five decades, where he used influence, resources, and leadership to support the local art scene as well as community well being, nature, youth, and education. Dave worked toward creating opportunities in the Richmond education system and all over the community, recently including the Ivy Tech Foundation in his philanthropy.
Brian Miles earned his degree in Construction Technology from Ivy Tech Community College back in 2013. From there he moved up the ranks from a controls technician to the head of the automation team at Bullen Ultrasonics. He is currently directing the integration and design of new automated systems, as well as serving as an adjunct faculty member at the Richmond campus of Ivy Tech Community College.
The honorees were chosen through a rigorous and competitive process. Each honoree has made a positive impact on both their communities and Ivy Tech through their impressive volunteer, philanthropic, or professional achievements. Those who were selected were honored at a celebratory event in downtown Indianapolis back on September 26.
In an article posted on Ivy Tech Community College’s website, Ivy Tech Community College’s President Dr. Marty Pollio was quoted about the event and the honorees, saying, “It truly is an honor for Ivy Tech to be associated with so many alumni, friends, and organizations that underscore the value of our mission. Our honorees are making Indiana communities stronger through their leadership, skillsets, and generosity. We are proud to recognize these incredible recipients.”
Ivy Tech Richmond Chancellor Chad Bolser shared similar sentiments, saying, “Dave Rodgers and Brian Miles have each made lasting contributions that have strengthened both our College and our community. Dave’s legacy continues to inspire us, and Brian’s leadership as a distinguished alumnus carries that spirit forward. I could not be prouder of them, and I look forward to building on their impact as we work together to make our community even stronger.”
Over 80% of Ivy Tech Community College graduates chose to pursue their careers in Indiana. Ivy Tech Community College has an almost $4 billion annual impact on the economy of Indiana. Additionally, 86% of Ivy Tech Community College graduates are able to complete their degree without taking on any student debt.
A full list of the Distinguished Alumni honorees can be found on the school's website.
More information about Ivy Tech Community College in general can be found at the school’s website.