22 May 2013

KOKOMO, Ind. — The best artwork created by Kokomo area high school seniors will be featured in the Indiana University Kokomo Art Gallery.

The 18th annual High School Art Show opens with a reception and awards ceremony from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 29, in the Art Gallery, in Upper Alumni Hall. Awards will be presented at 5 p.m.

Susan Skoczen, gallery director, said student artists from north central Indiana are invited to submit their work for display during the show. It includes artwork from seniors at Taylor, Peru, Kokomo, and Tri-Central high schools.

"This show gives area high schools the opportunity to come together and showcase their students' work," Skoczen said, "It's more of a public venue for the work to be seen by many, not just other students at their own schools. It is also a chance for the student artists to see what their peers are creating at other schools."

The show continues through June 15. The Art Gallery is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, and noon to 4 p.m. Saturday. It is closed Sunday, Monday, and Friday. Free parking is available on campus.

For more information, call 765-455-9523, e-mail gallery2@iuk.edu, or go to www.iuk.edu.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

22 May 2013

KOKOMO, Ind. — In the shade of three tall trees, the students sit at picnic tables, backpacks on the benches or the ground next to them, books or e-readers open.

Maymester class in Foster Park.As they talk about their reading, a gaggle of geese land in the nearby grass, briefly interrupting the discussion with their honking. A light breeze carries dandelion fluff and the scent of nearby honeysuckle past them, along with the splashing noise of a fountain in the Wildcat Creek behind them.

For these eight students, Foster Park is their classroom, as part of Indiana University Kokomo's first-ever Maymester program.

Andrea Bard appreciates the chance to see more of Kokomo than what she sees on the drive from her home in Logansport.

"I'm getting to experience and do something, not just read about it," she said. "This is a breath of fresh air, and very different from any class I've taken before."

Eva White, associate professor of English, developed her creative nonfiction writing class, "Writing the Land: My Foster Park," to build on the connection between physical activity, nature, and creativity.

"We're always indoors," she said. "Being able to just be, and watch yourself be, and writing about it, is useful. I walk here all the time. It helps me recharge my batteries and get rid of stress."

Class begins with discussion of Haruki Murakami's book, "What I Talk About When I Talk About Running," a memoir of the author's training for the New York Marathon, and how it impacted his writing. Then, White leads them on the Wildcat Creek Walk of Excellence, taking about an hour to walk from Foster Park through UCT Park, up the hill, around through the nearby neighborhood, and back, where they talk about their observations and write in their journals.

Along the way, each student takes notes, writing down who they see, descriptions of any animals they find, and changes in the environment.

They've followed a family of ducks, and on this particular day are delighted to find a new mother duck urging five tiny, fluffy, new ducklings into Wildcat Creek. Sofia Stout exclaims in dismay when a snake approaches the waterfowl, and sighs with relief when the reptile swims around the babies.

Stout, a communications art major from Lafayette, likes the break from more traditional academic writing, along with being in the outdoors.

"You're more focused on your thoughts, and on being descriptive," she said. "I've probably done more thinking in this class than any other I've taken. It's refreshing to get out of the academic style."

White said, though, that while they are having fun, they are also learning to be better writers. Each student produces a long essay inspired by his or her experiences each week, and will turn in a portfolio, a final polished essay, and a written reflection on his or her growth during the three-week class.

Kayla Scott, an elementary education major from Mulberry, didn't realize she had signed up for an outdoor class when she enrolled, but is enjoying the experience.

"I get tired of sitting in the classroom," she said. "This class lets me use all my senses, every time. You walk the same trail, but everyone comes back with different ideas and thoughts from what we see. I like that."

Brock Richardson, Bringhurst, who also plans to be an elementary teacher, said in addition to improving his writing, he's learning how taking students out of the classroom benefits them.

"There is a different learning environment than inside," he said. "You don't have to be sitting at a desk to learn."

IU Kokomo's new Maymester program offers student a chance to earn three credits in a short time period, in an immersive class. A few other offerings include a creative performance class, in which students will write, act in, and direct a play; urban geology, complete with fieldwork; and a public relations campaign class that involves working with a local business or nonprofit organization. Maymester continues through Thursday, June 6.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

16 May 2013

KOKOMO, Ind. — It is Monday morning, early, but Mary Olk is already on the job.

Mary OlkShe perches on a chair in the middle of Starbucks, iced tea in hand, describing her newest idea for marketing the Indiana University Kokomo campus on social media, as part of the weekly Office of Media and Marketing planning meeting.

Later in the day, she walks through the campus quad, trailed by videographer Mike Glassburn. She's poised in front of the camera, as narrator of the "My Campus" videos, using her charm and dry, slightly sarcastic, sense of humor to draw stories from the featured students.

Olk also works on her computer, searching for just the right words for the latest installment in her popular Senior Spotlight series, featuring the most compelling stories about her classmates, both on the campus website and in IU publications.

Mary, a member of the graduating class of 2013, is a respected member of the marketing team.

"Being able to work in the campus marketing department was a dream come true," Olk, 21, said. "I have loved telling the story of IU Kokomo, meeting great people, and learning everything I did. I learned that I want to continue working in higher education, and it helped guide me to my decision to pursue my master's degree."

Marie Radel, director of the media and marketing department, said Mary's contributions are invaluable.

"Mary brings the student perspective. She knows how her peers interact on social media and what they want to see on the web," Radel said. "Marketing is about understanding your target audience, and Mary is our front row seat to what students are thinking."

Olk, who is from Peru, appreciated the chance to apply what she was learning in her communication arts classes to a real-world job.

"I developed and improved my writing skills, but I also was able to explore other areas in more depth, such as social media and photography," she said. "It taught me the true inner workings of a marketing and public relations organization, and how a professional environment works."

Her leadership and excellence in and out of the classroom landed her an assistantship at Ball State University, which will pay for her to earn a master's degree in student affairs administration and higher education programming. She wants to help other students have the same kind of successful college experience she had at IU Kokomo.

"College isn't just your classes, it's getting practical real world experience," Olk said. "I want to give students resources to set goals and achieve them. That's what higher education is all about. I want to be part of that."

Dean of Students Sarah Sarber said Olk will excel in this field.

"Mary will be a tremendous asset to the student affairs profession," she said. "She has an understanding of current issues in higher education and appreciation for working with students, and truly wants to make a difference in their lives."

Olk "jumped into student life with both feet" when she arrived on campus, determined to have a big college experience.

"It doesn't matter where you go to college, you get to choose the type of experience you have," she said. "If you get involved, you will feel a connection to any campus."

She joined The Correspondent newspaper staff, and was instrumental in updating and improving it as editor-in-chief. She also was involved in student government, first as a senator, and then as student body vice president in spring 2013.

Her involvement helped her make friends, and feel like she was part of the campus.

"College isn't just about having a degree anymore," she said. "It's everything on top of that. It was important to me to educate myself in every way possible."

In May, she earned the outstanding student in leadership award, as well as the outstanding student in communication arts award.

One of her most important experiences was participating in the Innovation Symposium, a class that focuses on philanthropy, environment, and technology, and includes three weeks of travel in England.

"That was a life-changing experience," Olk said. "Overseas travel teaches you a lot about yourself. The culture there is similar to ours, but still different. There's so much history over there, it's just fantastic. The trip is work, too. We're having a good time, but we're working, too."

All students must complete a final project, creating an innovation that helps people.

Olk developed an IU Kokomo leadership guide, intended to help students become more effective campus leaders.

She hopes her own experiences will make her a better student advocate when she begins her career.

"I know the first couple of years can be hard," she said. "It's made me more aware of the real things college students go through. I hope to create a positive experience for students, and impact them in a positive way so they finish school."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

16 May 2013

KOKOMO, Ind. – Four hundred seventy-six full-time Indiana University Kokomo students earned dean's list honors for the spring 2013 semester. Dean's list students earned a minimum 3.5 grade point average (GPA) on a scale of 4.0, while carrying at least 12 credit hours throughout the grading period. Students are listed by hometown.

Hunt HallAlexandria: Charles Henry Whaley

Amboy: Amy Diane Eberle, Colten Scott Lorenz, Trevor Martin

Anderson: Kelly Sue Counceller, Chris Richard Hatzell, Calani Rae Hitchell, Shauna Michelle Smith

Arcadia: Heather M. Tittle

Atlanta: Peyton Bristol, Marshall Lee Ewing

Batesville: Toni Nicole Perdue

Bringhurst: Megan LeeAnn Ayres, Heather Rae Kauffman, Nathan Paul Martin, Brock Andrew Richardson

Bunker Hill: Britany Ross, Julia Mae Walters

Burlington: Hannah Elizabeth Brewster

Burnettsville: Kyle T. McAninch

Camby: Katrina Jo Cook

Camden: Cassie Marie Aldridge, Megan Dawn McGrew

Carmel: Robert Bonecutter, Nicole Colleen Fettig, Joseph Clinton Haskett, Jayesh Laila, Walter Andrew Mandery, Thomas M. Paulson, Laurel Elizabeth Reed, Kenlee Rose Reinking, Cynthia Dawn Smith, Kimberly Ann Ware, Alison Louise Young

Cicero: Colton Thomas Hooper, Whitney Nicole Orr

Converse: Jessica Lee Martin, Mellanee Jean Neeley

Cutler: William Bradley Bennett

Delphi: Justine Nicole Alderman, Ashley Brooke Brown, Whitney Nicole Cripe, Matthew J. Etter, Patricia Gray, Serina Lynn Perry

Denver: Tristan Michelle Hippensteel, Samantha Leigh Hord, Sara J. Musselman, Justin Paul Thiry

Elwood: Samantha Kay Boothroyd, Kylie Jo Groover, Korsen Ray Stiner, Whitney Whetsel, Mariah Shanea Williams

Fairmount: Hannah Nicole Keene, Christine Kay Myers, John Patrick Williams

Fishers: Esther S. Chikkala, Patricia Elaine Crim, Alicia Renee Dellen, Thembelani Dube, Janette Chan Garcia, Alice W. Muigai, Lindsey Ann Sherck, Lisa M. Thompson

Flora: Emily Janell Barnard, Nicole Lynn Brubaker, Harley Rene Davis, Kyra Nicole Edging, Elizabeth Pearl Rowen

Forest: Steven Alexander Amos, Haylee Joyce Robertson, Emily Katherine Ross, Kaitlin Diane Townsend

Fort Wayne: Kelsey Elizabeth Gentile

Frankfort: Judith Alanis Guijosa, Troy Brooks, Kara Katherine Byrd, William Andrew Byrd, Melissa D. Clendenning, Amanda Lynne Gaunt, Tiffany L. Goodwin, Victoria B. Klippel, Allison Wren Ostler, Karen L. Ponder, Tiffany Renee Roberts-Herrera, Aaron Joseph Rogers, Kayla Michelle Scott, Erin Smith, Ashley Renee Spraker, Cara Marie Wilson

Galveston: Angela Lynne Bird, Gabrielle Ennis, Kara Marie Keppel, Mark A. Miller, Adam Ramer, April Lynn Walker, Betsy Lynne Worden, Steven Eli Wright

Gas City: Carolyn Diane Burbank, Brandon Jeffrey Scott

Goldsmith: Jack H. Mattingly, Douglas Edward Shook

Greenfield: Shawn Remick

Greentown: Karen L. Bowlin, PrinceKristian Dionisio Bravo, Nathan Lee Courter, Morgan Dunkle, Carly Nichole Haines, Eric Len Hainlen, Amber Joy Howell, Christopher Wayne Johnson, Lisa Rae Millspaugh, Michelle Marie Padgett, Daniel Wayne Rasmussen, Cheri Lynn Sparks, Shannon R. Stockdale, Kyra Danielle Stockton, Brendan White

Indianapolis: Adebisi Rashidat Adeyeri, Kaylee Ariel Ezzo, Christopher Furrey, Oluwole David Ojelekan, Agnes Asamoah Opoku, Melanie Jo Parks, April Sebree, Don Wesley Sedberry Jr., Sherese Rena Williams, Herbert Tafadzwa Zinzombe

Jonesboro: Lyndsay Ann Christensen, Jennifer Lynn Ropp

Kempton: Caili Renee Thomas

Kewanna: Megan L. Arnold, Kelly Cunningham

Kirklin: Kaylea Eli

Kokomo: Lindsey Nicole Abell, Kara Beth Abresch, Alyse Adkins, Benjamin Michael Akers, Kelsey L. Alexander, Matthew Robert Allison, Angela Marie Anderson, Alexius Q. Babb, Chad Michael Barlow, Amanda Barton, Anna Elizabeth Baxter, Erin N. Beane, Alisha Pearl Begley, Krystyn Marie Bell, Erica Jane Bennett, Aaron Michael Bird, Michelle Lynn Bird, Zachary Keith Bolin, Tracie L. Bolinger, Stephanie Nichole Bonner, Ashton Kensi Bray, David Alan Brinkley, Alexcia Deniece Brown, Ian Nathaniel Buchanan, Jeremy William Burnett, Brittany Nicole Burney, Amber F. Capps, Lydia Anne Capps, Deanna Kay Chesshir, Richard Lee Christensen, Courtney Ann Cochran, Ashley Marie Cole, Haylee Marie Cullison, Giada Dalla Pozza, Nicholas Norman Daanen, Kenzie Lynn Daniel, Gabrielle Davis, Kalie Ann Davis, Nicholas Andrew Davis, Abbigail Deck, Kristopher R. Dill, Amy Lynn Dotson, Bethann Duly, Julia Lynne Eads, Lakye Lenee' Edwards, Shayla B. Elmore, Donald K. Erickson, Sarah Nicole Ferenc, Shaun Harvey Fewell, Nathaniel George Fishback, Nicholas Lee Flynn, Tony Eugene Forsythe, Sarah Elizabeth Frey, Snezana Garic, Erin Lee Geiselman, Jeremy Daniel Gilman, Brandon Kyle Goodman, Emily Joelle Grammer, Stephen Adrian Green, Stephanie Lee Griggs, Angelina Chantelle Gurney, Brandon H. Hargraves, Jaina Leigh Hattabaugh, Jennifer Diane Hecht, Barbara E. Hedrick, Daniel J. Henning, Kasey Sierra High, Michael Allen Hiland, Rebekah J. Hochstedler, Gina Marie Holguin, Carl Blaine Holsinger, Elizabeth Ann Hubenthal, Cyndie Eileen Hughes, Brady Garret James, Rex James, Jami Elizabeth Jensen, Allyson Jewell, Charlene Elizabeth Johnson, Crystal Dawn Johnson, Lauren Christine Jones, Steven Jones, Tyler Keck, Hannah Jane Kovaleski, Jennifer Ann Kubly, Derek Lawhead, Kayla Rene Lawhead, Ashley Shay Lay, Katy Elizabeth Lewis, Katherine Alise Lindley, Emily Michaele Lytle, Andrea I. Mamaril, Joelynn Nicole Marconi, Boyd Terry Marler, Nickolas Cole Maynard, Sarah Inez McClurg, Erica S. Melcher, Krista Leigh Melcher, Dawn Renee Miller-Wilson, Kristina Marie Miller, Rebecca Marie Miller, Allison M. Morgan, Cameron Morris, Carly Renee Moore, Jamie Lynn Moore, Allison Nicole Mose, Victoria Moss, April Rena Name, Mary Ellen Olk, Jordan Thomas Ousley, Colin F. Overman, Rachel Nicole Pace, Lacy Roselyn Parish, Keith Andrew Pearson, Marcus J. Pemberton, Courtney Kaye Perez, Yvonne E. Petty, Eva Larissa Pier, Jenna Ann Powell, Troy Allen Pryor, William Austin Pyke, Caleb Michael Querry, Jillian Nicole Redmond, Patricia Elaine Reeves, Karissa Lynn Roberts, Kelsey Brianne Robinson, Miltona Shaye Robinson, Jonathan Adam Rogers, Brandon Kenneth Rose, Amanda Michelle Rudd, Ashlei Nikole Russell, Patrick Michael Russell Sr., Rachel Nicole Sanks, Jennifer Marie Santos, Breanna Jean Santucci, Jacqueline Ann Schick, Jennifer Schoolcraft, Keith Mitchell Scircle, Janette J. Scott, Laura Anne Scott, Brittnea L. Shaw, Rachel A. Smith, Motolani Kaosarat Somotan, Rickey Lee Southwell Jr., Sabrina Lynn Stahl, Mary Stidham, Caitlin Michele Stokes, Ron Tamir, Cody Adam Taylor, Cynthia J. Taylor, Samantha Lindsey Thieke, Brittany M. Turner, Jonathan Thomas Underwood, Ryan Michael VanHaecke, Ashley Michele VanSkyock, Stephen R. Vas, Elizabeth Ellen Vautaw, Toni Sue Vollmer, Shelby Maria Waggoner, Alan Lee Weimer, Tyler Russel Wilhite, Jeremiah Lee Williams, Whitley Paige Wilson, Lesly R. Winburn, Megan Lyn Wolford, Darcie J. York, Alireza Zeinalpour

Lafayette: Shanon Denise Croell, Lori Francis Green, Brittany Rachelle Smith

Logansport: Khiya Leigh Armstrong, Kristen Berry, Tiffany Botsford, Bryanna Leigh Bowman, Danielle Jessica Carrier, Mathew L. Cogswell, Jonathan R. Flory, Laura Lea Funk, Amy Ann Glasson, LeAnn Marie Hileman, Corinna Sue Houston, Katie L. Hutsell, Michael Allen Johanning, Haleigh Janae Johnson, Dylan Corey Lines-LaPeer, Drake Michael Morris, Dustin Jay Reeser, Eric Lee Rogers, Mark Vore, Samuel Cody Williamson

Macy: Holly M. Manns, Jacqueline Anna Paul

Marion: Jennie R. Camblin, Arielle Castanon, Andrew Edward Coleman, Sergio Compean, Jordan Lee Drook, Eric Emery, Shauncee Elizabeth Johnson, Tracy Todd Livingston, Bonnie Rosa Miltenberger, Amber Sue Patterson, Michael Wayne Reynolds, Pamela S. Weesner

Miami: Rachel Aurelia Dodd, Brittany L. Harp

Michigantown: Caitlin Marie Kuhns

Monterey: Danielle Marie Race

Monticello: Jennifer Lynn Martin

Muncie: Mandee Dawn Motsenbocker

New Haven: Amanda Marie Smith

Noblesville: Sandra Lee Beech, Nevin Hunter Bowden, Le'Anna Le'Kaye Brown, Michelle Christine Costa, Toni Nicole Hubert, Marie Ann LaFever, Musavengana Mafara, Evan J. O'Connor, Tiffany Ann Pennoyer Whitaker, John Richard Robertson, Natalie Rene Valmore, Joshua Alan Weaver, Sierra Katelynn Yeary

Peru: Brian Ashley Arwood, Andrea Cherie Batdorf, Kaylan Marie Burkhart, Romona Nadinae Butzin, Kimberly Sue Byrum, Robert Clark, Jared Hugh Clemons, Bryce A. Comp, Augustus John Cooley, Rebekah Dehner, Sydney Justine Diskey, Tia Brianne Dossett, Jacob Tanner Feasel, Kory T. George, Nickolas Allen George, Jeremy Lee Gunter, Emilie Margaret Hubbard, Andrew Dale Jones, Chelsey Louise Jones, Jennifer Lynne Lane, David Lapan, Diane La Mast, Garrett Jameson Meives, Stephanie Rochelle Murphy, Jacqueline Rose Myers, Sandra Anne Nye, Brooklynn Elizabeth Payne, Timothy David Potts, Abbey Robison, Anyssa Marie Ryan, Norman Joseph Scroggin, Jerica Strayer, Cody James Summers, Bethany Charlene Thomas, Mark Anthony Thompson, Alaynah Darlene Weisend

Rochester: Kasi Balanow, Jayson Alexander Cloud, Cynthia Joy Oswalt, Michael Edward Treon

Rossville: Sarah Alese McIlrath, Brittany Ann Royer

Royal Center: Hope LeAnn Benesh, Eli J. Frame, Holly Colette Weaver

Russiaville: Summer Nichole Cottrell, Corenn Duke, Ashley Rachelle Hurst, Emma Magers, Allison K. Richardson, Ronald D. Smith, Jean A. Snyder, Erin E. Soutar, Zachary Taylor Stout, Danielle Marie Williams, Ashley L. Zell

Sharpsville: Jessica Marie Beck, Jacob Lee Cook, Mary Katheryn Dudley, Taylor L. Farris, Ashley Marie Miller, Stephanie Parton, Gabrielle M. Perkins, Emily Brooke Ragan, Susan Lynette Ragan, Breanna Sheetz

Shelbyville: Rebecca R. Smith

Star City: Jeffrey Scott Attinger, Hannah Hendryx

Swayzee: Zachary Shanen Henning, Vicky Joleen Pickering

Sweetser: Jacklyn Marie Meyer, Guillermo J. Trejo

Thorntown: Ila Scott

Tipton: Andrew T. Boehner, Alyssa Mae Bohuk, Drew Anthony Frawley, Cody Hayden Griffith, Madison Nicole Knight, Shelby Lynnette Markins, Kara B. Moulder, Pamela L. Plain, Amanda Jean Roberts, Bryan Randall Robertson, Sarah Marie Parr, Natalie Suzanne Smith, Justin Paul Summers, Logan Alexander Tina, Lisa D. Tragesser, Courtney Lynn Waymire, Andrew Thomas Wilson

Twelve Mile: Ashley N. Lowe, Meghan Elizabeth Schroder

Upland: Stephan Nicholas Snyder

Wabash: Joshua Ryan Holley, Cassandra Kathleen Knowles

Walton: Kelsey Danelle Clark, Mendy Hadley, Kristopher Bryan Johns, Matteson Kae Keisling, Brooke E. Robertson, Matthew Thomas

Westfield: Annette Mary Davis, Kyle G. Guenther, Timothy Ryan Harding, Rebekah Rae Herron, Alyssa D. Lorenz, Michael Aaron Marciniec, Linda Louise Neff, Matthew James Sopkowski, Nathan Travis Sopkowski

West Lafayette: Lori Ann Blair, Harmony L. Newman

West Middleton: Adrienne T. Larrison

Winamac: Jocelyn Conner,Laura Renee Utes

Windfall: Shane Thomas Simmons

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

16 May 2013

KOKOMO, Ind. — There's a new set of red and blue lights on campus.

Campus Police VehicleThe Indiana University Kokomo police department proudly patrols campus in its new 2013 Ford Interceptor, complete with the latest technology to access criminal justice data.

"It is awesome," said Jerry Williams, interim police chief. "I've driven police vehicles for years, and usually one is about the same as another. This one is the best I've ever driven. It looks really cool, too."

The new vehicle also has the latest in LED light bars, strobe lights, and showcases the new IUPD logo. It replaces the 2009 Impala that was the department's first vehicle when it was created five years ago. Before that, the campus had a safety and security office, mainly staffed by off-duty officers from area police departments.

Williams is especially happy to have computer access to the Indiana Data and Communication System (IDACS), the criminal justice communications system that allows officers to look up license plate numbers and warrants.

"All modern police departments have this system," he said. "This allows our officers to check license plates when we have an unfamiliar car without a permit on campus. It increases safety for our officers, too, because it may let us know if the person in the car is someone we need to be cautious approaching. It will help us do our job of keeping people safe here. We have wanted and needed this for a long time.

In addition, the new vehicle's equipment allows officers to enforce traffic laws in its jurisdiction around the campus, and gives the department mobility to assist city police officers and county deputies if their help is needed.

"If there is an emergency in our area, we are now more prepared to respond and assist," Williams said.

Williams said having the new vehicle also familiarizes the police department cadets, who are criminal justice students, for what they will drive when they graduate and accept jobs with other departments.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

09 May 2013

Observatory open house is Sunday, May 12.

Patrick Motl, assistant professor of physics, will begin the open house at 8 p.m. with a talk about astronomical studies of dark matter and direct detection experiments. Visitors may then view the stars and planets until 10 p.m.; weather permitting, through the observatory's telescopes.

"At sunset, we will have Venus, a crescent moon, and Jupiter in the western sky, with Saturn rising in the east," Motl said. "Galaxies including the whirlpool, sombrero and Virgo cluster of galaxies are deep sky highlights for spring skies."

The Observatory's telescopes are a six-inch Takahashi refracting telescope and a 16-inch Meade reflecting telescope mounted together. The Takahashi provides exceptionally sharp images of planets, while the Meade lets stargazers see fainter objects in the sky, due to its larger light collecting area.

The open house is free and open to the public in the Observatory, 105 E. Rebecca Lane. Free parking is available on campus.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

07 May 2013

KOKOMO, Ind. — Indiana University Kokomo began a new Commencement tradition of honoring service to the campus, community, or state, awarding its inaugural Chancellor's Medallions Tuesday, May 7.

From left: John Applegate, Greg Goodnight, and Susan Sciame-Giesecke. See more photos here.Interim Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke presented the medallions to Kokomo Mayor Greg Goodnight and Kokomo-Center Schools Superintendent Jeff Hauswald, recognizing their partnership with the campus and their innovations that have improved the community.

"Both of these leaders have provided transformational service to their communities," she said. "Their impact is far-reaching, and will be seen for many years to come."

IU has a long tradition of awarding Chancellor's Medallions to those who provide exemplary service, but the Kokomo campus had never given one. Sciame-Giesecke decided the time was right, and worked with John O'Donnell, CEO of Kokomo Opalescent Glass, to design the award. It is created from crimson-colored glass, made in Kokomo and etched with an image of the campus Well House.

The first recipients worked with Sciame-Giesecke to provide IU Kokomo with a crucial missing piece — its own gymnasium. The gym will be in the former Kokomo-Center middle school swimming pool, which is currently being filled in for renovation. By August, it will be a college regulation-sized court, branded for IU Kokomo, where Cougar athletes can practice and play their games.

From left: John Applegate, Jeff Hauswald, and Susan Sciame-Giesecke. See more photos here.Sciame-Giesecke also commended Goodnight for establishing a trolley system, which provides free transportation through the city, and for aggressively adding walking and biking trails. She noted that Hauswald has transformed Kokomo-Center Schools from a good corporation into one that regularly has waiting lists of students who want to attend, for the international school curriculum, overseas travel opportunities, and integrated arts programs, among others.

Hauswald said the school and campus have also worked together to provide training for teachers, and to develop college-readiness math curriculum.

"I don't think people realize how blessed we are to have an Indiana University campus in Kokomo," he said. "We have a great partnership in this community, and as an IU graduate, I greatly appreciate and value it."

Goodnight was honored to receive the Chancellor's Medallion, and thanked his city council for making it possible for him to accept partnership opportunities.

"We are always ready to do what we can to help provide higher education in our community," he said.

John Applegate, IU Executive Vice President for University Regional Affairs, Planning, and Policy, praised the relationship built between the campus, city, and school.

"This is exactly what IU regional campuses are supposed to be about," he said "This is an example of what our campuses can do in the regions they serve."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

07 May 2013

KOKOMO, Ind. — Indiana University Kokomo celebrated the accomplishments of its 547 graduates at Commencement ceremonies Tuesday, May 7.

2013 Commencement. See more Commencement photos here.The Class of 2013 enjoyed sunny skies and temperatures in the 70s for the outdoor event, in the campus Pavilion. Sunlight glinted off the rhinestones and other decorations on many of the graduates' mortarboards.

The ceremony included the first graduates from two new schools — the School of Sciences, and the School of Humanities and Social Sciences — and first student athlete to graduate. This year was the third for team sports, and basketball player Jacob Faust earned his degree in business.

John Applegate, IU Executive Vice President for University Regional Affairs, Planning, and Policy, congratulated the class, saying their education has prepared them to succeed in the world.

"As we celebrate the time-honored tradition of Commencement, you are poised to take your places among the next generation of business leaders, journalists, judges, artists, scientists, public health professionals, teachers, social workers, and government leaders," he said. "No matter what degree you have earned, you and your fellow graduates are now the torchbearers, poised to respond to and help shape our future."

Interim Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke highlighted the achievements of several graduates, including Shane Simmons and Lisa Ortega, who are the first in their families to graduate from college; Nick Sears, who graduated cancer-free after surgery and treatment in January 2013; and Shawn Owings, who was the first female medic to serve on the front line in Iraq. She asked all student veterans to stand for applause, and also honored international students and those who studied overseas during their college careers.

"Our students have come to us from very different backgrounds," she said. "They saw our campus as a place of opportunity. We know they are prepared to make a difference in this region. We couldn't be more proud of all of you."

Student body President Jeremy Gibson, from Kokomo, said the most important lesson he learned during his years on campus was how to think critically, and to apply what he learned outside the classroom.

"I encourage you to continue to seek knowledge that contradicts your beliefs, and to persist in the face of failure, because failure is also a learning opportunity," he said, "The world is changing, on our campus and in our state, country, and the world. We are the vanguard of change. We can make our mark on the world and make it a better place."

Registrar Stacey Thomas read the graduates' names as they crossed the stage to accept diplomas and handshakes from Applegate and Sciame-Giesecke. Each one also received applause, celebrating their accomplishment, and proud family members held up phones to take pictures.

The graduates burst into loud cheers as Applegate invited them to turn their tassels to the left, designating them as IU graduates, with the rights and responsibilities that go with that honor.

"The reputation of IU will depend upon your commitment to the values, knowledge, and skills you have learned here," he said.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

07 May 2013

KOKOMO, Ind. — When Victoria Johnson crossed the stage at Indiana University Kokomo's Commencement Tuesday (May 7), her husband was nearly 3,000 miles away, deployed to Honduras with the U.S. Army.

2013 Commencement. See more Commencement photos here.He didn't miss this important day in her life, however, as the campus provided a live webcast of Commencement for the first time ever.

"We were so excited that he could watch me graduate," she said. "He took the whole day off so he could catch it on his computer. Even though he's far away, he's supported me the whole way through nursing school."

Johnson, from Kokomo, also celebrated with family, including her parents, her husband's parents, and her two children, Khalon, 3, and Kensley, 2, saying they've all been instrumental to her success, especially since she completed most of her college while Arek Johnson has been serving in the military.

"There's been a lot of love surrounding us, and a lot of support and help when I've needed it," she said. "My kids have inspired me. They never run out of hugs."

Proud family members surrounded the graduates, cheering when their names were read and snapping pictures throughout the ceremony.

Jessica Beck credited her daughter, Allison, for her participation in the ceremony. She earned a bachelor's degree in education.

"I wasn't going to walk at Commencement, and she was beside herself that I wouldn't celebrate all my success," Beck said, with a laugh. "I'm here for her."

Beck, Sharpsville, hopes she's shown Allison, 18, and younger daughter Kati, 7, the value of persisting to reach a goal.

"This was a long journey, but it was worth it," she said.

Don Sedberry also completed a long journey to his college degree. He was one of the first students in the new media communication program when it started in 2002.

"It's been a long time coming, between work and medical issues," he said. "I've really enjoyed it, and enjoyed working with the amazing faculty." Sedberry, who lives in Indianapolis, plans to work for a year or two, and then earn a master's degree and a Ph.D., so he can teach at the college level.

Sherese Williams also plans to continue her education, after graduating with her bachelor's degree in nursing. She previously received an associate degree, and worked 13 years before returning to school. Now, she wants to earn a master's degree and become a nurse practitioner.

"With all the changes in health care, education is more important than ever for a nurse," the Indianapolis resident said. "The more you know, the more you can advance in the field. I am excited for the opportunities my degree offers me."

Joe Sullivan, Kokomo, hopes his criminal justice degree will help him advance in his career at the Howard County Sheriff Department. He currently works as a corrections officer, with the goal of becoming a deputy.

"This gives me the knowledge I'm going to need when I start going on the road," he said.

Jacob Faust had the distinction of being IU Kokomo's first student athlete to graduate. The Galveston resident earned his degree in business and played on the basketball team.

"I'm excited to finally be done," he said, adding that the best part of his experience was working with the faculty and staff. "They answer all the questions you have, and are happy to assist you in any way you need."

Joshua Holda, from Flora, graduated a year early with his bachelor's degree in chemical biology, thanks to an agreement between the campus and Logan College of Chiropractic. He is already enrolled in the chiropractic program, and said he is succeeding in his classes.

"The School of Sciences really prepared me properly for the classes in graduate school," Holda said. "I appreciated the small class sizes and the outstanding faculty at IU Kokomo. They know the students, and they care about the students.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

07 May 2013

KOKOMO, Ind. — Indiana University Kokomo celebrated it best and brightest Monday, with the undergraduate honors convocation and master's recognition and hooding ceremony.

See more Honors Convocation photos here.Interim Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke congratulated the students on their achievements, and for their hard work.

"We want you to know, you exemplify excellence," she said. "We encourage you to continue to excel in all that you do."

Kathy Parkison, interim vice chancellor for academic affairs, said faculty and staff enjoy watching students succeed.

"It's events like these that remind those of us who have dedicated our lives to higher education why we have made that choice," she said.

For Lucien Madding, receiving his academic honors program medal at the convocation was the culmination of a long journey. He's worked at IU Kokomo for 25 years, and enrolled as a student more than seven years ago.

Madding, from Kokomo, works in shipping and receiving in physical plant, and earned his bachelor's degree in labor studies with honors. He plans to complete the last few credits he needs for a bachelor's degree in general studies, and is also considering graduate school options.

"I decided if I'm ever going to do anything in life, I had to get my bachelor's degree," Madding said. "I was 43 when I started, and I thought, Lord willing, I was going to be 53 in 10 years, and I wanted to be 53 with a college degree. That was seven and a half years ago, so I got it in."

Mary Olk, who received the Outstanding Student Leader Award, said it meant a lot to her to have her service recognized.

"It's nice to be appreciated," she said. "I really wanted to be involved like I was, and I'm passionate about it. To be recognized for it is a true privilege."

Olk, from Peru, has served as student body vice president, editor of the campus newspaper, and as an orientation leader. She was a member of the SumAntics improvisation group and worked as the student writer in the Office of Media and Marketing. She also received the outstanding student award in communication arts.

Jordan Ousley, from Kokomo, was honored to receive the outstanding education student award.

"All of my colleagues in education are just as deserving of this award," he said. "I appreciate the education faculty, Dean [Paul] Paese, and everyone who helped make me a better teacher."

Twenty-two graduate students in the Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (M.A.L.S.), Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.), and Master of Public Management (M.P.M.) programs received honors at the annual master's recognition and hooding ceremony.

Each student received the hood that marks him or her as earning a master's degree from a mentor faculty member.

Earning an M.B.A. has already impacted Joe Cameron's career. He starts work soon as an assistant tour manager for the Broadway musical "Sister Act."

"I got the exact job I wanted," he said, adding that he stood out among applicants because few people in the entertainment industry have master's degrees.

"It's definitely going to help me with upward mobility in the company," he said. "The people I interviewed with were happy I have that credential and skill set."

See more Master's Hooding Ceremony photos.Marjorie Schaeffner, Macy, plans to teach English overseas, after completing her M.A.L.S. degree. She earned the award for the outstanding student in her program.

She said her teaching assistantship with Kristen Snoddy, senior lecturer in English, was a life-changing experience.

"If I was ever on the fence before about teaching, there's no doubt now that I am a teacher," she said. "She gave me a little taste of what it's like, and I know it's what I was meant to do."

Schaeffner has started looking for jobs teaching English in Japan or China.

Jayne Deno, Kokomo, returned to earn her M.P.M. degree after her twin sons graduated from college.

"It was my turn," she said, "It was the right time to go to school. I really enjoyed the program. It was very intense, but worthwhile."

Deno completed her program while working in admissions at Ivy Tech Community College. She previously worked nearly 30 years at Delphi, in human resources and communications.

"It's a great deal of personal satisfaction for me to finish," she said. "I've gained so much. The professors are excellent. We are so fortunate to have people with so much insight and knowledge at this university."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.