Preparing grads for high-wage jobs could improve local economy, social mobility
Ivy Tech Community College recently offered an open house to welcome the Richmond and Connersville campus’ new leader, Dr. Walter McCollum, and help him meet more area leaders in health care, government, economic development, banking, higher education and other sectors through cookies and conversation. The chancellor said the reception should not be about him and instead be a celebration of the tireless, passionate efforts of Ivy Tech faculty and staff who mentor students one at a time and address their obstacles to education. For instance, some students had to drop out during the pandemic to be caregivers. “You meet students with open arms and meet them where they are,” he said. McCollum also thanked the employees who develop community partnerships to address local workforce needs.