The Leepoxy Award for Teaching Innovation was established in 2008 by community supporter and owner of Leepoxy Plastics, Larry Lee. It is given annually to a full-time faculty member who:

• Challenges students to continuously progress to higher levels of thinking
• Engages students in active learning activities
• Connects to students in innovative ways to positively impact their experiences at Indiana Tech

Led by Dyer, Indiana Tech’s Sport Management program has six graduates working for major league sports teams in North America. In addition, Dyer led the development of a sport management lab on the second floor of the Cunningham Business Center prior to the start of the 2024-25 school year. The classroom was enhanced to include new technology, audio and video upgrades (including six 75-inch displays) and a completely modernized student seating arrangement. The new environment is better equipped for project-based discussions and activities, group-based work and executive-style presentations.

“The newly outfitted classroom is such a welcoming space for students. We use a lot of video and web content in our sport management courses, so the upgraded television and sound system help to enhance the student’s experience,” said Craig Dyer, associate professor and department chair of sport management.

“This is a well-deserved honor for Professor Dyer. His innovation and commitment have created a great momentum for the Sport Management program and made it one of the university’s most popular programs,” said Dr. Kathleen Hanold Watland, Indiana Tech vice president for academic affairs. “The addition of sport management lab has provided an immersive and collaborative experience for our students,  giving them a specialized space where they could get more engaged with their coursework.”

One grant, awarded by the NSF, is part of a collaborative national initiative intended to strengthen STEM education at the high school level. The project, titled “Collaborative Research: A Semiconductor Curriculum and Learning Framework for High-Schoolers Using Artificial Intelligence (AI), Game Modules, and Hands-on Experiences,” will be led at Indiana Tech by Dr. Xiaoli (Lucy) Yang, dean of the Talwar College of Engineering and Computer Sciences. Dr. Yang will be collaborating with professors from the University of Maine and Southern Methodist University. The project will run from Aug. 19, 2025, through May 31, 2028.

Bringing together expertise from multiple disciplines including semiconductors, AI, gaming and education, the project seeks to create an engaging and accessible learning framework for high school students. The aim is to spark early interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics by introducing key concepts through interactive and hands-on experiences.

The second grant, also awarded by the NSF, is for another collaborative project—this time with Fairfield University and Prairie View A&M University. The aim of the project is to advance ethical education in the field of AI. Indiana Tech’s Dr. Changhao Chenli, Professor Zhaojun (David) Li, and Dr. Yang will lead the work.

As AI continues to shape both personal and professional aspects of modern life, the project focuses on preparing students to approach AI development with a strong ethical foundation. The initiative will run from Oct. 1, 2025, through Sept. 30, 2028.

Finaly, the Ball Venture Fund awarded the Talwar College a grant to launch an AI-powered platform and deliver in-person tech education to senior communities in the Fort Wayne area. This innovative program is designed to help seniors confidently navigate the digital world through hands-on training and personalized AI support—bridging the technology gap in meaningful ways. Dr. Yang is leading the work on this project with a team that has yet to be determined.

“These grants reflect the incredible momentum and impact of the Talwar College of Engineering and Computer Sciences. By bringing together leading-edge research in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, ethics and education, we are not only advancing innovation but also making technology more accessible—from inspiring high school students to preparing future engineers to supporting our senior community. We are honored by this support from the National Science Foundation and the Ball Venture Fund, and excited to see the positive difference these projects will make.”

Indiana Tech is expanding its impact in preparing Indiana’s workforce for high-demand careers. The university was awarded nearly $1 million in Workforce Ready Grant funding for 2025—the sixth straight year it has received support from Indiana’s Next Level Jobs program.

The new funding comes as Indiana Tech adds two new undergraduate certificates to its grant-approved lineup, for a total of 15 Workforce Ready Grant-approved programs. The new additions this year are:

• Business Analytics
• Financial Services

The Workforce Ready Grant covers the full cost of tuition for eligible Hoosiers seeking certificates in fields such as business, health sciences, information technology, manufacturing and more. Indiana Tech offers career-focused certificate and degree programs in an online format designed to fit busy schedules. Students take one six-week online class at a time and make rapid progress toward program completion.

“Our new Workforce Ready offerings reflect where the job market is headed—analytics, AI, financial services, allied health and public safety,” said Dr. Steve Herendeen, senior vice president for strategic enrollment management. “With nearly $1 million in funding this year, we can help even more Indiana residents gain the skills employers need right now.”

For details on all Workforce Ready Grant-approved certificates at Indiana Tech and to learn more about eligibility requirements, visit academics.indianatech.edu/workforce-ready or contact the Warrior Information Network at 888.832.4742 or cps@indianatech.edu.

Through this agreement, Indiana Tech students who are pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Science (a new program which begins Fall 2025) and meet program standards will gain synchronous acceptance to Manchester University, where they will be able to continue on a seamless path to earn a Master of Science in Pharmacogenomics and a Doctor of Pharmacy from Manchester University.

This innovative program integrates the first year of PharmD coursework into a student’s third and fourth years of the B.S. in Pharmaceutical Science, making it possible to complete three degrees in seven years instead of the standard eight.

“Indiana Tech is excited to partner with Manchester University on this pathway agreement,” said Dr. Anne Gull, dean of Indiana Tech’s College of Arts and Sciences. “For students who want to pursue an advanced, in-demand career in the pharmaceutical field, this is an outstanding opportunity for them to learn from the very best in a groundbreaking program that has achieved overwhelming success since its inception. In addition, this agreement aligns strategically with Indiana Tech as we work to develop more programming for students who wish to pursue health-related careers.” 

“Manchester University is proud to partner with Indiana Tech to create a first-of-its-kind, transformative educational pathway for future pharmaceutical scientists and pharmacists,” said President Stacy Young, PhD, of Manchester University. “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to preparing students for meaningful, high-impact careers in a rapidly evolving industry, all right here in Fort Wayne.”

Founded in 2012, Manchester University’s PharmD program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education. It has a proven track record of impressive outcomes; a recent statistic from the university indicates 97.8% of PharmD graduates are employed or in residency within six months of graduation.

Indiana Tech developed its B.S. in Pharmaceutical Science in response to market analysis that points to a growing demand for well-trained professionals in areas like research and development, regulatory affairs, quality control and pharmaceutical sales.

Associate professor of biology, Dr. Michael Bechill, is director of the program. He specializes in medical microbiology and immunology and serves as director of the Summit Biofilm Institute. With expertise in clinical infections, his research focuses on novel drug development and biofilm antimicrobial resistance. Dr. Diane Calinski, chair of pharmaceutical and graduate life sciences, serves as the coordinator at Manchester University.

Those interested must apply to Indiana Tech first; qualifying students will then transition to Manchester University in their second year of undergraduate studies.

Contact Dr. Michael Bechill at mpbechill@indianatech.edu

Contact Dr. Diane Calinski at dmcalinski@manchester.edu

Learn more about the pathway to PharmD here: academics.indianatech.edu/pathways/pharmd-pathway

Learn more about Indiana Tech’s B.S. in Pharmaceutical Science here: academics.indianatech.edu/programs/pharmaceutical-science-bs

Effective immediately, all YLNI members are eligible for a 20% reduction in tuition from Indiana Tech when they pursue an online degree (undergraduate, graduate or doctorate). In addition, graduates from YLNI’s Leadership Institute (beginning with the 2025 graduating class) receive immediate credit for Indiana Tech’s MBA 5050: Executive Leadership course, which can apply to an MBA, MSOL or a business graduate certificate.

“Historically, members of YLNI and graduates of its Leadership Institute are movers and shakers within the region; professionals who care about personal growth adding positively to the fabric of the community,” said Dr. Steve Herendeen, Indiana Tech senior vice president for strategic enrollment management. “Indiana Tech is pleased to help these individuals develop as professionals and pursue lifelong learning.”

YLNI members interested in more information should contact Indiana Tech admissions representative Doug Furnish at 260.422.5561, ext. 2243, or dlfurnish@indianatech.edu. Visit online.indianatech.edu, as well.

Through this partnership, eligible participants will receive a 20% tuition savings on Indiana Tech’s online certificate and degree programs. The scholarship applies to all online undergraduate and graduate programs, excluding traditional on-campus programs and the university’s Pacesetter MBA. With more than 100 fully online programs in high-demand fields like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, supply chain management, organizational leadership and marketing, Indiana Tech provides flexible options for working adults looking to advance their careers.

“Indiana Tech is excited to partner with outstanding employers like Sweetwater,” says Dr. Steve Herendeen, senior vice president for strategic enrollment management at Indiana Tech. “Sweetwater is not only a pillar in the Fort Wayne community, but a company that truly invests in its people. We’re honored to support their employees in pursuing educational goals that will benefit them and the region as a whole.”

In addition to tuition savings, participants in the program will receive personalized support throughout their educational journey, including personalized admissions services, online academic advising, online tutoring services and access to Indiana Tech’s Office of Student Success and Career Center. This hands-on guidance is designed to help students stay on track academically and professionally from day one through graduation.

The leadership team at Sweetwater says this partnership is a strategic investment in both its workforce and its future. “This partnership gives our employees a powerful opportunity to grow,” says Rachel Ritchie, talent development manager at Sweetwater. “By helping them further their education, we’re not only supporting their individual goals—we’re also strengthening our company with team members who bring new knowledge, skills and perspectives to the table.”

Online courses at Indiana Tech begin every six weeks, allowing students to start when it works best for them and to balance their studies alongside work and family responsibilities. For more information about Indiana Tech’s corporate partnership program, please contact Katie Parrish, executive director of strategic initiatives and partnerships, at 260.344.4439, or kmparrish@indianatech.edu. Learn more about online programs at Indiana Tech: online.indianatech.edu.

In partnership with the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs, the Commission awards Collegiate Purple Star of Indiana designations to universities based on their adherence to 37 standards across eight categories:

• Core requirements
• Marketing and Communication Strategies
• Admissions and Enrollment
• Financial Support
• Institutional Support Systems
• Student Support Services
• Student Engagement
• Career and Community Engagement Opportunities

The Collegiate Purple Star of Indiana initiative is part of the Commission’s HOPE (Hoosier Opportunities and Possibilities through Education) Agenda, which aims to make Indiana a top ten state in the nation by 2030. A key element to that work is supporting military-affiliated students, amongst other high-need student groups, to increase post-secondary attainment for Hoosiers.

In April, Indiana Tech was designated as a Military Friendly® School and a Top 10 Gold Level institution for 2025-26 by Viqtory, a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB) that connects the military community to civilian employment, educational and entrepreneurial opportunities. Indiana Tech has been recognized as a Military Friendly® School for 14 straight years.

“I’m very proud to be associated with an organization so deeply committed to helping those who have served our country move forward in their careers,” said Ryan Ozbun, associate vice president of Military and Veteran Services at Indiana Tech. “My team takes great pride in embodying Indiana Tech’s commitment by making sure our military and veteran students get the resources, benefits and quality service they deserve.”

Every member of Ozbun’s Military and Veteran Services team has a military background and understands the unique needs of military students and the educational funding that is available to them. With unlimited Yellow Ribbon waivers for eligible students, deployment protection, credit for prior learning, and scholarships for service members, veterans, and their spouses, Indiana Tech’s Military and Veteran Services team is here to serve you. Visit our Veteran Center to learn more.

On Tuesday, Sept. 23, the university will host the Fort Wayne Area College Fair from 5:30 to 7 p.m., in the Schaefer Center gymnasium. During this Indiana Association for College Admission Counseling-endorsed college fair, dozens of representatives from in-state and out-of-state colleges will be on hand to share valuable information about their respective institutions. You can learn about:

• Degree programs
• The learning environment
• Housing options
• Campus life/safety
• Academic support
• Career services
• Scholarship opportunities
• Financial aid

Tuesday, Sept. 23
5:30-7 p.m.
At Indiana Tech’s Schaefer Center
1600 E. Washington Blvd., Fort Wayne IN 46803

For more information about the Fort Wayne Area College Fair, or would like for your organization to be represented at the event, contact Associate Director of Admissions, Erica Lay, at eclay@indianatech.edu, or 260.215.9275.

Attending Organizations (as of July 29)

• Indiana Tech
• Anderson University
• Ball State University
• DePauw University
• Franklin College
• Grace College
• Grand Canyon University
• Hanover College
• Holy Cross College
• Indiana University
• Indiana University, Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering
• Indiana University School of Medicine Health Professions Programs
• INvestEd
• Manchester University
• Marian University
• Northern Michigan University
• Purdue University
• Purdue University-Fort Wayne
• Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
• Taylor University
• University of Saint Francis
• Valparaiso University
• Vincennes University
• Wabash College

Indiana Tech’s STEAM Academy provides students with innovative youth programming and hands-on learning opportunities that will enhance their academic and creative strengths in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM). Its summer camps and after-school programs are delivered in a fun and immersive environment that cultivates our students’ curiosity in STEAM and prepares them for college, career and life.

Camps for Middle School Students (for students entering 6th, 7th or 8th grade)

• Examine + Explore Science Camp, June 16-18
• Creative Expression and Communication Camp, June 23-27
• Launch + Lead Camp, July 7-11

Camps for High School Students (for students entering 9th, 10th, 11th or 12th grade)

• Examine + Explore Science Camp, June 16-18
• Creative Expression and Communication Camp, June 23-27
• Launch + Lead Camp, July 7-11

Camp Photos

Launch + Lead Campers Presenting their awards

Launch + Lead Campers presenting their pitch

Launch + Lead campers working on their poster presentation

Creative Expression and Communication campers working on an art project

Finished art by the Creative Expression and Communication campers

Creative Expression campers do chalk art

Join us on Thursday, June 12, at Indiana Tech in Fort Wayne to learn more about this program.

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Open House
Thursday, June 12
6–8 p.m.
Indiana Tech, Keene Building
1120 E. Washington Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN

Representatives from Huntington University’s Nursing Program will be on hand to:

• Discuss scholarship opportunities through Parkview Health and the Questa Education Foundation
• Explain ABSN prerequisite requirements, program curriculum and class schedules
• Provide tours of the ABSN classrooms and facilities within the Keene Building
• Answer any other questions you may have