Indianapolis, Indiana – On Friday, April 11, Ivy Tech Indianapolis gathered with counselors, administrators, and educational leaders at the 2025 High School Champions Breakfast to recognize the achievements of its dual credit and dual enrollment programs. Hosted in the heart of Indianapolis, the event honored the contributions of 32 local high schools—both current and prospective partners—that play a pivotal role in preparing students for higher education and career success. This annual gathering, a blend of recognition and inspiration, celebrated the transformative work happening in classrooms across the city.
The breakfast, which featured a delicious buffet and thoughtful gifts for guests, was more than just a celebratory occasion. It was a powerful reminder of the impact that collaborative efforts between Ivy Tech and local high schools can have on students’ futures. Alongside Ivy Tech’s leadership team, the event welcomed special guest speakers who shared their personal stories and professional insights.
Among the key highlights was the keynote address delivered by Ron Sandlin, the Deputy Chief Strategy Officer for the Indiana Department of Education. Sandlin, a first-generation college graduate, reflected on the hurdles he faced as a student without a clear college path and how perseverance ultimately led him to a leadership role in the state’s education system. His remarks were not only motivational but also pointed to the crucial role dual credit and dual enrollment programs play in opening doors for students who may not otherwise see higher education as a viable option. Sandlin praised the programs for offering students a head start on their college journeys, emphasizing their potential to change lives, particularly for students from underrepresented backgrounds. “These programs,” Sandlin said, “are more than a gateway to college; they are a lifeline for many students to reach their full potential.”
Ivy Tech’s leadership also took center stage, with Dr. Andrew Buckle, Executive Director of K-14 in Indianapolis, Dr. Greg Bond, Vice Chancellor of Enrollment Services, and Dr. Katie Lash, Vice President of K-14 and Strategic Initiatives, each offering remarks on the college’s impressive strides over the past year. Dr. Buckle’s words were particularly powerful, as he shared the remarkable impact Ivy Tech Indianapolis has had on local high school students. He revealed that the college has served 12,826 high school students, helping them save a staggering $12,225,482 in college tuition costs. “These numbers represent more than just data,” Buckle noted. “They reflect real opportunities for thousands of students to get a head start on their college journey, without the financial burden that often holds them back.”
A highlight of the event was a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Buckle, where representatives from four Ivy Tech partner schools shared their experiences with dual credit and dual enrollment. Each panelist provided valuable insights into how these programs are benefiting students not only academically but financially as well.
Erin Dietrich, Early College Counselor at Area 31 Career Center, spoke about how dual credit courses have allowed students to pursue college credits while still in high school, giving them a leg up when they eventually transition to postsecondary education. “The ability to earn college credits early has been transformative for many of our students, especially those who may not have considered college otherwise,” she said.
Dr. Austin Dodd, Director of High School Academies and Pathways at Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS), shared an inspiring success story of two siblings from Crispus Attucks High School. Thanks to dual credit courses and initiatives like Ivy Tech’s Free Summer and Crossing the Finish Line programs, the siblings earned associate degrees in medical assisting while still in high school. One of the students even graduated a year early. “That speaks volumes to the tenacity and drive of the students and families who are interested in this and are really excited about these opportunities,” Dr. Dodd said, underscoring the transformative power of dual credit programs.
At Herron Classical Schools, Julia Wek, Director of College and Career Counseling, highlighted the school’s ambitious goal for all of its seniors to gain acceptance into either two-year or four-year colleges. She emphasized that Ivy Tech’s dual credit and dual enrollment programs are essential to achieving that mission. “Students who engage in these programs are not only saving time and money, but they are also better prepared for the academic rigors of college,” Wek said. “Exposure to college-level coursework gives them a distinct advantage when it comes time to transition into higher education.”
Meanwhile, at Roncalli High School, Assistant Principal for Academic Affairs Beth Reel shared how interest in Ivy Tech’s dual credit offerings continues to grow. “It’s student-driven,” she remarked. “The kids are demanding these classes. They want to be in them.” Reel pointed out the growing numbers of students taking advantage of Ivy Tech’s Indiana College Core (ICC) courses, which help them complete core college requirements before even stepping foot on a college campus. “It’s a huge achievement for these students,” she said, emphasizing the value of the ICC program in helping students start their college careers with a solid academic foundation.
As the morning unfolded, it became clear that Ivy Tech’s partnerships with high schools are changing the landscape of education in Indianapolis and beyond. These dual credit and dual enrollment programs are not only helping students save money and time but also giving them the tools they need to succeed academically, financially, and personally.
The success of these programs reflects a shared commitment to enhancing access to higher education, particularly for students who face barriers to college attendance. Through collaborative efforts between Ivy Tech and its high school partners, more students are gaining the confidence and skills they need to succeed in higher education. With a continued focus on affordability, accessibility, and student success, Ivy Tech is poised to make an even greater impact in the years to come.
For many students, the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school is a game-changer. It not only gives them a head start on their academic journey but also empowers them to pursue their dreams without the weight of overwhelming student debt. With programs like Ivy Tech’s dual credit and dual enrollment offerings, the future of education in Indiana looks bright—especially for those students who are eager to take the next step toward a successful future.
As Ivy Tech Indianapolis continues to grow and strengthen its relationships with local high schools, the positive effects of these programs will be felt for years to come, paving the way for a generation of students who are better prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
