Indianapolis, Indiana – More than 700 faculty and staff members gathered this week as Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis hosted its third annual Employee Appreciation Celebration, an event dedicated to recognizing the people who keep the campus running day after day.
Held Friday at the campus Conference Center and Culinary Institute, the luncheon brought together employees from across departments in a relaxed, festive atmosphere. Organizers described the event as both a thank-you and a reminder of the vital role faculty and staff play in shaping the college community.
The celebration was coordinated by the Human Resources team with support from events, audiovisual, and administrative staff. Their combined efforts transformed the venue into a lively space where colleagues could step away from their usual routines and enjoy time together.
A full meal, prize raffles, and formal recognition ceremonies were among the highlights of the afternoon. But beyond the food and giveaways, the focus remained firmly on honoring years of service and dedication.
One of the most meaningful moments came as employees marking major service milestones were called forward. Honorees ranged from individuals celebrating five years at the college to others who have spent more than three decades contributing to its mission.
The ceremony also paid tribute to faculty and staff who retired over the past year, as well as those preparing to retire in 2026. Their names were announced as colleagues applauded, acknowledging careers that have left lasting marks on students and the institution alike.
Organizers emphasized that the celebration was designed not just to recognize longevity, but to highlight the collective impact employees have on student success. From instructors and advisors to maintenance crews and office staff, each role was described as essential to the campus’s daily life.
In addition to the luncheon itself, employees had the opportunity to explore a newly refreshed campus space. Tours were offered before and after the event, giving attendees a first look at the recently reopened Illinois Fall Creek Center.
The renovated facility is part of a broader modernization effort known as Ivy Tech Indy: Reimagined for the Future. The initiative aims to improve learning environments, enhance student services, and create spaces that better reflect evolving educational needs.
For many employees, the tour added a sense of optimism to the day’s celebrations. Walking through updated classrooms and redesigned common areas offered a tangible glimpse of how the college is preparing for the next generation of students.
College leaders say events like the appreciation luncheon serve an important purpose beyond recognition alone. They help strengthen connections among employees, boost morale, and reinforce a shared sense of purpose.
As Indiana’s largest public postsecondary institution, Ivy Tech serves tens of thousands of students each year through its statewide campuses and online programs. The college plays a major role in workforce development, offering associate degrees, certificates, industry training, and pathways that allow students to transfer to four-year universities.
Because of this broad mission, leaders say employee dedication remains critical. Faculty guide students academically, while staff provide essential support services that help learners stay on track and achieve their goals.
The appreciation celebration, now in its third year, reflects a growing tradition of pausing to acknowledge that collective effort. Organizers say they hope the event continues to evolve while keeping its central focus—recognizing the people behind the institution’s success.
As the afternoon concluded, employees left not only with raffle prizes and full plates, but also with a renewed sense of belonging. For many, the gathering served as a reminder that behind every classroom lesson, student milestone, and campus achievement stands a network of individuals working together to move the college forward.
