TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV)— Ivy Tech Community College in Terre Haute was awarded the Collegiate Purple Star of Indiana designation for its excellence in supporting military students.
The Collegiate Purple Star of Indiana is a new distinction being given out for the first time for the 2024-2025 school year. It is used to recognize postsecondary institutions in Indiana that provide outstanding support to U.S. Military-affiliated students, such as veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. The star is awarded by the Indiana Commission for higher learning and the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs.
“We are incredibly proud to be recognized with the Collegiate Purple Star designation,” said Lea Anne Crooks, Ph.D., chancellor of Ivy Tech Terre Haute and Greencastle. “This award reflects our intentional focus on creating an environment where military-affiliated students can thrive academically, personally, and professionally. We are committed to walking alongside them every step of the way.”
The designation is awarded across three tiers of achievement that are based on 37 standards through eight key categories. Those categories are:
- core institutional policies
- admissions and enrollment practices
- financial and student support services
- institutional infrastructure
- student engagement
- career/community engagement
Terre Haute’s Ivy Tech campus was recognized in tier two.
Joseph Williams, Ivy Tech Terre Haute and Greencastle’s veterans military benefits specialist added, “Veteran and military-affiliated students bring unique strengths to our campus. This recognition is a testament to the work we’ve done, and continue to do, to ensure they feel supported, seen, and equipped to reach their goals. It’s an honor to serve this community.”
The program for this designation was created by Senate Enrolled Act 384-2023. Designations last for three years and signify an institution’s readiness to support the unique needs of military-connected students on their educational journey.
