Ivy Tech Community College and the Ivy Tech Foundation recognized Ivy Tech alumni, donors and volunteers from across the state this weekend at the 2024 Distinguished Alumni and Benefactor Awards in Indianapolis. Each of Ivy Tech’s 19 campuses nominated a graduate and a donor for the Distinguished Alumni and Benefactor Awards, which the Ivy Tech Foundation administers annually.
“Our distinguished alumni and benefactors embody Ivy Tech’s mission to transform lives and strengthen Indiana’s economy,” says Dr. Sue Ellespermann, President of Ivy Tech. “Through their time, talent, treasure, and testimony, individuals honored this year made significant contributions to the betterment of lives and their communities.”
Meet our Distinguished Alumna
Ivy Tech Fort Wayne honored Cydney Bridges of Fort Wayne with the Distinguished Alumni Award, which celebrates Ivy Tech graduates who have made a lasting impact on their communities and on Ivy Tech through their exceptional professional, philanthropic or volunteer achievements.
She’s a registered nurse at Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis. Her nursing journey began at Ivy Tech Fort Wayne where she earned her CNA license before going to Huntington University. In 2024, she was crowned Second Runner-Up in the Miss America pageant.
See here for a full list of the 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award recipients.
Meet our Benefactor of the year
Ivy Tech Fort Wayne also recognized Lois Kaufmann-Hunsberger of Fort Wayne with the Benefactor Award, which applauds the generosity of donors and volunteers – including individuals, corporations and foundations – whose support enables the Ivy Tech Foundation to bridge financial gaps that promote the academic success and career readiness of Ivy Tech students.
Lois began at Ivy Tech as an adjunct faculty member in 1981 before becoming full-time in 2011. She and her husband established an Endowed Scholarship in 2014 directly supporting the Early Childhood Learning Center, the College’s laboratory preschool. She retired in May 2024.
See here for a full list of the 2024 Benefactor Award recipients.
“Both Cydney’s and Lois’ contributions to the campus, city, and state exemplify true leadership and the qualities we strive for at Ivy Tech Fort Wayne,” said Dr. Kim Barnett-Johnson chancellor, Ivy Tech Fort Wayne and Warsaw. “They represent the incredible network of alumni a
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana's largest public postsecondary institution and the nation's largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state's engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The College provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor's degree.
