Ivy Tech Indianapolis celebrated the achievements of its dual credit and dual enrollment programs at the 2025 High School Champions Breakfast on Friday, Apr. 11. The event welcomed counselors and administrators from 32 Indianapolis-area high schools – both current and prospective Ivy Tech partners – recognizing their vital role in preparing students for college success.

Guests enjoyed a buffet breakfast, received gifts of appreciation, and heard inspiring messages from both Ivy Tech leadership and special guest speakers. The event’s keynote address was delivered by Ron Sandlin, deputy chief strategy officer for the Indiana Department of Education.

Sandlin shared his powerful journey as a first-generation college student, highlighting the challenges he faced and the perseverance that led him to a leadership role in Indiana’s education system. He emphasized the transformative impact of dual credit and dual enrollment programs, calling them essential tools for increasing access to higher education and changing lives – particularly for students who might not otherwise see college as a viable option.

Ivy Tech speakers included 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.

In his remarks, Dr. Buckle highlighted the extraordinary impact Ivy Tech Indianapolis has made this school year: serving 12,826 high school students and saving those students and their families a collective $12,225,482 in college tuition costs. He emphasized that these numbers represent more than just data – 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 morning was a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Buckle, featuring representatives from four Ivy Tech partner schools:

  • Erin Dietrich, early college counselor at Area 31 Career Center
  • Dr. Austin Dodd, director of high school academies and pathways at Indianapolis Public Schools
  • Beth Reel, assistant principal for academic affairs at Roncalli High School
  • Julia Wek, director of college and career counseling at Herron Classical Schools

Panelists shared how Ivy Tech’s dual credit and dual enrollment opportunities are helping students thrive academically, financially, and personally.

Dr. Dodd reported a remarkable increase in dual credit participation at IPS schools, with over 1,000 students currently enrolled, up more than 40% from the previous year. An even greater increase is projected for the 2025–26 school year. 

He shared a powerful story of two siblings from Crispus Attucks High School who, thanks to dual credit courses and initiatives like Ivy Tech’s Free Summer and Crossing the Finish Line, earned associate degrees in medical assisting while still in high school. One of the siblings 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,” Dodd said.

At Herron Classical Schools, Wek highlighted a goal for 100% of seniors to gain acceptance into a two- or four-year college program. Ivy Tech’s dual credit and dual enrollment programs are key to that mission, she said. Students not only save time and money, she said, but they’re better prepared for the transition to college thanks to exposure to college-level coursework during high school.

At Roncalli High School, interest in Ivy Tech dual credit courses continues to grow. 

“It’s student-driven,” said Reel. “The kids are demanding these classes. They want to be in them. Our ICC (Indiana College Core) numbers are growing, and it allows them to then, when they go to college, start their program earlier, get into classes that they want. All those core classes are done. It’s a huge achievement.” 

Through meaningful partnerships and shared commitment, Ivy Tech and its high school partners continue to expand access to higher education and set more students on the path to long-term success.

Interested in Ivy Tech’s high school programs for your students? Explore opportunities here.

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.