Ivy Tech Community College Honors Local Teacher as Top Dual Credit Faculty Member
TERRE HAUTE/GREENCASTLE – Ivy Tech Community College honored Samantha Woodard, an English teacher at Parke Heritage High School, as one of 19 individuals across the state selected to receive the second annual Excellence in Dual Credit Instruction Award, the highest honor for Ivy Tech dual credit faculty. Winners were announced at a special ceremony on June 14 in Indianapolis and the event concluded with the 2023 Statewide Award recipient, Dr. Christine Herr of Ivy Tech Richmond.
The College honored each of the winners for their excellence in instruction and their positive impact on the dual credit students they served during the 2022-2023 academic year. A selection committee determined the honorees based on nominations from their colleagues.
Dual credit faculty provide students with skills, knowledge, and competencies aligned with clear career pathways and seamless college transfer. Dual credit programming taught by credentialed high school faculty is of tremendous value to our students and our state. By helping students earn post-secondary credentials while in high school, we’re accelerating Indiana’s economic growth and Hoosier prosperity.
– Ivy Tech President Sue Ellspermann
Jane McMullen, a guidance counselor from Parke Heritage High School nominated Samantha Woodard for her commitment that goes far beyond the classroom. “Woodard breaks down college-level instruction into manageable pieces for our high school students. She runs a very disciplined, yet fun, learning environment,” wrote McMullen. “Woodward is also very dedicated to 4-H, the community library, our local sports groups, and many other community support groups.”
“Our dual credit faculty go above and beyond to ensure our students receive the best value for their education and pair that with innovative approaches to ensure the possibility of a post-secondary credential,” said Interim Vice President of K-14 and Strategic Initiatives, Monica Hingst. “This award recognizes instructors who best demonstrate excellence in instruction and exemplifies the mission of Ivy Tech.”
The Excellence in Dual Credit Instruction President’s Award is modeled after the College’s President’s Award to recognize College faculty and adjunct faculty members from Ivy Tech locations throughout the state.
Ivy Tech offers free dual credit courses, which are taught by certified instructors at the high schools and count toward both high school graduation requirements as well as Ivy Tech college credit. This allows students the opportunity to earn a post-secondary credential before they graduate high school, saving them time and money on their higher education journey. During the 2022-23 academic year, West Central Indiana high school students and their families saved nearly $3.5 million by taking free dual credit courses.
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.
