News release from Ivy Tech Community College:
Ivy Tech Community College to celebrate largest graduating class
(INDIANAPOLIS – May 4, 2011) – This year, Ivy Tech Community College will celebrate the largest graduating class in its history as an estimated 12,400 students will receive credentials. The College will host 14 commencement ceremonies all across the state.
This year’s graduating class is almost 25 percent higher than last year’s graduating class of nearly 10,000 and 48 percent higher than the 8,500 graduates in 2009.
Ivy Tech’s programs in nursing and practical nursing continue to provide skilled workers with 2,150 graduates earning a nursing degree or certificate this year. The college produces more nurses per year than any other school in the state of Indiana. Other top programs include Business Administration, Medical Assisting, Accounting, Machine Tool Technology, Office Administration, General Studies and Computer Information Systems.
“While graduation is the last chapter of our students’ stories, it’s just one of the many ways they can reach their goals,” said Ivy Tech President Thomas J. Snyder. “Some of our graduates will be joining the workforce immediately and will have a tremendous impact on nearly every industry in the state, while others will be continuing their education at a four-year college or university. They are the men and women who will shape our state’s future. Together, they are making Indiana great.”
In addition, Ivy Tech also administered 43,775 certification exams to those needing certification to excel in a current profession or enter a new occupation. This year’s totals were up 56 percent from the 28,000 exams administered last year.
Ivy Tech’s 14 commencement ceremonies will take place all throughout the month of May. Featured speakers at the statewide ceremonies, include Jamie Merisotis, President of the Lumina Foundation; Congressman Todd Rokita; and Congressman Todd Young.
“The students who are graduating this year are changing their lives with a college education,” said Dr. Mary Ostrye, Ivy Tech Provost. “The sacrifices they have made and the time they have dedicated to their education will pay benefits throughout their lifetime.”
Ivy Tech Community College is the state’s largest public postsecondary institution and the nation’s largest singly accredited statewide community college system serving nearly 200,000 students annually. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana. It serves as the state’s engine of workforce development, offering affordable degree programs and training that are aligned with the needs of its community along with courses and programs that transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana. It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association.