News

Environmental Action Grant Advances Kokomo Creek Restoration

KOKOMO, Ind. — IU Kokomo students, faculty, and staff will continue efforts to restore Kokomo Creek with grant funding from theNorthern Indiana Public Service Company LLC (NIPSCO) and the NiSource Charitable Foundation. The campus was one of 25 local nonprofit organizations selected to receive a 2026 Environmental Action Grant, an annual NIPSCO and NiSource Charitable Foundation program that supports local environmental restoration and programs with grants of up to $5,000. Andy Tuholski, director of the

Middle Schoolers Experience College Life at IUK Camp

KOKOMO, Ind. — Most people don’t think about what exactly is on the bottoms of their shoes. Middle schoolers attending Indiana University Kokomo’s Ignite Your Future Kids College got an up-close look at the bacteria lurking on their footwear through a microscope. As Brandon Wysong, lecturer in biology, handed out their labeled petri dishes, the campers responded with grimaces and comments about what they saw. For Ava Carothers, an incoming sixth grader at Marion’s Justice Intermediate School, swabbing

Spring dean’s list, chancellor’s list, honor academic achievement

Spring dean’s list, chancellor’s list, honor academic achievement KOKOMO, Ind. — In the spring 2026 semester, 785 full-time Indiana University Kokomo students earned chancellor’s list or dean’s list honors. Chancellor’s list students earned a 4.0 grade point average (GPA), while dean’s list students earned a minimum 3.5 GPA on a scale of 4.0, while carrying at least 12 credit hours throughout the grading period. Students are listed by hometown, and include a student or students from your coverage area.

Wiley Metal Hires 8 Interns for Full-Time Positions

Wiley Metal is proud to announce that eight of the eleven students who participated in the Wiley Metal Internship Program during the 2025–2026 school year have accepted full-time summer positions with the company. Over the course of the school year, participating high school students contributed a combined 2,031 internship hours, marking the first full year of a collaborative internship partnership between Wiley Metal, the Grant Regional Career Center, and Watch Us Academy. Through innovative

The Legends, the Legacies, and the Heart Presentation

On Saturday, June 20 at 1:00 PM, Torianna McNair will present “The Legends, the Legacies, the Heart: Black History Stories in Our Chronicle-Tribune Photo Collection.” McNair will share a selection of stories found in her research of Black history photographs in the History Center's Chronicle-Tribune photo collection. This event will be hosted in the Forrest Room, located on the third floor of the History Center. 

Flynn Takes the Lead for HYPE Academy

JaLair Flynn is stepping into the role of principal for Marion Community Schools’ HYPE Academy alternative program.  He has nearly 20 years of experience in educational leadership, and he has been part of the leadership team at MHS since 2021 as assistant principal. He has also served as interim co-principal during a transition period in the 2025-26 school year, alongside fellow interim co-principal Javon Washington, who was recently named principal.  Flynn earned his Bachelor of Arts in political

Art Class Creates Metal Sculptures for New Mini Golf Course

Artwork created by an IU Kokomo sculpture class enhances the experience of local mini golfers at the newly opened Kokomo Little Links. Students in a sculpture class led by Gregory Steel, professor of fine arts, created two large-scale metal sculptures for the miniature golf course, built in Cutler Park and operated by Bridges Outreach. The first, titled Bridge, includes three metal pillars that will be connected by steel cables when the cables arrive. The second, Putt, represents a putter and ball, and

Duncan Completes Historic Triple Crown with Discus National Title at NAIA Outdoor Championships

IU Kokomo junior thrower Sydney Duncan continued one of the most dominant weeks in program history Friday afternoon, capturing the discus national championship at the 2026 NAIA Outdoor Track & Field National Championships, hosted by University of North Carolina at Asheville. With the victory, Duncan becomes just the second female athlete in NAIA history to sweep the hammer throw, shot put, and discus national championships in the same week. The discus title also marked her third national championship

Ivy Tech Marion is offering FREE Google AI Essentials Prep Workshops

As part of Indiana’s growing focus on AI workforce development, Ivy Tech Marion &##127891; is offering FREE Google AI Essentials Prep Workshops for local small and mid-sized businesses and non-technical professionals. &##128187; No coding or technical background required. ✨ Workshop Topics Include:AI FundamentalsAI-Powered ProductivityGenerative AI ToolsPrompt EngineeringResponsible AI PracticesWorkplace ApplicationsAI Strategies &##128197; Workshop Dates: June 3 | August 5 | October 21 ⏰ Time: 8:30 a.m. –

Superhero Camp Returns This Summer to Help Kids Build Resilience, Confidence, and Emotional Well-Being

Community invited to volunteer, sponsor, and support the 10th year of free programming MARION, Ind. — This summer marks a major milestone as Superhero Camp celebrates its 10th year of helping children discover the strengths they already carry inside themselves. Hosted by Lark’s Song, Superhero Camp is a free five-day experience designed to help children build emotional intelligence, resilience, confidence, and practical tools for navigating life’s challenges. Through stories, music, movement, time in

IU Kokomo students rewarded for academic excellence with honor society induction

Nearly 50 Indiana University Kokomo students were recognized for academic achievement in fields ranging from political science to sociology, and from radiologic sciences to communication arts, with their selection for national honor societies. Phi of Indiana Chapter of Alpha Kappa Delta, the International Sociology Honor Society Three students wereinducted into the Phi of Indiana Chapter of Alpha Kappa Delta, the International Sociology Honor Society. They include:Logansport:Serenity Maree

Three elementary students honored in statewide art competition

Three elementary students honored in statewide art competition   Three Marion elementary students were selected as regional winners in a prestigious statewide art exhibition. They join two MHS students whose awards were previously announced. Orion Coffey, Riverview Elementary 2nd-grader, Mayvani Gray, Allen Elementary 4th-grader, and Ja'Marla Hill, Allen Elementary 2nd-grader, were honored for their art works submitted to the Juried Exhibition of Student Art in conjunction with the Quadrennial

Cougars claim four honors at inaugural IU Regional Campus Athletic Awards Celebration

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. —Student-athletes from Indiana University Kokomo claimed four of the six awards given at theinaugural IU Regional Campus Athletics Awards Celebration.   The brought together the top student-athletes, coaches, and teams from across five IU regional campuses — IU Kokomo, IU East, IU Northwest, IU South Bend, and IU Southeast —  to recognize excellence in athletics, academics, leadership, character, and campus involvement throughout the 2025-26 academic year.IU KOKOMO HONOREESCareer

Graduates showcase their college journeys with mortarboard decor

KOKOMO, Ind. — A lot of late-night study sessions made Brandon Maish’s Indiana University Kokomo degree possible. As he celebrated Commencement Thursday with his classmates, he commemorated his journey to degrees in history and political science, and criminal justice, by decorating his mortarboard, or cap, making it uniquely his in a sea of black-robed graduates. He was one of many in the more than 400 graduates who showed off their creativity by sporting unique decorations, ranging from flowers to

State Approves Marion School Board's New Election Districts

State approves Marion School Board’s new election districts    The state has approved an amended organization plan for the Marion Community Schools Board of School Trustees that changes the way its members are elected. On October 28, 2025, the Marion School Board voted to adopt the plan. After completing all legal requirements, the plan was submitted to the Indiana State Board of Education for approval. The SBOE approved the plan on May 13, 2026. This means that candidates filing for election in fall

Carey Services Renews Bell Seal Gold for 2026, Advancing Toward Platinum

Carey Services is proud to announce it has once again been awarded the 2026 Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health at the Gold level by Mental Health America (MHA), the nation’s leading nonprofit dedicated to promoting mental health, well-being, and illness prevention. This marks the organization’s second consecutive year receiving Gold-level recognition, reinforcing Carey Services’ deep and evolving commitment to creating a workplace culture where employees are supported, valued, and empowered. The Bell

Space telescope discoveries topic of free Observatory open house

   What are the “little red dots” discovered by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope? Learn more about the mysterious red shifted objects discovered recently, at the last Indiana University Kokomo Observatory free open house of the academic year. Patrick Motl, professor of physics, will begin the open house at 8 p.m. Sunday, May 17, with a presentation of the “little red dots,” believed to be a transitional phase between dense, star-forming galaxies and active galactic nuclei, according to NASA.   “The

Radiologic sciences graduates applauded at pinning ceremony

 Indiana University Kokomo’s School of Nursing and Allied Health Professions (SNAHP) welcomed 15 new healthcare professionals in the radiologic and imaging sciences at its annual pinning ceremony. Angela Opsahl, dean of the School of Nursing and Allied Health Professions, welcomed students, family, and friends to the celebration of the hard work, dedication, and commitment they have shown by completing their degrees. She added that it takes a strong, dedicated, and compassionate individual to enter the

Marion students earn top awards at Indiana Thespians State Conference

Marion Community Schools congratulates 13 of our students who earned 15 top awards at the annual Indiana Thespians State Conference. The students, who are all also enrolled in the CSA Arts Academy, attended the conference with the International Thespian Society troupe at the Marion Community School of the Arts.  Congratulations to these Marion students, who all earned Superior rankings in the prestigious International Thespian Excellence Awards (Thespys for short), recognizing the highest level of

Williams to take the lead for Marion Giants boys basketball

  Marion High School is pleased to welcome Johnnie Williams as its next boys basketball head coach.  Williams is an MHS graduate, Class of 1990, and he has 15 years of coaching experience, including nearly a dozen years at the collegiate level.  Most recently he has been a club basketball head coach on the Under Armour Association Circuit in Texas. Prior to that he was assistant coach for the Prairie View A&M University men’s basketball team, defensive coordinator and assistant coach for Alabama A&M

Washington takes the lead at Marion High School

  Washington takes the lead at Marion High School   Javon Washington is stepping into the role of principal for Marion High School.  He has been part of the leadership team at MHS since 2023, first as dean and then as assistant principal. He has also served as interim co-principal since February, alongside fellow interim co-principal JaLair Flynn.  “I am excited for this new role,” Washington said. “Becoming the building principal of Marion High School at this time is a full-circle moment for me.

Pinning ceremony honors nursing, OTA graduates

Indiana University Kokomo’s School of Nursing and Allied Health Professions (SNAHP) honored its 2026 graduates at its traditional pinning ceremony on Wednesday (May 6) in Havens Auditorium. Nine students earned the Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Sciences, along with one receiving a Bachelor of Science in Applied Health Science and 43 earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Jennifer Negron, lecturer of occupational therapy, welcomed the graduating class, family, friends, faculty, and staff to

May 14 Commencement to celebrate IUK Class of 2026

KOKOMO, Ind. — Indiana University Kokomo will celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2026 at its Commencement ceremony on Thursday, May 14. The ceremony will honor the 571 members of the Class of 2026, who represent 45 Indiana counties, 12 states, and 12 countries. More than 22 percent of the graduates are first generation college students, and 24 are graduating with a 4.0 grade point average. Eighty-one students are earning master’s degrees, 490 are earning bachelor’s degrees, and 13 are

Computer science senior plans MBA as next step

KOKOMO, Ind. — When Sean Sonnenberg enrolled at Indiana University Kokomo three years ago, the newly-formed eSports team gave him a place to belong. “It was great,” he said. “There are plenty of computer science people who are also in eSports, so I got to connect with them earlier than I would have just in class. Being able to compete with a team was a great experience. It was very different than playing casually.” As he prepares to graduate May 14, Sonnenberg, from Kokomo, said being part of the team

Google AI-FREE Essentials Prep Workshops – Ivy Tech Marion

With the new statewide IN AI initiative, Indiana is becoming one of the most AI-ready states in the nation. As part of Indiana’s growing focus on AI workforce development, Ivy Tech Marion &##127891; is offering FREE Google AI Essentials Prep Workshops for local small and mid-sized businesses and non-technical professionals. &##128187; No coding or technical background required. ✨ Workshop Topics Include:AI FundamentalsAI-Powered ProductivityGenerative AI ToolsPrompt EngineeringResponsible AI

IUK students win NCAA competition in March Madness class

IUK students win NCAA competition in March Madness class KOKOMO, Ind. — Everyone loves an underdog story — especially in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. A team of Indiana University Kokomo students outperformed teams from IU Indianapolis, Indiana State University, Butler University, Ball State University, and University of Indianapolis to win the culminating competition of a class hosted by the NCAA and the Indiana Sports Corp. as part of March Madness. “We were the smallest program involved in

Donor impact applauded at Chancellor’s Guild Dinner

More photos here Donor impact applauded at Chancellor’s Guild Dinner   KOKOMO, Ind. — Indiana University Kokomo honored the donors who allow the campus to innovate and serve at the annual Chancellor’s Guild dinner. Chancellor Mark Canada said the event recognizes people who make IU Kokomo a home for students and a pillar for north central Indiana. “We see the results of your generosity every day. Our campus life is more vibrant than ever,” he said, noting that more than 61 percent of first-year,

December grad overcomes obstacles to earn dental school admission

KOKOMO, Ind. — As Gracie McClain’s parents drove her to an emergency room, she couldn’t help but think her lifelong dream of becoming a dentist was gone. “It was really scary,” she said. “I temporarily lost my ability to speak properly. Everything that came out of my mouth was gibberish, and I couldn’t see very well. It was a very unusual experience.” McClain, who was 17 at the time, learned within a few days she’d had a stroke. Luckily, it didn’t have long-term effects — and did not keep her from

NMAT Students Create Logo for Local Not-for-profit Science Fair

KOKOMO, Ind. — When the 63rd annual Howard County Science Fair takes place in February 2027, it will include a new logo created by an Indiana University Kokomo student. Erika Creighton’s design was chosen from eight submitted by students in the Identity, Design, and Branding class taught by Michael Koerner, associate professor of new media, who said the project mimicked the competitive process students might experience as graphic design artists, and allowed them to practice what they’ve learned during

Larson to Take Lead for Marion High School Athletics

Marion High School’s next athletic director is a familiar face, as he has been a part of the MHS staff for many years. Nate Larson will take the reins for MHS athletics, building on his experience as a teacher and a coach.   The Marion Community Schools Board of School Trustees approved his hiring as Marion High School athletic director at their regular meeting on April 28. He will start in this new position July 1.   “I am truly honored to serve as the new Athletic Director at Marion High

Marion High School Alumni Association Honors Scholarship Recipients

Marion High School Alumni Association is pleased to announce 45 scholarship awards totaling more than $37,000 for 20 outstanding Marion High School graduating seniors!  MHSAA is proud to note that this is another record-setting amount, and it includes two new scholarships awarded for the first time this year. MHSAA is grateful for our collaborative relationship with Marion Community Schools and the community, which enables us to help provide excellent opportunities for Marion students! The following

HR Skills Training at IvyTech

Through Ivy Tech Community College, gain real-world HR skills through practical, hands-on learning. Build a strong foundation in HR through real-world scenarios and gain the confidence to handle everyday workplace challenges and succeed in today’s workforce. Registration Open Now!! Seats are limited. Don’t miss out. No prior HR experience required Dates August 4, 2026 – September 1, 2026 Format Live, instructor-led (online) Registration Fees $995 Flexible payment plans available HR Skills

Radiant Health to Host Free ''Mental Health Matters'' Event for Youth and Families

[Marion, IN – 4/16/26] Radiant Health will host Mental Health Matters, presented by TJR Group, on Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Gardens of Matter Park. This is a free community event focused on supporting youth mental wellness and overall well-being. Designed for youth of all ages and their families, the event will feature engaging, hands-on activities that help young people build emotional self-regulation, learn healthy coping strategies, and strengthen their overall well-being.

Culture Fest invites campus community to celebrate its people

KOKOMO, Ind. — The sweet scent of coconut soup and the sounds of percussion filled the air in Indiana University Kokomo’s Alumni Hall Tuesday (April 14), as students, faculty, and staff celebrated Culture Fest. The event invites all to experience a day centered on culture, community, and connection. Hosted by the Multicultural Center and the International Student Organization, it offered tastes of international food and candy, informational posters, and the chance to meet and talk to people from a

McCulloch Junior High Invites Community Professionals to Participate in Career Day

Marion, IN — McCulloch Junior High School is inviting community members to participate in its upcoming Career Day on May 15, 2026, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM.The event will include four 20-minute sessions scheduled throughout the morning, giving students the opportunity to learn about a variety of career paths and gain insight into the education, skills, and experiences needed to achieve their goals."Our students are eager to learn about a variety of career paths and gain insight into the education, skills,

Free Workshop to Explore the Role of Play & Storytelling in STEM Learning

Free workshop to explore the role of play, storytelling, in STEM learning KOKOMO, Ind. — Teachers are invited to learn how to enhance STEM education through storytelling and play, at a free workshop Thursday, April 23, at Indiana University Kokomo. Playing with Dolls & STEM in the Classroom incorporates Friends Forever Club dolls, each of which has a STEM interest and story.   Christina Romero, associate professor of education, and Jennifer McNeany, assistant clinical professor in school psychology,

Grant Regional Adult Education Graduation