Latest news with #IUNorthwest
Chicago Tribune
28-05-2025
- Politics
- Chicago Tribune
New Indiana enrollment quotas could reduce local campus degree offerings; eliminate programs
New state law enrollment quotas on Indiana's public university degree programs could have a large impact on regional campuses and lead to the elimination of some degree programs. At the session's end last month, GOP lawmakers added the quotas to House Bill 1001, the state budget bill, approved and signed by Gov. Mike Braun last month. The addition received little public scrutiny until a story appeared recently in the Indianapolis Star. Universities with degree programs that fall under the quotas for three consecutive years must request permission from the Commission for Higher Education to continue them. Those quotas include an average enrollment of 15 or more for three consecutive years in bachelor degree programs, 10 students in associate degree programs, 7 students in master's programs and 3 in educational specialist and doctorate degree programs. In 2023, the number of Hoosiers with college degrees ranked 43rd in the nation, while studies cite more educated citizens lead to stronger state economies. Some educators worry the quota law will lower the state's attainment rate even more. According to data in the Star's recent story, 76% percent of bachelor degree small enrollment programs at IU Northwest in Gary and 53% of bachelor degree small enrollment programs at Purdue University Northwest in Hammond and Westville could be affected. The data calculations came from the National Center for Education Statistics as compiled by DATA USA based on 2022 or 2003 data. Future data tracking from the Center could be in peril. In February, the Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency, terminated $900 million in contracts in the U.S. Department of Education including the National Center for Education Statistics. State Rep. Vernon Smith, D-Gary, said regional campuses like IU Northwest and PNW don't draw as many students as their main campuses do to always support enrollments of 15 or above. Smith is also an education professor at IU Northwest, although he's announced his retirement effective at the end of May. 'Often we have to offer independent studies and use adjuncts in those classrooms to keep costs down,' he said. 'They don't understand what we have to do to meet the needs of the students in our area,' Smith said of Republicans who control the General Assembly. 'I think the system is not broken. It's because they have all this power and they are control freaks,' Smith said. 'Their argument was less government and now they're in everything.' Republican lawmakers defended the quotas saying they'll lead to better efficiencies on campuses. Officials at Indiana and Purdue universities didn't respond to email requests for comment. Sources, however, say the quotas triggered concern across university campuses. A recent social media post by a member of PNW's Social Work Club alerted students to the new law. The post stated PNW's new social work bachelor program averaged 13 students from 2021 to 2023, leaving it in jeopardy. The post urged students to send testimonials to the Commission on Higher Education. PNW's bachelor in social work program has been accredited by the Council on Social Work Education until 2031. Graduates are eligible for state licensures as social workers in the job field that shows increased employment projections of 7%. Several STEM, or Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, programs at IU Northwest could also be in jeopardy. They include biology, biochemistry, computer and information sciences, engineering and math, radiation therapy and informatics. PNW degree programs with smaller numbers include computer engineering, electrical engineering, general chemistry and physics, history and math. Braun, who appoints 12 members of the 14-member Higher Commission board, supports the enrollment review process. Griffin Reid, spokesman for Braun, said in an email: 'This provision ensures our state-funded universities are preparing future college graduates for professional success with degrees that are in demand in Indiana. Universities will be able to request (the state) continue degree programs that fall below this threshold and are of specific interest to the state.' The next meeting of the Commission for Higher Education is July 10. Bill Hanna, executive director of the Dean and Barbara White Foundation, represents Northwest Indiana although his current term expires June 30.
Chicago Tribune
27-05-2025
- Politics
- Chicago Tribune
Indiana University closes DEI offices, ends programs on all campuses
Indiana University and its regional campuses have shut down diversity, equity and inclusion offices in the wake of state executive orders and legislation that follow the lead of President Donald Trump. On Friday, James Wallace, director of IU Northwest's Diversity, Equity and Multicultural Affairs, couldn't be reached at his office phone number. On Thursday, IU officials in Bloomington issued a release saying it was taking steps 'to ensure the university is fully compliant with state and federal laws and guidance regarding diversity, equity and inclusion.' The release stated the DEI offices across IU's main campus in Bloomington and its regional campuses would sunset, effective Thursday. Aaron Pigors, IU Northwest's executive director of marketing and communications referred questions to Mark Bode, executive director of media relations and public affairs. Bode referred questions to IU's Thursday's press release. Within his first two days in office, Trump's initial executive order called for dismantling federal DEI programs. Another order ended affirmative action in federal contracting and directed layoffs for federal diversity, equity and inclusion staffers. Trump labeled them as 'illegal and immoral discrimination programs.' GOP states, including Indiana, have followed with similar bans on DEI programs. Gov. Mike Braun issued an executive order banning DEI initiatives in state government offices on his second day in office. In addition, he signed Senate Bill 289, which prohibits mandatory DEI training in K-12 schools and limits DEI programs in state universities. The law also allows individuals to sue public schools for DEI policies and programs. Earlier this month, Attorney General Todd Rokita sent a letter to the University of Notre Dame claiming its DEI policies may violate state and federal law. Ball State University and Ivy Tech Community College have already eliminated DEI programs in response to GOP edicts. IU's release also said its Office of Institutional Equity has transitioned to become the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, which more accurately reflects its work and mission to oversee the university's compliance with federal civil rights laws.
Chicago Tribune
14-05-2025
- Business
- Chicago Tribune
Special day for hundreds of IU Northwest grads, families
The youngest of nine children and the third to earn a college degree, Cindy Torres stood before hundreds of fellow graduates and their families Wednesday to share her insight. Indiana University Northwest officials selected Torres, 21, a business major, to deliver the student address at the university's 59th commencement ceremony held outside on the campus' north side. The Lake Central graduate, who lives in Schererville, talked about meeting academic goals, personal loss, and staying focused on the future ahead. She concluded her speech in Spanish, offering thanks to her family for their support. Torres has already lined up a job in the human resources department at grocery store Strack & Van Til, based in Highland. Torres, who graduated with high distinction, said she stayed close to home because she was nervous to try a new environment. What sealed the deal were several scholarships she earned at IU Northwest. 'With all the scholarships I received, I had my entire tuition covered so I will be graduating debt-free.' Navy veteran Bronson Bigbie, 28, of Lowell, served as a mass communications specialist, including his last post on the USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier. He finished his degree in three years, taking an extra course load. Bigbie graduated with a 4.0 grade point average and a degree from the School of Public and Environmental Affairs. He's heading to the Maurer School of Law at Indiana University. IU Northwest made sense for Bigbie. 'I wanted to stay close to home and it was affordable. It had the degree that I thought was best for me – public affairs.' His busy schedule continues in October when he marries Haley Feiler, of Highland Park, Illinois, who is graduating from IUN with a master's degree in the fall. Destinee Winger, 22, of Portage, has already launched a dessert business for showers and special occasions. Her dream is to open her own bakery in Portage. 'It would be tough, but it's just in my heart,' she said. Winger is president of her Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority where she received its 'Entrepreneur of the Year' award last year. Meanwhile, Jodi Garcia, of Hobart, held roses and a teddy bear for her daughter Ella Garcia who received a degree in biology. Jodi Garcia, dean at Longfellow New Tech Elementary in the Lake Ridge Schools, said her daughter will soon take the exam for admission into medical school. Nearby, Apples Cullum Knapp, of Hobart, anxiously searched the lines of gowned students trying to find her daughter, Sierra Vasquez, 29. A brass quintet played 'I Wanna Dance with Somebody' as Knapp talked about her daughter. 'She's getting a BS in nursing and is already working at the hospital in Hobart,' she said. What she couldn't quite grasp was Sierra's decision to marry her long-time boyfriend Michael Carpenter at 2 p.m. at the courthouse in Crown Point, just a few hours after graduation. 'I can't believe she's getting married,' Knapp said. 'It's such a wonderful day! I couldn't be more proud of the woman she has become. She's my rock.' IUN officials said the Class of 2025 received 24 associate, 472 bachelor and 90 master's degrees. The youngest graduate was 20, while the oldest was 66 with women making up 76% percent of the graduates. Of all the IU campuses, IU Northwest has the highest percentage of first-generation college students at nearly 30%. It also has the most underrepresented students of color at 46%.
Chicago Tribune
28-04-2025
- General
- Chicago Tribune
Community news: DAR Good Citizen finalist, Gary Community Engagement Series, annual plant sale
Dana Abbring selected as DAR Good Citizen finalist Dana Abbring of Morgan Township High School has been selected as an Indiana State finalist for the DAR Good Citizen contest, according to a release from the DAR's William Henry Harrison chapter. Abbring will be honored at the DAR State Conference in May and will receive her award and chapter cash prize at her school's senior honors night. Abbring is the daughter of Steven and Heather Abbring and plans to study materials engineering in the fall. Other outstanding students chosen as Good Citizens for the 2024-25 school year are: Kayla Pleasant, Portage High School; Kelly Swickard, Chesterton High School; Page Hein, Washington Township High School; Patrick Wood, Kouts High School; and Reagan Cole, Hebron High School. Gary Schools to host Family and Community Engagement Series West Side Leadership Academy will host the next installment of 'F.A.C.E. It' (Family and Community Engagement), a series of conversations for families and school community stakeholders who want to get involved with the Gary Schools, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday in the Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Room B-120 at West Side Leadership Academy, 900 Gerry St. The topic will be 'Special Populations – Parent Impact,' which aims to equip parents with the resources to support their children with special needs. For added convenience, the program will be streamed on Facebook Live, ensuring accessibility for families who are unable to attend in person. The discussion will be led by Special Education Teacher Kimberly Mead and will feature guest speakers Judge Inga Lewis-Shannon of Project Rebuild and Quiana Davis, a district parent who will share her personal experiences and insights on educating a child with special needs. They will provide guidance for parents who may need assistance with navigating and advocating for their children. Space is limited; participants are encouraged to RSVP by contacting the West Side Leadership Academy FACE Liaison, Lanonya Sombright-Jackson at 219-413-9870, Ext. 48003. For more information about the Special Populations division of the district, visit Spring Community Wellness Fair coming to IU Northwest Indiana University Northwest College of Health and Human Services will be hosting the 2025 Spring Community Wellness Fair from 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday in IU Northwest's Savannah Center gymnasium on the north side of the main campus, near 33rd Avenue and Broadway, Gary. The fair is open to the public. Methodist Hospitals, Community HealthNet and Marram Health will be offering free health screenings for ages 18 and over, including Afib checks; blood pressure checks; BMI checks; heart attack and stroke risk assessments; HIV screenings; hepatitis C screenings; and behavioral health screenings. Free blood tests include: A1C; blood glucose; cholesterol, HDL, LDL (12-hour fast required); and PSA for men. Parking is free during the event. Register at For questions, call 888-909-3627. Nelson's Port-A-Pit Chicken fundraiser to benefit Family Promise Family Promise of Porter County is now selling tickets for their Nelson's Port-A-Pit Chicken Fundraiser. Buy a succulent half chicken, smoked to perfection using Nelson's Port-A-Pit® and signature seasoning for $10 or a half chicken with Nelson's perfectly roasted Pit-Tatoes for $15.00. Stop by the Family Promise office in the Portage Township Resource Center, 3484 Airport Road, Portage, 1st Source Bank, 6043 Central Ave., Portage, Portage Township YMCA, 3100 Willowcreek Road, Portage, or First Merchant's Bank, 855 Thornapple Way, Valparaiso, to purchase tickets; or call the Family Promise office at 219-220-2054 to make arrangements. Orders will be ready for pickup between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on May 10 at Willowcreek Middle School, 5962 Willowcreek Road, Portage. Chicken will be sold as long as supply lasts. Family Promise of Porter County is a nonprofit organization committed to helping families experiencing homelessness and financial hardship. For questions or more information contact Family Promise at 219-220-2054 or visit Franciscan Health, partners bring Move With the Mayor to Michigan City Franciscan Health Michigan City is partnering with the City and the National Forum for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention for a new initiative in May and June aimed at helping residents get moving to improve their overall health and well-being. Move with the Mayor will take place on Saturday at Krueger Memorial Park, 801 Liberty Trail; May 24 at Pullman Field Park, 550 W. Fourth St.; May 31 at Water Tower Park, 301 Broadway St. and June 14 at the Michigan City Police Department at 1201 E. Michigan Blvd. Registration begins on-site at 10:30 a.m. followed by a brief health talk by a physician or clinical staff member and a variety of physical activities. The events are free and open to the public. Incentives and giveaways will be available to participants as well. More information is with Nila Williams at Household hazardous waste, tire collection event The Recycling and Waste Reduction District of Porter County will host a Household Hazardous Waste Collection from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the Porter County Expo Center, 215 E. Division Road, Valparaiso. Enter through Gate 3. Residents can safely dispose of products containing corrosive, toxic, ignitable or reactive substances. Common household hazardous waste items include anti-freeze, motor oil, batteries, fluorescent bulbs, paints, deck stains, pool chemicals, pesticides and household smoke detectors. All paints, including latex, will be accepted at collection events throughout 2025. Visit to view the complete list of accepted items. This event also will feature a tire collection service. Residents can bring up to four tires under 20 inches for free. Tires over 20 inches will incur a fee. All tires, with or without rims, are welcome. For more information on District events, call 219-465-3694 or email info@ Lake County Master Gardeners annual plant sale The 24th Annual Lake County Master Gardeners Plant Sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 10 at the Fine Arts Building, Lake County Fairgrounds, 889 S. Court St., Crown Point. Many plants are purchased from commercial growers to satisfy home gardening needs, while even more are grown and offered by the Lake County Master Gardeners. Plants include annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs, native plants, houseplants, hanging baskets, bulbs, shrubs and trees. All plants are labeled. Master Gardeners will be available to answer any question. The Sale also includes mini-presentations on gardening topics and a 'Trash to Treasures' area where 'gently-used' gardening items can be purchased. Gardening demos will take place at 11 a.m. Proceeds from the Plant Sale help fund the Lake County Master Gardener Scholarship and Grant programs. For more information, visit email lakecountymastergardeners@ or call 219-755-3240.
