Education

By Sheryl Swingley— MUNCIE, IN—A representative of the Indiana Coalition for Public Education will be the guest speaker for a meeting jointly sponsored by the Muncie Branch of the American Association of University Women, the League of Women Voters of Muncie-Delaware County and Experienced Educators of East Central Indiana. The meeting is open to the public, and there is no admission fee. The meeting will start at 10 a.m. and wrap up no later than noon on Saturday, Jan. 31, at Motivate Our Minds Learning Center, 2023 E. Highland Ave., Muncie. The topic of the discussion is “The State of…

By Ball State Communications— MUNCIE, IN — Ball State University today, in conjunction with Ball State Day at the Statehouse, officially launched its new STEM Education Center, creating a dedicated hub for advancing STEM teaching and learning across Indiana. The STEM Education Center’s mission is to expand access to high-quality STEM instruction, grow the pipeline of future STEM teachers, and position Ball State as a state and national leader in STEM education. The center will serve as a central point for youth programs, school and community partnerships, and faculty-led research, creating pathways that connect students—from elementary through college—with meaningful STEM…

By Ball State Communications— MUNCIE, Indiana — Indiana Governor Mike Braun has appointed Dollyne Sherman as the newest member of the Ball State University Board of Trustees. Governor Braun also announced the reappointment of trustees Mike McDaniel and Julie K. Griffith to new terms on the Board, each effective through Dec. 31, 2029. Ms. Sherman’s appointment began on Jan. 1, 2026. “Dollyne Sherman has a strong public-service background and a deep connection to Ball State University, and I’m confident she will serve the University well,” said Governor Braun. “Thank you to Trustees McDaniel and Griffith for continuing their great service to the Board.”…

Editor’s note: The Future Leaders of America series profiles high school seniors who display leadership qualities in their school and the community. The series is brought to you by Pridemark Construction. By Stacey A. Shannon— MUNCIE, IN—From sports to clubs to acting, Wes-Del High School senior Kylynn New does it all while maintaining a 4.01 GPA. Though she’s a member of the wrestling team and track team, New is passionate about volleyball. “I love volleyball,” she said. “I’ve been playing it since 5th grade, so that’s definitely a big part of who I am.” New has also spent three years…

By Lesley Devoss— MUNCIE, IN—Ivy Tech Muncie has partnered with IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital (BMH) to strengthen educational and career pathways for future nurses through the Practical Nursing (PN) program. This collaboration—developed by the Ivy Tech Nursing Program, the Ivy+ Career Link team, and IU Health—helps meet regional healthcare workforce needs by providing IU Health employees the opportunity to advance their careers while remaining in the field. Che’Reese Anderson, Dean of Nursing, led on-site information sessions at BMH to introduce employees to the program and its benefits. These sessions were followed by TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) support…

By Kallie Sulanke— MUNCIE, IN— The Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County, Inc. is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for Delaware County – Elizabeth Bamidele of Delta High School and Clayton Dick of Muncie Central High School. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character, and leadership. “Finalists for the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship in Delaware County must show great leadership potential, be well-rounded in their involvement, and exhibit community-mindedness,” said Marcy Minton, president and CEO of The Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County. “Elizabeth Bamidele…