Nicole Blas prepares a flower pressing. See more pictures on Flickr.

Martin, from Carmel, is one of the students in the summer flowering plants class at Indiana University Kokomo. It is a popular science option, especially among non-science majors, and the class filled quickly when registration began in the fall. Carrie Kinsey, biology lab supervisor, opened a second section of the class to accommodate the demand.

Each student presses at least 10 plants to present, creating museum quality displays with cards detailing the type of flower it is, and where it was found. In class, they practice technique with grocery story flowers, preparing them to press flowers they find on their own, as part of the fieldwork requirement.

"Flower pressing is a kind of folk art, a lost art," said Kinsey. "This class teaches plant science and life cycles, but we'll also learn some history and cultural significance of the various flowers."

In addition to their pressed flowers, students also will photograph at least 40 flowers, and complete at least 10 flower drawings.

Martin lays one stem on blotter paper, using scissors to remove a few extra leaves, and turning the blossoms for the best effect. Gently, she covers it with blotter paper, then presses down hard with both hands, before placing cardboard over it. She stands on her tiptoes to put all her weight on it, before carrying the bundle over to the class press.

Kinsey helps students load their flowers in layers into the wooden press, and then works with them to tighten the straps around it, creating maximum pressure to flatten the flowers.

Each student takes home a press, to use to press at least 10 flowers during the summer session. Martin looks forward to pressing blossoms from a day lily in her yard. She added the class is her last to complete her degree in communication arts.

"It's real life, everybody loves flowers," she said. "This class gives me a hands-on option to earn a science credit. I'll use the information, it's not just something you memorize and forget. I had no idea there were so many types and varieties of flowers. When I'm driving home, I recognize them along the road now. It's given me a different eye."

For Cash Lamberg, a sophomore business major, the class has helped him with the landscaping job he's held since eighth grade.

"I'm learning about a variety of things I see every day," the Tipton resident said. "I was surprised by how many kinds of wildflowers there are in Indiana. I like it a lot."

Emily Lytle has enjoyed her independent fieldwork, searching for flowers to photograph and draw. Lytle, a psychology major from Kokomo, took her grandfather out near the Kokomo Reservoir to find specimens.

"I was very proud of myself that I was able to identify the flowers we found," she said. "It's a science class, but you're not stuck in the classroom, and when you dissect a flower, there's no blood and guts."

As an elementary education major, Nicole Blas, Merrillville, is excited to use some of what she's learned in her classroom.

"I can definitely use the knowledge I'm gaining in this class to teach science concepts," she said. "I like to look at plants, but I've never done anything with flowers. This is a new experience for me."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

Jenny Ritter helps student Ashley Miller sign up for the blood drive.

A blood drive organized by American Red Cross intern Jenny Ritter brought in 18 units of blood, at a time of year donations typically decrease because of vacations and summer activities.

"I was pleased we were able to get such a good response," said Ritter, a senior from Tipton. "It exceeded our expectations. We are thankful to everyone on campus who rolled up a sleeve and gave."

She planned the drive with Toni Fox, donor recruitment representative, who said every unit collected is important and needed.

"Our patients don't take a vacation from needing blood, but during the summer months, about two fewer donors give at each drive than what we need to provide for our patients," Fox said. "Jenny's leadership helps the Red Cross fulfill its responsibility to ensure blood is available to patients, whenever and wherever it is needed."

In addition to learning professional skills from her internship, Ritter also gained a new respect for the American Red Cross, and the services it provides.

"Willingly donating blood is something only humans can do, and it saves lives," she said. "That's a pretty awesome thing we can do for one another. I had volunteered with blood drives in high school, but this was a whole other level of responsibility. I learned how much work goes into planning and hosting a blood drive, and more about specifically what it is like to be in a helping profession."

Ritter also may earn scholarship money, through the Love. Give. Life. Summer Youth Program. It awards scholarship money to students ages 17 to 24, based on blood units collected at blood drives they organize.

Ritter said her internship, which she gained through the Office of Career Services, is good preparation for her future career working with veterans.

"It's broadened my view of the Red Cross, and the services they provide," she said. "I've learned in psychology classes that you don't offer therapy immediately after a traumatic event or disaster, because people have other, immediate needs to consider, like shelter and medical care. The Red Cross is huge in stepping in that middle area between disaster and therapy, and I have a greater appreciation for what they can do."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

The Industrial Art Vignettes Tour

The Industrial Art Vignettes tour, created by students at the Wallace Elementary School of Integrated Arts, features three pieces representing Kokomo Opalescent Glass, General Motors, and Syndicate Sales.

Ashlee Shoaff, IU Kokomo's accessibility center coordinator and the parent of three Wallace School students, planned the project as a way to combine local history with art.

"I wanted to inspire people to look at the wealth of industry we've had, and envision what we can do next," she said. "What can our community do to inspire innovation? Being the City of Firsts, we can and should lead the way."

Each grade at the fine arts elementary school participated, researching one of the three companies, learning about each one's services and products, value in the local community, and global impact.

"I envisioned helping the children understand the rich industrial heritage in Kokomo, and how it has been important not only to us, but to people worldwide," Shoaff said.

The companies involved provided supplies, and have displayed the finished projects in their facilities. It also received grant funding from the Tippecanoe Arts Federation and the Indiana Arts Commission.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

Yan He, IU Kokomo associate librarian.

Indiana University Kokomo will have new ways to educate students, faculty, and staff in information literacy, as one of its librarians recently attended a prestigious immersion program.

Yan He, information literacy librarian, was one of 100 participants in the Association of College and Research Libraries information literacy immersion program, at Champlain College, Burlington, Vt.

Polly Boruff-Jones, dean of the Library, said the immersion program only accepts about 10 percent of applicants.

"This is a very competitive program, and I am proud of Yan for being accepted," she said. "This program allows her to take our existing activities and build a framework for a full-fledged information literacy program."

Boruff-Jones is an alumna of the immersion program.

He was thankful to receive IU's Herbert and Virginia White Professional Development Award to fund her attendance. The award is given annually to fund professional development for IU library staff. She was one of two recipients.

He defined information literacy as ability to identify an information need, know where to find the information, be able to evaluate a source's credibility, and be able to use it ethically, without plagiarizing.

"It takes some thought to articulate what you need, and to dig deeper into the resources available," she said. "It can be hard to identify reliable, high quality scholarly publications. It is our goal to educate our campus to have these vital skills."

The immersion program includes a teaching track and a program track. He was selected for the program track, which focuses on developing, integrating, and managing information literacy programs.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana

Nanette Bowling (L) stands next to Tamika Triiplett, the Dr. Richard N. Bowling Scholarship 2014 recipient

After Richard Bowling passed away in 2000, Nanette Bowling searched for a way to continue his legacy of giving. She found her opportunity through Indiana University Kokomo, where she established the Dr. Richard N. Bowling Scholarship, which supports African American students in a health care field.

"My husband was a great believer in education, and continuing education, and I am too," she said. "The scholarship is exciting. It's inspiring, and if he were here, he would be very happy. We were grateful for the opportunity we received at IU Kokomo. It enabled him to get the start of his education. I would not have been able to graduate from college if there had not been a campus here."

For Tamika Triplett, Kokomo, the most recent recipient, the scholarship means she can continue pursuing her degree in nursing.

"I was really worried how I would be able to pay to finish my degree," she said. "This will help me finish my program, so I can advance in my career."

Triplett, who grew up in Peru, is a sophomore in the School of Nursing. In addition to being a student, she works full time as a certified nursing assistant at Golden LivingCenter-Sycamore Village in Kokomo, caring for residents with Alzheimer's disease. Also, she is a single mother to a son, 16, and a daughter, 14.

She was inspired to go into nursing by her grandfather, who had Alzheimer's.

"As a registered nurse, I can make a difference for my patients," Triplett said. "That means the world to me. I appreciate this scholarship for helping make my dream come true."

Richard Bowling made a difference in Kokomo, establishing his medical practice in 1962, after graduating from medical school at Howard University. He began his education at IU Kokomo. For more than 30 years, he sponsored a Christmas party for underprivileged children at the Carver Community Center. As the party grew, he brought in sponsors, including the American Legion Post 177, and asked local merchants to donate toys or money.

After he died, Nanette Bowling continued the party, but started thinking about how her husband's legacy could have a greater impact.

"I kept thinking about the old Chinese proverb, 'Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day, teach a man to fish, and he can feed himself for a lifetime,'" she said. "What better way to continue his legacy than to support others as they earn degrees at IU Kokomo?"

In addition to her own contribution to endow the scholarship, many of those who gave for the Christmas party each year donated for the scholarship. She said the process to establish the scholarship was easy.

"I was given the ability to talk about exactly what I wanted, and was able to put it into practice," she said. "I found this to be a simple process."

For more information about contributing to the Dr. Richard N. Bowling Scholarship, or about establishing a scholarship, contact Cathy Clearwaters, assistant director of development, at 765-455-9504 or cclearwa@iuk.edu.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

Ryan Bowerman climbs Mount Kilimanjaro.

Bowerman, an Indiana University Kokomo graduate student and assistant volleyball coach, was part of a team that climbed Africa's Mount Kilimanjaro to raise money for Vision for the Poor. The international non-profit organization trains and equips eye care doctors in developing countries, in an effort to reduce blindness from treatable causes.

Each surgery costs approximately $200, and the five climbers collected about $50,000 in donations — enough to treat 250 children.

"This opportunity combined travel, a new place I hadn't visited, adventure, and an organization I strongly support," Bowerman said. "There are a lot of children who go blind in these countries, who would not go blind in our country, because of our resources. I also like that they train local doctors, so it's a sustainable organization."

Knowing he was climbing for such a worthy cause motivated him to keep going, as the climb to the summit, 19,341 feet above sea level, became difficult.

Altitude sickness nearly derailed his goal, making him miserably nauseated and weak from lack of nutrition, but he kept moving forward. He and his four fellow climbers, along with their trained guides, left their final basecamp just after midnight on July 26. They walked for hours in the dark, their way lighted only by headlamps. One team member turned back, too sick to continue, but Bowerman pushed on, determined to see the view from the top of the mountain fabled as "the roof of Africa."

"It was an awesome feeling once I got to the summit," Bowerman said. "The last day of the climb was one of my toughest tests of will power ever. Seeing the sun rise from over the clouds was one of the things that got me through. There were a lot of times I didn't think I was going to make it. I've pushed my limits before, but this was different."

The Crawfordsville native, who is earning a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies at IU Kokomo, discovered a love of international travel while he was an undergraduate student. He participated in two summer programs in Ecuador, and worked in that South American country for about 18 months after graduating. While there, he met Amanda Sidman, whose stepfather is executive director for Vision for the Poor. They later helped start a beekeeping project in Peru for farmers.

She had participated in mission trips to Vision for the Poor's clinics in Guatemala, and told him about the Climb for Sight, in Tanzania.

"I'm always looking for my next adventure, and this was a chance to see a part of the world I've never seen," he said. "It was also a chance to do it in a way that has meaning. Every $200 we raised provides a surgeon to save a child's vision, for the rest of that child's life. That was great encouragement to remember, when the climbing got hard."

The team departed for Tanzania on July 17, and spent a few days sightseeing before beginning the six-day climb. The first three days, the climb was a gentle slope, going through the mountain's ecosystems, from rain forest, moorland, alpine bogs, and alpine desert, gradually ascending to the arctic zone at the top. They slept in small cabins at their basecamps, so they did not have to carry tents in their packs.

Bowerman greatly admired for the guides who led them, and the porters who transported their supplies for the climb.

"This was a once-in-a-lifetime climb for me, and they do it a few times a month," he said. "They were really incredible."

The climb to the top took four and one-half days, and their descent took a little over a day. Only about 45 percent of the 35,000 tourists who make the attempt each year are successful.

Bowerman experienced altitude sickness above 15,000 feet, and once he was below that level, he felt much better. Even with the sickness, he is glad to have the experience.

"It was a great adventure, and knowing I was doing it for a great cause made it even better."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Bekha Wampner no longer worries about the start of her college career.

Bridge Club helps prepare students for successWampner, from Tipton, feels better prepared to succeed in her classes and navigate the Indiana University Kokomo campus, after attending its first-ever summer bridge program.

“It’s eased my fears,” she said. “I’m glad I came. I’ve learned a lot about all the ins and outs and stuff you probably wouldn’t know as a freshman just coming in. We met with faculty and talked about what they expect from us in the classroom, so there is a little less of the unknown involved.”

Research shows that a key factor in degree completion is the quality and success of a student’s first-year experience, and the level of support received. With the bridge program, IU Kokomo helps first-time students make a successful transition from high school to the more challenging university environment, with a goal of increasing academic success and keeping them on track to earn a degree.

Instructors Minda Douglas, assistant professor of fine arts, and Karla Stouse, lecturer in English, teach academic skills needed to make the transition from high school to college, and introduce the 24 students to the campus and resources available to them. It is also a chance to make friends with classmates before the fall semester begins, on August 25. Students each earned one college credit for completing the free program.

“As we talk about study skills and how college differs from high school, we hope to show these students that they are capable of creating their own success,” Stouse said. “We’re helping them gain knowledge about the campus and procedures, but also helping them gain confidence about being an IU Kokomo student. We want them to develop a sense of belonging to our campus community, and encourage them to take leadership roles in it.”

Classes met for seven hours daily over a two week period, and include a campus tour, meetings with administrators, a field trip to the Indianapolis Museum of Art, and lessons in goal setting, time management, class formats, international travel opportunities, career planning, and how to get involved on campus.

The campus had hosted a bridge program in the 1990s, for at-risk students. This program targeted a different audience, Stouse said.

“We’re focused on students who take the initiative to get a head start on college,” she said. “Most of the participants are strong students with clear academic goals and lots of previous academic success. We have IU Kokomo athletes, scholarship winners, and honor society members in our group.”

For Indianapolis resident Stephen Calhoun, the study skills he gained, including learning how to take good notes, were the best part. He also found out there is a writing center where he can find help if he needs it.

“I’ve learned a lot of useful information, more than you get at orientation,” he said. “This is going to help me adjust and be ready to do my best in my classes. It’s been fun and educational.”

As a graduate of a small high school, Logansport resident Kamrin Buell appreciated the campus tour.

“Coming from Pioneer High School, this campus is big to me,” he said. “It’s cool to know where things are, and what it is like to go from high school to college.”

Deni Harris said the bridge program offered a chance to make friends before classes start.

“I’m kind of shy, and this was a step out of my comfort zone,” the Kokomo resident said. “Now I know where to get help if I need it, and that it is OK to ask. I feel more comfortable now coming back when classes actually start.”

Reid Clingenpeel, from Flora, also feels better knowing he has friends at IU Kokomo.

“It’s invaluable having someone you already know on campus on the first day,” he said. “I’m more comfortable with the campus and where things are now.”

Meeting faculty was important to Mary Elmsary, who is from Kokomo.

“I’m less intimidated by the idea of going to college classes, because I know the faculty members are friendly, and want me to do well,” she said. “We learned about campus organizations, too, and I’m excited to participate in some clubs.”

Rachel Echelbarger, Greentown gained reassurance that people on campus want to help her succeed in her nursing studies.

“Now I know what resources are available to be to be successful,” she said. “It’s given me a lot of information I am sure I will use. I feel there are really great people here who want to help us.”

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Indiana University Kokomo will be closed in observance of Labor Day this Monday, September 1.

Indiana University KokomoClasses resume on their regular schedule on Tuesday, September 2, and offices will open at 8 a.m.

The bookstore, the Cougar Country Café, and the IU Kokomo Library also will be closed Monday, re-opening for regular hours on Tuesday.

Online and electronic resources are available when the Library is closed, at www.iuk.edu/library.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Twenty-three full-time Indiana University Kokomo students earned dean's list honors for the 2014 summer session. Dean's list students earned a minimum 3.5 grade point average (GPA) on a scale of 4.0, while carrying at least 12 credit hours throughout the grading period. Students are listed by hometown.

Those honored include:

Arcadia

Sean Evan Martin

Denver

Melinda Sue Burns

Flora

Jose Jerardo Morales

Galveston

Kara Marie Keppel

Gas City

Madison R. Elkins

Greentown

Sarah L. Coffman

Christopher Wayne Johnson

Kayla Ann Lamb

Kirklin

Michael K. Brinson

Kokomo

Justine Nicole Eads

Morgan E. Engerski

Steven Jones

Alan-Michael D. Reese

Ginny Marie Smith

Noblesville

Felita Yvette White

Peru

Darin John Daugherty

April Lynn DeRozier

Abigael Paige Heeter

Garrett Jameson Meives

Tipton

Jessica K. Bess

Kimberly J. Simms

Courtney Lynn Waymire

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Be part of a worldwide event Saturday (September 6), as the Indiana University Kokomo Observatory hosts International Observe the Moon Night.

Science Rocks - Observatory Night

The event, with participation from nearly 600 sites in 48 countries, is dedicated to encouraging people to look up and take notice of the earth’s moon.

The Observatory will open from 8 to 10 p.m. Patrick Motl, associate professor of physics, will open the free event with a presentation about the Apollo 11 mission. Observation will follow, weather permitting.

“This year, we’re celebrating the 45^th anniversary of the first flight to take human beings to the moon’s surface,” Motl said. “The goal of this night is to give people an opportunity to take notice of the moon’s beauty, and to instill a sense of wonderment and curiosity about it.”

The Observatory will host its first regular monthly open house of the 2014-2015 academic year from 8 to 10 p.m. Sunday, September 14. Motl will present information about the Rosetta mission, as it prepares to place its lander on Comet 67P/Chiuymov-Gerasimenko later this year.

Stargazers should be able to see Saturn and Mars setting through the Observatory’s two telescopes, a six-inch Takahashi refracting telescope and a 16-inch Meade reflecting telescope mounted together. The Takahashi provides exceptionally sharp images of planets, while the Meade allows viewers to see fainter objects in the sky, due to its larger light collecting area.

“Highlights for this time of year include the ring nebula in Lyra and the color contrast double star Alberio in Cygnus,” Motl said.

The open house is free and open to the public in the Observatory, 105 E. Rebecca Lane. Free parking is available on campus.

The next open house is at 8 p.m. Sunday, October 12.

For more information about International Observe the Moon Night, go to observethemoonnight.org.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — A record number of recent high school graduates make Indiana University Kokomo their campus of choice for the fall 2014 semester.

First day of classes- Fall 2014Of the 4,180 students registered, 467 are recent high school graduates, an increase of approximately 11 percent.  Almost half of these new students earned Indiana honors diplomas.

“I am very pleased to see our freshman students have made IU Kokomo their campus of choice. Also, it’s exciting to see an increase in full-time students and those with academic honors,” said Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke.

Seventy-six percent of degree-seeking undergraduates enrolled full time, a 3.6 percent increase, and another campus record. Students are taking an impressive 39,590 credit hours, another all-time high.

Other remarkable growth includes:

• Minority population up nearly 11 percent, including an increase of 20 percent for Hispanic students and 9.7 percent for African-American students

• A 23 percent increase in international student enrollment, with a record-setting 54.

Many students choose IU Kokomo for its wide variety of world-class degree programs, including the new hospitality and tourism program, which offered its first classes this semester.

It also offers enhanced student life opportunities, with a women’s basketball team playing its first season, a fraternity colony, a state of the art wellness and fitness center, and a wide variety of concerts, movies, and other events, designed to create a vibrant campus community.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — There’s nothing like a good game of pingpong to serve up an adventure that will take you around the world.

Craig Simon- student ambassadorFreshman Craig Simon surprisingly found that an impromptu game of pingpong with the deputy mayor of Dongyang, China, Kokomo’s sister city, would score him the opportunity of a lifetime as the first-ever traveling diplomat for Indiana University Kokomo and a local school corporation.

“If I hadn’t played that game, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” he said. “You can read about any country in the world all you want, but you learn a lot more when you are actually there. People have so many ideas and mindsets, and to be prepared for that, you have to be open to those ideas and mindsets. This is preparing me to be a global citizen.”

As an ambassador, Simon earns internship credit toward a degree focused on international studies at IU Kokomo, while the Kokomo School Corporation pays for his travel and supplies a stipend. In return, he maintains a series of blogs and other social media accounts, which local teachers can use to expand international-mindedness. He also will spend at least 90 hours in classrooms during the year.

While taking his college classes online, he will travel overseas three times each semester. He’s currently on a trip to France and Italy, after recently visiting England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and Northern Ireland in August. Later in the first semester, he will go to Turkey with a group of Kokomo teachers.

“This is a unique opportunity for Kokomo Schools and IU Kokomo to partner to help students see the global world through Craig's eyes. He is a mature young man who will do great things someday to impact our world,” said Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke. “I applaud Superintendent Jeff Hauswald for his vision on this initiative. I hope more students who graduate from the International Baccalaureate curriculum at Kokomo High School consider an international studies major at IU Kokomo. This is only the beginning; this partnership holds so much promise for the future.”

In 2015, Simon will go to China and Hong Kong, and he is waiting to see which countries will be on his itinerary for his final two trips.

After their pingpong match, the deputy mayor invited Simon to visit his city, as part of a delegation of Kokomo leaders going to Dongyang. As they traveled, the group, which also included Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke, Dean Christian Chauret from the School of Sciences, and Associate Librarian Yan He, along with Kokomo Schools Superintendent Jeff Hauswald, Principal Mike Sargent, and Kokomo School Board member Joe Dunbar, developed the idea of a student diplomat.

Kokomo Schools officials plan and pay for Simon’s travels. In return, he blogs about his experiences, Skypes with Kokomo classes from his travels, posts pictures on Instagram, and visits classes while he is in Kokomo.

If this pilot year is successful, another student could have the same experience next year, he said.

“This is a great opportunity for any student,” he said. “The amount you learn from this travel is phenomenal. Because of today’s society, and how globally connected everyone is, no country is separate. Everything is open. You can be competing for jobs with someone from anywhere in the world. Traveling opens your eyes to the possibilities in the world.”

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Classes begin next month for a long-awaited program that allows two-year graduates the chance to earn a four-year degree without losing hard-earned credits.

Professor Bradley teaches classIndiana University Kokomo will launch the Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) on October 8, paving the way for more than 40,000 state residents who have earned an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree the opportunity to step in as an upperclassman.

“Without a B.A.S. program, many of those people would have to start all over again to earn a four-year degree,” said John Hughey, chairperson of the Division of Allied Health Sciences, who served on the committee to develop the new program. “The Associate of Applied Science degree was the minimum level to enter their career field, and now they need more to advance. This allows them a path to a bachelor’s degree that was previously unavailable to them, without giving up the credits they worked so hard to earn.”

Kathy Parkison, interim vice chancellor for academic affairs, said the first class, Ethics for Health Professionals, would be offered as an eight-week, online course. The Indiana Commission for Higher Education recently gave the green light for the degree program.

“As teachers, we know an educated citizen will earn a higher salary, will be better able to understand the complex issues facing voters today, and will be better equipped to deal with the challenges of life,” said Kathy Parkison, interim vice chancellor for academic affairs. “That is why the state of Indiana has been pushing for more citizens to have baccalaureate degrees, and we are happy to offer this degree to help in these efforts.”

This same class will be offered on campus during the spring 2015 semester, along with classes in organizational communication, and managing and behavior in organizations which both will be available on campus and online, and introduction to marketing, an online only class. Additional classes will be introduced later in 2015.

The B.A.S. will be available both online and at IU Kokomo, as well as IU’s four other regional campuses. Initially, IU Kokomo will offer two tracks; health management and an individualized track, and may later offer focuses on sustainability and new media communication. Other specializations will be added based on needs in each region.

Approximately 40,000 Indiana residents have earned A.A.S. degrees in programs such as construction technology, windmill repair, and other hands-on programs, and few of their credits would transfer to a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Sciences program.

Alan Krabbenhoft, dean of the School of Business, said students will come in as juniors, with 60 credits, and can complete the program in four semesters, taking 15 credit hours per semester.

“It is designed to meet the needs of people who have earned A.A.S. degrees, and have probably gone as far as they can in their career fields without more education,” he said. “With our B.A.S. program, they will learn leadership and supervision skills, and gain new job opportunities.”

For more information about the B.A.S. program, or to enroll,  contact IU Kokomo’s Office of Admissions at 765-455-9217 or iuadmis@iuk.edu, or iuk.edu/admissions. 

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — If you are prepared, you don’t have to live in fear.

Self Defense ClassIndiana University Kokomo prepares its students to prevent themselves and others from becoming victims, during Sexual Assault Awareness Week.

Red flags line the sidewalks in the campus quad, reminding students to look for warning signs, or “red flags,” of sexual violence, so they can step up and help.

“Bystander intervention is one of the most effective interventions,” said Dean of Students Sarah Sarber. “Most people want to help, but don’t know how. We can teach you how to take action safely.”

The programming is part of IU’s Student Welfare Initiative, ramping up efforts on all campuses for sexual violence prevention and response. National statistics show that approximately one in every five women will be sexually assaulted while in college, while as many as 5 percent of college men will be victims.

The week’s events include a self-defense workshop, discussions of issues related to sex, drugs, and alcohol, two Step Up intervention training workshops, and a resource table.

“This is an important topic for all college students, on campuses small and large,” Sarber said. “We want our students to know how to defend themselves, and what resources are available to help them if needed.”

The weeks’ activities began with a self-defense workshop, taught by Jeff Riley and Gill Journey, police officers from Indiana University — Purdue University Indianapolis. The officers demonstrated techniques the women attending may use to defend themselves if they are attacked.

“The more prepared you are, the less you need to live in fear,” Riley said. “Predators look for the easy victim. Be aware of your surroundings, and make eye contact. Don’t be the easy victim.”

The Step Up training workshops are from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Tuesday, September 23, and 11:30 to 1 p.m. Thursday, September 24, in the Cole Room. Reservations are not required, and participants will receive a free T-shirt.  The workshops train students how to intervene as bystanders.

“We want everyone to be aware of what is happening around them, and if you see something, say something,” said Maria Ahmad, coordinator of student life and campus diversity. “It may be as simple as picking up your cell phone and calling the police, or creating a distraction so the victim can get away. This can happen to anyone.”

Other events for the week include “Sex Signals,” an improv show that provides a provocative, in-your-face look at issues surrounding dating, sex, and date rape on college campuses, at noon Wednesday; and the “Red Out” home volleyball game vs. Purdue University Calumet, at 7 p.m. Wednesday in the Cougar Gym. Cougar fans are asked to wear red for Sexual Assault Awareness Week.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Making the adjustment from high school to college can be daunting — especially if you don’t know anyone to show you the ropes.

Jump Start kick-off meetingIndiana University Kokomo gives a helping hand to students most likely to face barriers to college success — first generation college students, students of color, and 21^st Century Scholars — increasing their odds of graduating.

“We want them to be successful from the first day of their freshman year until they walk across the stage at Commencement,” said Kim Evans, academic advisor and program leader. “We will support them through their four years here, and make sure their needs are met. We’re removing barriers to academic success for these students.”

Evans and co-leader Robert Gregonis invited participating students to campus before classes started, to introduce them to the program, offer study skills programming, and, most importantly, allow them to meet one another so they know someone on campus the first day.

Yarita Lopez felt more prepared for her classes, because she wouldn’t be searching for them on the first day. She’s also excited to use the study rooms set aside for Jump Start students.

“It’s a nice environment, and we can study together and ask questions,” the Logansport resident said. “Our advisors are truly going to help us when we need it.”

Eric Allen, from Frankfort, appreciated the campus tour, and the chance to make friends before classes started.

“I feel better knowing where to ask for help, and having a built in community to support me,” he said. “It’s a big jump from high school to college, and I’ll take all the help I can get.”

In addition to study rooms just for them, Jump Start students learn from speakers each month, and can attend social activities and field trips. They also plan a community service project, possibly at Riley Hospital for Children at IU Health.

The support lasts beyond freshman year, Gregonis said.

“We plan to be there for these students through their time at IU Kokomo,” he said. “Our goal is to build relationships with these students, to engage them with the campus, and to increase the likelihood they will overcome whatever barriers they face, so they can earn their degrees.”

Frankfort resident Ana Hernandez called the program “empowering,” and appreciates the opportunity.

“The transition from high school to college is scary,” she said. “Any door that is opened to an opportunity for you, you have to take it.”

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — One hundred sixty-seven Indiana University Kokomo students earned degrees in August 2014. The graduates represent 25 Indiana counties and four states.

Commencement 2014

 Graduates are listed by hometown. Those receiving degrees included:

Akron

Letitia LeAnn Leininger, Bachelor of General Studies

Carrie A. Simcox, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Alexandria

Loraine Ann Huffman, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Jada Nicole Smith, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Anderson

Marka Lee Maxwell, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Arcadia

Lindsy Megan Richards, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Bunker Hill

Carole Dee Ogle, Bachelor of General Studies

Gregory Moore Ogle, Master of Arts in Liberal Studies

Carmel

Kathy Ann Bitar, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Jennifer Anne Conley, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Lindsay Gabrielle Dempsey, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Rachel Anne Dyer, Bachelor of General Studies

Kelli Martin, Bachelor of Arts

Adrienne Gail Wilhelm, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Cicero

Heather Rae Hickok, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Whitney Nicole Orr, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Delphi

Teresa Louise Fraser, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Denver

Justin Paul Thiry, Bachelor of Science in New Media Communication

Fairmount

Sharon D. Hoheimer, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Kimberly Kay Willman, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Fishers

Kasey Bergman, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

David Michael Brown, Bachelor of Science in Public Administration

Emily Robin White, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Forest

Ronda Lee Long-Allen, Master of Business Administration

Fort Wayne

Sonia Marie Bassett, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Frankfort

William Andrew Byrd, Bachelor of Arts

Brittany Michelle Cheek, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Tammy Jo Dieterle, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Paige Elizabeth Hall, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Amanda Faye Keafer, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Karen L. Ponder, Bachelor of Science in Business

Gas City

Madison R. Elkins, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Amanda E. Henchon, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Greentown

Karen Lynette Bowlin, Bachelor of Arts

Joby Conn Renbarger, Bachelor of Science in Business

Molly Roberts, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Greenwood

Aaron Jon Lipp, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Indianapolis

Chioma Ebere Aneke, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Linda Louise Collins, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Sarah Lynn Jacobs, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Alton James Knight, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Susan Michel, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Marzieh Tavassoli Naderi, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Tara Jean Slaga, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Steven Lee Stinchcomb, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Kathryn Jean Thomas, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Norma C. Wasson, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Margaret Rose Yeisley, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Jonesboro

Kimberly Kaye Altman, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Kempton

Jessica Kay Cunningham, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Lindsay Breanne Timm, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Zachery Dalton Timm, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Knox

Teresa Ann Metsker, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Kokomo

Donna Michelle Binnion, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Taylor Jean Boike, Bachelor of Arts

Lydia Anne Capps, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Megan Catt, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Michelle Lee Mary Cline, Bachelor of Science in Public Administration

Brandon Curtis Driscoll, Master of Business Administration

Suzan Jean Ferguson, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Shaun Harvey Fewell, Bachelor of General Studies

Carol Lynn Freeman, Bachelor of Science in Communication Arts

Joshua Michael Fulkerson, Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Melissa Anne Glaze, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Brandon Kyle Goodman, Bachelor of Arts

April Renee Gunnell, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Angelina Chantelle Gurney, Bachelor of Science in Psychology

Jenifer J. Halter, Bachelor of Arts

Jennifer Marie Harbolt, Bachelor of Science in Business

Rex James, Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Robert T. Kincaid, Master of Business Administration

Laura Catherine Kuhn, Bachelor of Science in Business

Adrienne T. Larrison, Bachelor of Science in Education

Jennifer Lytle, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Rachel LeAnne Lytle, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

April Nicole Mayer, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Stephanie L. McDorman, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Amber Nicole McKibben, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Krista Leigh Melcher, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Robert Brian Moore, Master of Public Management

Colin F. Overman, Bachelor of Science in Informatics

Valerie Mae Pearce, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Jesse Douglas Porter, Bachelor of Science in Business

Kristin Michelle Pratt, Master of Public Management

Donald Lee Price, Bachelor of Science in Informatics

Jessica Purcell, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Alan-Michael D. Reese, Bachelor of Science in New Media Communication

Cameron Eugene Richardson, Bachelor of Science in Communication Arts

Stephanie Marie Ridgeway, Bachelor of Science in Business

Jennifer Marie Santos, Bachelor of Science in Public Administration

Assem Sherieh, Master of Business Administration

Anthony Loyd Staggs, Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Kimberly Ann Vazquez, Bachelor of Science in Business

Mandie Lee Ann Wetter, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Derek T. Williams, Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Tami Suzanne Wilson, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Lafayette

Wendy Bowling, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Hannah Leah Lord, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Brittany Rachelle Smith, Bachelor of Science in Business

Logansport

Kathleen L. Elliott, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Amy Ann Glasson, Bachelor of Arts

Victoria Elizabeth Kleckner-Baer, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Jennifer Marie Nies, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Annette S. Shively, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Marion

Michael J. Backs, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Rashell Lynn Backs, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Bethlyn Kay Bertram, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Shannon Marie Campbell, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Aubrey Lynn Delgado, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Jennifer L. Evans, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Jacqueline Anne Feuerstein, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Patricia Elaine Harrison, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Susanna Mae Munsell, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Michael Wayne Reynolds, Bachelor of Science in Business

Elizabeth Anne Wimsatt, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Markleville

Erica L. Nielsen, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

McCordsville

Angela Lorraine Garner, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Mexico

Timothy Curtis Nutt, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Middletown

Erin Michelle Watson, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Monticello

Samantha Leigh Scott, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Muncie

Deborah Christine Taylor, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Noblesville

Debra Kay Branch, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Carla Marie Cupp, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Joan Beth Gabrielli, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Christopher J. Lammer, Master of Business Administration

Melissa Sue Whipple, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

North Judson

Jenessa Lynn Anderson, Bachelor of General Studies

Oakford

Rebecca Lyn Millard, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Pendleton

Kari Lynn Gibson, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Lisa Anne McKenney, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Peru

Jacob Frederick Bockover, Bachelor of Science in Business

Garrett Jameson Meives, Bachelor of Science in Business

Jennifer Ann Miller, Bachelor of Science in Public Administration

Douglas Allen Preece, Master of Public Management

Jesse Sopher, Master of Arts in Liberal Studies

Alaynah Darlene Weisend, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Pittsboro

Amy Michelle La Fata, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Roann

Amy J. Mathias, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Russiaville

Karen Dee Ebeling, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Rebecca Jean Jenkins, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Lois Elizabeth Perkins, Master of Public Management

Sharpsville

Gae Lou Huff, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Shelbyville

Shawna Renee Edwards, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Star City

Krystal Ann Antrim, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Swayzee

Heather A. Roy, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Mitchel Mark Slaughter, Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Sweetser

Becca Annelaine Pritchett, Bachelor of Science in Business

Tipton

Kylie Brooke Ellis, Bachelor of Science in Business

Sarah Marie Parr, Bachelor of Science in Business

Stephanie Joan Smith, Bachelor of Science in Business

Kylie Marie Tocci, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Upland

Lauri Ann Shafer, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Stephan Nicholas Snyder, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Wabash

Terry J. Evans, Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Karin L. Hollenback, Master of Science in Nursing

Douglas W. Small, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Tia Janelle Wagner, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Walton

Casey Lynn Hill, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Warren

Melinda Kay Smith, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Westfield

Tammy Renay DeRue, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Chelsea Lynn Lara, Bachelor of Arts

West Lafayette

Stacy E. Harris, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Winamac

Gregg Alan Malott, Master of Business Administration

Zionsville

Craig S. Baker, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Miami, Fla.

Anthony Steve Amonett, Bachelor of Arts

Montgomery, Ill.

Veronica Nicolle McNutt, Bachelor of Arts

Frankfort, Ky.

Catherine Ann Wilkinson, Master of Business Administration

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Learn about a U.S. spacecraft currently orbiting Mars, and see the planet nearest the earth, at a free open house at the Indiana University Kokomo Observatory.

Observatory Night, June 2014Patrick Motl, associate professor of physics, begins the program at 8 p.m. Sunday, October 12, with a presentation on NASA’s Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN (MAVEN) mission, which entered orbit around Mars September 21, after a 10 month, 442 million mile journey.

Stargazers will then be able to see Mars and other objects in the sky through the Observatory’s telescopes until 10 p.m., weather permitting.

“Without the moon in the evening sky, the skies will be a little darker, allowing better views of extended objects visible in the fall like the Andromeda galaxy, the ring nebula and the great cluster in Hercules,” said Motl. 

The Observatory’s two telescopes are a six-inch Takahashi refracting telescope and a 16-inch Meade reflecting telescope mounted together. The Takahashi provides exceptionally sharp images of planets, while the Meade allows viewers to see fainter objects in the sky, due to its larger light collecting area.

The open house is free and open to the public in the Observatory, 105 E. Rebecca Lane. Free parking is available on campus.  

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Fire up the Bat Signal — the author who created the modern Batman is visiting Indiana University Kokomo.

Dennis O'NeilComic book writer and editor Dennis O’Neil, who wrote for both Marvel Comics and DC Comics, will speak at 6 p.m. Thursday, October 16, in the East Building, Room 125. The event is free and open to the public. There will be a reception at 5:30 p.m.

“Dennis O’Neil is one of the most important figures in the history of comic books,” said Scott Jones, dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences. “He greatly expanded comic books’ ability to tell sophisticated, socially relevant stories. After the 1960s Batman television series, he rescued that character and recreated him, returning him to his darker roots.”

In his nearly 40 year career, O’Neil also built the modern conception of Green Arrow, and contributed to characters including Superman, Wonder Woman, Spider-Man, and Iron Man. He created Ra’s Al Ghul, who was one of the featured villains in the recent Dark Knight trilogy, with Christian Bale, and was co-creator of The Green Lantern.

“At a time when characters from comics have become so important within the movie and television industries, it is important that IU Kokomo has as a speaker who was so instrumental in development of so many major characters of popular culture,” Jones said.

O’Neil also is the guest of honor at Kokomo-Con, set for Saturday, October 18, at the Kokomo Event and Conference Center, 1500 N. Reed Road.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Karla Winburn vividly remembers waiting for an outing with missionaries, who promised to take her swimming, when she was a young girl in a Guatemalan orphanage.

Karla and Lesly Winburn“I was so excited, I slept the night before in my swimsuit,” she said, laughing. “We didn’t often get those kinds of opportunities. It’s a feeling you just can’t explain. I’m excited to give that to other children.”

In July, the Indiana University Kokomo freshman and her sister Lesly, a junior, returned to the orphanage that was their home for seven years, this time as missionaries. They led a group from Kokomo’s Taylor High School to build a house for the children, and to take them bowling. Their younger brother Allan also was part of the group.

“It feels great to be able to do something to make their lives happier, because we’ve been in that position,” Karla, 20, said. “It makes us grateful for the opportunities we have here. The kids in the orphanage don’t have the resources to say, ‘I’m going to be a doctor,’ or ‘I’m going to be a nurse.’ Not everybody gets a second opportunity like we have. It makes us appreciate it even more.”

Lesly, now 22, wasn’t interested in school while living in the orphanage, but decided to take advantage of the educational opportunities available because of her adoption. IU Kokomo gave her the chance to fulfill her college dreams, while staying home with her new family.

“I knew I had been given a second chance, so I wanted to make the most of it,” she said. “I’ve only been here six years, and I’m not ready to move out on my own yet. I don’t think I would have people as willing to work with me as I have found here. I can tell my professors that English is not my first language, and they are willing to help me. I’m not sure I would get that somewhere else.”

Kokomo residents Bill and Kathy Winburn, who had been missionaries in Guatemala, adopted the sisters and their brother, who is now a high school freshman, six years ago. They spoke little English when they arrived in Kokomo, but worked hard in high school so they could go on to college.

Karla plans to earn a degree in nursing, and then become a medical missionary. Lesly studies psychology, and wants to go to graduate school to become a medical social worker.

They lived in the orphanage for seven years, after their mother died of cancer, when

Lesly was 9, Karla was 7, and Allan was 3. Their father was unable to care for them or their older brother, Armando, who was 14.

Lesly said the orphanage was like a home, with children living in houses with other children and house parents they called “Mom” and “Dad.” They could choose to be available for adoption or not, and could approve prospective parents. At age 18, they could go to work for the orphanage, or live in a transitional home and work elsewhere.

“It’s not like you would picture,” Lesly said. “They provided everything for you, your clothes and food, and you went to school. It’s like living at home, but away from home.”

Lesly, Karla, and Allan chose adoption, and turned down a prior opportunity before finding the Winburns. They were among the last children to be adopted before Guatemala closed adoptions by foreigners.

Their older brother, Armando, was grown up before they were adopted. They’ve been back three times as missionaries, and see their brother and father every time they return. They also call them weekly, to maintain their relationship.

“Our father realized he couldn’t care for us, and that we could have better chances if we were adopted,” said Karla. “He is thankful for the opportunities we have. We have a good relationship with him, and he has a good relationship with our parents. We don’t have to choose who we love, we can love all of our parents.”

They plan to return again in 2015, to spend a month helping at the orphanage.

“We can be more help, because we know what it is like to live there,” said Lesly. “For me, it’s a way to say thank you to the people who took care of us when we were there. Some of the kids we lived with work there now, and they think it’s cool when we come back. We have lots of memories there.”

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Bullying is not just a middle school problem.

ANTIt happens everywhere, even on college campuses — but Indiana University Kokomo’s Student Union Board (SUB) works to prevent it and heal its affects, with Anti-Bullying week.

“Our goal is to engage students in a conversation, and to ask them to join us to create a healthy, safe and welcoming campus for everyone,” said Sofia Stout, communications director for the student organization.

Maria Ahmad, coordinator of student life and campus diversity, said they are encouraging all student organizations to sign up during Anti-Bullying week for Step Up! Training, which teaches how to intervene as bystanders if they see something happening.

“We’re asking everyone to be aware of what is happening around you, and if you see bullying, say something,” she said. “Bullying affects everyone, it’s not just a middle school issue. It has become part of our culture, but we can change that.”

Anti-Bullying week kicks off at noon Monday, October 13, with a presentation by comedian ANT, “Bullied, Bashed, but not Broken.” ANT, who has been seen on the Tonight Show and Last Comic Standing, will tell his story about being bullied for being gay and the son of immigrant parents, the peer pressure that led him to drugs and alcohol, and his recovery and success. The performance is in the Kelley Student Center, Room 130.

“He’s funny, but he has a serious message,” Stout said. “We hope students will attend, listen, and take it to heart.”

Wednesday, SUB will show TED Talk videos about bullying in the Kelley Student Center Commons, during lunch hour. Maria Ahmad, coordinator of student life and campus diversity, said the eight to 10 minute videos, featuring experts in a variety of subjects, are meant to inspire people to think and take action on the topic.

Students also may write on butcher paper on the walls, either to give messages of hope to people being bullied, or to apologize to someone he or she bullied in the past.

“Peer pressure still exists in college,” Stout said. “As our school grows, stuff like that will unfortunately happen. We want to come together as a community of care to provide education and healing.”

Activities are part of National Bullying Prevention Month.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.