IU Kokomo Campus

KOKOMO, Ind. — Many teenagers use their college years to distance themselves from their mothers, asserting their independence.

Jennifer and Ashley Miller

But for IU Kokomo freshman Ashley Miller and her mother, Jennifer, college has been a bonding experience, drawing them closer.

"We're still mother and daughter, but we have more of a friendship now," said Jennifer, a junior.

"I get to know her on a more personal level now," Ashley added. "She's a cool mom."

The two have a lot in common — both are studying health management, they are in the same folklore class, and both serve on the IU Kokomo Student Alumni Association board.

Jennifer began attending IU Kokomo four years ago as a part-time student, and enrolled fulltime in fall 2012. She plans to graduate in 2014, and then plans to pursue a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) degree before seeking a job. Ashley is a recent high school graduate.

Jennifer was first to join the student alumni association, as a way to make the transition to being an alumna in the near future. She encouraged her daughter to join as well to help her make a connection to the campus.

"The student alumni association works hard to bring events to campus for campus unity," she said. "As I'm getting closer to graduation, I'm enjoying the opportunity to get to know alumni, making connections that could help me in my career."

Ashley enjoys being involved in the group with her mother, and is glad she pushed her to join.

"She encourages me to find ways to be involved with the group and on campus," Ashley said. "I like it."

Jennifer said, in the past, she tried to be just like all the other college students – having her daughter on campus has been an adjustment. She laughs, recalling their first week on campus together when Ashley called to her from across the quad.

"She yelled, 'Hey, Mom!' at me, and I was kind of embarrassed at first," she said. "I've always tried to feel like I'm just one of the students. Then I realized she was excited to see me at an age when most girls don't want to hang out with their moms."

They've also had to learn to work together as colleagues, rather than as a mother and daughter.

"I have to remind myself that I don't have to be the mom all the time," Jennifer said. "I have to remember that Ashley has her own opinions, and we are in this as equals."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. – When Hannah Brewster stepped into her social media class this semester, she had no idea what to do or where to begin.

Hannah Brewster & The Burlington Scoop

"I didn't even have a Twitter account or know what to do with it," said Brewster, a junior majoring in communications.

Already, she's survived half the semester and her social media efforts have proved successful.

Brewster is taking the skills she's learning in the classroom and applying it to the work she's doing with her client, The Burlington Scoop. She's developed a Facebook page and Twitter and Pinterest accounts to help The Scoop connect with the community, their customers, and promote their products.

"I love being able to help them, while learning something new," she said. "Everyone is on social media, they see the power it can have for business. They are ready to dive in."

When she graduates, Brewster would like to be an event planner and knows this experience is actively preparing her for that career.

"Whether I'm working with clients or not, having an understanding of what you can do for different clients through social media is important," Brewster said.

However, Brewster claims it's no walk in the park. Her classmates agree.

Krystyn Bell says it's difficult to stay consistent and that it takes a lot of time to manage accounts effectively. At the beginning, they spent weeks trying to understand the client's audience and determine what kind of information they want to see.

"Trying to engage people and interact with them is the biggest challenge," Bell said.

"We thought it would be easier because most of us have personal Facebook pages or Twitter accounts – but it isn't," Brewster added.

To overcome these initial challenges, Brewster, Bell, and their classmates decided to have some fun. They worked on making posts specific to their clients' audiences, and make it fun and personal by adding photos and fun facts.

Bell's client is Body in Balance, a therapeutic massage and bodywork salon located in Peru, Ind. For the month of February, she focused less on promoting deals, specials, and services at the salon, and more on creating heart health awareness.

"Body in Balance is a big advocate for health and wellness, and massages can help with overall physical and mental wellness," Bell said. "It doesn't matter how many deals I throw you; it's the connection that you make with the business."

Like Brewster, Bell is a junior majoring in communications, but would like to work in public relations after graduating. Through public relations courses, Bell understands more of social media's role and the connection it has to her future career.

Ultimately, the students are happy to help these local businesses because they don't have time to do it themselves.

When Crave Crepes, located in Greentown, expressed interest to Stephen Green about assisting them with social media, he jumped on the opportunity. Green was looking for a business to connect with and receive some real-world experience.

"I spent a lot of time finding my footing and building a relationship with the owners," said Green, a junior majoring in new media communications. "Crave Crepes had a lot of awesome ideas for how to build their social media; they simply needed help implementing them."

Green has helped the business with social media contests and other tips and tricks to connect them with the Greentown community.

All three can agree that they have made mistakes with social media, but it's helped them learn what not to do. They don't claim to be experts, but the knowledge they've gained throughout the semester has been extremely value to them.

Raul Mosley, assistant professor of communication arts, is focused on equipping his students with the skill set to succeed in their future careers. It is key for his students to learn from each other, and instead of creating a class; he hopes to create a community of learners.

"The content they learn this semester could easily become outdated in the fast-paced social media world," Mosley said. "Our world is changing, our skills need to change, and this course has changed each time I have taught it."

It's important to contribute to the success of the community, while learning a new skill set. Mosley hopes that his students become aggressive learners and continue to keep up on new trends with all forms of social media.

Bell, Brewster, and Green are only a few students getting their hands dirty this semester. Other students are taking the initiative to promote their own photography and graphic design businesses, art, and music.

N351 – Cyberculture and Community is offered in the spring semesters, and is open to any student who wishes to learn more about social media. For any questions or more information about the course, contact Raul Mosley at ramosley@iuk.edu.

To learn more about the businesses featured, search for them on these social media platforms:

Facebook – The Burlington Scoop, Body in Balance, Crave Crepes

Twitter - @B_icecream, @Bodyin_Balance, @Crave_Crepes

Instagram - @bodyinbalanceperu or @cravecrepes

Pinterest.com /bodybalanceperu or /burscoop

Story by Mary Olk. Mary is a student writer in the Office of Media & Marketing.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Ronnie Jordan will bring his brand of comic relief to Indiana University Kokomo, for a free show at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 10, in the Kelley Student Center Commons.

Ronnie Jordan. Photo courtesy www.ronniejordan.net

Kristin Birkey, graduate assistant for student affairs, said much of Jordan's humor is college-specific, "so his material will really resonate with the audience here."

"As we approach the end of the semester, we all need something fun to take our minds off things from time to time," she said. "Ronnie Jordan will provide us with some comic relief. He will have you laughing off your chair."

Jordan was crowned "Rookie of the Year" in 2001 by the Uptown Comedy Corner, Atlanta, after his first year on the comedy scene. He has shared concert dates with stand-up heavyweights Rick Smiley, Earthquake, Mike Epps, Arnez J. and Dave Chappelle. He has been featured on BET's Comic View, Martin Lawrence Presents the 1st Amendment Stand-up, P. Diddy Presents Bad Boys of Comedy and hosts the successful Atlanta based video show, Oomp Camp Live.

Admission is free and open to the public, and free parking is available on campus. Student Union Board is sponsoring the event.

For more information go to http://www.ronniejordan.net/

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Masato Ogawa sees himself as a teacher first, then as a researcher.

Masato Ogawa returns home to Japan. Masato Ogawa is returning home to Japan.

He has built in skills in both areas, teaching social studies education at Indiana University Kokomo for the last eight years. As he returns to his native Japan, where he accepted a job as professor of international education, he said he's learned about people of varied backgrounds from his experience on campus.

"Teaching and research are connected," he said. "I've sought the best teaching practices, and have continually tried to improve my teaching. My experiences have shaped my ideas, and also my research on multiculturalism and internationalism."

His teaching skills have been recognized and rewarded during his career — he was the first recipient of the Chancellor's Diversity Excellence Award, in 2009, and he received the IU Trustees Teaching Award in 2009 and 2011.

Paul Paese, dean of the School of Education, said he has big shoes to fill in replacing Ogawa.

"Dr. Ogawa made significant contributions to IU Kokomo and the School of Education," he said. "He is an outstanding professor, an excellent researcher, and gave great service to the campus. He will be missed, and we wish him the best of luck for his future, and in his new position in Japan."

He noted that Ogawa has presented and published internationally, and brought an international research scholar to IU Kokomo for a year. He also helped prepare Kokomo-Center Schools teachers for the opening of the International School at Central Middle School.

Senior Jordan Ousley, who is student teaching high school social studies, said Ogawa inspired him to go beyond the textbooks to teach his students.

"Dr. Ogawa was the most important instructor I had," he said. "He truly wants us to succeed as teachers. He's had a tremendous influence on many current and future social studies teachers."

He said Ogawa presents criticism in a way designed to build up future teachers, and is willing to help them outside of the classroom.

"He's inspired me not just to teach what is in the textbooks, but to add in bonus materials and extras that will interest my students," he said. "Dr. Ogawa is very encouraging, and tells students the more you know and can share with your class, the better teacher you will be."

Ogawa joined the IU Kokomo faculty in 2005, teaching social studies education for elementary and secondary education majors. He also held leadership positions, including serving as associate director of the Center for Economic Education and director of the Indiana University President's Diversity Initiative summer diversity program, which had the goal of introducing minority students to careers in nursing, business, and education.

His experiences living in the United States prompted his interest in international and multicultural education. He moved to the United States in 1995, to earn his master's degree and Ph.D. in social studies education from the University of Georgia.

He taught Japanese, social studies, and art at high schools in Idaho and Oregon before his career at IU Kokomo.

Ogawa began his new job April 1 at International Pacific University, Okayama, Japan. Its mission is international and global education, and offers a second campus in New Zealand.

Students focus not only on their majors, but also on learning English fluently. Japanese students begin learning English in middle school, but often concentrate on memorizing for a test. Ogawa said he would teach many of his classes in English, to help the students use the language and become comfortable and fluent.

"I want them to learn to use the language in a realistic way," he said. "They need to be able to do more than pass a test. I can share my own experiences with these students."

Moving back to Japan after 18 years was a big decision, he said, especially because his preschool-aged son was born in Carmel, and is a Hoosier. He speaks Japanese at home and English at his Montessori school, and is fluent in both, Ogawa said.

His new job means his family will live close to his wife's family, and within two hours of his own mother's home.

"It was a big decision for us to move," he said. "I'm an only child, and I could be responsible for my mother's care at some time. I want to be able to take care of her if necessary. It will be good to be near family, and have our son near his grandparents."

Ogawa said he has enjoyed the opportunities he's had on the IU Kokomo campus.

"I went to a big school, but I'm more comfortable teaching on a small campus," he said. "I'm able to meet and work with people in departments other than my own, which doesn't happen often at big schools. You also get to know the students better, and there is more balance between teaching and research."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. – Taking law courses at Indiana University Kokomo changed Jordan Slusher's life.

Jordan Slusher

When he started college four years ago, he had every intention of being a police officer. So as part of his criminal justice curriculum, Slusher took L201 – Intro to Business Law.

He had no clue that this course would be a turning point that took him down a new path.

"This is the most influential course I've ever taken, and what helped guide me to pursue a career in law," said Slusher, a senior preparing to graduate in May with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and a minor in psychology.

He buckled down, prepared for and applied to law school, and was recently accepted to the Robert McKinney School of Law, located on the IUPUI campus. However, he will be there a little longer than most law students because he will pursue his Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.), too.

"My favorite thing about the law is that it is so dynamic and nothing is black and white," Slusher said. "I can't even begin to explain how excited I am to learn more."

Slusher has spent the last few years working to learn as much as he can. In summer 2011, he received an internship with the Howard County prosecutor's office. He handled criminal prosecution cases, drafted criminal charges and victim letters, and dealt with impact cases. He communicated with victims on the status of their cases and observed trials, hearings, and other court procedures involved with those cases.

"When you're in law school, you learn about the theories and practices," Slusher said. "It will be easier for me to understand the concepts and relate what I'm learning in school to the work I have already done."

His internship at the prosecutor's office landed him an internship, which turned into a part-time job, at Pate Law Office in downtown Kokomo, a private firm that practices personal injury and family law.

"Pate really showed me the ropes with a lot of things I hadn't learned, and to now work there and get a taste of my future career is truly amazing," he said.

Slusher had the opportunity to assist with a discovery, a mutual exchange of legal evidence between the defense and prosecution.

"I got to look at all of the evidence, audio, video, everything," Slusher said. "It was an awesome experience."

In addition, he has the freedom to draft documents, such as motions, petitions, and warrants. Slusher went from working with criminal to civil cases to gain a better understanding of different areas.

"Having knowledge in multiple areas is crucial to my success, and the success of anyone practicing the law."

His work outside of IU Kokomo speaks leaps and bounds about his determination to be successful, but he's no stranger to holding leadership positions and serving the campus. He's previously been involved with Student Union Board and Psychology Club, and is the current president of Alpha Phi Sigma, the national honor society for criminal justice, and vice president of the Criminal Justice Association. Slusher serves as chief justice of the Student Government Association, where he served as a previous senator and senate review committee chair.

"Being involved has made me feel great about being a student at IU Kokomo," he said. "I feel accomplished to know that I volunteered my time and efforts to things that are important to me, met great people, and had fun."

At the end of the day, Slusher enjoys researching different areas of law and different subjects on his own time. The intricacies, exceptions, and rules fascinate him.

"I love it, it's my life, and it's what I want to do," he said.

Story written by Mary Olk. Mary is a student writer for the Office of Media and Marketing.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. – Once Emilee Benge went through her first acting class at Indiana University Kokomo, she knew she wanted to make improvisation a more prominent part of the theatre department.

SumAntics performing in the commons.

Her and a group of friends got together and started playing the improvisation games they learned in class. From there, Benge launched it as an official campus organization for her senior project and has seen nothing but success.

On Thursday, April 11, at 7:30 p.m., SumAntics will present their spring show, "Throwback Thursday," playing off the three graduating seniors and their final show of the year. The show is free and open to the campus and community. There will be some adult content.

"We want to take you on a ride down memory lane," said Benge, a senior graduating in May. "Embarrassing photos and stories that people don't want seen or told about them will be on display, and we are dressing up like we did when we were kids."

The theme will have little to do with the content, because most of the games will rely on audience participation and interaction. However, SumAntics encourages everyone to come dressed up in their favorite outfits that represent their childhood.

New games will be played, featuring new faces and more audience interaction. Viewers will have an opportunity to write down suggestions of scenes, random nouns, different settings, characters, celebrities, and personalities before the show starts. Once lucky audience member will be the center of attention toward the end of the show.

Sarah Ferenc and Mary Olk will also graduate this May, and accompany Benge in an improv game that will showcase the three of them.

"There's nothing else like this in Kokomo for free," Benge said. "It's quality, live entertainment, relatable, and provides some fun and laughter as we gear up for the end of the semester."

This semester the group has worked extensively on character and story development, in addition to building good rapport between the group members so they are comfortable working together on stage.

SumAntics has been successful this academic year, with putting on two shows and performing at five Visit in Person Days. The group now has 11 members, all coming from different majors. They have integrated more practices in order to master the fundamentals and be able to rehearse the more advanced improvisation games.

Benge is sad to leave the group, but knows that SumAntics will continue to do great things in the future.

"We've worked really hard and accomplished so many goals, and it's weird to think I won't be apart of it for much longer," Benge said. "There is no doubt that the group will continue to thrive because there are so many great people involved."

Story written by Mary Olk. Mary is a student writer for the Office of Media and Marketing.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. – Kelly Greer resisted the idea of being an artist for years.

Kelly Greer.

After planning a career in healthcare and much opposition from faculty, she finally figured out that art was where she was supposed to be.

"Art is my passion," said Greer, who will graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts (B.F.A.) this May. "I look a leap of faith and pursued my talents, and I feel extremely blessed to have worked with the faculty in this program."

As their undergraduate careers come to a close, Greer and two other seniors will display their talents at the annual student art show that begins Wednesday, April 10, at the Indiana University Kokomo Art Gallery. Each senior will contribute a different body of work, using different art techniques and materials.

"The show will be diverse and really highlights each person's strengths," said Minda Douglas, assistant professor in fine arts.

The opening reception is from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Art Gallery, located in the Kelley Student Center. The show ends May 11.

Greer is the first student to use metalsmithing to create jewelry for the art showcase.

"I love the creative process involved in making jewelry," Greer said, who is excited to show her final pieces. "Each piece I create has a different focus, and I enjoy trying the different techniques."

Nature's textures, colors, and shapes inspire her body of jewelry. To convey this theme, she is using a process called etching, which involves transferring an image onto metal. Acid eats away where the image is not, "etching" the image onto the metal. From there, she forms the piece to mimic nature, while giving it an industrial feel.

"When people see my final exhibition, I want it to evoke feelings of peace and tranquility," Greer said.

Senior Cortney Jo Santiago will show off a different form of art, using printmaking and soft sculpture to put together her works titled "Planet Girl; My Journey." She is using dry point print to create some pieces that resemble kites and has built a chair that resembles a cloud. Everything about the art show "just feels right" to her.

"We've spent four years learning technique and processes, and now we are bringing everything that we've learned and like together," said Santiago, who will graduate with a Bachelor of Fine Arts.

Jennifer Honeysuckle is taking a different approach to her work by creating charcoal drawings of people, using their personal objects, and audio of their voices. Although the process was stressful, it's rewarding to see everything come together.

"We began planning this final exhibition in the fall, and now it's real," Honeysuckle said. "We've spent this entire semester executing our work, and we're ready to show it off."

In addition, the fine arts faculty will select best works from freshmen, sophomores, and juniors to display in the show.

Since the addition of the B.F.A., Douglas is pleased with the growth of the program and the progress the students have made to make this art show a success.

"As faculty, we strive to get the students to this point," Douglas said. "Highlighting their skills and going through this process is an awesome experience to share with them."

There is something for everyone to appreciate in this show, and that's what these seniors are looking forward to the most.

Each senior plans to go in a different direction with their art once they graduate. Greer would like to place her work in galleries and continue to make jewelry. Santiago hopes to open a community art center that has a gallery and will host art workshops, while Honeysuckle would like to continue creating art, work in a museum, or teach art.

"The drive is what makes the artist succeed on their own after the degree is completed, and these students have that drive," said Susan Skoczen, lecturer in fine arts.

"This is our chance to show the campus and the community what the fine arts program at IU Kokomo is all about," Santiago said.

The Art Gallery is closed on Sundays and Mondays, open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesdays, closed on Fridays, and open 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. Call (765) 455-9523 for more information, or visit www.iuk.edu/artgallery.

Story written by Mary Olk. Mary is a student writer for the Office of Media and Marketing.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — The hottest ticket in town this April is admission to the Indiana University Kokomo Crescendos' production of Cats.

In fact, these tickets are so hot, they are gone, and director Rick Alexander is accepting requests to attend dress rehearsal. He also has a waiting list, in case tickets become available to the April 27 and 28 shows.

"I think people are excited to see this show, because nobody in the area has attempted it," Alexander said. "It is a difficult show musically, and then you add in dancing, full make up, and costumes. We are offering a unique cultural experience right here in Kokomo, and it's free."

The show includes nearly 60 IU Kokomo students and community members, with 18 leads.

Jacob Barnes, a junior who plays Mr. Mistoffelees and Quoxa, said the audience is sure to enjoy the show.

"The music is phenomenal, and we have a lot of talented people performing it," he said. "There are also several great dance numbers."

Alexander never anticipated such a response when he started the group three years ago with eight students. About 100 people attended the Crescendos' first show, a far cry from the 800 who will fill Havens Auditorium for each performance of Cats.

Those who want to be on a waiting list for tickets, or to be on a VIP list to attend the dress rehearsal, may contact Cindy Ison, senior lecturer in music, at 765-455-9416 or lison@iuk.edu. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 27, and 3 p.m. Sunday, April 28. The dress rehearsal is at 7 p.m. Friday, April 26.

Those who miss the show can see the Crescendos performing in the Peru Circus City parade this summer, and the group also will have a summer concert, performing favorites from past shows, including Cats and Les Miserables.

The Crescendos also were invited to perform Handel's Messiah with a mass choir at Lincoln Center in New York City, during Thanksgiving.

Membership in the group is open to students and community members, with no audition. Rehearsals are from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays in Havens Auditorium. For more information about the Crescendos, contact Alexander at rickalex@iuk.edu

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — If you only know about your own country, you miss out on what the rest of the world has to offer.

Students pose by their international project on Mexico.That is why Liesl Elkin, a sixth grader at the International School at Central Middle School, said it was important for her class to participate in the International Festival, hosted by Indiana University Kokomo.

"When you travel, for fun or for business when you are older, you have to know how to act in other countries," she said.

IU Kokomo faculty, staff, and students lent their expertise to the festival, leading the middle schoolers in building piñatas, creating origami birds, and Korean folk tales. About 160 students from the Kokomo-Center magnet school displayed their projects, representing 41 countries, in Alumni Hall.

Donna McLean, assistant professor of communication arts, said the campus is pleased to partner with the school to host the International Fair.

"We recognize the importance of students being exposed to international culture, geography, global issues, and global diversity," she said. "As technology increases our access and connection with people around the world, and global business challenges our ability to connect with markets worldwide, it is crucial for us to adopt a forward looking global orientation."

School of Education students graded the sixth graders' projects, which included posters, native dress, and artifacts, choosing the best for awards.

Those honored included:

First place, Mackenzie Smith, Emma Watson, Rachel Wyrick, and Sabrina Miller, France;
Second, Drew Coram, Max White, Cameron Robertson, and Clayton Brown, Mexico;
Third, Lauryn Hicks, Abbi Hibler, Emily Evans, and Destiny Moore, Peru;
Fourth, Daniel Herrera, Blake White, Grace Lefler, and Emily Whiteman, Chile;
Tied for fifth, Luc Cesar, Luke Hubbard, and Jake Stevens, Haiti; and Tabby Cage, Kaylea Baker, and Elizabeth Dupire, Madagascar.

The festival also gave the middle school students a college campus experience. They ate lunch in the Kelley Student Center with members of the volleyball, basketball, and cross country teams, and could have their pictures taken with mascot Kingston Cougar in a photo booth operated by education students.

Elkin and her classmate Lauren Sukle chose Jamaica, because Sukle visited the island nation and wanted to learn more. Both dressed in Jamaican outfits and braided their hair with beads, to provide extra authenticity.

Elkin was surprised to discover that "while Jamaica is very different from the United States, it has the same kind of government we have, with people electing their representatives."

Sukle thought it was interesting that Jamaicans speak a patois language that combines elements of English, French, Spanish, Dutch, and African languages.

Lupe Acosta and Jor'Don Thompson chose Belgium for culinary reasons — the European country is known for its chocolates and waffles, Acosta said.

"They produce 22,000 tons of chocolate every year," he said. "That's a lot of chocolate."

Thompson thought it was interesting to learn that Belgium is so small, you can cross it in four hours on a train. He thinks the International Festival is important so students can learn to appreciate other cultures.

McLean wants to expand the festival in 2014, so community members can view the top presentations and bring their own international experiences to share with the students.

"We are happy to serve as a resource for the international school, sharing the unique perspectives of our global faculty and staff, and campus resources," she said.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. – Lindsay Brewer has volunteered for Take Back the Night for the past three years.

Take Back The Night 2012

Passionate for fundraising, Brewer continues to work hard to raise money to donate to the Family Service Association of Howard County and the domestic violence shelter. Two years ago, she was the top individual fundraiser for Indiana University Kokomo. Last year, Brewer helped the campus sorority Phi Sigma Sigma raise a record-breaking amount of donations.

"Raising money for such a wonderful cause comes naturally to me," said Brewer, who serves as philanthropy chair for Phi Sigma Sigma. "I love knowing how many individuals benefit from the donations that our campus and community raise each year."

The annual Take Back the Night and Angel Walk will kick off with a rally at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 23, in Alumni Hall. The one-mile Angel Walk will begin at 6 p.m., rain or shine.

The rally will kick off with a story from a domestic violence survivor.

"Many people don't realize how prevalent domestic violence is in our community," said Candy Thompson, director of academic projects. "It can be difficult to deal with it personally or to be a support system for others. Hearing a survivor's story is extremely empowering and helpful."

This event hits close to Brewer's heart, as she has listened to one of her sorority sisters speak at a previous event.

"Raising awareness is the only way to help prevent these situations from escalating," Brewer said. "It makes you aware of others' situations and realize how you can help them."

The IU Kokomo American Democracy Project and Family Service Association of Howard County sponsor the event, and money raised goes to the FSA's domestic violence shelter. Last year, nearly $30,000 was raised.

"The FSA provides so many resources to help fix this problem," Thompson said. "You never know who is a victim of domestic violence and your small gifts can go a long way."

In addition to donating money, the FSA accepts donations of goods, supplies, and/or clothing.

Phi Sigma Sigma is continuing their fundraising efforts until the day of the event. They are selling water bottles and wristbands, as well as taking donations for cutout paper hearts that read, "These hands won't hurt." Each one sold will be attached to poster boards, and Phi Sigma Sigma will hold them up during the Angel Walk.

Visit Phi Sigma Sigma Thursday, April 18, Friday, April 19, and Monday, April 22 at their table in the Kelley Student Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. On Tuesday, April 23, their table will be set up from 10 a.m. until the end of the event.

Brewer encourages everyone to attend the event and help out the cause.

"Education is empowering, and we all hope you leave the event empowered to help in whatever way you can."

Participation is free, and you may either walk individually or join a team for the Angel Walk. Prizes will be awarded to the individual and to the team who raises the most money.

IU Kokomo students who wish to join a team should call the Office of Academic Affairs at (765) 455-9406. Community members should call the FSA at (765) 457-9313.

Following the walk, refreshments will be served in Alumni Hall. Student posters will be displayed, awards will be presented, and Gary and Jessica Rhum will provide music.

Take Back the Night is an international rally and march organized within local communities. The event began in Europe as a protest against the fear women felt walking the streets at night. In addition, April is Sexual Assault Awareness month and National Child Abuse Prevention month, which is why the event is held each April.

For additional information regarding Take Back the Night, contact Candy Thompson at caanorma@iuk.edu or (765) 455-9406.

Story written by Mary Olk. Mary is a student writer in the Office of Media and Marketing.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — It's never too early to think about college.

A 3rd grade KEY student peers into a microscope.

Indiana University Kokomo recently gave third and fifth graders from Kokomo's Sycamore Elementary School a glimpse of college life, hosting them for a campus visit.

The students looked for microbes in pond water in a science lab, saw how nursing students learn skills in the nursing simulation lab, practiced their Spanish language skills with IU Kokomo students, and ate lunch from the campus' Cougar Country Café.

Gerry Stroman, executive director of the Office of the Chancellor, said the visit encourages the students to excel in school.

"Education is important, and we want them to know what college is about, so they are prepared to succeed," she said. "We want them to continue to be interested in education, and to get a good start in life."

Third-grader Macee Reckard, who plans to be a nurse, enjoyed the science labs, especially using microscopes. Caigen Malone and Jaylen Stroman, also third-graders, want to be NBA basketball stars, but both said they would go to college first.

Malone thought it was important for his class to visit campus "so we can learn what it's like to be in college, and we'll be ready when we're old enough."

Ella Biggs, a third-grader who wants to be a teacher, thought it was important to visit campus "so you know more about what you want to do when you grow up," and especially liked the science labs.

Third-grade teacher Jenny Shaw said the students, who are part of the KEY gifted and talented program, enjoy chances to learn through experience, rather than books. The hands-on lab work was just the kind of thing that appeals to them.

"This offers a great chance to get outside our school, and to do the kinds of things we can't do in our classrooms," she said. "This goes with what we've been learning in class, which is great."

Tashona Jones, diversity coordinator, said the visits also are a chance to show students the educational opportunities available to them at IU Kokomo.

"We're exposing them at a young age to what we can offer them here, and getting them excited about going to college when they are older," she said. "They need to think about what they want to do someday as early as possible, and start planning ahead to make that happen. We are happy to share our resources to help."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Andrew Boehner combined his Android programming skills with his concern for his grandmother's safety to create a fall detection application for smart phones.

Andrew BoehnerBoehner, 24, an informatics student at Indiana University Kokomo, developed his project to improve on current technology. Most fall detection devices require the user to wear a device wrapped around the chest or torso, and do not take advantage of smart phones.

Users of his app wear a watch programmed to send data to the smart phone if he or she falls. The phone then calls emergency responders for help.

"My grandmother's phone has an SOS button on it, but if the phone is on the charger, it's no help to her if she falls," he said. "With my app, it doesn't matter where the phone is, or if she has it in her hands. Her generation of senior citizens is pretty tech savvy, and have smart phones. Most of them are also used to wearing a watch, so this technology will be easy for them to use."

The fall detection app is Boehner's latest creation. He has published a few Android games on Google Play, but said the fall detection app is still in development, not ready for market.

He developed the idea while researching with Gongjun Yan, assistant professor of informatics. Yan encouraged him to apply to present at the 27th National Conference on Undergraduate Research, at University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse. He recently participated in the conference, and his research also was published in the conference journal.

"I was really excited for the opportunity to share my work with other students, and to meet people who are researching in this area," he said. "I am grateful for the chance to research with my professors, and to show what I've learned."

Yan teaches up to date Android programming in his class, and is proud of Boehner's success in this area.

"Overall, Andrew is one of my best students," Yan said. "He is self-motivated and capable. His intensive research has paid off in this prestigious opportunity to present and publish his work."

Boehner, from Tipton, enjoys the programming process, and said working with his professors on these hands-on opportunities has helped him learn more about his potential career field. He plans to study bioinformatics in graduate school after earning his degree from IU Kokomo.

"I hear something in class discussion, and I think about how I can apply it to one of my projects," he said. "I remember more of it when I've actually used what I learned to make something."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — More than 300 Indiana University Kokomo students, faculty, staff, and community supporters braved Tuesday evening's rain to take a stand against domestic violence and to show support for its victims.

Rain couldn't stop the "Take Back the Night/Angel Walk 2013" See more pictures.

Participants in the 8th annual Take Back the Night/Angel Walk walked a mile, north on Washington Street, wearing rain ponchos and carrying umbrellas, as part of a fund raiser for the Family Service Association of Howard County (FSA) domestic violence shelter.

Interim Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke, who is vice president of the FSA board of directors, said every dollar raised helps keep the shelter open, to provide a safe place for victims and their children to get help.

"I know we must give back, to help the most vulnerable in this community," Sciame-Giesecke said. "We are passionate and committed to this particular issue on our campus."

The event, sponsored by the IU Kokomo American Democracy Project and FSA, began with a rally in Alumni Hall. Students in allied health, humanities and social sciences, business, education, and nursing provided educational presentations about recognizing the signs of abuse, workplace bullying, effects of domestic abuse on young children, and elder abuse, among other topics. They also accepted clothing donations for women at the shelter.

Education student Erica Bennett said as a future elementary school teacher, it is important for her to know the signs of potential abuse, so she can take action to protect her students if necessary.

She did not mind walking in the rain, saying she was inspired by the story shared by domestic violence survivor Christine Smith.

"It was emotional to hear her story," she said. "She is so strong to be able to stand up and tell what happened to her. It makes it more real to hear a personal story, rather than just someone telling you facts."

Smith, from Kokomo, told a harrowing story of physical and verbal abuse by her parents that began when she was a young child.

"I found out in kindergarten that my home life was different," she said. "My home was not a place of security and love. I became an expert at pushing people away, even though I wanted to be loved."

That abuse robbed her of her self-esteem, and made her hesitant to have her own family as an adult.

"I was afraid to be a parent," Smith said. "I made a choice not to be like my parents. I did not carry on that cycle. It stopped with me. You must protect your children. You have the power to step up and break the cycle of violence."

Business students Stephanie Scott, Sarah Parr, Jarron Warner, and Catrina Pearson were among those displaying projects during the rally. They researched gun violence in America's schools for their employment law class.

Scott said it is important for students to learn about all kinds of domestic violence, including about the signs, how to help someone, and how to get help if needed.

"We need to raise awareness, and let people know this problem exists," she said. The more education that is available, the better chance we have to break the cycle of violence."

Barbara Hall, FSA director of development, said the organization would accept donations for the event through May 1. Teams that did not come because of the rain may still turn in their money. Donations may be made at the FSA office, 618 S. Main St., Kokomo.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Indiana University Kokomo will celebrate the achievements of 547 graduates at its annual Commencement ceremonies, at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 7.

Commencement 2012

IU President Michael A. McRobbie and Interim Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke will award the degrees during what Sciame-Giesecke calls "one of the best days of the year."

"It is so gratifying to see so many students achieve their goals and dreams," she said. "These graduates will join more than 11,000 graduates who have earned their degrees on this campus. So many have gone on to enhance our region as teachers, doctors, nurses and in other professions. I look forward to the ceremony and the celebrations."

Graduates, of whom nearly 40 percent are first-generation college students, represent 27 Indiana counties, six states, and nine countries. Forty-four students are earning master's degrees. Another 482 are earning bachelor's degrees, while 24 will receive associate degrees.

The School of Nursing has the largest number of graduates, with 165 earning bachelor's degrees. The second most frequent degree being awarded is the Bachelor of Science in general studies, with 73.

Jeremy Gibson of Kokomo, student body president, will represent the graduates as the class speaker.

Peru attorney Brandon Rush will receive the Distinguished Alumni Award from the IU Kokomo Alumni Association during the ceremony. Rush is being honored for his community service.

In case of rain, there will be two ceremonies, in Havens Auditorium. A 10:30 a.m. ceremony will include graduates in the School of Nursing, Division of Allied Health, and School of Education. The second ceremony, at 1:30 p.m., will include graduates from the School of Sciences, School of Business, and School of Humanities and Social Sciences.

Outdoor ceremonies are open to the public, with seating in the Hunt Hall parking lot. Those attending ceremonies in Havens Auditorium must have a ticket. Graduates received tickets with their caps and gowns. Free parking is available on campus.

Radio and television stations in the area will be notified as early as possible May 7 if Commencement is moved indoors.

For more information go to www.iuk.edu and click on the Countdown to Commencement button.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. – For many college seniors, graduation is the icing on the cake. Years of hard work finally pay off, and students celebrate the culmination of an important and memorable part of their lives.

Alicia DellenHowever, Indiana University Kokomo Senior Alicia Dellen will celebrate more than graduation this May. In addition to earning a bachelor's in nursing, she also is releasing a piano solo and duet album with her brother, Matthew.

Dellen, classically trained since she was four years old, has 20 years of playing piano under her belt. Although she hasn't always appreciate her talents, she now realizes how much piano has impacted her life.

"Playing piano teaches you discipline, hard work, and detail," Dellen said. "Releasing this album and seeing how much my brother and I have accomplished through our music is such a blessing."

Dellen studied music under Tamara Orlovsky, a Russian concert pianist, who inspired her to be disciplined in the art of piano. She began playing piano concerts with her older brother when she was 14, and since the pair has traveled to 23 different states to showcase their talents.

"Traveling together as a family, to share something we truly love, is a wonderful experience," Dellen said. "We are very passionate about music ministry and feel very blessed to participate and work in that capacity."

When Dellen was 15 years old, she won a piano competition, which gave her the opportunity to play at Southern Adventist University with the orchestra. Two years later, she was invited to play again and go on a music tour with the orchestra.

She competes in piano competitions at other universities, and since last fall, she has been practicing on the piano in Kresge Auditorium, located on campus, to help prepare.

"When you go to a competition, you don't get to see or touch the piano before you play, so practicing on different pianos will help you for competitions," Dellen said. "You become used to the piano you are always playing, which can hinder a performance on a new piano."

Piano is a huge aspect of her life, but it doesn't stop with competitions and playing with her siblings.

Dellen and her church group host programs at prisons, deliver food, play music, and just get to know people.

"It's amazing to see what such a small gift can do for a person," she said about one of her favorite experiences. "Playing music and helping people is such a great gift to be able to give."

It was her experiences in music ministry that helped lead her toward a career in nursing, but she had a little extra help from her mother, who has been a huge driving force in her life and successes.

"When I was younger, I was always reading mission stories about doctors and nurses who would travel and help people," she said. "It's always something I wanted to do."

At age 13, she had her opportunity when she traveled to El Salvador on a mission trip, and assisted the Maranatha Group in building a church in 10 days.

"It's amazing to go to another country where they don't have a lot, and work to make a difference," she said. "It opens your eyes and truly shows you how the little things matter."

She hopes to travel again, but this time working as a nurse in clinics around the world.

"There's always something you can do to help someone, wherever you are."

Story by Mary Olk. Mary is a senior majoring in communication arts and is an intern in the Office of Media and Marketing.