Indiana University is deeply committed to cultivating an environment that advocates inclusion and equity for all. That commitment has been the driving force behind IU’s position at the forefront of diversity efforts in higher education as well as its long tradition of opening doors for underrepresented, underserved, and minority groups. As part of this commitment, IU has been a supporter of Indiana Black Expo (IBE) for three decades and a lead sponsor since 2011.
This July, IBE is hosting its 46th Annual Summer Celebration, and IU is a proud co-sponsor and participant. One of the largest African American cultural events in the country, the 2016 Summer Celebration will be held July 11–17 in the Indianapolis Convention Center. Many events have been scheduled throughout the week to celebrate African American culture, provide employment opportunities, and promote educational and leadership growth.
I am pleased to say that IU is sponsoring the following events:
Education Conference
Thursday, July 14, 2016
8:00–3:45 p.m., check-in and continental breakfast beginning at 7:30 a.m.
Indianapolis Convention Center Sagamore Ballroom 1–3
Pacers Sports and Entertainment Corporate Luncheon and Awards Presentation
Friday, July 15, 2016
11:00 a.m., doors opening at 10:30 a.m.
Indianapolis Convention Center Halls D and E
I also want to invite all members of the IU community to visit booth 401 in the Exhibition Hall on July 15, 16, or 17 to take part in the fun, hands-on programming that we have scheduled. With activities ranging from building a robot to physics demonstrations, there really is something for everyone to enjoy.
Be sure to stop by the IU booth on Friday, July 15, for Children’s Day, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet and take pictures with mascots from all IU campuses. There will also be STEM activities presented by IU experts and chances to earn free IU gifts.
Prospective IU students and their families won’t want to miss “U2IU” Day on Saturday, July 16. Visit the IU booth to get a glimpse into the many opportunities that are available on our eight campuses. You can take virtual tours, meet with campus representatives, and much more.
I’m particularly excited about 21st Century Scholars Day on Sunday, July 17. We know that the high cost of a college education can be a tremendous hardship on students and their families, especially for low-income and minority populations. The 21st Century Scholars program, an initiative of the Indiana Commission for Higher Education, is designed to help defray that ever-increasing cost by providing eligible students a four-year full-tuition scholarship. But state data released earlier this month indicates that about 80 percent of Indiana high school seniors who could qualify for the program are behind on meeting the requirements, and only 44 percent of individuals who are eligible for the program actually take advantage of the scholarship.
So during this year’s IBE Summer Celebration, we’re devoting a whole day to 21st Century Scholars. Representatives from the program will be at the IU booth to help students sign up, check their enrollment status, and answer questions. There will even be opportunities to complete required campus tours and learn about the many resources available to 21st Century Scholars on IU campuses. If you’re looking for ways to help finance a higher education, be sure to visit booth 401 on July 17 and take the first step toward an outstanding, affordable college experience.
I am so proud of IU’s longstanding partnership with IBE and all our years of participation in the Summer Celebration. This year promises to be the best yet, and I look forward to seeing you there!