News Release

FORT WAYNE — Ivy Tech Community College Fort Wayne and Warsaw raised more than $11,000 during the second annual Ivy Tech Day on April 23 thanks to the support of the community, alumni and employees.

“The response we received on Ivy Tech Day shows how many people are excited to support the mission our college strives for,” says Dr. Kim Barnett-Johnson, chancellor of Ivy Tech Fort Wayne/Warsaw. “The funds we raise will go towards continuing to advance our programs, so our students graduate with the skills they need to succeed in the workforce.”

In total, the college raised $11,094, which far surpassed the initial goal of $6,000. Out of the 19 campuses statewide, Ivy Tech Fort Wayne/Warsaw had the second greatest number of gifts given.

During Ivy Tech Day, donors were asked to vote in the Jail or Pardon Challenge. The judges have decided, and Chancellor Barnett-Johnson is sentenced to an 8-hour workday in “jail” this fall. A jail cell will be provided by the Fort Wayne History Center that was recently refurbished by Ivy Tech welding students. More information as the date to serve the sentencing comes closer.

“We wanted to create a friendly competition that was a fun opportunity to get our college community excited,” says Tracina Smith, vice chancellor of Foundation at Ivy Tech Fort Wayne/Warsaw. “The results show that our community stands by us. We’re excited to see where we can take this event in the future.”

Ivy Tech Day began in 2023 as an annual 24-hour giving campaign that encourages the community, alumni and employees to support the college. Across all campuses statewide more than $390,000 was raised. More information and a full summary of the statewide impact can be found here.