ICI recognizes first-generation students

Trine sophomore captures 'dream'

 

INDIANAPOLIS – Trine University Zachary R. Tunberg of Avon, Ind., was one of 31 outstanding first-generation students from independent college campuses in Indiana selected to be honored in Indianapolis on Saturday, Nov. 5.

 

Tunberg is a sophomore electrical engineering major and was nominated for the award by teacher Anthony Record of Avon High School.

Made possible by a grant to the Independent Colleges of Indiana from the Lilly Endowment, “Realizing the Dream” recognizes the triumphs of first-generation students in their first year of college.  The student honorees are Indiana high school graduates who subsequently demonstrated superior academic performance during their first year of studies and exhibited leadership in campus or community activities.  A $2,000 grant will be mailed to the institution to be deposited into the student’s account and applied toward the cost of his/her education.

The program also celebrates the roles played by teachers and parents in shaping student aspirations for a college education.  After being chosen by their college, the students then named the elementary or secondary teacher or counselor who most influenced them to attend college.  These mentors will each receive a $1,000 professional development award.

This year’s keynote speaker will be Rafael Sánchez.  He is a Franklin College alumnus/board member and an investigative reporter for WRTV Channel 6, in Indianapolis.

Attending the banquet in addition to the students, parents, and teachers will be special guests, presidents of the colleges, and the campus coordinators of the “Realizing the Dream” program.

 

To share your news, contact Trine University communication specialist Lindsay Winslow Brown at winslowbrownl@trine.edu.