ICI honors first-generation college students

Trine sophomore captures 'dream' award

INDIANAPO LIS – Trine University sophomore Mitchell R. Wyss of New Haven was one of 31 outstanding first-generation students from independent college campuses in Indiana to be honored in Indianapolis on Saturday, Nov. 6.

 

Wyss and his high school mentor, Dean E. Lehrman, who most encouraged him to seek a college degree, will attend the event. Wyss is a chemical engineering major. 

 

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.

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.