Ivy Tech Students Recognized
for Academic Excellence

March 28, 2006   

Bloomington, Indiana—Two Ivy Tech Community College-Bloomington students are among 31 outstanding scholars from two-year colleges across the state of Indiana recognized by USA Today, the American Association of Community Colleges and Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society.

Xiaoxia Michelson and Jeffrey Ventrano were named to the All-Indiana Academic Team and were honored at a luncheon held in Indianapolis recently.

Xiaoxia Michelson, majoring in nursing, plans to obtain a doctorate degree so she can develop cultural and linguistic awareness in the healthcare system.  In addition to maintaining a GPA of 3.8, Michelson is very active in community services organizations.  She serves as a Chinese culture consultant and volunteers with Girls Inc. She is involved with the college’s Cultural Connections program and the Student Government Association. 

Jeffrey Ventrano is majoring in computer information systems with a GPA of 3.7.  He plans to obtain a master’s degree so he can teach at Ivy Tech.  Ventrano is an assistant coach for youth football.  He also serves as vice-president of the campus computer club that he co-founded.

John Whikehart, Ivy Tech Community College – Bloomington Chancellor congratulated the students for receiving the statewide recognition.  “It’s exciting to have two of our students recognized for their academic accomplishments with peers from other two-year institutions throughout the state.  Xiaoxia and Jeffrey are not only excellent students, but both are also planning to continue to contribute to their communities once they have completed their education goals.

State awardees were scored in three categories: (1) academic recognition, honors and awards; (2) activities and leadership, community service and work experience; and (3) on an essay submitted as part of the competition.  A national panel evaluated the contestants.