Learning, Community, and the Stories That Shape Us

Continuing on last week’s theme of looking back on the year that was, here are more stories that will bring a smile to your face: A multidisciplinary IU-led team is advancing research that supports families and strengthens child and parent well-being in Indiana. Building trust through art: an uplifting example of our campus librarians building trust by fostering community and belonging. Another example of building trust: McKinney School of Law students contributed to reentry and justice reform efforts, helping Hoosiers navigate second chances while serving our communities.

As I continue my Listen and Learn sessions, I want to share the exciting new programs and initiatives underway on our campus. Recently, IU McKinney Law, in partnership with the IU School of Social Work, hosted a Youth Law Summit attended by students from Pike High School and Arsenal Tech High School. The summit focused on what careers in law entail and how they intersect with social work to strengthen advocacy for mission-driven organizations.

Did you know we have an anime apostle at the University Library at IU Indianapolis? Meet Billy Trinagli, fondly known as the anime apostle, who uses anime (Japanese animation) to tell stories and engage colleagues, students, and our community. Thanks to support from the Central Indiana Community Foundation's (CICF) Library Fund, our library offers training to Indiana institutions to contribute to the digital collection images by Wikimedia Commons - and it’s all about telling Hoosier stories. It was a treat to listen to Tapiwa, a biology major who discussed the Wikipedia Commons contribution to public knowledge. Also, check out the online collections that tell the story of Flanner House in Indianapolis.

If you have not heard of an 'artist book,' please visit the Herron Art Library collection at our library, where you will see stories being told through the language of art - a treat for the eyes and a joy for folks who enjoy reading as well.

As you may know, Professor Tom Stucky is leading an exciting exercise in ‘visioning’ for IU Indy. Through open dialogue among students, staff, faculty, administrators, alumni, community, and to enhance our impact on the community, we will collectively identify/reaffirm our core values. More to come on this in the new year, and for now, as you enjoy the holidays, think of one word/phrase that best describes our campus. Just one word.

As we celebrated Quarterback Fernando Mendoza winning the coveted Heisman trophy, there were three other individuals watching, listening, and telling the story. Chris Schumerth and Cameron Cocquyt, graduate students in our Sports Journalism program, did a fine job telling the story.

Doing what is right, and doing it well - not just once, not just once in a while, but always. This is my hope for all that we do - now, in the coming year, and in years to come.

Happy Holidays!

Go Jags!

Latha Ramchand
Chancellor