News 2006

Two ISU Alumni Earn Business Educator Awards

December 18, 2006

Indiana State University alumni, Douglas Coats and Jason Hendrickson, were recently honored at the Indiana Business Education Association?s (IBEA) 37th Annual Indiana Business and Marketing Education Conference in Indianapolis.

Douglas Coats, a 1984 graduate of ISU, received the Outstanding Classroom Teacher Award for his teaching excellence and for his contributions to business education as a teacher at Pike High School in Indianapolis.

At Pike since 2001, Coats teaches a variety of courses, including PC Repair and Maintenance, Cisco Academy, Digital Communication Tools, WebPage Design and Computer Applications I. He is an Academy Leader for Business and Information Technology, serves as the director of the Academy of Finance and is on the District Technology Committee. He has implemented an on-the-job experience program for his information technology students, an achievement that earned him a Golden Apple Award, and he serves as a co-sponsor for the Pike Business Professionals of America chapter. He is also chairman of Indiana?s Business Professionals of America Executive Board and has served on the board for several years.

Coats credits the education he received at ISU for the education he now offers his students. He said Indiana State helped him become "fully prepared" for his career and his future.

Jason Hendrickson, a 2003 graduate of ISU, received the Emerging Professional Award from IBEA. As a new teacher, working for less than five years, Hendrickson has proven himself an outstanding business teacher through his work at Danville (Ind.) Community High School.

Now in his third year at Danville, Hendrickson has become extremely involved with its Business Professionals of America chapter. He has served as an advisor for Danville?s BPA chapter for two years and was instrumental in creating a marketing video for the organization to increase student recruitment. He has been a member of the Indiana Business Education Association for five years and has been a regional representative as well. He is currently serving as an Indiana State Executive Board Member for BPA.

Hendrickson said Indiana State's College of Business gave him the "creative and innovative thinking skills" that helped him become a better teacher and leader.

"My program within the College of Business allowed me to discover who I was as a person and professionally advance to become the educator that I am today," he said.

<< Full Story >>

Four Alumni Honored With GOLD Awards

November 2, 2006

The Indiana State University Alumni Association has announced recipients of the 2006 Graduate of the Last Decade Award. This year's G.O.L.D. Award recipients include Michelle Cronk, Joe Crowley, Douglas Dillion and Daniel Tanoos. They will be honored at festivities Nov. 10. Among them was Michelle Cronk

Michelle Cronk has earned many honors in the teaching and business field in the short time since graduating summa cum laude in 2002 with a degree in business education and a minor in information processing.

After graduating, Cronk took a position at South Central Junior-Senior High School in Elizabeth, Ind. as the only business teacher. She has become very involved with her students through advising organizations such as the high school student council. She was also a force in developing a Business Professionals of America (BPA) chapter. Under Cronk's leadership, the student council members have become very involved in service projects including Toys for Tots, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the Red Cross and March of Dimes. This past year, the team was ranked the top school team in Harrison County by the March of Dimes during its annual campaign.

Outside the classroom, Cronk is active in business, professional and educational organizations. She has served on the Indiana Business Education Association's executive board and held the posts of president, president-elect and vice president. Cronk is also a member of the National Business Education Association and the Teacher Advisory Board of the Louisville branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. The Teacher Advisory Board promotes economic education in the classroom and Federal Reserve activities.

Cronk is currently working on an MBA degree and would like to earn a Ph.D. She lives in Corydon, Ind.

<< Full Story >>

Work by Faculty Leads to Agreement with 12 Thai Universities

November 2, 2006

Thanks in large part to faculty members teaching and conducting research, Indiana State University recently signed a collaborative international exchange agreement with a consortium of 12 universities in northeast Thailand, opening the door for shared educational experiences in a variety of areas.

"While we have many alumni in Thailand, our relationship with Thailand has grown because of faculty engagement," said President Lloyd W. Benjamin III. "This agreement is a testament to the work of faculty members such as Karen Lui, College of Education; Brian Kilp, music department; Jean Kristeller, psychology department; and Al Czyzewski, College of Business."

<< Full Story >>

Accounting Education all Adds up for ISU Student

October 31, 2006

An internship at an accounting and financial business was just one more thing for April Huey to add to her Indiana State University education.

In just over three years at Indiana State, the senior accounting and finance major has so far traveled overseas, teamed with a business executive mentor, and learned the traditional classroom material.

Huey, the daughter of David and Marita Huey of Scottsburg and a graduate of Oblong (Ill.) High School, served her internship with Larry E. Nunn & Associates Certified Public Accountants in southern Indiana, where she experienced a variety of accounting practices

April Huey

April Huey

<< Full Story >>

Business Course Involves Morocco, Slovakia

October 25, 2006

Indiana State University continues to strengthen its international ties by offering a global entrepreneurship course that has brought together students from ISU, Morocco, and Slovakia.

Ten Indiana State undergraduate students joined eight Slovakian students who took part in the two-part program this year. The course took place on ISU's campus and at Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovakia. All of the Slovakian students were graduate students who work in the enterprise development center at Comenius.

The two-week class was under the instruction of Arthur Sherwood, management professor at Indiana State. During the first week, students constructed business plans and Sherwood taught about entrepreneurship in the U.S. The second week consisted of taking the plans the students created and implementing them. This gave the Slovakian students a chance to advise the ISU students on the best ways to enter the European Union with their proposed business plans.

<< Full Story >>

College of Business Dean to Step Down in June 2007

October 12, 2006

Ronald F. Green, dean of Indiana State University's College of Business, today announced his intent to resign at the end of the current fiscal year to pursue other opportunities including assuming his role as professor of management in the college's organizational department. His resignation will be effective June 30, 2007.

"I am very proud of our accomplishments and feel that the College of Business is well positioned for the future," Green said. He expressed great satisfaction with the progress of the college outreach efforts and their commitment to partnering with the regional and global business communities. He also expressed pride in the revision of the MBA program and with new programs in forensic accounting, motorsports and financial services.

Green also noted the growth of the Networks Financial Institute (NFI), especially the Networks Scholars Program, in positioning Indiana State University at the center of financial services education and in providing services to the financial services industry.

Green has served as dean since July 2002. Prior to coming to Indiana State, he was the associate dean and director of graduate studies at East Tennessee State University. He earned his doctorate degree in industrial management from Clemson University in 1986 and received an MPA from Jacksonville State University in Alabama in 1982 where he also earned an MBA in 1978. His bachelor's degree was from Clemson.

<< Full Story >>

ISU Honors Distinguished Alumni Award Winners

October 12, 2006

The Indiana State University Alumni Association has announced the recipients of the 2006 Distinguished Alumni Award. The recipients include Dean Hirsch, Stephen Clinton, Clyde Kersey, and Sheila Powell. Josue Robles will be on campus to receive his Distinguished Alumni Award, bestowed on him in 2005. The alumni will be honored at a banquet on Oct. 20 in Dede I and II, Hulman Memorial Student Union. Among those honored was Josue (Joe) Robles, Jr.

Joe RoblesA Puerto Rico native, Robles earned a master's degree in business administration from Indiana State University in 1979. From there, he went to the U.S. Army working his way up to Major General. From the Army, he became the chief financial officer at the largest provider of insurance to military families.

While earning his master's at ISU, Robles taught day classes in accounting and finance at Fort Benjamin Harrison in Indianapolis, while taking night classes to earn his degree. That hard work began his career with the Army. He moved around the world, serving in Korea, Vietnam, Germany and the Middle East. He even made a stop at the Pentagon as the Army's budget director and was commanding general of the 1st Infantry Division (the Big Red One). He retired from the military in 1994, after 28 years of service, and headed to Texas.

Robles's military experience helped him land the job of USAA's senior vice president and chief financial officer. He handles all the finances of the Fortune 200 company that employs more than 21,000 people globally. He also has more then 600 people report directly to him. He works to build and protect the financial security of USAA members. In 1995, he also assumed the duties of corporate treasurer of USAA.

Robles and his wife live in San Antonio, Texas. They have a daughter and two sons.

<< Full Story >>

Insurance and Risk Management Internships Take Students Across the Atlantic

September 28, 2006

People who have worked in the insurance industry for many years were jealous of Indiana State University students, Halee Cork and Krystal Smith. Summer internships with All Risks Limited enabled the two ISU insurance and risk management majors to spend more time learning about the industry, particularly Lloyd's of London and the surplus lines sector.

All Risks selected only 10 campuses nationwide from which to recruit for interns, according to Boose, and only eight students overall are selected to participate in the paid summer internship program each year. As part of the program, students get to discover what it takes to be a wholesale producer in the surplus and specialty lines market from the vantage point of an All Risks branch office as well as at Lloyd's of London in London, England.

Smith spent her internship working with All Risks in Baltimore, Md., as well as A.M. Best, a world-wide insurance-rating and information agency, and Lloyd's of London. With these different companies, she learned about many aspects of the insurance industry.

Cork, a senior mathematics major and insurance and risk management minor from Terre Haute, also worked with All Risks this summer. She worked at the York, Penn. office before crossing the Atlantic to Lloyd's of London. Her experiences focused on excess and surplus lines, as well as underwriting and brokerage.

Halee Cork and Krystal Smith

Halee Cork and Krystal Smith

<< Full Story >>

ISU's Insurance and Risk Management Program Golf Outing to Benefit Students, Outreach Initiatives

August 31, 2006

Indiana State University’s insurance and risk management program will be hosting its 9th annual Octoberfest Golf Scramble - its largest student-organized fundraiser - Sept. 28 at the Country Club of Terre Haute. Proceeds from the event will support many worthwhile, student-centered initiatives, such as attendance at local and regional industry events, travel to corporate tours, and support for students who are preparing for national industry exams, among other initiatives.

Gold sponsors for this year's event include AON, Progressive and Anthem. Other sponsors for the outing include: Enterprise (dinner), ONB Insurance (prizes), CIGNA (lunch), and Farm Bureau (hole-in-one competition). Currently, corporate and hole sponsors include Benchmark Management Group, CIGNA, Farm Bureau Insurance, Farmers Insurance Group, Forrest Sherer Inc., Heller Insurance Agency, ONB Insurance, Sagamore Health Network, Zurich North America and State Auto.

<< Full Story >>

Internship Lets Student see all Aspects of Insurance Industry

August 31, 2006

A summer internship opened an Indiana State University student's eyes to the variety of opportunities available in the insurance industry and helped a leading risk management company discover the value of interns. Courtney Hull, a senior math major who is pursuing a minor in insurance and risk management spent part of her summer working with Indianapolis-based Pillar Group Risk Management Inc.

Hull learned how to quote personal lines and commercial insurance. She attended company meetings to learn about different products and worked with several departments in the company to discover the different aspects of the industry. She also dealt with salespersons to understand how important it is to work with people. A 2004 graduate of Western Boone High School, Hull, of Jamestown, will graduate from Indiana State in 2007.

Courtney Hull

Courtney Hull

<< Full Story >>

ISU Announces Second Round of Promising Scholars

August 22, 2006

Program supports research by rising faculty

Indiana State University has selected 16 faculty members for its second group of “Promising Scholars,” up-and-coming educators who have demonstrated their commitment to meaningful research and real-world learning opportunities for students. Promising Scholars receive research grants of up to $15,000 each in an effort by the university to attract and retain exceptionally qualified faculty. The program is part of “Fulfilling the Promise – The Path to Pre-eminence,” a six-year plan to raise Indiana State to a high level of prominence in the state, Midwest region and nation.

“The Promising Scholars program demonstrates this university’s commitment not only to providing experiential learning for students but also to creating workable solutions to community problems,” said ISU President Lloyd W. Benjamin III. “Supporting faculty in this kind of research will undoubtedly have a measurable impact on our local, regional and national communities.” Selected via a competitive process, the 16 new selections bring to 34 the total number of Promising Scholars recognized by the university. The initial round of 18 scholars was announced in January.

A four-year grant from the Lilly Endowment to recruit and retain intellectual capital for Indiana's higher education institutions is providing initial support to the Promising Scholars program. Indiana State has the goal of re-allocating university funds to continue to support the program, Benjamin said.

Indiana State's 2006-07 Promising Scholars and their projects included:

Aruna Chandra, associate professor, management, "International Business Education through Experiential Learning." This project aims to increase awareness of opportunities in the international business arena and interaction amongst ISU and area high school students through an experiential learning component involving student development of web-based international business learning modules targeted at high school students.

Amit Sinha, assistant professor, finance, "Understanding the Microstructure of Derivatives Markets." Aimed at understanding the microstructure of futures markets such as the Chicago Board of Trade or Chicago Mercantile Exchange, the project will provide students and faculty an opportunity to recognize and investigate the nuances involved in dealing with high frequency trade data.

<< Full Story >>

Insurance and Risk Management Major Helps State Implement Online Insurance Licensing

August 17, 2006

An Indiana State University student spent part of her summer helping to streamline the process for prospective insurance agents to obtain their licenses.

Danielle Thompson worked on procedures for implementing new rules allowing prospective agents to take required examinations and obtain licenses online. The project was part of an internship for the senior insurance and risk management major at the Indiana Department of Insurance. Thompson, of Terre Haute, worked under the direction of John Kissling, chief deputy commissioner of the department.

Danielle Thompson

Danielle Thompson

<< Full Story >>

Indiana's Motorsports Initiative is Topic for Sycamore Showcase at Noon

August 14, 2006

Race to Indiana State University to learn more about the Indiana Motorsports Initiative at ISU's upcoming Sycamore Showcase at Noon on Thursday, Aug. 24 in Dede III, Hulman Memorial Student Union.

Through presentations that begin at noon, attendees will receive an international perspective on the current state of the motorsports industry and its potential for growth in addition to learning about the Indiana Development Corporation's motorsports development program and its impact on the Hoosier economy. ISU's motorsports minor and how it is preparing students to meet the demands of the industry will be discussed.

Presenters include Guy Faulkner, chair of the International Motorsport Education Forum and visiting fellow with the ISU College of Business; Tad Foster, dean of ISU's College of Technology and Matt Steward, director of motorsports development, Indiana Economic Development Corporation.

<< Full Story >>

Software Gift Gives Finance Students Experience in Real Estate Forecasting

July 26, 2006

Indiana State University students are gaining real-world experience in commercial real estate forecasting thanks to a gift of computer software. Realm Business Solutions Inc. has donated its ARGUS software to the ISU College of Business for use by finance students. Houston-based Realm develops software and produces technology for the real estate industry. For more than 20 years, ARGUS software has been the industry standard asset valuation and cash flow projection tool for commercial real estate, and has been test marketed by more than 15,000 users in more than 40 countries.

“Thanks to this generous gift from Realm, ISU College of Business students will now be able to model commercial real estate cash flows, values and deal structures,” said Ed Gallatin, instructor in the college’s analytical department. “Students will receive the experience that many developers, property and leasing brokers, construction and mortgage lenders, investment bankers and corporate real estate executives receive in the market place. Indiana State is the only university in Indiana licensed to use this tool,” Gallatin said. The software donated to ISU is valued at more than $225,000, Gallatin said. “It is a sophisticated financial analysis program that allows users to analyze and forecast cash flows from commercial real estate ventures including office, retail, industrial, apartment, hotel, motel, and other commercial properties,” he said.

<< Full Story >>

Finance Major Gains Experience While Helping Others Save Money

July 24, 2006

After just one year of college, Zack Ryan has parlayed an internship into a paid summer job that may set the foundation for his future career. Along the way, he helped fellow students and recent graduates save money by consolidating education loans in advance of a sharp rise in interest rates. Ryan, who completed his freshman year at Indiana State University in May, is spending his summer working at Indiana Secondary Market for Education Loans Inc.

In the weeks leading up to the July 1 deadline for consolidating federally backed loans, he processed stacks of applications from borrowers looking to avoid an interest rate increase of up to 1.8 percentage points. With the average college graduate carrying $17,500 in student loans, the savings can be substantial.

Zack Ryan

Zack Ryan

<< Full Story >>

ISU Student Participating in "Journey of Hope" Bike Ride

July 21, 2006

Indiana State University student Ezra McCalment and other riders participating in the Journey of Hope Bike Ride across America. McCalment, a sophomore marketing major from Camby, Ind. is one of 16 cyclists on the Trans American team. They along with four crew members, began their journey June 3 in Florence, Ore. and will arrive at their final destination of Washington, D.C. on Aug. 13. (It’s a 73 day, 4, 285 mile trip.) McCalment, a member of ISU’s Pi Kappa Phi fraternity, is the only student from Indiana participating in this event.

Each team member was selected for his leadership, commitment to service and community involvement. Cyclists are required to raise a minimum of $5000 to enhance the lives of people with disabilities. McCalment has set his sights higher, working to raise $6,000. The Journey of Hope is a cross-country cycling event that raises funds and awareness for people with disabilities. While biking on one of three routes, participants deliver messages of disability awareness along the way. The Journey of Hope annually raises over $500,000 for this worthwhile cause. The Journey of Hope is a program of Push America, the national philanthropy of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. The riders will be coming from Effingham, traveling on U.S. 40. They are expected to arrive at ISU between 2-2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 25.

<< Full Story >>

Indiana State Joins Motorsport Knowledge Exchange

June 30, 2006

Indiana State University has become the first institution from outside the United Kingdom to join the Motorsport Knowledge Exchange, an academic consortium that provides education and training to the motorsports industry at a variety of levels.

The exchange is based in the Motorsport Valley, a region of central and southern England that is home to some 4,000 motorsports companies, including six Formula 1 teams and dozens of suppliers to teams competing in Formula 1, Indy Racing League, Champ Car, Grand Am, NASCAR, NHRA and other series.

The addition of Indiana State to the exchange's existing partnership of eight British colleges and universities was announced today (Friday, June 30, 2006) during the Motorsports Industry Association's seventh annual motorsports conference, in conjunction with this weekend's Formula 1 U.S. Grand Prix at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Guy Faulkner, visiting fellow in ISU's College of Business, said, "Education can only benefit the economic development and job opportunities for the motorsport community in Indiana and allow Indiana to fully contribute to the success of the global industry."

Faulkner, from the University of Westminster's Harrow College of Business and chair of the International Motorsport Education Forum, is spending six months at Indiana State assisting with the launch of its motorsports programming and with the development of state, national and international partnerships.

<< Full Story >>

Professors, Students Recognized for International Efforts

June 2, 2006

The International Affairs Center at Indiana State University recently held its annual awards banquet in recognition of ISU employees and students who have provided a great deal of support to international students at ISU, promoted intercultural awareness, or helped develop ISU's international partnerships and international development initiatives abroad.

Among those honored were Wei He and Aruna Chandra - for their support of and involvement in the ISU-Liaoning University "China and the World Economy" program, sponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and the U.S State Department.

Stedents also honored were Rishi Bell of Mumbai, India, a 2006 bachelor's graduate in business administration who received the International Athlete Award. Undergraduate winners were Malik Khatadia of Mumbai, India, a 2006 bachelor's graduate in accounting; and Yasushi Suzuki of Kyoto, Japan, a senior in accounting.

<< Full Story >>

Terrie E. Troxel to Oversee ISU's Gongaware Center

May 30, 2006

Terri Troxel, 2006Terrie E. Troxel, an experienced insurance educator, researcher and trade association executive, will oversee Indiana State University's Gongaware Center for Insurance Management Development. He also will serve in a faculty role for the College of Business's nationally recognized insurance and risk management program.

"We are excited that Terrie has agreed to work with us in this critical area of our college," said Ron Green, dean of ISU's College of Business. "His background and experience will be instrumental as we continue to strengthen our ties with the financial services industry."

Troxel brings to the College of Business and the university a rare blend of academic and industry experience that has become the hallmark of ISU's renowned insurance and risk management program. He's looking forward to putting his expertise to work for ISU.

A graduate of Illinois Wesleyan University, Troxel earned his master's and Ph.D. in managerial sciences and applied economics from the University of Pennsylvania. In addition, he earned a fellowship from the S. S. Huebner Foundation at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. He also completed the Lloyd's of London Executive Education Program through Lincoln College at Oxford University in England.

<< Full Story >>

13 Awarded ISU's Elite Networks Scholarship

May 26, 2006

Thirteen of the best and brightest students interested in careers in the financial services have earned Indiana State University's prestigious Networks Scholarship through the university's College of Business. The 2006 class of scholars represent the fourth year for this elite program.

Recipients of the Networks Scholarship receive a four-year, $20,000 scholarship to support the cost of tuition and fees, a $3,000 professional development account, and a new wireless laptop computer. Scholars also participate in a variety of professional development activities, including at least one paid internship, an international experience, interactions with an ISU faculty mentor during the freshman and sophomore years, and an executive mentor experience during the junior and senior years.

Each scholar is selected during a highly competitive process during which grade point average, S.A.T. scores, class rank, written essays and personal interviews are heavily considered. "The Networks Scholarship program provides these students with real advantages over others entering the field," said Ron Green, dean of ISU's College of Business.

This fall, the following students will become members of the Networks Scholarship program and of the class of 2010 at Indiana State: 

Tony Askins, of Shelbyville, Ill., attended Shelbyville High School and plans to major in finance while at ISU, with a minor in business administration. 

Curt Bromm, of Saint Anthony, attended Forest Park High School in Ferdinand. 

Mark Elliott, of Terre Haute, attended Terre Haute North Vigo High School, and plans to major in accounting. 

Kristin Elston, of Paris, Ill., attended Paris High School and plans to major in business administration, with a minor in management information systems. 

Silas Gennicks, of Linton, attended Linton-Stockton High School and plans to major in accounting and minor in insurance and risk management. 

Joshua Henson, of Spencer, attended Owen Valley High School and plans to major in insurance and risk management, with a minor in management. 

Michael Hogan, of Cory, attended Clay City Jr.-Sr. High School and plans to major in accounting, with a minor in finance. 

Mackenzie Kern, of Kansas, Ill., attended Kansas High School and plans to major in finance, with a minor in insurance and risk management. 

Tessa Murdock, of Winnemucca, Nev., attended Albert M. Lowry High School and plans to major in accounting, with a minor in insurance and risk management.

Michael Peterlich, of Charleston, Ill., attended Charleston High School and plans to major in management, with a minor in marketing.

Traci Rosenbalm, of Danville, attended Cascade High School and plans to major in accounting, with a minor in finance. 

Emily Stites, of Huntington, attended Huntington North High School and plans to major in finance, with a minor in marketing. 

Jeremy Thompson, of Martinsville, Ill., attended Casey-Westfield High School and plans to major in management information systems, with a minor in business administration. 

<< Full Story >>

Michael Haseley Lands Competitive NAPSLO Internship

May 26, 2006

Michael HaselyMichael Haseley, a senior insurance and risk management and accounting major from Argos, has been selected for a prestigious nine-week summer internship, sponsored by the National Association of Professional Surplus Lines Offices, Ltd. (NAPSLO). Only 10 were selected for NAPSLO's paid summer internships and four of the 10 will be selected to attend the association's annual conference this fall. As a NAPSLO intern, Haseley will be eligible to compete for the top prize: the opportunity to serve a three-week internship in London during the summer of 2007.

During his NAPSLO experience, Haseley will be serving two separate internships - one five weeks, the other four weeks. The first will be at Essex Insurance Co. (a division of Markel Corporation) in Richmond, Va., through June 23; the second will be with Bliss & Glennon, Inc. (surplus lines broker) in Redondo Beach, Calif., from June 26 through July 21. Haseley will receive a competitive salary from his host firms, and NAPSLO will provide his stipend, travel expenses and housing costs.

Haseley - the son of Paul and Doris Haseley of Argos - will learn all aspects of the surplus lines segment of the insurance industry. While surplus lines represent a small percentage of the commercial insurance market, it's important in the handling of unique, unusual or hard-to-place risks.

During his time at ISU, Haseley has worked as a summer intern for NCR Corporation out of Dayton, Ohio (2005), and as scholarship recruitment coordinator for Networks Financial Institute at ISU.

Some of his honors and awards have included the 2006 Anita Benedetti Student Involvement Award (sponsored by the Risk Insurance Management Society), recipient of the Networks Scholarship ($20,000 over four years for students pursuing a financial services-related degree), the Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship and the ISU Academic Scholarship. He's also been a member of the Dean's List and a National Merit Finalist. In addition, Haseley is a member of the Insurance and Risk Management Honors Corps (GPA of 3.6 or above), Gamma Iota Sigma Risk Management, Insurance and Actuarial Science Collegiate Fraternity, Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Business Fraternity and Toastmasters International.

<< Full Story >>

President's Scholars: 15 Awarded ISU's Top Academic Honor

May 26, 2006

Fifteen students have been awarded Indiana State University’s most prestigious scholarship - the President’s Scholarship. The honor includes full tuition, room, board and books as well as a laptop computer for all four years of the student’s college career.

President’s Scholars must be ranked in the top 10 percent of their high school class or have a cumulative grade point average of at least a 3.7 on a 4.0 scale. Selection is highly competitive and based upon both academic and personal accomplishments, and an interview is required for all finalists.

Among the awardees were:

Stephanie Balbach, the daughter of Jim Balbach and Karen Balbach, is a graduate of Francis Joseph Reitz High School in Evansville. She plans to major in insurance and risk management while at ISU, in hopes of becoming a professional actuary. During high school, Balbach has been involved in Business Professionals of America, as well as the softball and volleyball teams. She has earned honors and awards as Outstanding Business Student for three consecutive years, received the Green River Kiwanis Award for softball as a junior, and earned the Kiwanis Award for volleyball as a senior.

Eric Gettelfinger, the son of Jerry and Jane Gettelfinger of DePauw, graduated from North Harrison High School and plans to major in business and insurance and risk management while at ISU. He hopes to eventually pursue a career in business, financial services or law. During high school, Gettelfinger has been involved in varsity tennis, National Honor Society, student council, 4-H, FFA, FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes), SADD (Students Against Drunk Driving), drama club, Leo Club, Renaissance Leadership Team, Academic Super Bowl Team, bowling club and ski club. He also was a member of the Harrison County Conservation Corps, the Harrison County Youth Philanthropy Council, St. Bernard’s Youth Group, and was a Hoosier Boys State delegate in 2005. Some of his honors and awards have included: tennis letter winner, recipient of the Presidential Freedom Scholarship for Youth Volunteerism, Student of the Month various years, numerous 4-H and FFA awards, among others.

Allison Myers, the daughter of John and Cindi Myers, graduated from Kokomo High School and plans to major in business while at ISU. While in high school, she has participated in Future Business Leaders of America, English Academic Super Bowl, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, National Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society and Spanish Club. Her honors and awards include being named WIOU Student Athlete of the Week, second place in state for English Academic Super Bowl and academic all-state team honors from the Indiana Coaches of Girls Sports Association and the Indiana High School Golf Coaches Association.

Whitney O’Brien, the daughter of Jerry and Penny O’Brien, graduated from Terre Haute North Vigo High School and plans to major in accounting while at ISU. She hopes to eventually become a certified public accountant. Her activities in high school have included softball, National Honor Society, Interact, volleyball, and community volunteer work. She has been named to the exceptional honor roll, has received the Academic Excellence Award, the National Merit Scholars Commended Student Award, the Volleyball Hustle Award and served as captain of her school’s softball team.

Kelsey Seacat, the daughter of Eldon and Kathy Seacat, graduated from Paoli High School and plans to major in marketing while at ISU. Her high school activities have included National Honor Society (president as senior, vice president as junior), Telecom Club, Spanish Club, Students Against Drunk Driving (SADD), television production and photography. Her honors include being named to the Paoli High School No. 1 Club, Paoli High School English Department Hall of Fame, honor roll every grading period, member of the school’s “The Challenge of Democracy” service group, Southern Hills Essay Contest winner and is ranked second in her graduating class of 106 students.

Paige Williams, is the daughter of Charlie and Donna Williams of Terre Haute and will graduate from Terre Haute South Vigo High School. She plans to major in international business while at ISU and hopes eventually to attend law school. Her high school activities have included Link Crew, National Honor Society, Junior Department Club, Interact, Class Senate, soccer, St. Margaret Mary’s Youth Group, Americorps member working at Happiness Bag, and a four-year member of Who’s Who Among American High School Students. Her honors and awards have included exceptional honor roll, one of two SVHS students chosen to attend Richard Lugar’s Symposium for Tomorrow’s Leaders, Hoosier Heroes Scholarship winner (one of 10 in Indiana), nominated to attend the national forum on law in Washington, D.C., Outstanding Student of America, Best Mental Attitude Award for soccer, academic student of the month, and top 10 percent of graduating class.

<< Full Story >>

ISU College of Business to Host 'Camp Own It!'

May 19, 2006

Indiana State University will once again host its exciting, hands-on camp for future business owners June 19-23 in the ISU College of Business. The camp, which runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., is open to youth between the ages of 10 and 14.

“Camp Own It!,” a fast-paced, week-long program for future entrepreneurs, will teach marketing, accounting, team building and leadership skills. Teams will create their own businesses and track their spending and income. They also will work together to make important business decisions, such as how to market their product, how to make their product more appealing, and what supplies they will need based on the budget they have available.

And, profit isn’t all there is to running a business. Teams also will have the opportunity to select a favorite charity as part of the experience. Then, at week’s end, they will be able to present a check from their company’s overall profits to this charity during the final presentation, with family, friends and camp sponsors in attendance. Several area business professionals will interact with the teams and act as consultants for any marketing, accounting, or entrepreneurship questions that may arise.

<< Full Story >>

10 Students Honored as Distinguished Scholars by ISU College of Business

May 17, 2006

Ten students within Indiana State University's College of Business were honored as Distinguished Scholars for their academic excellence. Distinguished Scholar awards are presented to students within the college who are in the top five percent of their graduating class. Each student must have completed at least 58 hours and four semesters at ISU by the end of the spring semester.

May 2006 Distinguished Scholars

May 2006 Distinguished Scholars

Students honored as Distinguished Scholars this year were (in accompanying photo, from left): Adam Jurs, marketing major, DeMotte; Angela Lindauer, accounting major, Dale; Diana Lund, insurance and risk management major, Rockville; Meghan McCauley, marketing major, Danville; Sarah Ringwald, insurance and risk management major, Loogootee; Maranda Summers, accounting major, Terre Haute; Michelle Turner, accounting major, Brazil; Jamie Wagner, business education, Kokomo; Mariko Watanabe, insurance and risk management, Fukuoka, Japan.

<< Full Story >>

College of Business Honors Top Scholars for Leadership, Academic Achievements

May 17, 2006

Indiana State University's College of Business recognized leadership and learning from among the university's top scholars at its recent year-end celebration. As part of the event, the accomplishments of President's, Networks and Gongaware scholars were celebrated. This was the first year that awards were presented as part of the program.

In addition to academic awards for the highest grade point average in each class, awards also were presented for leadership at each level (freshman through junior) and an overall award for leadership was presented (Outstanding Leader of the Year Award).

Below are the students who received honors and awards during the ceremony:

Danielle Thompson - Outstanding Leadership Award Insurance and risk management and business administration major Terre Haute This award specifically recognizes Danielle's leadership contribution related to the Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility Conference.

Ashley Cameron - Junior Leadership Award Finance major; insurance and risk management minor Rushville This award specifically recognizes Ashley's leadership contribution related to the Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility Conference.

Michael Haseley - Junior Leadership Award Insurance major; This award specifically recognizes Michael's leadership contribution to the scholar recruitment process and to the Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility Conference.

April Huey - Junior Leadership Award Accounting and Finance major Scottsburg This award specifically recognizes April's leadership contribution to the scholar recruitment process and to the Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility Conference.

Jessica May - Sophomore Leadership Award Business major Rockport This award specifically recognizes Jessica's leadership contribution to the Recruiting Team and the Year-End Review.

Whitney Lewis - Sophomore Leadership Award Management and Finance major Alexandria This award specifically recognizes Whitney's leadership contribution the Year-End Review.

Amber Williams - Sophomore Leadership Award Accounting major Lyons This award specifically recognizes Amber's leadership contribution to the Year-End Review.

Dave Santelik - Sophomore Leadership Award Accounting major Crown Point This award specifically recognizes Dave's leadership contribution related to the Industry Speaker Team.

Racheal Titus - Freshman Leadership Award Accounting major Toledo, Ill. This award specifically recognizes Racheal's leadership contribution to the Industry Speaker Team.

Robin Bishop - Freshman Leadership Award Accounting major Petersburg This award specifically recognizes Robin's leadership contribution to the Industry Speaker Team.

Betsy Bender - Freshman Leadership Award Marketing major Marshall, Ill. This award specifically recognizes Betsy's leadership contribution to the scholar recruitment process. 

Freshman, Sophomore, Junior-Scholar of the Year Award -- Awarded to the top academic scholar in each class. Based on the highest cumulative GPA. Freshman Scholar of the Year Award (Highest GPA in Freshman Class): Erik Andersen, insurance major, Crown Point; Alana Bradford, operations management and analysis major, Sullivan; Casey Lock, accounting major, Chrisman, Ill. Jonathan Lough, insurance major, Fort Wayne; Karrie Pratt, management/finance major, Lawrenceburg; Aaron Rothgerber, accounting major, Dale; Racheal Titus, accounting major, Toledo, Ill.

Sophomore Scholar of the Year Award (Highest GPA in Sophomore Class) Amber Williams, accounting major, Lyons.

Junior Scholar of the Year Award (Highest GPA in Junior Class) Jocelyn Gohman, insurance major, Dana; Jacqueline Zuerner, insurance major, Terre Haute.

<< Full Story >>

Two Receive Indiana State's Prestigious Gongaware Scholarship

May 16, 2006

Two Indiana high school students will be coming to Indiana State University this fall as the new class of Gongaware Scholars. Nathan Lloyd of Plymouth and Kaleb Kester of Pimento will round out the list to 23 scholars who have been named since the program's inception in 1999.

Each scholarship, offered to eligible incoming freshmen, is valued at $7,500 annually and includes a wireless laptop computer and a professional development account. The scholarship is renewable for the three remaining years of the recipient's college career if he or she remains a full-time insurance student, performs academically within the Center's standards and completes at least one paid internship in insurance and risk management during his or her time at ISU.

Kaleb Kester, the son of Gay Ann and Marc Weaver of Pimento and Keith and Linda Kester of Farmersburg, graduated from Terre Haute South Vigo High School.

Nathan Lloyd, the son of Laurie and James Lloyd of Plymouth, graduated from Plymouth High School.

Indiana State's Gongaware Center was established with a gift from Donald and Patricia Gongaware for the purpose of developing future leaders in insurance and the financial services industry. Since its inception, part of the Gongaware Center's mission has included recruiting top high school students into ISU's renowned insurance and risk management program and helping them to build the technical, operational and leadership skills necessary to succeed in the industry and in the communities in which they live.

<< Full Story >>

Three Brothers to Graduate Together

May 5, 2006

Collin, Courtney and Jonathan Applewhite have more in common than being brothers. All three are graduating from Indiana State University on Saturday.

The Elkhart siblings say they know the importance of setting goals, developing plans for meeting those goals, and then carrying out those plans.

Twins Courtney and Collin are completing master's degrees in human resource development while Jonathan, who is younger, will receive a bachelor's degree in business. The three are the first of their immediate family to complete college. The twins, whose bachelor's degrees are in business administration, refined their research skills as McNair Scholars, and say that research, gave them a jump start on graduate school.

The brothers said they were attracted to Indiana State by the strength of the university's College of Business; relatively small class sizes; and ISU's location being within easy driving distance of Indianapolis, St. Louis, Evansville and Chicago.

Collin, Courtney and Jonathan Applewhite

Collin, Courtney and Jonathan Applewhite

<< Full Story >>

Maulik Khatadia Earns Rankin Award

May 1, 2006

Four members of the Indiana State University Class of 2006 will receive the Alan C. Rankin Memorial Distinguished Senior Awards during commencement on May 6, among them is Maulik Khatadia. Named for ISU's seventh president, lan C. Rankin who served from 1965-1975, the Rankin Awards are sponsored by the Student Alumni Association and the Office of Alumni Affairs.

Maulik Kirit Khatadia is an accounting major with a 3.47 grade-point average. He has been a resident assistant in ISU's housing system since 2003. Originally from Maharashtra, India, Khatadia served as a student advisor, created a sense of community among residents and responded to emergency situations. He also was a member of the theater construction crews for two productions, and served as a reporter and photographer for the student newspaper.

As a member of the Residence Hall Association, he served first as business affairs coordinator and then, in 2005-2006, as the Association's vice president. Khatadia was a member of the Hulman Memorial Student Union Board, serving as the group's vice president in 2004-2005, and as president since May 2005.

Khatadia was an active member of the Indian Student Association and participated in the Alternative Spring Break Project to Biloxi, Miss., for hurricane relief efforts. He was a member and secretary of Alpha Kappa Psi fraternity.

In 2004-2005 he was the recipient of an Outstanding Junior Award and earned the Linda Eldred Distinguished Service Award Scholarship and the Larry J. Miltenberger Scholarship. He was selected as a Bronze Pin recipient by the National Residence Hall Honorary. During 2003-2004, Khatadia was Indiana's Residence Hall Organization Student of the Year, Most Valuable Pledge of Alpha Kappa Psi, and included on the College of Business Dean's List and Honors List. He was listed in two editions of the National Dean's List. This past month he was selected to represent the 2006 graduating class as its Commencement speaker.

<< Full Story >>

Newell Chiesl Earns College of Business Teaching Award

April 28, 2006

Newell Chiesl, professor and program coordinator of marketing in Indiana State University's College of Business, has been awarded one of the college's top faculty recognition awards -- for excellence in teaching.

Based on performance from the past five years, the excellence in teaching award is presented in recognition of a faculty member's contribution to the mission and progress of the College of Business. The honor is bestowed upon the most derserving faculty member annually at the college's honor day celebration.

In his more than 25 years at Indiana State, Chiesl has specialized in enriching and transforming the lives of marketing students through the use of real-world, community business problems. His students have worked with such local organizations as the Terre Haute Boys and Girls Club, Lighthouse Mission, Wabash Valley Youth Soccer Association and the Terre Haute Symphony Orchestra.

2006 Business Award - Newell Chiesl with Ron Green

Newell Chiesl (left), professor and program coordinator of marketing, is presented with a plaque by Ron Green (right), dean of ISU's College of Business at Honor Day ceremonies April 25 in ISU's Hulman Memorial Student Union.

<< Full Story >>

Maulik Khatadia Chosen as Student Commencement Speaker

April 27, 2006

Maulik Khatadia, an international student from India who is graduating with a bachelor's degree in accounting, has been selected as Student Commencement Speaker. 

Khatadia said he was accepted into two universities - Louisiana Tech and Indiana State - but chose ISU because of the growing business school, and because Indiana was closer to his older sister who lives in New Jersey. Khatadia grew up in Bombay, India, as the youngest of three children in a middle-class family.

His opportunities now include a job offer, which he has accepted, with a Big Four accounting firm - Ernst & Young, LLP, in the Washington, D.C., area. He landed the position with the help of connections made by participating in student organizations at ISU. In his speech, Khatadia encourages his fellow classmates to open the doors of opportunity that await them.

<< Full Story >>

Record Number of Hines Medalists This Year

April 27, 2006

Eighteen students who each maintained a 4.0 cumulative grade point average during their time at Indiana State University will be honored with the Hines Memorial Medal during spring 2006 commencement May 6 in Hulman Center.

Named for Linnaeus Neal Hines, who served as the university's fourth president from 1921 to 1933, the Hines Medal recognizes graduating seniors with the highest cumulative grade point average. This year's pool of recipients is the largest since the award's inception. Among the recipients were:

Ashley Ave, Clinton. An accounting major, Ave plans to become a certified public accountant with a career in public accounting.
Adrie Koehler, Center Point. A business education and business administration major, Koehler's future plans include teaching.
Andrea Lewman, Indianapolis. An accounting major with a minor in insurance, Lewman has accepted employment with PricewaterhouseCoopers, a global certified public accounting firm with offices in Indianapolis.
Michelle Montoya, Terre Haute. A business management major, Montoya is moving to Bloomfield to start a career in retail management.

<< Full Story >>

11 ISU Faculty Members Honored at Banquet

April 21, 2006

Indiana State University honored 11 professors for distinguished service and outstanding contributions to the university during its annual Faculty Recognition Banquet Thursday (April 20).

President Lloyd W. Benjamin III presented the President's Medal, the university's highest award for faculty, to four long time educators. Caleb Mills Distinguished Teaching Awards, Faculty Distinguished Teaching Awards and Theodore Dreiser Distinguished Research/Creativity Awards were also presented.

Among those honored was Eurico Ferreira, Professor of Finance who was awared the Theodore Dreiser Distinguished Research/Creativity Award. The award is named for the early 20th Century author who grew up in Terre Haute, this award recognizes full-time faculty members who have made outstanding contributions to their disciplines. 

<< Full Story >>

ISU Rolls Out Motorsports Minor, Other Initiatives

April 18, 2006

The announcement of a new minor in motorsports management at Indiana State University is doing more than getting current and future students revved up about the possibilities. It's also showing that ISU is responsive to the needs of the motorsports industry - an area of growing importance, economically and otherwise, to the state of Indiana and the nation.

"One of the things that we have tried to do is find out exactly what employers are saying they need to be successful in this industry in this state, and that's one of the reasons that led to the development of the minor that we have rolled out today," said Ron Green, dean of ISU's College of Business.

Three ISU colleges (business, health and human performance, and technology) will collaboratively deliver a minor, beginning this fall, which will focus on motorsports management. It will draw on the expertise of ISU faculty in these colleges and is expected to complement a variety of degrees on campus.

Motorsports Minor Announced

ISU alumnus Scot Elkins (left) talks to students about motorsports as a career as part of the April 18 announcement of the minor and other related initiatives. Elkins is director of technology for the Champ Car World Series and a member of the motorsports management advisory committee. Looking on is Randy Peters (right), assistant professor of industrial/mechanical technology at ISU.

<< Full Story >>

The Money Bus has Arrived

April 10, 2006

Indiana State University's Networks Financial Institute (NFI) has unveiled an exciting and innovative concept in the world of financial literacy education - an interactive classroom on wheels.

The "Kids Count on the Money Bus" - or the "Money Bus," for short - will be a visual, hands-on way of exposing young students, particularly in grades three through five, to financial concepts, such as saving and spending wisely, managing financial accounts, using credit and debit cards, and much more.

The Money Bus officially made its debut April 10 as part of NFI's second Indiana Financial Literacy Conference in Indianapolis in conjunction with April being National Financial Literacy Month.

It will be unveiled for ISU dignitaries, legislators, supporters and friends of ISU at a special reception April 20 at the Children's Museum of Indianapolis. The reception will take place as part of NFI's financial literacy community event - "An Evening with Michelle Singletary." Singletary, author, television host and nationally syndicated Washington Post columnist, will use her humor and down-home style to educate attendees about financial literacy and the importance of saving.

The Money Bus being prepared in 2006

The Money Bus being prepared in 2006

<< Full Story >>

ISU Hosts Workshop on Doing Business in China

April 6, 2006

What: "Doing Business in China" is the focus of an upcoming workshop at Indiana State University, sponsored by the College of Business in conjunction with the International Affairs Center. The event is made possible by an ISU and Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, U.S. State Department grant on "China and the World Economy."

Wei He received his Ph.D. in management from Boston College and joined ISU in 2002. He teaches various management courses, including human resource management and international business, and conducts research in cross-cultural/international management.

<< Full Story >>

Ethics: The Primary Building Block of Business

March 27, 2006

The President's Scholarship is the top competitive scholarship at Indiana State (students in top 10 percent of high school class with at least 3.7 out of 4.0 GPA). Networks Scholarships are for students studying any area within the realm of financial services (marketing, finance, insurance and risk management, accounting, etc.). Gongaware Scholarships are for students specifically majoring in the field of insurance and risk management.

"Treat others as you would expect to be treated." Much like the Ten Commandments of life, this is essentially one of the Ten Commandments of business as well, according to Jeff Taylor, president of Pearson, Inc., and one of several presenters at Indiana State University's first-ever conference on "Ethics and Corporate Responsibility," March 27.

The conference was sponsored by ISU's College of Business and Networks Financial Institute at ISU, and the university's Networks, President's and Gongaware scholars worked hard to make the event a tremendous success. Conference planning and logistics are part of the scholars' junior year objectives - to enhance both experiential learning opportunities and leadership skills.

<< Full Story >>

ISU to Host First Conference on 'Ethics and Corporate Responsibility'

March 25, 2006

The conference is being planned and executed by Networks, President's and Gongaware scholars, all in their junior year of study at ISU. Networks Scholars are students majoring in any areas pertaining to financial services (finance, marketing, insurance, etc.). Gongaware Scholars are students studying insurance and risk management. President's Scholars are the top scholars at ISU.

Since September, junior President's, Networks and Gongaware Scholars have been hard at work planning ISU's first free conference on "Ethics and Corporate Responsibility." Conference planning and logistics are part of the scholars' junior year objectives - to enhance both their experiential learning opportunities and leadership skills.

Based on results from a survey last year of employers in the banking, insurance and securities industry, Indiana State University's Networks Financial Institute (NFI) learned that ethics is considered one of the top skills that new college hires should possess. While employers deemed it important for new hires to have a solid education based on traditional curriculum, there was an intense and emerging interest in "soft skills," particularly in the areas of business ethics and financial services-specific coursework.

<< Full Story >>

Assessing Adult Financial Literacy Focus of Next NFI Financial Forum

March 23, 2006

Financial illiteracy is becoming widely recognized as a fundamental problem in the United States. As many as 40 million Americans do not use mainstream banking services, and only 27 percent of adults feel well informed about managing their own household finances.

These statistics seem unrealistic for the 21st century, but if this is the state of the problem, then how are we to arrive at a solution? Indiana State University's Networks Financial Institute is bringing together a national panel of experts March 28 to discuss the state of adult financial literacy in the U.S. today as part of its ongoing Financial Forum Series.

The event, which will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Columbia Club in Indianapolis (121 Monument Circle), is one of many that have been presented this year.

Keynote speaker for the forum will be Paul Solman, business and economics correspondent with The News Hour with Jim Lehrer. He will discuss "Financial Literacy: How to Save Safely for an Uncertain Future."

<< Full Story >>

ISU Accounting Students Assist With Tax Preparation

March 22, 2006

Several ISU accounting students have participated in this effort and have been specially trained to conduct these sessions and assist with these filings. During the last session, taxes were prepared for more than 75 international students. That represents more than 230 tax forms that had to be filled out and filed.

Joe Sanders, program coordinator and professor of accounting in Indiana State University's College of Business, recruited the students for the project. The students gave up an entire day out of their schedules to attend IRS training. They also had to take a test to become Certified VITA tax preparers. The accounting students who received special training and who assist with this service-learning project include:
- Ashley Cribelar, junior, Martinsville, Ill
- Mallory Kirchner, junior, Brazil, Ind
- Maranda Summers, senior, Indianapolis
- Kaitlin Korosi, junior, Batesville, Ind

Members of the controller and payroll staffs who participate in this effort include: Jeff Jacso, Hope Waldbieser, Catherine Procarione, Stacy Hammond, Kathy Abernathy, Robert Anthrop, Mike Bonnett, Chip Rogers and Louise Jackson.

<< Full Story >>

Scott Students Bring Home Honors from BPA Competition

March 20, 2006

Indiana State University has a new Business Professionals of America (BPA) chapter, and it sure has started off on the right foot.

Seven students from the ISU chapter participated in state competition, and all seven qualified for national competition. These top students will now have the opportunity to attend the BPA 2006 National Leadership Conference, "Make Your Mark," in Orlando, Fla., May 10-14.

In Orlando, ISU chapter members Ritchie Hand, Dustin Bratton, Brandon Haston, Jonathan Clark, Rachel Williams, Amanda Willis, and Becky Milner will join more than 5,000 other conference delegates from across the nation. While there, they will participate in national-level business skill competitions, workshops, general sessions and national officer candidate campaigns and elections.

BPA is a national organization for high school, college and middle school students preparing for careers in business and information technology occupations. At the collegiate level, BPA provides leadership, professional learning, and networking opportunities, and membership is open to students from all program areas in the College of Business.

BPA Competition 2006

Pictured are (front, from left): Rachel Williams, Amanda Willis, and Becky Milner; and (back, from left): Ritchie Hand, Dustin Bratton, Brandon Haston and Jonathan Clark. Kelly Wilkinson is faculty advisor for ISU's chapter, which is now in its second year.

BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS OF AMERICA:
ISU Chapter Winners

Amanda Willis - junior from Springport, Ind.

- 1st -Integrated Office Application

- 1st -Administrative Support Team

Becky Milner - junior from Terre Haute, Ind.

- 1st -Advanced Word Processing Skills

- 2nd -Integrated Office applications

Dustin Bratton - freshman from Cayuga, Ind.

- 1st -Presentation Management

- 1st -Administrative Support Team

- 2nd -Graphic Design Promotion

Rachel Williams - freshman from Bridgeport, Ill.

- 4th -Fundamental Word Processing Skills

- 4th -Financial Math and Analysis

Ritchie Hand - freshman from Washington, Ind.

- 1st -Computer Network Technology

- 2nd -Novell Network Administration

- 5th -Information Technology Concepts

Jonathan Clark - sophomore from McCordsville, Ind.

- 1st -Interview Skills

- 1st -Administrative Support Team

- 2nd -Prepared Speech

Brandon Haston - junior from Avon, Ind.

- 1st -Desktop Publishing

- 1st -Administrative Support Team

<< Full Story >>

NFI Insurance Summit Ignites Debate on Both Sides of Federal Charter Issue

March 1, 2006

They say there are two sides to every issue, and in the case of a proposed optional federal charter (OFC) for the insurance industry, this has never been more true.

Two very different positions on the issue emerged today (March 1) as part of Networks Financial Institute's third annual insurance summit at the Ronald Reagan International Trade Center in Washington, D.C. The summit was presented by NFI at Indiana State University and sponsored in part by B&D Consulting LLC.

"The idea of insurance regulatory reform is a growing topic, and we're happy to be playing a lead role in bringing these key decision makers together to discuss it," said Liz Coit, executive director of Networks Financial Institute at Indiana State University. "This year's summit has enabled us to engage in some very active dialogue regarding the industry."

NFI Insurance Summit 2006

Industry panelists for the summit pictured are, from left to right: Charles T. Richardson of Baker and Daniels LLP, J. Kevin McKechnie of the American Bankers Insurance Association and Charles E. Symington, Jr., representing the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America. Others included:  Gary Hughes of the American Council of Life Insurers, J. Stephen Zielezienski of the American Insurance Association, and Richard Bouhan of the National Association of Professional Surplus Lines Offices (NAPSLO).

<< Full Story >>

Indiana State University's Networks Financial Institute Honored by Indiana House and Senate

February 21, 2006

NFI Scholars at Statehouse, 2006The Indiana House and Senate recognized Indiana State University's Networks Financial Institute yesterday for its continuous efforts to increase and improve human resources for the financial services industry and well as its in-depth and far-reaching financial literacy initiatives throughout the state.

"We're really pleased to gain this kind of recognition for a program of study that is really important for preparing future leaders in financial services for the state," said ISU President Lloyd W. Benjamin. "Our goal is to continue to build on the success we've had for the past four years as we continue to attract some of the brightest and the best who want to be involved in that industry."

Representatives of Indiana State, Networks and the Networks Scholars Program were present as the House and Senate presented the joint resolution on their behalf. One reason for the resolution, which was introduced by Rep. Clyde Kersey and Senator Tim Skinner, was the fact that Indiana State provides vital resources to the financial services and insurance and risk management industries via the prestigious Networks Scholars program.

<< Full Story >>

Student Earns Competitive Microsoft Corporation/AAPD Summer Internship

February 17, 2006

Angela Kuhn is a 2006 recipient of the prestigious Microsoft Corp./American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) summer internship in Washington, D.C.

Kuhn, a management information systems (MIS) and business administration major from Clinton, was one of 10 students nationwide selected for this honor. She credits ISU and her professors for preparing her for this valuable opportunity. he's in MIS Associate Professor Jim Buffington's class for the first time in her ISU career, and her presence has transformed the way his students learn and has increased their awareness of persons with disabilities.

Besides serving as president of ISU's Management Information Systems Association, Kuhn has been named to the National Dean's List (2003-04 and 2004-05), as well as to ISU's Dean's List (2003 and 2004). She's a member of Alpha Iota Mu, the management information systems honors fraternity, and serves as the organization's secretary; Beta Gamma Sigma, the international business honors society; and the Golden Key National Honor Society.

<< Full Story >>

ISU's Networks Financial Institute Presents Third Annual Insurance Summit in Washington, D.C.

February 17, 2006

Should there be a federal role in insurance chartering and regulation? If so, how might this impact the industry? Leading figures in financial services and government will share key issues and perspectives on the effects and potential of insurance reform as part of the third Networks Financial Institute (NFI) Insurance Summit March 1 in Washington, D.C. The event will take place from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center.

The summit is presented by NFI at Indiana State University and contributing sponsor B&D Consulting LLC, and will include featured speakers such as:

Scott Harrington, who is Alan B. Miller Professor at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, will discuss "Federal Charters for Insurance Companies: Options and Alternatives;" Harrington is former president of both the American Risk and Insurance Association and the Risk Theory Society and is currently on the Shadow Financial Regulatory Committee (American Enterprise Institute).

<< Full Story >>

Two Insurance Majors to be Honored with Benedetti Student Involvement Award

February 17, 2006

Indiana State University students Michael Haseley and ​ will be recognized with the Anita Benedetti Student Involvement Award by the Risk and Insurance Management Society, Inc. (RIMS) at the organization's national conference, April 23-27, in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Michael HaselyZuerner and Haseley will receive the Benedetti Award for their outstanding leadership and involvement - at Indiana State and in the pursuit of insurance and risk management as an area of study and future career.

Haseley, a junior insurance and risk management major and Networks Scholar from Argos (2003 graduate of Argos Junior-Senior High School), and Zuerner, a Gongaware Scholar and junior insurance and risk management major from Terre Haute (2003 graduate of Terre Haute North), were selected to receive the award from a national pool of applicants. Haseley, who also is earning minors in finance and safety management, says his ISU education has set the stage perfectly for his future in insurance.

Jackie ZuernerZuerner, the daughter of Dan and Joan Zuerner of Terre Haute, has served as an intern for Lockton Companies, Inc. (Summer 2005) and is a supplemental instructor and pre-business tutor for Indiana State's Student Academic Services Center. She also is a member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, Alpha Lambda Delta, Gamma Iota Sigma, Toastmasters International and the Insurance and Risk Management Honors Corps.

In addition to being an ISU Gongaware Scholar, Zuerner has been named a Spencer Education Foundation Scholar (2005-06), a PRIMA Scholar (2004) and a finalist for the Governor's Commission for Higher Education (2004).

<< Full Story >>

ISU to Host First Conference on Ethics and Corporate Responsibility

February 17, 2006

These days, stories about unethical business practices flood newspapers and television stations across America and overseas. The lack of ethics in the workplace and in everyday life has seemed to reach an all-time high, and Indiana State University's top scholars are poised to do something about it.

Since September, junior President's, Networks and Gongaware Scholars have been hard at work planning ISU's first free conference on "Ethics and Corporate Responsibility," which is set to take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 27 in Indiana State's Hulman Memorial Student Union. Conference planning and logistics are part of the scholars' junior year objectives - to enhance both experiential learning opportunities and leadership skills.

Conference break-out sessions will feature expert speakers and industry panelists addressing topical ethical issues facing today's business world. For instance, sessions will focus on hot topics such as "Ethics of Genetic Testing," "Sarbanes Oxley," "The Employment of Illegal Immigrants," "Martha Stewart: What Went Wrong?" "Personal Piracy (i.e. music downloads)," and "Truth in Advertising," to name a few.

Keynote speaker for the conference will be Christopher Bauer of Bauer Coaching and Bauer Ethics Seminars. A clinical psychologist, seminar leader, consultant and ethics expert, Bauer helps individuals and companies make more ethically informed decisions while maximizing their bottom line. He teaches them how to take responsibility - how to ?walk the walk and talk the talk' of ethical behavior.

<< Full Story >>

ISU to Host Risk Manager in Residence

February 17, 2006

Susan Meltzer, assistance vice president of risk management for Sun Life Financial in Toronto, will be visiting the Indiana State University campus as part of the Spencer Educational Foundation's Risk Manager in Residence program, Feb. 22-23.

The Risk Manager in Residence program is possible through a grant from the Spencer Foundation. Meltzer will share her expertise in the field and current trends in the insurance and risk management industry with faculty and students in the College of Business as well as with area industry leaders.

Meltzer began her career in risk management in 1983 with the Canada Development Corp. as coordinator of risk and insurance. She became Sun Life Financial's first risk manager in 1996 and has built a risk management program from the ground up, including adoption of an enterprise risk management approach.

<< Full Story >>

ISU Business Briefs

January 27, 2006

News and information from ISU's College of Business
Distributed monthly by Indiana State University's Office of Communications & Marketing

Vol. 1, Issue 3 - January 27, 2006

Contents

IRM career expo will give students chance to network
Groundhog Day economic forecast breakfast Feb. 2 at ISU

<< Full Story (Web Archive) >>

Insurance and Risk Management Career Expo Will Give Students Chance to Network

January 27, 2006

The second Indiana State University Insurance and Risk Management Career Expo is set for Feb. 1 from 2 to 5:30 p.m. in Dede II of the Hulman Memorial Student Union. The event is sponsored by the Alpha Epsilon Chapter of Gamma Iota Sigma and ISU's insurance and risk management program in the College of Business.

Some of the companies attending will include: Auto-Owners Insurance Co.; Farmers Insurance Group; Federated Insurance; Forrest Sherer, Inc.; Liberty Mutual Insurance Co.; Lockton Companies, Inc.; Gregory & Appel Insurance; ONB Insurance Group; State Farm Insurance; Ameriprise Financial, among others.

<< Full Story >>

ISU Announces 'Promising Scholars'

January 26, 2006

As part of its efforts to become the best university of its kind in the Midwest, Indiana State University today named 18 up-and-coming faculty members as "Promising Scholars," awarding research grants of up to $15,000 for each of 16 projects.

Promising Scholars are educators who have not yet attained the rank of professor but have demonstrated a commitment to meaningful research that has the potential to benefit the state and nation.

The program is designed to help attract and retain exceptionally qualified faculty by providing support for scholarly research early in their careers. It is part of "Fulfilling the Promise - The Path to Pre-eminence," a six-year plan to shift the university's mission toward providing real-world learning for students and creating solutions to community problems.

Among them are:

William Wilhelm, assistant professor, business education/information/technology
Kelly Wilkinson, assistant professor, business education/information/technology

William Wilhelm, "Teaching Ethics in Undergraduate Business Core Courses." This study will identify effective teaching methods for instructors, who may not be formally trained business ethicists, in each discipline of business.

Kelly Wilkinson, "Using Breeze for Communication and Assessment of Internships." Using Breeze software, a Web camera and headset, student interns will be able to see and hear their internship coordinators via the Internet and ask questions of professors monitoring their experiences. Students also will record a video diary which faculty can use as a tool for teaching and grading.

<< Full Story >>

ISU Professor Develops, Pilot-Tests Course on Business Ethics

January 3, 2006

Max Douglas, professor of management in Indiana State University's College of Business, has developed and piloted a proposed undergraduate course entitled "Corporate Citizenship: An Emerging Philosophy of Leadership." The pedagogical research was underwritten by a grant from Networks Financial Institute at ISU.

The course - in essence, a sign of the times - focuses on four primary themes: the responsibility of business in society, ethical decision making, ethical leadership and corporate governance.

<< Full Story >>