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Valparaiso University Giving Nontraditional Scholars an Opportunity for Education

Oct. 10, 2022 – Valparaiso, Indiana – Valparaiso University President José D. Padilla, J.D. reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to support students throughout the region.  At Ivy Tech Community College annual Chancellors’ Scholarship event on Oct. 6, 2022, he informed the 20 Northwest Indiana scholarship recipients that they would receive substantial financial support to attend Valpo, once they completed their associate degree at Ivy Tech. 

“Along with my brothers, Chancellors Sikoski and Gonzalez,” President Padilla said, “we have a responsibility to level the playing field for the hardworking people in Northwest Indiana who have accomplished so much at Ivy Tech, but may not have the means to complete a bachelor degree.  The Chancellors’ Scholars are among the greatest investments Valparaiso University can make for the future of our region.  We look forward to seeing these ‘Ivy Beacons’ continue their success on our campus.” 

Upon graduation with their associate’s degree from Ivy Tech Community College, the 20 recipients of the 2022 Chancellor’s Scholarship from Lake County and Valparaiso campuses will be guaranteed admission into Valparaiso University within two years of degree completion if they so choose. The recipients will also receive the new Ivy Beacon Scholarship award. This award, when combined with merit scholarships and gift aid through FAFSA, will cover their tuition and fees. Valparaiso University and Ivy Tech Community College of Valparaiso and Lake County are currently working on formalizing this agreement for future scholarship recipients.

“This generous gift is now elevating our relationship with Valparaiso University to a new and exciting level and recognizes our students’ commitment to their academic achievements,” said Louie Gonzalez, chancellor of Ivy Tech Lake County sites. “We are deeply grateful to President Padilla for honoring them in this unique and generous way.”

Valparaiso University was recently recognized as a transfer-friendly institution by Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, a title that the University strives to live up to with this announcement and its continued collaboration with Ivy Tech. Valpo is also committed to service, which includes working with partners like Ivy Tech to provide students of all backgrounds with the opportunity to experience the top-tier educational experience that Valparaiso University is known for. 

“Thanks to President Padilla, our students can continue their world-class education with confidence as future graduates of Valparaiso University,” said Aco Sikoski, chancellor of Ivy Tech Valparaiso, Michigan City, and La Porte sites. “This offer confirms the intentionality of the partnership.”

Valparaiso University is committed to helping students from all backgrounds pursue their academic goals, with generous financial support available for all qualifying transfer students. For more information on overall transfer student opportunities, please visit valpo.edu/admission-aid/transfer/