Category: Alumni Association

The Pivotal Moments that Shaped Kirsten Norwood’s Success

October 9, 2025 by Meghan Sawitzke

A Father’s Dream In 2012, while visiting Ball State’s campus, Kirsten Davenport-Norwood’s father pulled an admissions counselor aside and pressed a sticky note into his hand. On it, he had written Kirsten’s name and told the counselor: “My daughter must go to this school. Make sure when her application comes through, she gets in.” Two […]

Read More
Alumni Homecoming Guide 2025

October 7, 2025 by Meghan Sawitzke

Homecoming week is almost here! Ball State is gearing up to offer a mix of classic traditions and exciting events to celebrate this special time. With activities happening all over campus and involving various colleges, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. For our alumni, here’s a handy guide to explore the many ways you can […]

Read More
From Ball State to Career Success: Nayeli Pozuelos’ Journey

September 26, 2025 by Meghan Sawitzke

When Nayeli Pozuelos’ parents left Guatemala for Fort Wayne, Ind., they didn’t know the language or culture, only that they wanted to create better opportunities for their children. That leap of faith is what drives Nayeli every day as a first-generation college graduate building her own legacy. “Education is so valuable in my home country, […]

Read More
Richard Terpstra: Ball State Makes Dreams Come True

May 22, 2025 by Meghan Sawitzke

A Disney Cinderella classic, “A dream is a wish your heart makes,” has been guidance for people of all ages. For Richard Terpstra, it spoke to his passion. Richard is a Ball State University alumnus working as a Senior Manager Creative Designer for Disney Consumer Products. As a child, Richard’s future was fated. He grew […]

Read More
Jim Morris: Following Your Heart to Success

May 6, 2025 by Meghan Sawitzke

Jim Morris, Ball State University alum, followed his heart through the core values he learned at Ball State to do the work that truly matters. Jim is husband to Shantel (28 years), father to Dylan (21) and Kyla (18), and the President & CEO of Greater Indy Habitat for Humanity. Jim is in his 15th […]

Read More
Amanda Grollnek: Finding Success Outside of your Comfort Zone

April 25, 2025 by Meghan Sawitzke

A small spark of inspiration and a leap of faith ignited a seven-year career in founding, owning, and operating CRAVE Ice Cream Social. Amanda Grollnek graduated from Ball State University with a degree in fine arts and a concentration in graphic design. She’s part of a family of “Cardinals” and knew she would get her […]

Read More
Ball State University Black Alumni Council: Taking Initiative in Student Success

February 27, 2025 by Meghan Sawitzke

For over thirty years, the Black Alumni Council at Ball State University (formerly the Black Alumni Constituent Society) has fostered engagement, networking, and mentorship while supporting students through scholarships and conferences. Committed to advancing the educational, professional, and social interests of students both individually and collectively, the council continues to be a vital resource for […]

Read More
Tassels to Wedding Rings

February 14, 2025 by Meghan Sawitzke

Joseph and Marcia Schelling met at a party on Dill Street in 1974 in Muncie, Indiana. Six months later, they were walking down the aisle and saying their vows. The happy couple couldn’t think of a better place to be than Ball State University during Homecoming Week to celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary on October 26, […]

Read More
Adria Johnson: Resilience is Key

February 13, 2025 by Meghan Sawitzke

Adria Johnson, Ball State University Alum and CEO of the Metro United Way in Louisville, was born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky. Her parents instilled values of independence, resilience, humility, discipline, and commitment in her at a young age. “I grew up in really humble beginnings,” Adria said. Her experiences throughout childhood encouraged her to […]

Read More
Alumni Homecoming Guide 2024

September 16, 2024 by Reginald Hayes

Homecoming week is right around the corner! This year, Ball State will be hosting a variety of traditional and new events to celebrate. There are activities for everyone as these events span across campus and many different colleges. Below is a guide for alumni to get a glimpse into the different options they can participate […]

Read More