By Ball State Communications—
MUNCIE, Indiana — Ball State University’s Interprofessional Community Clinics (ICCs), in partnership with the Heart of Indiana United Way and with support from the George and Frances Ball Foundation and Early Years Indiana, have unveiled a newly transformed waiting area designed to enhance early learning, family engagement, and patient experience.
The redesigned space creates a literacy-rich, interactive environment that encourages children and caregivers to engage in meaningful play and conversation—extending learning beyond clinical appointments. Inspired by United Way’s Talking is Teaching: Talk, Read, Sing and Read & Achieve initiatives, the space emphasizes the critical role of early language development in lifelong success.
“This project reflects what is possible when a university and community partners come together with a shared purpose,” said Dr. Blair Mattern, ’06 AUD ’10, associate dean for clinical affairs and clinical professor of audiology. “At the Interprofessional Community Clinics, we are committed to delivering exceptional care while also creating environments that support learning, connection, and wellbeing. This transformed space allows us to better serve children and families while reinforcing our mission of combining clinical education with meaningful community impact.”
Established in 2019, the ICCs serve as both a clinical resource and a hands-on training environment for students, offering services across audiology, speech pathology, counseling, and wellness. Each year, the clinics provide thousands of patient visits while preparing hundreds of students for fulfilling careers in healthcare through immersive, real-world experiences.
The waiting area transformation was designed and implemented by students in an immersive learning course led by Dr. Jeanne McMillan, ’83 MA ’84 EdD ’11, associate clinical professor of speech pathology and audiology.
Photo provided
“Our students didn’t just imagine a better space—they built one,” Dr. McMillan said. “Through immersive learning, they applied their knowledge in a way that directly benefits the community. This project exemplifies how experiential education at Ball State empowers students to make a tangible difference while developing the skills they’ll carry into their professional careers.”
Students played a central role in shaping the space, focusing on accessibility, engagement, and developmental impact.
“This immersive learning class has given me lifelong relationships and experiences that will help me grow as a student and future clinician,” said Ball State student Makenna Schwartz. “I hope our transformation of the clinic waiting room will create a welcoming space and make a meaningful impact on everyone who walks through its doors.”
Another student, Kaitlin Weldy, emphasized the community connection fostered through the project. “I have really enjoyed being able to work with the community and make a difference within Ball State and the Muncie community,” she said.
The new environment reflects Ball State’s broader institutional commitment to community engagement, innovation, and student-centered learning—core elements of the University’s strategic plan. By bringing together academic expertise, student creativity, and community partnership, the project demonstrates how collaborative efforts can improve quality of life across East Central Indiana.
“This project is a direct result of strong community partnership,” Dr. Mattern added. “We are grateful to the Heart of Indiana United Way, the George and Frances Ball Foundation, and Early Years Indiana for helping us create an environment that supports early learning, strengthens family engagement, and enhances the care we provide.”
The ICCs continue to serve as a vital community and educational asset, responding to local needs while preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals through hands-on, interprofessional experiences.
For more information about the ICCs, visit the clinics’ website or call 765-285-4422.
About Ball State
Founded in 1918 and located in Muncie, Ball State University is one of Indiana’s premier universities and an economic driver for the state. Ball State’s 20,000 students come from all over Indiana, the nation, and the world. The 790-acre campus is large enough to accommodate first-rate facilities and 19 NCAA Division I sports, but our welcoming campus is small enough to ensure the friendliness, personal attention, and access that are the hallmarks of the University. We Fly!
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