Ivy Tech Muncie Celebrates 2026 Distinguished Alumni and Benefactor of the Year Honorees

By Lesley DeVoss—

MUNCIE,IN—Ivy Tech Community College Muncie is proud to recognize Ashley Slaven and Thrive Credit Union as recipients of the Ivy Tech Foundation’s 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award and Benefactor of the Year honors, respectively. Both were recognized during a statewide celebration in Indianapolis on September 25.

Slaven was honored with the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award, the College’s highest honor for alumni achievement. The award recognizes graduates who have made a lasting impact on their professions, communities, and Ivy Tech through outstanding professional, philanthropic, or volunteer accomplishments. Slaven, a graduate of Ivy Tech’s Business Administration program at the Muncie campus, has distinguished themselves through exceptional leadership in human resources and financial services, alongside an unwavering commitment to community engagement. As Director of Human Resources and Branch Operations at Thrive Credit Union, she excels in fostering supportive workplace cultures and cultivating employee development. Since earning her Associate Degree in Business Administration in 2015 while balancing full-time work and family obligations, Slaven has exemplified professional integrity and civic leadership, continually giving back to the community and serving as an inspiring ambassador for the power of an Ivy Tech education.

Thrive Credit Union was recognized as the 2026 Muncie Benefactor of the Year, honoring exceptional generosity and commitment to Ivy Tech students and programs. Thrive Credit Union was selected for its commitment to student success, workforce development, and regional vitality. A steadfast partner to Ivy Tech Muncie, Thrive Credit Union regularly invests both financial resources and hands-on volunteer leadership across campus events, STEM programs, and strategic fundraising efforts. Through generous scholarship support, active event sponsorship, and dedicated community engagement, Thrive consistently creates expanded pathways for students while championing education and economic growth throughout Delaware, Henry, and Jay counties

Together, these honorees reflect the many ways individuals strengthen Ivy Tech’s mission through achievement, leadership, philanthropy, and service.

“Today we celebrate an outstanding alumnus and a valued corporate partner whose contributions reflect the transformative power of education and philanthropy.” said Dr. Qiana Clemens, Vice Chancellor for Academics & Advancement. “Through professional achievement, leadership, generosity, and service, Ashley and Thrive Credit Union have strengthened opportunities for our students and communities. We are proud to recognize their extraordinary impact.”

“Our Distinguished Alumni Award recipients and Benefactor of the Year honorees represent the very best of Ivy Tech’s mission in action,” said Stephannie Bailey, President of the Ivy Tech Foundation. “Their achievements, leadership, generosity, and service create opportunities for students and strengthen communities across Indiana. We are proud to celebrate those whose impact inspires others and advances our mission.”

For more information about the Distinguished Alumni Awards and Benefactor of the Year program, visit the Ivy Tech Foundation website.

About Ivy Tech Community College

Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana’s largest public postsecondary institution and the nation’s largest singly accredited statewide community college system, serving more than 200,000 students annually throughout the state. Ivy Tech serves as the state’s workforce engine, offering more than 70 programs that provide pathways to high-quality education and training aligned to in-demand careers, needed by Hoosier communities. The College awards credentials that are stackable toward industry certifications, short-term certificate programs, and associate degrees that seamlessly transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana for a more affordable route to bachelor’s degrees and beyond.

About the Ivy Tech Foundation

The Ivy Tech Foundation advances the mission of Ivy Tech Community College by partnering with donors to invest in students, faculty, and programs that build stronger communities and a better Indiana. Through philanthropic support, the Foundation provides scholarships, enhances academic programs, supports workforce development initiatives, and creates opportunities that help students achieve their educational and career goals. The Foundation recognizes and celebrates the generosity of individuals, corporations, and foundations whose support transforms lives across the state. Learn more about the Ivy Tech Foundation.