Private Colleges Meet with Indiana Lawmakers

Independent Colleges of Indiana recently welcomed state and federal legislators, congressional staff, campus leaders, and community partners to Butler University’s Dugan Hall for a special symposium on the future of higher education. Representatives from 22 of Indiana’s 29 private, nonprofit colleges and universities – including Wabash College – joined the discussion, along with members of ICI’s Board and Presidents Council. 

The event featured moderated conversations with members of Indiana’s congressional delegation and their staff, including Congresswoman Victoria Spartz (IN-05), Congressman Mark Messmer (IN-08), and senior staff from the offices of Senators Todd Young and Jim Banks. Congressman Jefferson Shreve (IN-06) joined attendees during the closing reception, providing an additional opportunity for informal dialogue. 
 
“This gathering was an invaluable opportunity for our presidents and cabinet members to engage directly with policymakers,” said Dottie L. King, president and CEO of ICI. “We were able to share the successes and challenges of our institutions, listen to our legislators’ priorities, and strengthen the partnerships that will help us continue serving students and communities across Indiana.” 

The symposium concluded with a reception, providing additional time for networking and relationship-building among higher education leaders and policymakers 

This program was funded through a Meeting the Moment grant from the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC). “The Council of Independent Colleges is proud to support Independent Colleges of Indiana and its member colleges through CIC’s Meeting the Moment Grant Program,” said Sherita C. Ashmon, CIC’s director of state councils and networks support. “The grant provides funding to enhance resources, strategies, and programming that help independent colleges and universities remain informed and proactive in response to federal updates.” 

By convening these important conversations, ICI continues its work to strengthen connections between Indiana’s independent colleges and the policymakers who shape the future of higher education in the state and nationwide.