Ivy Tech Community College Bloomington student, Autumn Stevens, was named the winner of a campuswide registration contest encouraging students to enroll early for Spring Semester 2026. Stevens is studying entrepreneurship and will receive free tuition for her classes next term, totaling $1,812.
Winning a free semester allows me to keep pursuing my goals without the financial stress that often holds first-generation students and young parents back."
– Autumn Stevens, entrepreneurship student
The entrepreneurship program at Ivy Tech helps students start or grow their business or side-hustle in as little as two semesters.
“I returned to school to build a better future for my son and to create a bookstore–teahouse," she said.
Stevens’ business, “A Cup of Leaves & Books” is a wellness brand, selling organic tea and body care products. She is working toward opening a storefront.
“This support helps me stay focused on that dream and move closer to creating a safe, inspiring space for both my son and the community.”
In the future, Stevens hopes to earn her master’s degree in women’s literature and gain the skills to make her vision a reality.
Ivy Tech is enrolling now for spring term and it’s not too late to sign up. Classes begin January 12.
Ivy Tech Bloomington offers more than 40 career and four-year transfer programs, with courses that start multiple times per year for quick entry and graduation. To get started, apply online at ivytech.edu/bloomington or email askBloomington@ivytech.edu. For information on free, short-term training programs, visit ivytech.edu/bloomington/NLJ.
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, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state's engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The College provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor's degree.
