One in five Americans annually need mental health support, but despite this need, only half receive it.
This is one reason Ivy Tech’s Student Services team in Evansville submitted an idea for training for those working at Ivy Tech to be funded by the Circle of Ivy Women’s Philanthropy group.
On Jan. 30, 34 Faculty and staff members on the Evansville campus participated in a mental health training session through funding provided by the Circle of Ivy Philanthropy.
Circle of Ivy is a women’s philanthropy circle that creates resources and raises funds to diminish barriers to higher education for Ivy Tech Community College students. The organization – which exists on each of Ivy Tech's 19 campuses -- celebrated 10 years of giving in 2025, with nearly $2 million donated across the state to each campus’s Circle.
Each fall, the members of the Circle provide donations, and select projects of the college to fund. This year’s Mental Health Training project was one of those projects and is made possible by a $2,450 grant from the Evansville Campus organization.
Rebecca McQueen-Ruark, associate vice chancellor for Student Affairs, said the training, provided by Ivy Tech’s partner -- the University of Evansville, is designed to strengthen support for student well-being and success. “The training equipped faculty and staff with practical tools to recognize mental health warning signs, respond appropriately, and connect students with campus and community resources,” McQueen-Ruark said.
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.
