For Thaddaus Pitts, a U.S. Army veteran, the path to where he is today hasn’t been a straight line—but his story is a testament to resilience, community, and the belief that it’s never too late to start over.
Growing up in Indiana, Pitts joined the military after high school, seeking both structure and a way to fund his education. As a 92 Sierra in the Army, he supported fellow soldiers by setting up field showers and laundry services during critical missions post-9/11. Later, he transitioned to a finance role, handling complex transactions for military personnel. After three years of service, Pitts returned to civilian life, where the transition proved challenging.
“Going from a structured military environment to civilian life was tough,” Pitts shared. “I struggled with finding my place, and without the chain of command I was used to, it was a difficult adjustment.”
In the years that followed, Pitts faced significant setbacks, including a period of incarceration. Reflecting on his release, Pitts vividly remembers the moment: “I literally walked out with a laundry bag and some prison shoes, and that was it. I had absolutely nothing.”
With the help of Easterseals Crossroads, he received transportation support, interview clothes, and resources that enabled him to begin rebuilding his life.
Today, Pitts is enrolled at Ivy Tech Indianapolis, pursuing a long-term certification in Information Technology (IT) Support with an elective focus in cloud computing. His goal is to leverage his education to open a transitional housing facility for veterans alongside a fellow Army battle buddy. Their vision is to create opportunities for veterans facing barriers to housing and employment, ensuring no one is left behind.
At Ivy Tech, Pitts found a welcoming community, particularly through the Office of Veterans Affairs and the Student Veterans Association. Jason Rodriguez, assistant director of Veteran and Military Services at Ivy Tech Indianapolis, played a key role in helping Pitts uncover educational benefits he didn’t know he was eligible for, including the Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) program.
“The support from Ivy Tech has been incredible,” Pitts said. “I didn’t realize how much I was entitled to as a veteran. People like Jason and the Student Veterans Association have been instrumental in keeping me on track.”
His experience in the classroom has also been transformative. Pitts’s IVYT Student Success instructor, Sara Fleischhacker, highlighted his impact: “He brings so much support and joy to my class and his classmates. He is an example of not only a good man but a good student.”
A pivotal moment for Pitts came during an activity in Fleischhacker’s class, where students were asked to illustrate their present and future. On one side, Pitts drew his current life—living in an apartment with his dog. On the other side, he sketched a large building with a flag that read “P&L,” representing the future transitional housing facility he dreams of creating with his battle buddy.
“That activity reinforced my belief that we could make this happen,” Pitts said. “It’s been a journey, but Ivy Tech and the people here have been instrumental in helping me stay on track.”
As National Veterans and Military Families Month approaches, Pitts’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to turn your life around. His advice to others? “Never let go of your dream. Set goals, stick to them, and don’t let anyone tell you it’s not possible.”
Pitts’ journey also reflects Ivy Tech’s broader commitment to supporting veterans. Ivy Tech Indianapolis — along with all 19 Ivy Tech campuses statewide — has officially earned the prestigious Collegiate Purple Star designation, a recognition that honors institutions for their veteran- and military-friendly practices. This distinction highlights the College’s ongoing efforts to provide resources, services, and a welcoming environment tailored to veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. From dedicated support staff to streamlined credit transfers for military experience, Ivy Tech continues to strengthen pathways that help those who served successfully transition into higher education and new careers.
To learn more about the organizations that supported Pitts, check out his feature with Easterseals Crossroads: Watch the Video.
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.
