For seven years, Barbara Hall's warm smile and steady presence greeted everyone who walked through the doors of Ivy Tech Indianapolis' North Meridian Center. As she begins her well-earned retirement this month, the campus community reflects on how this former financial analyst and world traveler became the heart of their morning routine.
Hall joined Ivy Tech in April 2018, bringing with her a lifetime of experience connecting with people.
"When I first came here, people would walk in without saying a word. They wouldn’t say ‘good morning’ or anything," she recalled. "So, I started saying 'good morning,' and they would respond ‘good morning!’ Then, sometimes I would be working, or helping someone, and people would come in and say ‘good morning’ to me first."
Hall’s simple philosophy—that kindness begets kindness—defined her approach to the front desk, where she transformed brief interactions into meaningful connections.
Her talent for defusing tense situations and creating a place of calm solace became legendary among staff, faculty, and students.
One particularly memorable moment came when a frustrated student, upset about a testing mix-up, was ready for confrontation, Hall said. Hall intervened with her characteristic wisdom:
"I told her, 'Let me talk. You're making that face,' You know the face," she said with a laugh. The situation quickly resolved into a mutual understanding, as Hall was able to help the student navigate the situation with a calmer demeanor. "It's all about how you talk to people," Hall explained. "Treat them how you want to be treated."
Before Ivy Tech, Hall’s career spanned continents. As a financial analyst for the U.S. Department of Defense, she traveled to military posts worldwide for six years, sharpening her knack for putting people at ease.
Italy remained her favorite destination. "I loved everything about it," she said—but a sudden epiphany in San Antonio changed her course. "One day I woke up and thought, I’m done."
Retirement didn’t stick, however.
After volunteering at her granddaughter’s school, she discovered a passion for mentoring students, particularly in English as a second language and literacy. One former fourth-grader, now a Butler University graduate, credits Hall as her inspiration to become a teacher.
"She told me, ‘You let me help grade papers. I wanted to be like you,’" Hall said, her voice catching. "That’s the best gift I’ve ever received."
That passion followed her to Ivy Tech, where she took special pride in mentoring nervous test-takers.
"I always tell them 'good luck' when they head to exams," she said. Students often returned to share their successes, with some international students crediting her encouragement for their passing scores. "They'd say, 'You gave me good luck, and I passed all my tests!'"
As she begins this new chapter, soon to be 80 years young, Hall plans to return to the gym, volunteer at her church's community center, and—true to form—continue making a difference.
One retirement indulgence is certain: margaritas, preferably enjoyed during travels that may include a return to Italy for her birthday.
In her final days on campus, colleagues showered Hall with flowers and heartfelt goodbyes. The college community wishes her joy in this next chapter of adventures and service.
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.
