Ivy Tech Indianapolis to Welcome IFD Chief Ernest Malone as 2026 Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipient

Ernest Malone, Chief of the Indianapolis Fire Department (IFD), will serve as the Ivy Tech Indianapolis 2026 Commencement Speaker and will receive an honorary degree at the campus commencement ceremony on Thursday, Apr. 30, at Corteva Coliseum. 

Chief Malone’s selection recognizes nearly four decades of leadership and service to the Indianapolis community, as well as his steadfast commitment to education, professional development, and workforce readiness.

“Chief Malone exemplifies the values we strive to instill in our graduates — integrity, resilience, and a dedication to serving others,” Dr. Claire Maxson, vice chancellor for academic affairs, said.  “His career reflects what is possible when lifelong learning meets public service, and we are honored to celebrate his leadership and impact.”

Chief Malone joined the Indianapolis Fire Department in 1986 and has held every merit rank in the department up to and including Battalion Chief. Over the course of his career, he has served in both operational and administrative leadership roles, including Firefighter, Lieutenant, Captain, Battalion Chief, Assistant Director of Training, Fire Marshal, Division Chief of Executive Services, and Assistant Chief of Fire. 

As Chief of Fire, Malone oversees all department functions, including suppression operations, health and safety, training, special operations, and emergency medical services. He works alongside executive staff to guide strategic planning initiatives that position the department for a sustainable and productive future.

A lifelong learner and proud Ivy Tech alumnus, Malone earned his Associate of Science in Fire Science from Ivy Tech Indianapolis in May 2013. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in business management and a master’s degree in management. He completed Indiana University’s Randall L. Tobias Center for Leadership Development program and was named a Hoosier Fellow in 2011. He is also a graduate of the National Fire Academy, having completed 17 on-site training courses through the United States Fire Administration.

Malone achieved the prestigious Chief Fire Officer designation through the Center for Public Safety Excellence, becoming the first member of the Indianapolis Fire Department to earn the certification. He serves on the Board of Directors for the International Association of Fire Chiefs, representing the Metro Fire Chiefs Association.

Malone’s connection to Ivy Tech extends beyond his education, as he also serves on Ivy Tech Community College’s Public Safety Advisory Board and consistently encourages members of the Indianapolis Fire Department to upskill and reskill through Ivy Tech programs. His leadership reflects the college’s mission to provide accessible, high-quality education that strengthens Indiana’s workforce.

His numerous awards include the Medal of Bravery, Firefighter of the Year, Administrative Officer of the Year, and induction into the American Red Cross Heroes Hall of Fame.

The 2026 commencement ceremony will celebrate graduates across a wide range of programs, including public safety, health sciences, advanced manufacturing, business, and information technology. Malone’s address is expected to inspire graduates to lead with courage, commit to lifelong learning, and serve their communities with purpose.

Additional details about the ceremony, including ticketing and livestream information, will be shared on our Graduation page in the coming weeks. 

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