Ivy Tech Community College - Lafayette is thrilled to announce the appointment of Brooklyn Burton as the new Vice Chancellor of Workforce and Economic Development for the Lafayette campus. In her new role, Burton will play a crucial part in advancing workforce and economic development in the communities served by Ivy Tech.

Brooklyn Burton brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to her new position. Prior to this appointment, she demonstrated exceptional leadership in workforce development, helping to secure over $8.5 million in grant funding through strategic partnerships with Greater Lafayette Commerce and Skyepack. Her efforts supported students in grades 7-12 across the West Central region, with initiatives such as the 3E and the 1008 Student Learning Recovery grants.

Under Burton's guidance, Ivy Tech launched the Ivy+ Career Link department, serving a 9-county region with a focus on skills training, work-and-learn opportunities, and career coaching. Her instrumental role in scaling up the Rapid Reemployment for Advanced Manufacturing Positions (RAMP) initiative resulted in over $13.5 million in funding, leading to the successful training and placement of over 1,500 participants in advanced manufacturing positions.

Burton's dedication to workforce development is further underscored by her impactful tenure at Region 4 Workforce Board and the Purdue Research Foundation. As Project Manager for Ready to Work and America's Promise Job-Driven Grants at Region 4, Burton orchestrated the entire lifecycle of these initiatives, showcasing her ability to navigate complex collaborations. Her experiences at the Purdue Research Foundation, where she provided high-level executive support and contributed to the foundation's overall success, highlight her strategic vision and collaborative approach.

Burton's appointment began on Monday, November 20th, and Ivy Tech looks forward to the continued positive impact she will bring to workforce development initiatives.

 

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.