Amber Harnack, Director
812-298-2287
aharnack@ivytech.edu

I want to enjoy a world filled with innovative and creative educators where music comes packaged with sunny days and my cats do chores while I’m at work. 

Working in higher education for over 15 years I’ve had the opportunity to work for both Indiana State University and Ivy Tech Community College-Terre Haute. A first generation college student with a Bachelor’s degree in Speech Communication from Indiana State University and a Master’s degree in Public Service Administration from the University of Evansville, I am passionate about helping others find their educational and career paths. I strive to make a difference in the lives of others. 

I’m a Kentucky born girl who loves college basketball, (Louisville Cardinals), and enjoy visiting family any chance I get. I’m a Tell City High School graduate with a love for the Marksmen. My husband and I, “transplants” to Terre Haute, decided this was an amazing place to live, work and put down roots. When not at work you can find me working out, enjoying FaceTime with my nieces and nephews, or cleaning up after our cats, Rocko and Miles.

Kristy Merk
Advisor for Nursing 

812-298-2472
kmerk@ivytech.edu

I am a graduate of Indiana State University and hold a bachelors degree in psychology.  I have previously worked as an admissions counselor at ISU.  I enjoy working with all of my advisees, but I particularly enjoy helping first generation college students.

Emily Pipher
Advisor for Health Care Specialist, Medical Assisting, Health Care Exploratory, Medical Laboratory Tech 

812-298-2417
epipher@ivytech.edu

I graduated from Eastern Illinois University in the fall of 2005 where I earned my bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management with a minor in Business Administration.  2015 was an exciting year for me with many life changes!  One of those was completing my master’s degree from Indiana State University in Student Affairs and Higher Education.

I began my career at Ivy Tech Community College in 2011 where I worked in the financial aid office.  I made the move to advising in the fall of 2013.  Advising is an exciting field for me because I enjoy helping students to plan and obtain their life, education, and career goals!  

Jamie Newell
Advisor for Education, Early Childhood Education, Paralegal, Legal Studies, and Library Technical Assistant

812-298-2569
jnewell19@ivytech.edu 

I attended Eastern Illinois University where I received a Bachelor of Science in Management with a concentration in Human Resource Management.  Before joining the academic advising center, I began working at Ivy Tech in 2012 in the Admissions Office as an Assistant Director of Admissions and VA Coordinator.

I feel privileged to be able to work with college students along their journey through college and assisting students with forming and realizing their goals for academic and personal success. I am excited to meet new students, see returning students and hope to be your partner in your academic success!

Channon Brown
Advisor for Human Services, Criminal Justice, Paralegal Studies and Biotechnology 

Hello, and welcome to Ivy Tech! My name is Channon Brown and I have worked within the Academic Advising Center since August 2015. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Criminology & Criminal Justice with a concentration in African American Studies. I have also earned a Master of Science in Criminology & Criminal Justice from Indiana State University. I enjoyed my college experience and now I love working with college students. I specialize in the areas related to the School of Human Services, Criminal Justice, and Biotechnology.

During my time at Ivy Tech I have found the faculty, staff, and students to be resilient, goal-oriented, dedicated to support one another, and so much more! I am committed to contributing to these efforts for the success of our students. I look forward to assisting you as you strive to achieve your academic and professional goals. Please stop by the AAC with any questions or concerns today!

Sonja Jordan
Advisor for General Studies, Business, Accounting, BOAT, Supply Chain, Library Science 

812-298-2510
sjordan91@ivytech.edu

I am an open minded, free thinking kind of lady that loves to learn anything and meet new people. Before I started at Ivy Tech, I worked for four years at Indian State University as a Financial Aid Counselor.  I love seeing students set and achieve their goals. I want to see their life’s passion come to fruition and watch that transition into the next stage of their career or education. I hold a Bachelor’s of Science from Indiana State University. I am currently pursuing a Master of Science. I love music all types and genre. I compete in full and half marathons and am always after achieving a personal best. I look forward to meeting you and hearing your story.

Erin Stevens
Advisor for Paramedic Science, Surgical Technology, and Nursing 

I am a graduate of Indiana State University with a bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies. I began my  role as an Academic Advisor in 2015 and I enjoy assisting students in the areas of Nursing, Surgical Tech and Paramedic Science. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, daughters and our dog, Cookie. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you reach your educational goals!

Kourtney Cochran
Advisor for Radiologic Technology, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Respiratory Care

I love to get people excited about education! I have been with Ivy Tech since 2007, while here I have served in many different areas, finally landing in the Advising Center.  With the previous experience I’ve had throughout the college I feel I’m ready to assist student in meeting their educational goals.   

I graduated with my Bachelor of Business Administration from St. Mary of the Woods.  I went right back to receive my Master in Organizational Leadership and Development in 2016 from St. Mary’s. Outside of work I am very focused on my family and their activities.  For my hobbies I enjoy volunteer work and spending time outdoors. 

Jaime Frey, Director
812-298-2282
jfrey@ivytech.edu

Like most of you, I was once a student at Ivy Tech Community College.  I completed an Associate of Science Degree in Human Services in 2000 and worked in mental health before joining Ivy Tech's team in 2001. Having worked in various areas of student affairs, it is here where I found my passion for helping students realize their educational goals. I finished a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College in 2004. 

I am currently director of Career Development and Disability Support Services Advisor. I see myself in many students who walk through my door, and it’s my pleasure to help them on their way to success.  I have two adorable daughters who keep me busy all the time, and I am a fan of Notre Dame football through good times and bad. Please come see me for all of your job search, career planning or disability needs. I look forward to being part of your journey!