Meet the Team

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!  

Sonja Jordan
Diversity Committee Chair, Campus Lead for Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging and Advisor for Business, Accounting, BOAT, Supply Chain, Library Science and Psychology

812-298-2510
sjordan91@ivytech.edu

I am currently the advisor for The School of Business and Psychology.  I also chair the Diversity Committee as well as the Campus lead for Diversity Inclusion and Belonging.

I am an open minded, free thinking person that loves to learn anything and meet new people. Before I started at Ivy Tech, I worked for four years at Indiana 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 and a Master of Science in Student Affairs and Higher Education. 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.

Kourtney Gummere
Advisor for Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Radiologic Technology and 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. 

Alex Gerber
Advisor for Paramedic Science, Nursing, Biotechnology, Biology and Chemistry

812-298-2316
agerber2@ivytech.edu

I want to help you obtain your educational goals! There are many reasons why I love working in higher education. I love being able to assist students in reaching their academic dreams, building relationships, and helping them explore their strengths and opportunities. I started in higher education as an Admissions Counselor at Vincennes University in 2012. I began my career at Ivy Tech as the Greene County Site Manager in 2015 and have been an Academic Advisor at Ivy Tech since 2019.

I am a graduate from Vincennes University where I graduated with an Associates Degree in Law Enforcement and a Bachelor’s Degree in Homeland Security and Public Safety.  I am currently working on my Master’s Degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from Missouri State University.  In my spare time I enjoy reading about history, watching sports, and being outside on the farm with my wife and 2 children.

Jessica Carroll
Advisor for Business, Accounting, BOAT, Supply Chain, Library Science, General Studies and Exploratory

812-298-2281
jcarroll97@ivytech.edu

I am very excited to be a part of the Academic Advising team here at Ivy Tech! Before coming to Ivy Tech, I worked in the Banking Industry, but did not feel that my long-term goals and aspirations would be fulfilled if I didn’t step out of my comfort zone and leap into new opportunities! I graduated from Indiana State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Textiles, Apparel & Merchandising as well as a Minor in Marketing. In my spare time, I love to be outside with my husband (Derek), our two children, Lynlee and Kameron, and our three dogs, (Marley, Meyah and Lady). I am excited to assist each of my students in their journey through higher education in hopes that they find happiness and fulfillment in their futures! 

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 Disability Support Services. 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!