Ivy Tech Foundation recognizes Distinguished Alumni and Benefactors
Last Updated on October 5, 2025 by Cass County Communication Network
Kokomo Service Area honors Banuelos and Rhodes for their commitment to Ivy Tech
NDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – Two outstanding members of the Cass County community are among the 37 Distinguished Alumni and Benefactors from across Indiana recently honored by the Ivy Tech Foundation.
Elisa Banuelos, English Language Learner Support Services coordinator for Logansport Schools, and Nancy Rhodes, a retired nurse from Logansport now deeply involved in volunteer and philanthropic initiatives, were selected by the Kokomo Service Area as Distinguished Alumni and Benefactor of the Year, respectively.
The awards recognize high-achieving graduates and generous donors and supporters who help to elevate Ivy Tech Community College’s mission. Those recognized represent each of the College’s 19 campuses and include both people and organizations that have made Ivy Tech stronger.
Elisa Banuelos, Ivy Tech Distinguished Alumni Award
Elisa arrived in Logansport in 1999, a teenager whose family had moved from Mexico. Enrolling in Logansport High School, she learned English and graduated in 2000. She moved into a role as an instructional assistant for the schools, helping others learn the English language. Now, 25 years later, she serves as Logansport Schools’ English Language Learner Support Services coordinator and helps dozens of other international students adjust, learn and succeed each year.
Along the way, Elisa decided it was time to take the advice she had given to so many others – continuing her education at Ivy Tech. By 2018, she had earned, with honors, both a technical certificate and Associate of Applied Science degree in Human Services from Ivy Tech Kokomo.
“From her time as a student to her inspiring career in education, Elisa has demonstrated resilience, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to elevating others. As a dedicated advocate for ESL students at Logansport High School, she empowers young people to dream big and reach higher,” said Kelly Karickhoff, vice chancellor for Development and Community Engagement for Ivy Tech’s Kokomo Service Area. “Elisa truly embodies the spirit of Ivy Tech — excellence, service, and transformation.”
Nancy Rhodes, Ivy Tech Benefactor of the Year
Rhodes, who retired from Logansport Memorial Hospital in 2013 after a 39-year career in nursing, has dedicated her time, talent, and treasure in supporting the College and its students. She serves on the Ivy Tech Foundation Board of Directors and as a member of the Circle of Ivy Women in Philanthropy guiding circle. Nancy proudly continues the legacy of her father, Don Heckard, who served as an Ivy Tech state trustee and as a director of the Ivy Tech Foundation Director.
Nancy graduated from Purdue University in 1975 with an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing and served patients at Logansport Memorial and a family practice office during her career. She has established the Nancy Heckard Rhodes Nursing Scholarship to assist nursing students at Ivy Tech,
Nancy continues to help grow the endowed scholarship established in memory of her father and has supported fundraising initiatives including “For the Love of Education,” “Scholarships for Student Success,” Circle of Ivy and Ivy Tech Day.
“Nancy’s vision, generosity, and steadfast belief in the power of education have made her a true force for good. Her support has opened doors for countless students, creating life-changing opportunities and fueling success stories across our community,” Karickhoff said. “She is a shining example of what it means to invest in the future.”
Selected through a highly competitive process, each recipient across Indiana has made a lasting impact on their community and on Ivy Tech by demonstrating outstanding professional, philanthropic, or volunteer accomplishments. Those selected were recognized on September 26 at a celebration in downtown Indianapolis.
“It truly is an honor for Ivy Tech to be associated with so many alumni, friends, and organizations that underscore the value of our mission,” said Ivy Tech President Dr. Marty Pollio. “Our honorees are making Indiana communities stronger through their leadership, skillsets, and generosity. We are proud to recognize these incredible recipients.”
Dr. Ethan Heicher, chancellor of Ivy Tech’s Kokomo Service Area, added, “I hope residents throughout our area will join us in celebrating Elisa Banuelos and Nancy Rhodes — two extraordinary leaders whose contributions continue to shape Cass County, Ivy Tech’s Kokomo Service Area … and beyond.”
More than four of five Ivy Tech graduates stay in Indiana to pursue their careers, and Ivy Tech contributes nearly $4 billion annually to the state’s economy. Today, 86 percent of people who graduate from Ivy Tech do so without the burden of student debt.
For more information or to view a full list of the Distinguished Alumni honorees, visit www.ivytech.edu/alumniawards
SOURCE: News release from Ivy Tech Community College Kokomo Service Area