Commencement Speakers
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Rankin Hall 200
Indiana State University
Terre Haute, IN 47809
Spring 2026 Commencement speakers.
Jamie Ashcraft
Jamie Ashcraft is the Graduate Speaker at the 9:00 am ceremony.
Jamie Ashcraft is a driven construction management professional and graduate student in the Master of Business Administration program at Indiana State University. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management and a Bachelor of Science in Criminology, combining a diverse academic background with a strong foundation in leadership, problem-solving, and strategic thinking. Maintaining a focus on continuous growth, Jamie is committed to advancing her expertise in both business and the construction industry.
Jamie began her professional career with the Department of Child Services before transitioning into law enforcement, where she developed critical skills in communication, decision-making, and accountability. She later shifted her career path to construction, where she has quickly established herself as a capable and detail-oriented professional. Currently serving as a Senior Project Engineer at F.A. Wilhelm Construction, working in partnership with The Foundry Partners, Jamie plays an integral role in supporting the planning, coordination, and execution of a large-scale pharmaceutical construction project valued at $4.5 billion. Her responsibilities include managing RFIs, submittals, and change orders, coordinating subcontractors, and ensuring quality, safety, and regulatory compliance across all phases of the project.
Prior to this role, Jamie gained valuable experience in preconstruction coordination, overseeing bid packages, vendor relationships, and project setup processes. Looking ahead, she plans to advance into project management and executive leadership roles while pursuing industry certifications such as CAPM, PMP, and LEED. Outside of her professional pursuits, Jamie is a dedicated mother of five who enjoys traveling and staying active through fitness.
Sadie Herring
Sadie Herring is the Student Speaker for the 12:00 pm Ceremony.
Sadie Herring, a native of West Terre Haute, Indiana, is a dedicated and accomplished student at Indiana State University’s Scott College of Business, where she is pursuing a double major in Insurance and Risk Management and Marketing. Maintaining an impressive 3.86 GPA, Sadie has earned distinction as a Herbert I. and Bernice Lamb President’s Scholar, as well as recognition through the Gongaware and Networks scholarship programs. Her academic journey has been complemented by active involvement in the Honors College and leadership development initiatives, where she has cultivated a strong passion for relationship-building, strategic thinking, and the evolving insurance industry.
Sadie has gained valuable professional experience through her role as a Business Development Representative at Core Specialty Insurance, where she strengthens broker relationships and contributes to regional growth. Previously, she worked with the Indiana State University Alumni Association, organizing high-level events that connected alumni with current students. On campus, Sadie has demonstrated exceptional leadership as a Resident Assistant, managing a community of over 65 students and earning the honor of Resident Assistant of the Year in 2025.
Her involvement extends to organizations such as Gamma Iota Sigma and the Networks Professional Development Program, where she has led team-building initiatives and engaged with industry professionals nationwide. Additionally, Sadie is the co-founder of the Beat the Heat Awareness Campaign, a community initiative focused on preventing child vehicular heatstroke. Following graduation, she will continue her career in Indiana with Core Specialty Insurance.
Kaylee Fosnow
Kaylee Fosnow is the Alumni Speaker at the 3:00 PM Ceremony.
Kayleigh Fosnow is the principal of New Palestine Elementary School in New Palestine, Indiana, where she serves as an instructional leader committed to fostering strong school communities and ensuring every student thrives. Since becoming principal in 2020, she has led initiatives focused on collaboration, data-driven instruction, and professional learning communities while supporting the growth and development of teachers and staff. In recognition of her impact in education, Fosnow received the prestigious Milken Educator Award in 2025.
Fosnow began her career in Indianapolis Public Schools, where she served in a variety of roles including classroom teacher, culture and climate specialist, and assistant principal. Throughout her career, she has focused on strengthening school culture, supporting students with diverse needs, and building systems that promote academic and social success for all learners.
A proud graduate of Indiana State University, Fosnow earned both her bachelor’s degree in elementary and special education and her master’s degree in elementary education from the institution.
Fosnow is passionate about public education and believes deeply in the power of relationships, collaboration, and high expectations to transform schools. She is honored to return to Indiana State University to share in the celebration of the graduating class and to encourage the next generation.
Contact
Rankin Hall 200
Indiana State University
Terre Haute, IN 47809