People of Indiana State

Gabriel (Konnor) Lewis completed his psychology degree entirely online at Indiana State University. While in the program, Lewis discovered that meaningful learning goes beyond location—thriving through strong faculty support, flexible coursework, and a deep passion for understanding human behavior. He was able to celebrate his achievement at commencement with his peers--a full-circle moment as he steps into his future. 

Sophomore biology major Dana Ping has transformed a lifelong connection to Indiana State into a passion for science and discovery. Through early hands-on experiences in the Sycamore Summer Scholars program and advanced biology research, she is already exploring complex topics in immunology while building leadership on campus—preparing for a future in medical laboratory science.

For Sycamore senior Eve McElhaney, Indiana State University is where her passion for law has grown into purpose. Through hands‑on learning, faculty mentorship, and a transformative study‑abroad experience in Australia, she’s shaping a future in advocacy—one that begins with her recognition as a 500 Festival Princess and continues as she prepares for law school.

Sycamore alumnus Eric Garrett, ’99, turned his Indiana State experience into the foundation for a career built on vision, collaboration, and people‑first leadership. Now, as founder and CEO of The Garrett Companies, he leads a nationally recognized firm with more than $2.5 billion under construction—continuing to champion collaboration while partnering with Indiana State to support the next generation of business leaders.

For Natalie Yarema, studying nursing at Indiana State has been hands-on from the start, including experiences such as ambulance ride-alongs, community health clinical, and apprenticeships with Union Hospital. Practical learning opportunities like these turn knowledge and practice into confidence and preparedness, leading to highly skilled and compassionate care.

From flying before he could drive to maintaining Blackhawk helicopters in the U.S. Army, Sycamore Dylan Myers has always been interested in aviation. Now a senior double major in Professional Aviation Flight Technology and Aviation Management at Indiana State, he’s building confidence, skill, and a future he’s passionate about.

History buff Justin Holland has turned his fascination with the past into meaningful, real‑world learning to share with future students. The Social Studies Education major found at Indiana State a close‑knit community, supportive faculty, and a teaching program that matched his passion with exceptional learning opportunities.

From day one at Indiana State, Elementary Education major Abigail Crane found herself gaining experience in real classrooms, learning from knowledgeable teachers, and discovering her passion for enriching young minds. Now, Abigail is ready to join generations of Sycamore educators who have uplifted Indiana students, families, and communities for generations. 

Bryce Maxwell, '25, found his passion for supply chain management through the guidance of his professor, Dr. Concetta DePaolo. Initially unaware of the major, he excelled during an internship at Cummins, Inc., which led to a full-time position. Maxwell credits Indiana State University for providing countless opportunities to learn and grow as a young professional.