Ivy Tech staffer honored for community service

An Ivy Tech Community College staff member has been honored by the Jennings County Chamber of Commerce for her service and contributions to her community.

Columbus campus Spokesman Chris Schilling says that LeAna Matern,

LeAna Matern
LeAna Matern

Assistant Director of Resource Development & Alumni Relations, was named the Jennings County Young Professional of the Year on Thursday, January 28, at the Chamber’s Annual Dinner. Schilling says that Matern is the second young professional to receive the annual honor.

“LeAna is extremely well-deserving of recognition as our Young Professional of the Year,” said Marie Shepherd, Executive Director of the Jennings County Chamber of Commerce. “As a lifelong resident of Jennings County, she has generously given back to her community through countless compassionate efforts that have benefited her fellow residents and our entire region. We are proud to have her as a dedicated young professional in our community and deeply thank her for all of her selfless and sincere service.”

The Young Professional of the Year is selected based on commitment to community, volunteerism and civic engagement, social engagement with other young professionals, and impact at their place of work.

Schilling says that Matern’s community involvement includes being a member of the Jennings County Young Professionals, secretary of the Jennings County Youth Foundation, serving on the Jennings County Community Foundation Asset Development Committee and other organizations.

Schilling says that Matern joined Ivy Tech Community College in 2011 as a Resource Development Assistant. She advanced to the Assistant Director of Resource Development and Alumni Relations position in 2012, where her responsibilities include alumni relations, event planning, scholarship management, and working with donors and students.