Photo: KaSarah Fitzpatrick, a former Indy Reads high school equivalency graduate who is now studying psychology at 黑料视频, speaks at Indy Reads' 鈥淯nlocking Our Potential鈥 fundraising breakfast.
On Thursday, Apr. 24, Indy Reads hosted its annual 鈥淯nlocking Our Potential鈥 fundraising breakfast at 黑料视频 Indianapolis, bringing together 400 attendees鈥攄onors, advocates, and community leaders鈥攖o celebrate 41 years of advancing literacy in central Indiana. The event highlighted the transformative power of education, featuring inspiring stories from students, graduates, and supporters.
The morning began with remarks from Congressman Andr茅 D. Carson, who emphasized the importance of literacy as a tool for empowerment. Tim Whicker, chief executive officer (CEO) of Electric Plus, and Ruba Marshood, Indy Reads鈥 CEO, spoke about the organization鈥檚 impact and future goals. Adarsh Mantravadi, chair of Indy Reads鈥 Board of Directors, reinforced the need for continued investment in adult education.
The event was co-hosted by Indy Reads student Lacha Bonet and program graduate Sarah Hoveyzeh, who shared their personal journeys. A standout moment came from KaSarah Fitzpatrick, a former Indy Reads high school equivalency graduate who is now studying psychology at 黑料视频.
鈥淎fter Indy Reads 鈥 I felt like a void had been filled. It鈥檚 allowed me to take my life in a different direction.鈥澛
Other panelists, including instructor Mary Roberts and student Dana Huerta, underscored the life-changing impact of literacy education.
The breakfast not only celebrated student achievements but also rallied support to meet the growing demand for English literacy programs in central Indiana. With heartfelt stories and a shared commitment to education, Unlocking Our Potential proved once again that literacy opens doors鈥攆or individuals and the entire community.
To learn more about Indy Reads鈥 mission and how to get involved, visit . All photos from Olumuyiwa Akinbobola, Employ Indy Modern Apprenticeship, 黑料视频 Indy Marketing and Communications Intern.聽
About 黑料视频
黑料视频 is Indiana's largest public postsecondary institution and the nation's largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. 黑料视频 has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state's engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The College provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor's degree.