IU South Bend Chancellor Susan Elrod and four other leaders of local colleges and universities—all women—were presented with the Woman of the Year Award from the YWCA of North Central Indiana at its Tribute to Women Dinner on Thursday, October 20.
For the first time in history, women are heading up five of the seven major colleges in the South Bend area: IU South Bend, Bethel University, Saint Mary’s College, Ivy Tech, and Goshen College. The YWCA described them as “shining examples of higher learning while breaking down barriers in their field.”
“I appreciate the YWCA for its crucial work in our community. I’m honored by this award and to be included with such amazing women leaders,” said Elrod. “My message to aspiring women leaders is: don’t underestimate yourself. You can do whatever you want if you put your mind to it!”
WNDU journalist and morning anchor Tricia Sloma interviewed the chancellors and presidents to better understand what inspired them to become leaders. Their conversation, “A Tribute to Women,” aired in a special half-hour broadcast after the event.
Congratulations to these leaders and awardees on all their accomplishments:
President Barbara K. Bellefeuille, Bethel University
President Katie Conboy, Saint Mary’s College
Chancellor Tia Robinson-Cooper, Ivy Tech Community College South Bend Elkhart
President Rebecca Stoltzfus, Goshen College
