Ivy Tech Community College Fort Wayne & Kosciusko County Assistant Director of Early College/CTE Programs Stephanie Martin has received the Award for Excellence for Outstanding Postsecondary Career Services Program from the Indiana Commission for Higher Education and the Indiana Association of Career and Technical Education.
The award recognizes exceptional achievements in Career and Technical Education (CTE) across Indiana, celebrating students, educators, programs, and partners who demonstrate leadership, innovation, and measurable impact in preparing students for college and careers.
Martin was recognized for her leadership of the Fort Wayne Community Schools Career Academy Early College program, a partnership between Fort Wayne Community Schools Career Academy and Ivy Tech Community College. The program creates direct pathways for high school students to earn college credit and workforce credentials while still in high school.
“Stephanie naturally welcomes students and encourages their questions,” said Heidi Fowler, Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs. “She creates an approachable and supportive environment where students feel comfortable seeking guidance and exploring opportunities. Her focus is entirely on serving CTE students, allowing her to provide specialized attention and tailored support that meets their unique academic and career goals.”
During the 2024-2025 school year, the FWCS Career Academy offered 84 dual credit courses, serving 586 students who earned at least three college credits, with many earning six or more. Students also made significant progress toward Technical Certificates in high-demand workforce areas, including Criminal Justice, HVAC, Welding, Culinary Arts, Early Childhood Education, and Automotive Technology.
Under Martin’s leadership, the program combines individualized advising, academic support, family engagement, and workforce partnerships to help students transition successfully from high school to college and careers. More than 750 students and family members participated in career fairs, FAFSA support sessions, parent orientation events, and campus tours this year alone.
Martin also played a key role in helping the Fort Wayne Career Academy achieve its Early College designation, expanding opportunities for students to earn transferable college credit and industry-recognized credentials.
The Indiana Commission for Higher Education and Indiana Department of Education announced the award recipients in May as part of the statewide CTE Awards for Excellence program.
Stephanie naturally welcomes students and encourages their questions. She creates an approachable and supportive environment where students feel comfortable seeking guidance and exploring opportunities. Her focus is entirely on serving CTE students, allowing her to provide specialized attention and tailored support that meets their unique academic and career goals.
– Heidi Fowler, Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana's largest public postsecondary institution and the nation's largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech 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.
