Ivy Tech Lake County cuts ribbon on $12 million renovation project

The Ivy Tech Community College Lake County campus is celebrating the completion of a $12 million renovation project that is giving a new look to its East Chicago site.

Ivy Tech leaders and local officials took part in a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the occasion Wednesday which featured food made by culinary students and an exhibit of paintings from local artists.

The upgrades include new exterior windows, lighting and furnishings, as well as the realignment of the main stairway near the front entrance of the building.

Additionally, the ceiling of the lobby has been cut out to create a two-story space, with an upstairs concourse that serves as a gathering space that includes new study pods — soundproof booths where individual students can work inside — and a dedicated space for Ivy+ Career Link — the community college's career development department.

The building also has more interior windows that allow for better visibility inside the industrial and technical labs housed at the campus site.

Work began in August 2023 and was completed this past August. It was financed by the Ivy Tech statewide system and through fundraising efforts.

The improvements follow up on previous work completed in the welding lab and in some classroom spaces.

"The renovation not only transformed the physical appearance of our campus here, but it's also created a more functional, accessible and inspiring space that reflects the innovative spirit of Ivy Tech," said Chancellor Marcos Rodriquez Jr.

"The investment we celebrate today has transformed this East Chicago facility to a modern, welcoming environment," Ivy Tech President Sue Ellspermann said. 

Multiple elected officials spoke to the community college's impact on the city and the opportunities its academic and trade programs have provided to residents.

"Today is not the celebration of buildings, brick, mortar and steel," said U.S. Rep. Frank J. Mrvan, D-Highland. "It is about opportunity for the residents of Lake County and East Chicago. It is of the belief that we all understand when we work together ... we can do great things."

East Chicago Mayor Anthony Copeland reflected on the skepticism and disbelief many in the community had when Ivy Tech moved its Hammond campus to its current location at 410 E. Columbus Drive in 1994.

"As many people came in and out of here, and their lives was improved, we get to today, with the ultimate commitment that shows that (Ivy Tech) will be here in the future for generations to come," Copeland said.