Sascha Harrell, director of education and workforce for Purdue Polytechnic's Indiana Manufacturing Competitiveness Center (IN-MaC), received an honorary degree from Ivy Tech Community College Lafayette during its 2026 commencement ceremony.
Ivy Tech awards the honorary degree to individuals who demonstrate outstanding leadership, service and contributions to education and their communities. Harrell leads statewide initiatives focused on strengthening connections among K-12 education, postsecondary institutions and industry. Her work supports workforce-aligned STEM education and career pathway development.
Harrell helps expand access to hands-on STEM learning opportunities across Indiana through her role at IN-MaC. She oversees initiatives including Design and Innovation Studios, professional development programs for educators, and collaborative partnerships with schools and employers.
"This recognition is especially meaningful because Ivy Tech has been part of my own educational journey," Harrell said. "During college, I took summer math courses through Ivy Tech, and those instructors helped build both my confidence and my ability to succeed."
The community college system also impacted her family. Harrell noted that her brother, Tanner Cox, attended Ivy Tech following his military service.
"There is a reason Ivy Tech is recognized as one of the leading community college systems in the country," Harrell said. "Institutions like Ivy Tech create opportunity and change lives every day."
Harrell joined the 2026 graduates, their families, and community members to celebrate the milestone commencement event.
Additional information
