Philanthropic
On April 29th at Cedar Creek Elementary, the air buzzed with excitement as students gathered in the classroom for Hometown Heroes Day, a special occasion to honor local community members who selflessly serve others. Among the esteemed guests was Cortney Hartman CST, FAST, our very own treasurer.
Cortney shared stories of her work in the operating room, and the students listened wide-eyed as she described the precision required to pass surgical instruments, prepare the surgical field, and ensure patient safety. She emphasized that heroes come in many forms—not just capes and masks but also in surgical gowns and sterile gloves.
On April 26th, 2024, ISA Director Lora Hofmann, CST, BSHA, had the honor of delivering the Keynote Speech for the annual Ivy Tech Community College Student Government Association Awards Banquet.
As an alumni of the school’s Surgical Technology program and current Program Director, Lora was able to address the graduates on a personal level and share her experiences along her journey. She described the many doors that have opened for her as a result of being an alumnus and the courage it takes to override self-doubt to confidently enter new stages in life. Additionally, Lora described the importance of always having a certified surgical technologist in the room for all procedures and how the Surgical Technologist motto, Aeger Primo, has guided her not only in the operating room, but also in her career decisions. The commitment to always put the patient first has led Lora into an Educator role, Program Chair, and now a member of the Board of Director’s for the Indiana State Assembly where she continues to advocate for patient safety.
On April 12, 2024, ISA Director Lora Hofmann, CST, along with Clinical Coordinator, Jackie Ramsey, CST, served at the 2024 Grace Gala along with their 9 Ivy Tech Community College Surgical Technology students.
The Grace Gala (think Tim Tebow’s Night to Shine) is held each year at Mount Pleasant United Methodist Church in Terre Haute, Indiana. Here the group volunteers for duties such as running the Karaoke room, Welcome committee, Crowns and Tiaras, Registration, paparazzi, and the ever important guest buddy for the evening. This two night prom-like event for those in the community living with disabilities annually proves to be the “Best Party Ever” for those in attendance. This event has quickly become a favorite for students and many graduates of the program return to give of their time to help those in their community. All involved leave with a sense of pride in their community and the knowledge of the difference that can be made by sharing just a few hours of your time with others.
If you would like to volunteer to help with this amazing event, details are posted on Mount Pleasant Church Facebook page the beginning of each year or feel free to reach out to Lora Hofmann lhofmann1@ivytech.edu
ISA-AST Gives Back
ISA donated $500 cash and $500 in books to Kate's Kart.
Additionally, attendees made monetary donations throughout the conference providing total support in excess of $1000 for this initiative. Great job, Indiana State Assembly!
"We hope to make the holidays a little warmer & brighter for those served by the Wheeler Mission."
Mimi Tammen, President