NORTH MANCHESTER – Kyle Newcomb, a sophomore from Rolling Prairie, was recognized at the Realizing the Dream banquet in Indianapolis on Feb. 24.
Realizing the Dream is a program by Independent Colleges of Indiana that annually celebrates a first-generation Indiana college student from each of the state's private, non-profit colleges and universities. Recipients earn a $4,000 scholarship for outstanding achievement as they successfully advance toward completing their bachelor's degree, according to a news release from Manchester University.
Manchester University's 2024 recipient was Newcomb. He is carrying a major in criminology and a minor in psychology. Newcomb is a member of the men's cross country team, and earned a place on the 2023 Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference (HCAC) championship team, as well as Fall 2023 Academic All-HCAC honors. He also participates in the student organizations Psych Society and Criminal Justice Group.
"As a first-generation college student, the struggles were extremely intense for me," Newcomb said. "I came into college not knowing what to expect. I wasn't even sure if I would financially make it or if I would pass my classes. Due to being in special education all my high school career, I came into college with a lot of unknowns."
At the banquet, recipients honor an inspiring educator who influenced their decision to attend college, and that educator receives a $1,000 professional development grant. Newcomb selected John Arndt from New Prairie High School.
"Mr. Arndt helped me realize that I had a gift and that I would go far in this world," Newcomb said. "He was my mentor from sixth grade all the way up to my senior year of high school. He was the one who pushed me to follow my dreams in life and not settle for anything."