NORTH MANCHESTER - Chloe Steele, a Manchester University sophomore from North Manchester, was recognized at the Realizing the Dream banquet in Indianapolis on March 1.
Realizing the Dream is a program by Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI) 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.
Steele is studying digital media arts and public relations.
"I really think I've grown in communication skills, responsibility, adaptability and building networks," said Steele. "[Manchester] is going to continue to give me those skills and tools to better equip me for my job and my life."
Her goal after graduating is to become the executive director of the North Manchester-based nonprofit organization, Daniel's Place, which provides respite care for people with special needs. Steele has worked in various roles with the organization since its inception in 2018. Currently, she is the marketing manager.
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. Steele selected Debra Kern, a retired art teacher from Manchester Junior-Senior High School.
Steele's Realizing the Dream video can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5v8flJr7Mxo.