Indiana University (IU) is pleased to announce its participation in the 54th Annual Indiana Black Expo (IBE) Summer Celebration from July 14–20, 2025, in Indianapolis. As a prominent sponsor and partner, IU will serve as the presenting sponsor of the Corporate Luncheon and will participate in a three-day exhibition.
“Indiana University is deeply committed to fostering opportunities that empower and uplift communities,” stated Rashad Nelms, J.D., interim vice president of Indiana University. “For 54 years, IU has proudly partnered with the Indiana Black Expo to create meaningful connections, expand access to higher education and celebrate Black excellence. We look forward to continuing this essential work in the years to come.”
Volunteers play a vital role in IU's involvement with IBE. Faculty and staff from IU’s 9 campuses are encouraged to represent the university by serving on the planning committee and assisting with programming during the three-day exhibition. Volunteers will have the opportunity to engage directly with students, families, alumni and community members, sharing information about IU’s academic programs, scholarships, campus resources and more.
To sign up as a volunteer, please visit the online registration form, where you can select the dates, times and potential roles that best suit your availability.
Exhibition Details
The Summer Celebration Exhibition Hall will be open to the public from Friday, July 18, 2025, through Sunday, July 20, 2025, at the Indiana Convention Center. IU will host an interactive booth experience during the exhibition to engage future students/scholars and expects to welcome over 600 high school students from communities across the state. These students will be able to connect with IU in meaningful ways, participate in hands-on activities, take virtual campus tours, meet IU representatives and explore various pathways to future success.
State representatives from the 21st Century Scholars Program will be present at the IU booth to assist students in checking and updating their enrollment status and answering any questions. In addition, there will be opportunities for scholars to complete the Scholars Success Program requirements for grades 9–12.
All high school students—regardless of whether they are 21st Century Scholars—will participate in grade-specific activities designed to support them at each stage of their high school journey:
9th Grade
- Paying for College 101: Learn about college costs, saving strategies and financial aid options.
- Create a Graduation Plan: Outline your high school coursework and key milestones.
10th Grade
- Get Workplace Experience: Watch interviews with IU alumni from various industries.
- Estimating College Costs: Understand how to budget for college expenses.
- Take a Career Interest Assessment: Identify careers that correspond with your strengths and interests.
11th Grade
- Visit an IU Campus: Participate in virtual tours and engage with IU representatives.
- Search for Scholarships: Discover funding opportunities to support your college journey.
12th Grade
- College Success 101: Receive expert tips for achieving success in college.
- Submit Your IU College Application: Use IU’s application waiver to apply to multiple IU campuses with assistance from representatives.
For more information, please visit IndianaBlackExpo.iu.edu or email vpdei@iu.edu.