Indiana University East is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Danielson Learning Center in New Castle, Ind. with an open house from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, October 18. The center opened in 1999.

The center was made possible after a group of residents, now formed as the Danielson Education Council, Inc., saw the need for higher education housed within their community. Danny and Patty Danielson challenged the community to raise money to build the center and the campaign raised $1 million for construction of the center. The first courses were held in fall 1999. There were 159 students enrolled for course work.

“Our community is very fortunate to have such a committed group of people on the Danielson Education Council, Inc. Not only did this group realize the need for higher education in our community but they continue to be aware of the needs and are always looking to the future and what those needs might be,” said Missy Modesitt, director of the Danielson Learning Center.  “I am truly fortunate to work with such a wonderful and supportive advisory board.”

Enrollment for the Danielson Learning Center has continued to increase. In fall 2005, enrollment for the center was 420 students. Today, the center provides educational programs to 1,450 student enrollments.

“Each day we see new faces coming through the door. It is very inspiring to be able to help members of our community achieve the goal of a postsecondary education. For many who are first generation college students, it can be a scary process,” Modesitt said. “I have been here long enough that I have had the privilege of watching as some of our students go from their first class all the way through graduation. I can’t help but feel a sense of pride in what we are providing at the Danielson Learning Center.”

Through collaboration, higher education institutions maintain and broaden the scope and quality of Henry County’s employment opportunities and improve the quality of life in the region. Students can take classes at the Danielson Learning Center through IU East, Purdue College of Technology at Richmond and Ivy Tech Community College. High school students are offered dual-credit programs. The Health Occupations Career Ladder, offered through the New Castle Area Career Programs, allows high school students to complete postsecondary education courses and take the necessary entrance test in the spring prior to applying to the fall nursing program.

The open house will celebrate these accomplishments and reaffirm IU East’s dedication to provide services at the Danielson Learning Center. During the open house, Danny Danielson and IU East Chancellor Nasser Paydar will deliver remarks at 2:30 p.m. and visitors may tour the building. Refreshments will be provided.