ITCC Announces Retirement Of Anderson Chancellor Dr. James R. Willey  

The College will begin a national search process in the coming months to fill the position.

(Indianapolis, Ind.) – Ivy Tech Community College Anderson Campus Chancellor Dr. James R. Willey will retire on July 6, 2020. He has served in this role since 2017 and been with Ivy Tech since 2009. The College will begin a national search process in the coming months to fill the position.

Willey has held many leadership roles for the Anderson location including serving as vice chancellor/executive dean, campus president, and chancellor. The campus was originally part of the legacy East Central Region that included campuses in Muncie, Anderson, Marion, and New Castle. In 2017, Ivy Tech dissolved the regional structure and each campus location is now led by its own chancellor.

“I have been in education for 30 years, 11 at Ivy Tech, and held positions from teacher, to professor, to superintendent, to chancellor, and although I’m leaving Ivy Tech, my time serving the community and economic development for the City of Anderson and Madison County will continue,” said Willey. “Throughout my time in education, my greatest moments are always seeing students cross the stage. I look forward to the next chapter of my life where I can serve the community in new ways, but still be very involved and contribute to the areas’ economic health.”

Willey was instrumental in overseeing the construction of the new Anderson campus in 2015, an 85,000 square foot facility featuring state-of-the-art labs, data center, and collaborative space for faculty, staff, and students. During the campaign, more than six million dollars were raised from community gifts and in-kind donations, demonstrating the generosity and support the Madison County community has for its Anderson campus.

“I want to thank Chancellor Willey for his oversight and leadership of the Anderson Campus and his dedication to our students and their success. I wish him well in retirement from Ivy Tech and his efforts to serve his community in new ways,” said Ivy Tech President Sue Ellspermann. “Ivy Tech is integral to the success of Madison county and employers, especially during economic times like this. We will continue our commitment to serving students, employers, and the community.”

Willey’s career also includes: superintendent of the Alexandria Community School District, principal of the Wabash Middle School, and Junior/Senior High School principal at Daleville Community Schools. He was also a probation officer for the Grant County Superior Court III in Marion, and a police officer for the City of Gas City.

Willey earned his Doctor of Education with an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership & Administration, an Ed.S. in Educational Leadership & Administration, and Masters of Arts in Education from Ball State University. He holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Political Science and Criminal Justice from Indiana Wesleyan University. He has also participated in numerous community, economic development, and non-profit organizations serving in board positions and advisory roles.