TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – Indiana State Athletics and the Vigo County School Corporation (VCSC) are partnering on a number of initiatives for the 2025-26 year.
 
The Sycamores were present throughout the Vigo County Schools the 2024-25 school year starting with the implementation of "High Five Fridays" where Indiana State student-athletes lined up to welcome elementary age kids in the drop-off lines on Friday mornings. The Sycamores also had a number of teams participate in reading programs across the county, as well as other initiatives.
 
"The success of High Five Fridays far exceeded our expectations," said Dr. Chris Himsel, Superintendent of the Vigo County School Corporation. "It wasn't just the elementary students who enjoyed the program. Everyone from parents, to teachers, to the ISU student athletes started their day with a huge smile. We are all looking forward to beginning the program again this school year."
 
"We recognize the meaningful impact our student-athletes can have, not only within the community, but throughout the Vigo County School Corporation," Indiana State Athletic Director Nathan Christensen. "We look forward to continuing our partnership in the coming year, strengthening the connection between our university and local youth."
 
Indiana State will continue the "High Five Fridays" initiative this fall for the second consecutive year starting August 22 at Riley Elementary School. All 16 Sycamore athletic programs will take part in the program running from late August through mid-November and then beginning again in the spring. Overall, Indiana State student-athletes will be at 17 different schools throughout Vigo County this fall.
 
Indiana State Athletics will also be partnering up with the VCSC for a new pilot program called the "Sycamore Buddies" that will be incorporated across five local middle schools. Sycamore student-athletes will be paired with middle school students for three months of individual attention and mentoring, culminating with an end of season event at an Indiana State home men's basketball game where middle school students and Sycamore Buddies will attend the game together.
 
"We are very proud of our partnership with Indiana State University," Himsel said. "Our continuation of High-Five Fridays and the pilot program of Sycamore Buddies strengthens these partnerships. Most importantly, it allows students at the Vigo County School Corporation to receive additional mentorship from positive role models."
 
Sycamore Spirit Squad Coach and Community Service Coordinator Tammy Shike will serve as one of the mentors of the VCSC CEO program which will feature high school students pairing with community businessmen and women to develop, design, and implement a business of their own. The program will kick off in August and will culminate with students showcasing their businesses in late April.
 
As the partnership continues to grow into the future, Indiana State Athletics will continue to work with the VCSC to be in direct contact, supporting and mentoring students from early childhood through high school.

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