Ivy Tech Kokomo’s Dueling Pianos event hits high note for scholarships

Laughter, music, and generosity filled Hingst Hall on Sept. 19 as Ivy Tech Community College Kokomo’s annual Scholarships for Student Success: Dueling Pianos fundraiser raised $55,907 to support local students.

The event featured the return of Dueling Pianos International, a crowd favorite known for its high-energy, all-request rock ’n’ roll show where the audience becomes part of the performance. Along with dinner, a live scholarship auction and plenty of community spirit, the evening showcased how fun and philanthropy can come together to make a lasting difference.

“These scholarships change lives,” said Kelly Karickhoff, vice chancellor of Development and Community Engagement. “Because of this community’s generosity, students who may have struggled to afford tuition, books, childcare, or transportation now have the support they need to continue their education and complete their degrees.”

Ivy Tech reports that 80 percent of its graduates remain in Indiana, fueling the state’s workforce and strengthening local communities. Funds raised at the event will help students across the Kokomo Service Area, which includes Cass, Fulton, Howard, Miami, Pulaski, and Tipton counties.

Sponsors, donors, and guests all contributed to the event’s success, showing the power of community in action. “Every gift made that night represents a student with one less barrier standing in their way,” Karickhoff added.

Those who missed the event can still support Ivy Tech students by donating at ivytech.edu/givenow or by calling 765-252-5501.

Sponsors for this year’s event include: 4C Health, Ascension St. Vincent Kokomo, Berry IT, Chariot Automotive Group, Bucheri McCarty & Metz LLP, City of Kokomo, Clayborn Studios, Community First Bank of Indiana, Community Howard Regional Health, Duke Energy, RD Filip, First Farmers Bank & Trust Company, Haynes International, Howard County Government, Huston Electric, IBEW Local 873, Indiana University Kokomo, J&J Electric, Johnson Agency, Mike and Kelly Karickhoff, Kokomo Common Council, Kokomo Grain Inc., Kokomo Post, Kokomo School Corporation, Larison Media, Scott and Cheryl Maple, Miami County Economic Development Authority, Mid-America Beverage, NIPSCO,  Rozzi’s Catering, Security Federal Savings Bank,  Smith Financial, Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union, Soupley’s Wine and Spirits, and The Wyman Group.