Ball State University Magazine

Ball State Graduate Dan Towriss is Driving Change on a Global Stage

Dan Towriss stands with his arms crossed wearing a headset inside a stadium.

Ball State alumnus Dan Towriss, ’94, has grown Group 1001 into a multibillion-dollar firm, launched Gainbridge, invested in Formula 1 and global motorsports, and supported philanthropy in Muncie and beyond.

September 29, 2025/by Andrew Walker

How Burris Laboratory School Strengthened its Mission—and Shaped the Future of Lab Schools

September 29, 2025/by Andrew Walker

Ball State Achieves Rare Dual Carnegie Recognition for Research Excellence and Student Impact

Four adults pose confidently with arms crossed in front of illustrated houses, trees, and a lively community scene

September 29, 2025/by Landa Bagley

Indiana Communities Institute at Ball State Builds Stronger Communities Statewide

September 29, 2025/by Jennifer Criss

Center for Innovation and Collaboration Takes Shape in The Village

Syndal Hittson and Dr. Michael Tagler looking at laptop

September 29, 2025/by Jennifer Criss

Ball State Teacher-Scholar Program Transforms Students into Researchers

September 29, 2025/by Andrew Walker

How Mike Shebek’s Journey of Resilience Led Back to Ball State Baseball

Two student, Anna McCreary and Trinity Czarnik gather in front of a laptop in the design studio.

September 29, 2025/by Landa Bagley

OneCreative Mentorship Program Connects Ball State Graphic Design Students with Alumni

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Alumni Stories

Inspiring the next generation of cardinals.

From ace pitcher to CEO, Mike Shebek, ’88, has built a life defined by resilience. His journey came full circle with a historic contribution to Ball State baseball and the stadium that now bears his name.

Ball State alumna Jill Lacy, ’92, has built a lifelong connection to her alma mater through student leadership, philanthropy, and service on key University boards and committees.

Smiling man (Kieth A. Robinson) in a blue suit and pink tie poses outdoors in front of a brick building

Ball State alumnus Dr. Keith Robinson, ’95, built a career in education and public service, becoming associate principal at Evanston Township High School and the first Black trustee of Skokie, Ill.

Ball State alumna Natalie Vega O’Neil, ’98, smiling with arms crossed, now president and CEO of Junior Achievement of Washington.

Ball State alumna Natalie Vega O’Neil, ’98, draws on lessons from her student experience to lead Junior Achievement of Washington and champion youth empowerment and community service.

Kate (Endress) Doerksen, a 2005 Ball State graduate and former standout basketball player, balances entrepreneurship and a commitment to her community.

Brian Haynes. Photo courtesy of Kevin Liles/Atlanta Braves.

Brian Haynes took a detour to his dream job—now he’s keeping the Atlanta Braves safe.

Growing up in northern New Jersey, Damon Hewlin, ’99, was surrounded by concrete and asphalt in an underserved community.

Five former Ball State baseball players, Alex Call, Drey Jameson, Chayce McDermott, Kyle Nicolas, and Zach Plesac.

Five former Ball State baseball players reached the Major Leagues in 2024, showcasing the program’s success and talent development.

Former Ball State University swimmer Apsara Sakbun, ’23, was training for a marathon when she received a phone call from the head of the Khmer Swimming Federation in Cambodia.

Patrick Alderdice in front of Alderdice Gate

Patrick Alderdice, '92, has always aimed high whether climbing mountains or supporting his alma mater.

Meet Acclaimed Author, Ball State Graduate J.R. Jamison—Whose Audiobook Landed on a Best Audiobooks of 2023 List

President Mearns serving pizza to students.

What perhaps started as spirited competition among departments and student groups on One Ball State Day has evolved into a lasting commitment to giving