Ball State University Magazine

Academics

Ball State’s Carnegie ‘Triple Crown’ Recognition Highlights Student Opportunity and Impact

Shafter tower with Spring flowers and a bright blue sky

Ball State Earns Carnegie ‘Triple Crown’ for Opportunity, Research, Engagement

March 20, 2026/by Andrew Walker

Alumni Stories

Inspiring the next generation of cardinals.

two men on the left is Fauquher and on the right is Anderson

Steve Anderson and Ron Fauquher were recognized with Ball State’s Honorary Alumni and Distinguished Alumni awards for decades of civic, philanthropic, and University leadership.

Ball State alumni John Williams and Dr. Damita Williams

Alumni John Williams and Dr. Damita Williams draw on their experiences in athletics and health to support the University and encourage fellow Cardinals to stay engaged.

Ball State alumni Kelli and Russell Lawrence

First-generation graduates Kelli, ’01, and Russell Lawrence, ’94, are expanding opportunity for Ball State students through scholarships and programs that encourage the next generation of philanthropists.

Lou Hensley (left) and Caleb Murray (right), both smiling and dressed in suits.

Aspida CEO Lou Hensley, ’91, supports Ball State through philanthropy, service on the Ball State University Foundation Board, student mentorship, and recruiting Cardinals for internships and careers.

Mike Shebek stands in front of the Shebek Stadium with his arms crossed in a red Ball State pullover.

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.