BLOOMINGTON – Ivy Tech Community College Bloomington student, Autumn Stevens, was named the winner of the registration contest encouraging students to enroll early for Spring Semester 2026. Stevens is studying entrepreneurship and will receive free tuition for her full-time classes next term, totaling $1,812.
“Winning a free semester allows me to keep pursuing my goals without the financial stress that often holds first-generation students and young parents back,” Stevens said. “I returned to school to build a better future for my son and to create a bookstore–teahouse.”
The entrepreneurship program at Ivy Tech helps students start or grow their businesses or side hustles in as few as 2 semesters. Stevens’ business, “A Cup of Leaves & Books,” is a wellness brand that sells organic tea and body care products. She plans to work toward opening a storefront.
“This support helps me stay focused on that dream and move closer to creating a safe, inspiring space for both my son and the community.”
In the future, Stevens hopes to earn her master’s degree in women’s literature and gain the skills to make her vision a reality.
Ivy Tech is enrolling now for the spring term, and it’s not too late to sign up. Classes begin January 12.
Ivy Tech Bloomington offers more than 40 career and four-year transfer programs, with courses that start multiple times per year for quick entry and graduation. To get started, apply online at ivytech.edu/bloomington or email askBloomington@ivytech.edu. For information on free, short-term training programs, visit ivytech.edu/bloomington/NLJ.
