Chirp chirp! On today’s show I sat down with Ball State University President Geoffrey S. Mearns to learn why he chose Ball State and Muncie, emphasizing education’s transformational power, Ball State’s residential campus, and the university’s responsibility to support community growth.
President Mearns explains Ball State’s origins from the Ball Brothers’ 1917 gift, its continuing strength in teacher education, and high Indiana retention among graduates. He dives into Ball State’s nationally recognized media and Sports Link programs and alumni engagement, including David Letterman bringing Netflix and ESPN productions to campus and the Letterman Speaker Series.
President Mearns also shares Hugh Jackman’s visits and positive view of Muncie as a resilient post-industrial community.
Our conversation covers Ball State’s partnership with Muncie Community Schools, progress in student outcomes, and a major Village revitalization plan featuring a performing arts center, hotel, innovation hub, housing and green space.
If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast.
You are going to learn about:
Ball State University’s Origins from the Ball Brothers
Ball State’s Media Program and David Letterman Speaker Series
Muncie’s Village Revitalization Plan
Thank you to our partners:
Berne Apparel
Hope Plumbing
