University Economic Development Association
Susan Sciame-Gieseke

Susan Sciame-Gieseke

Chancellor
Indiana University Kokomo
765.455.9221

 

Sciame-Giesecke is the seventh Chancellor of Indiana University Kokomo, after contributing to many areas across the campus for 37 years. As chancellor, she is taking bold steps, working with sister regional campuses to advocate for the importance of higher education as a benefit to everyone, improving retention and graduation rates in those regions, and leading regional partnerships in education, business and economic growth, and research. Chancellor Sciame-Giesecke has led successful initiatives to enhance degree programs, student success and graduation initiatives, athletics and other student life programs, and she has worked to deepen and broaden community and K-12 connections throughout the 14-county service region. Under her leadership, with strong support from IU Kokomo’s faculty and staff, numerous new degree programs have been launched including a Bachelor of Applied Science program in conjunction with other IU regional campuses, and a degree in hospitality and tourism. Capital projects Chancellor Sciame-Giesecke has overseen include the current $14 million renovation of the Main Building, transforming it into a 21st century learning space. She’s also led construction of a new advising center, a new outdoor courtyard, the Cole Family Fitness and Wellness Center, and the Cougar Gym. Chancellor Sciame-Giesecke also facilitated discussions for the development of a regional economic development organization, which include six counties in the campus service region. She led efforts to create a funding formula, organizational structure, and bylaws for the new organization. Prior to her permanent appointment as chancellor, she served she served as the interim chancellor from 2012 to 2014 and the executive vice chancellor of academic affairs from 2010 to 2012. Chancellor Sciame-Giesecke holds a bachelor’s degree from Ball State University, a master’s degree from Illinois State University and a doctoral degree from Indiana University. In addition to her campus administrative roles, she also directed the Indiana University Enhancing Minority Attainment Conference and the Indiana University Faculty Leadership Institute, each for several years.