SMWC Student 'Realizing the Dream' with Scholarship, Connection to Influential Educator
Saint Mary of the Woods, IN (03/10/2026) — Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College sophomore Kadin Bell, a criminology and psychology major from Terre Haute, is one of 28 first-generation Indiana college students named as a "Realizing the Dream" recipient by Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI).
A banquet honoring one student from each of Indiana's private, non-profit colleges and universities was held recently at the Eiteljorg Museum, where the students got a boost in their education funds this academic year and reconnected with influential educators who have helped them along the way.
Bell's influential educator was Todd Warren from Dixie Bee Elementary School.
"Thanks to the continued support of Lilly Endowment, we get the opportunity to hear the inspiring stories of these first-generation students and the impact local educators have had on their drive to succeed academically," said Dottie L. King, ICI's president & CEO. "These scholarship awards will provide critical support for these young people who are dreaming of future success."
Made possible by a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc., the scholarship program annually recognizes first-generation college students from ICI colleges and universities. Students are selected for the $5,000 awards for outstanding achievement as they complete their bachelor's degrees.
To honor recipients, ICI created individual videos of each student describing what it means to them to be a first-generation college student and thanking the influential educator they have chosen to honor. Find videos for Bell and the other recipients at icindiana.org/rtd.
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Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College student Kadin Bell of Terre Haute, right, stands with his influential educator, Todd Warren from Dixie Bee Elementary School in Terre Haute, during the Independent College of Indiana's “Realizing the Dream” banquet Feb. 28. Bell is one of 28 first-generation Indiana college students recognized by the scholarship program this year.
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
BJ Riley, 812-535-5267, BJ.Riley@smwc.eduShare this Story
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