Alumni Jake Barna, B.S. Informatics ’05, has been giving to the Step Up campaign with additional support through his employer matching gifts program. Hear directly from Jake on why philanthropy matters to him and the impact Luddy has made on his life.
Doubling Your Impact: Jake Barna, '05
I’ve always been an Indiana Hoosier. I was born and raised in Indiana. My childhood was filled with so many Indiana University memories – whether it be stories from my parents about the Bloomington campus, trips to IU games to cheer on the Hoosiers, or endless hours listening to Don Fischer on the radio. I only wanted to attend one school for my college education – IU!
My story with the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering starts at the very early years of its inception in 2001. Originally named The School of Informatics, it was the first school of its kind, and it was on the cutting edge of innovation. I received an informational brochure prior to coming to IU and the program and its vision immediately struck an interest. My first semester started with I101 and my final semester ended with the Senior Capstone Project, with many great memories and experiences in between! I graduated in 2005 with a B.S. in Informatics and have been a strong supporter ever since.
The Luddy School prepared me for success beyond graduation. My professional career journey has landed me in the Project Management field where I continue to benefit from my undergraduate experiences. It is because of this that I actively give back through volunteering on the Luddy Alumni Board (2009-2014), donating to name an auditorium chair in Dorsey Learning Hall, networking to stay in contact with students and faculty, and annually giving to the Step Up Campaign.
The Step Up Campaign has provided me with the perfect opportunity to help current Luddy School students prepare for the future and benefit from the same great Informatics experience I received. I am grateful to The Luddy School and I am proud to make an impact on tomorrow by giving back today.
Go Hoosiers!
Jake Barna