NACCE Member Spotlight: Steve Thrash, Ivy Tech Community College
Meet Steve Thrash, Entrepreneurship Program Chair and Assistant Professor at Ivy Tech Community College’s Garatoni School of Entrepreneurship in Indianapolis, Indiana. A NACCE member for just two years, Steve has already become a powerful voice in the NACCE community, championing student success, innovation, and the drive to scale ideas into impactful ventures.
Powerful Tools for Student Impact
Steve credits the Everyday Entrepreneur Program (Rounds I & II) as a transformational force for his students. “Pitch competitions give students real-world validation,” he says. “It can feel like a long, tough road to entrepreneurship, but these experiences show them that their hard work can pay off—now.”
As Ivy Tech evolves its Start-Up Seed Fund into a second-stage Venture Fund, Steve says NACCE is a key partner: “They’re helping us take our ‘Start Ups’ to ‘Scale Ups’—adding real value at every stage.”
Professional Development & Program Expansion
From NACCE’s national conference to tools like Verizon Digital Ready and SlyngShot, Steve embraces the vast library of resources NACCE provides. “Each year brings new exposure and insight,” he says. “Hearing about program growth strategies from other educators expands my mindset and what’s possible for our students and community.”
He’s especially inspired by the generosity of NACCE leaders like Stuart and Chip Weismiller: “They could be on a beach somewhere, but they’re here giving back. That kind of purpose-driven leadership adds perspective to what I hope to do in my ‘afterlife.’ There’s always more to give.”
Proven Value That Gets Results
When it comes to expanding his program at home, NACCE’s credibility speaks volumes. “Their tools and success stories bring instant validation to my proposals,” Steve explains. “Real-world case studies from across the country make it easier to get buy-in from our administration and stakeholders.”
Advice for Members (and Future Members!)
Steve’s advice is clear:
- “Show up.” Be present at conferences, calls, and events.
- “Share your experience.” Take what you learn and bring it back to your team, your college, and your community.
- “Talk to Lydia.” (We agree!) “It’s rare to find someone so young and talented so committed to the cause. It’s refreshing—especially after working in higher ed for so long.”
Why Join NACCE?
“The resources and networking are unmatched,” Steve says. “Attend a conference or a call, and you’ll see the difference. You’ll gain new tools, ideas, and connections that can change your trajectory—and your students’ futures.”
Thank you, Steve Thrash, for your energy, leadership, and commitment to scaling student entrepreneurship at Ivy Tech and beyond!