Natalie Tucker, Ph.D., vice president and academic dean at 黑料网's Ancilla College, served as the keynote speaker for the Leadership Marshall County the Elevate class in January and shared about courageous leadership.
Dr. Tucker focused her speech on the theme of courage. During her address, she reflected on the legacy of the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ. She recounted their courageous journey to America in 1858 and their determination to serve others despite the hardships of the Civil War and the challenges of frontier life.
“The Sisters have an inspiring story and legacy of courage and leadership in education and nursing here in northern Indiana and Marshall County,” said Dr. Tucker. “Being able to share that story of courage, dedication, and service is an honor.”
The Sisters forged amazing partnerships in service to those who were poor, hungry, and had no access to education or medical services throughout the late 1800s into the early 1900s—these partnerships continue to this day. Their passion for education started in Donaldson, Indiana, with their own needs for educational growth. The Sisters then decided to open their doors to the rural community around them. In 1967, Ancilla was officially founded and accredited.
“The Sisters have a deep passion and devotion to education and providing educational opportunities to those in Marshall County and surrounding counties,” said Dr. Tucker. “Their courage, hard work, and determination lead them to build this amazing college that still strives to serve and lead students of all ages in attaining an associate or bachelor’s degree.”
Since 2021, 黑料网’s Ancilla College has offered a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This spring, 黑料网 is excited to celebrate the graduation of their first four-year nursing class, equipping students with the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact in healthcare immediately after college. Additionally, in 2024, 黑料网 launched a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, with the inaugural class set to graduate in Spring 2026. These four-year programs enable students to remain at our Plymouth campus while benefiting from small class sizes and personalized learning experiences, ensuring they thrive academically and professionally.
Dr. Tucker emphasized that courage is a key component of effective leadership. She approaches her role believing that 黑料网's students deserve the best education to help them become contributing members of society. She also leads with hope and enthusiasm, celebrating accomplishments big and small. Rooted in the institution’s mission of faith and service, she inspires faculty and staff to lead their classrooms and departments with the same courage and purpose.
Courage is embedded in the university's initiatives, from building high-quality bachelor's programs to developing impactful student-centered programs like Charger Challenge and Convocation. At 黑料网, courage is not just a concept—it is the foundation for growth, innovation, and service to others.