About the 2024 Chancellor's Medal Recipient
Megan Baughman’s family has a long history of ties to Indiana University and community service is part of her calling.
Baughman was the 2007-08 recipient of the Lewis S. Armstrong Award presented by the Judd Leighton School of Business and Economics in recognition of her achievement, leadership, and contributions to the advancement of business and the quality of life in Michiana. She just completed a term as chair of the IU South Bend Chancellor’s Advisory Board.
Professionally, she has been CEO of Ethos Innovation Center in Elkhart since 2021, after serving on the organization’s board of directors. Her community service work includes helping raise millions of dollars for charities around the area. She has served on the board of directors for the Women’s Care Center, the Community Foundation of Elkhart County, Premier Arts, and chaired the capital campaign that raised more than $7 million for Ethos. She also served out the term of long-time at-large Elkhart City Council member Mary Olson, after her passing in 2021.
Her family tradition at Indiana University started four generations ago. More than 20 members of her family have graduated with an IU degree. Megan earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Affairs in 1992 and credits the university with helping her see potential in the world.
“There’s an opportunity to learn about the big world that’s out there. I felt that the professors were interested in having a dialogue with me. It was an environment of learning and curiosity and how we can use what we learn to make the world a better place. It’s where I seeded my passion for fundraising and helping develop our community,” Baughman said.
During her time at IU, she was involved in projects that focused on solving problems. Whether it was her involvement in a sorority or being selected as a member of the Indiana University Student Foundation Steering Committee, she credits those experiences as having a profound impact on who she is today. Now, her efforts are concentrated on sparking a love of the world of STEM through the Ethos Innovation Center. The organization is working with schools to simplify science education in and out of the classroom.
“Our goal is to get kids excited about learning STEM, to inspire curiosity and sense of discovery, and for them to ultimately make the connection from what they learned in the classroom to how it relates to the real world and everyday life,” Baughman said.
She’s quick to credit the efforts of her team for helping kids succeed.
“I am surrounded by an amazing team and an incredible community. Truly, the more you serve, the more it comes back to you,” she said.
The Chancellor's Medal is the highest honor presented by the chancellor of IU South Bend. It honors individuals who have helped advance the campus and its mission. Recipients demonstrate outstanding support of IU South Bend and serve as exceptional advocates. They also give freely of their talents in the promotion of human welfare and community well-being and serve as role model for students and alumni through their integrity, leadership, and commitment.