Kokomo Mayor Greg Goodnight Returns to College

Throughout his campaign and administration, Kokomo Mayor Greg Goodnight has stressed the importance of a college education, and of encouraging adults to return to school. Now, Mayor Goodnight is leading by example, by enrolling at Indiana University Kokomo.

Mayor Goodnight is taking classes through IU Kokomo’s ACCELerated Evening College, which is designed for adult students who are juggling family obligations, work responsibilities and other time demands.

“It has not been easy," Mayor Goodnight recently told the Kokomo Perspective. "But it's easier than it was a few weeks ago. If I can do the juggling act and send a positive message, hopefully it will encourage others. After 18 years, I can walk back in and do it. They can do it as well."

Mayor Goodnight stressed that college education is important not only to him, but to the entire Kokomo community. Throughout his administration Mayor Goodnight has touted the importance of education to transforming the Kokomo economy, and to attracting new employers. According to Census Data, only 14 percent of Kokomo residents have a Bachelor’s Degree, compared to 27 percent nationwide. However, in recent years Kokomo’s higher education institutions have continued to expand their offerings, and have seen record enrollment.

“Mayor Goodnight’s return to college demonstrates his commitment to education – and it is clear he understands the importance of higher education and degree completion,” said Interim Chancellor Stuart Green. “We are delighted to have the Mayor as one of our students, and we see him as an example to others in the community who may wish to return to college to complete their education.”