Jacqueline D. Franz honored with the 2017 James G. Simms Leadership Award by IUPUC (Indiana University-Purdue University Columbus) during its annual Circle of Leadership Celebration on Thursday, Nov. 2 at the Harrison Lake Country Club.

The award, established in honor of the late James G. Simms for his vision, perseverance, and dedication in founding the IUPUC campus in the 1970s, recognizes inspiring individuals who have generously given their time, talent, and treasure to advance IUPUC’s mission. 

Jacquie Franz joined IUPUC in 1975, assisting then Director Emerson Gilbert writing policy and procedures. Jacquie quickly became a critical and valued member of the IUPUC staff as she initiated and led projects and created resources to support faculty. During the tenure of Vice Chancellor and Dean Paul Bippen, she transitioned to a larger role at IUPUC and was responsible for recruiting all part-time faculty members. Additionally, in recognition of Jacquie’s influence, the Jacqueline D. Franz Outstanding Part-Time Faculty Teaching Award is named in her honor and is annually presented at the IUPUC Honors Convocation.

Jacquie became an academic administrator as her role further evolved over the years. She coordinated the faculty hiring process, served as a campus contact for all IUPUI department chairs, and represented IUPUC on the IUPUI Academic Affairs Committee.  Furthermore, she represented IUPUC on many community initiatives, including initial conversations about articulation agreements with Ivy Tech Community College and Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation. Jacquie was an academic advisor to students majoring in education at IUPUC; many of the current teachers in our region can thank Jacquie for helping them earn their degree in education.

Jacquie left IUPUC in 1996 to serve as President of the Columbus Regional Hospital Foundation. However, she has continued to support IUPUC through her participation on the Business Advisory Board and as a member of the IUPUC Board of Advisors.