Ivy Tech Madison Announces Partnership with Bethany Legacy Foundation and FSH Works to Expand Jefferson County Support Services

Expand student support services and address affordable housing needs in Jefferson County

MADISON, Ind. – Ivy Tech Community College Madison is pleased to announce a collaborative partnership with Bethany Legacy Foundation and FSH Works, based in Louisville, Kentucky, to expand student support services and address affordable housing needs in Jefferson County. The initiative is designed to improve student retention and success by providing critical services for students with families.

As an initial step, the partnership will bring a Regional Coordinator to the Ivy Tech Madison campus beginning this fall. This position, jointly funded by FSH Works and Bethany Legacy Foundation, will serve as a key connector for students navigating housing insecurity, childcare needs, transportation barriers, and other challenges that may impact academic success. The Regional Coordinator will lead efforts to gather data, identify evolving student needs, and support retention strategies.

The organizations are pleased to announce that Grace Plahitko has been hired as the first Regional Coordinator for Ivy Tech Madison Campus. Grace will play a vital role in helping students access resources, stay enrolled, and reach their educational goals.

“This partnership between Ivy Tech, FSH Works, and Bethany Legacy Foundation reflects what’s possible when organizations align around community well-being,” said Dora Anim, President & CEO of Bethany Legacy Foundation. “By combining education and wraparound support, this approach ensures families receive the services they need today while building the skills and confidence for long-term self-reliance. Together, they are setting a powerful example of how we can create sustainable change in Jefferson County.”

Should the data reflect a need, the partnership has a shared vision to help address the county’s affordable housing shortage by creating a housing option. The goal is to create a stable, supportive environment that allows student parents to focus on their education while raising their families.

“We’re excited to work alongside Ivy Tech Madison to bring our supportive services directly to students. This partnership allows us to meet families where they are and help remove barriers to education,” said Lamont Campbell Director of Regional Programs for FSH Works. 

The collaboration represents a strong, long-term commitment to improving the lives of Jefferson County residents by increasing educational attainment, strengthening economic mobility, and promoting family stability.

“This collaboration opens new doors for our students—especially those balancing school and family. It’s an opportunity to support them more holistically so they can stay on track and succeed,” said Dr. Amanda Harsin, Chancellor of Ivy Tech Madison.

The organizations look forward to continued collaboration as the initiative moves forward in phases—from on-campus support services to housing development and beyond.