TERRE HAUTE, Ind. — Indiana State University has announced a major new partnership with national real estate and construction firm Thompson Thrift, including a $1.4 million gift to establish the Thompson Thrift Department of Construction Management at the Bailey College of Engineering and Technology.

The partnership, unveiled this week, represents a significant investment in the university’s mission to expand hands-on learning and industry ties for its construction management students. In addition to the initial gift, Thompson Thrift has also committed to provide $1.3 million worth of paid summer internships for Indiana State construction management majors over the next 15 years.

The new department will be bolstered by scholarship support, industry-focused curriculum development, professional mentorships and collaborative programs designed to align students’ academic experience with real-world construction practice.

“This partnership exemplifies Indiana State’s commitment to forging innovative, high-impact alliances that elevate academic excellence and professional readiness,” said Mike Godard, President of Indiana State University. “It stands as a model for how public-private collaboration can enrich higher education, demonstrating the transformative potential when universities and industry leaders unite with a shared vision. Through the integration of experiential learning, professional mentorship, and industry-aligned curricula, we are equipping our students for meaningful careers in a competitive field.”

Thompson Thrift’s commitment goes beyond funding — the firm will actively work with faculty and students to create a direct pipeline from the classroom to the job site. The partnership aims to help address the industry’s growing need for qualified professionals while providing ISU students with a career-ready edge before graduation.

“Partnering with Indiana State University aligns perfectly with our mission to positively impact our team members and the communities we serve,” said John Thompson, CEO of Thompson Thrift Construction. “By investing in the next generation of construction leaders, we’re building a foundation for a more innovative and resilient future.”

As part of the new agreement, starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, ten juniors and seniors from Indiana or Illinois will be eligible to receive $5,000 annual scholarships, renewable for an additional year, providing direct financial support as they complete their degrees.

Indiana State officials said the partnership reflects the university’s broader push to create more experiential, industry-linked programs that prepare students to meet the demands of today’s workforce.

The Thompson Thrift Department of Construction Management will strengthen ISU’s regional leadership in applied engineering and construction education, boosting local talent pipelines and helping graduates launch successful careers in an industry that is projected to see continued growth across Indiana and the Midwest.

For more details about the new department, upcoming scholarships, and student internship opportunities, visit Indiana State University’s Bailey College of Engineering and Technology website.

Originally reported by Rachel Lawler in Ed Tech Innovation Hub.