New Director For Indiana Tech Center

Indiana Tech has selected Crystal Vann Wallstrom as director of the Center for Creative Collaboration. Vann Wallstrom, who is also the founder of the economic development consulting firm Rabbit Hole Ventures, will succeed Mark Richter, who is retiring in August.

In her new role, Vann Wallstrom will work to establish and maintain relationships with regional entrepreneurial, economic development and education partners, according to Indiana Tech. Her other priorities include providing advice and support to entrepreneurs and students, managing client projects, fundraising and managing day-to-day operations of the C3.

"The work of the Center for Creative Collaboration gives students real-life applications to their education, not just theory," said Vann Wallstrom. "At the same time, we want to play a significant role in economic development within our region by helping launch and sustain small businesses."

Indiana Tech has also hired Steve Franks to serve as assistant director of the center. A veteran of entrepreneurial coaching in the region, Franks will work with students on their entrepreneurial projects and teach and develop student entrepreneurship programs.