Tribune staff reports

An Ivy Tech Community College staff member has been honored by the Jennings County Chamber of Commerce for her service and contributions to her community.

LeAna Matern, assistant director of resource development and alumni relations, was named the Jennings County Young Professional of the Year on Jan. 28 at the chamber’s annual dinner, according to a news release.

“As a lifelong resident of Jennings County, she has generously given back to her community through countless compassionate efforts that have benefited her fellow residents and our entire region,” said Marie Shepherd, executive director of the Jennings County Chamber of Commerce.

The Young Professional of the Year is selected based on commitment to community, volunteerism and civic engagement, social engagement with other young professionals and impact at their place of work.

Matern’s community involvement includes:

Jennings County Young Professionals

Jennings County Youth Foundation, secretary

Jennings County Community Foundation, asset development committee and Women’s Giving Circle

Jennings County Youth for Development, mentor

JUST RUN Jennings County, program coordinator

Splatter our Community 5K color run organizer

Jennings County Middle School volleyball coach, 2011-15

“LeAna brings an inspiring spark of energy and enthusiasm to every endeavor that motivates students, alumni, donors and her colleagues,” said Therese Copeland, Ivy Tech executive director of resource development.

Matern is a Jennings County native and graduate of Jennings County High School. She earned college credit from Ivy Tech while in high school and attended Ivy Tech Columbus and Ivy Tech Bloomington before transferring her earned credits to Indiana University, where she completed a bachelor’s degree in recreation.

She joined Ivy Tech Community College in 2011, then as a resource development assistant.

Matern and her husband, Matt, have a son, Grant. They attend St. Mary’s Catholic Church.