In 1977, Tony Pulley received an associate degree in accounting and an associate degree in business administration from Ivy Tech Community College Fort Wayne. For him, there was no need for a four-year degree because he knew that he wanted to run his own business. Tony achieved this goal, becoming the owner of a financial services business – a company he eventually sold to Crossroads Bank.

“That’s what Ivy Tech did, it gave me the tools to build a business from scratch,” he said. “It gave me the tools to build and run my own business, which ultimately the bank bought 18 years ago. I was self-employed for 18 years before that.”

Currently the President of Crossroad’s Bank Investment Center, Tony believes his level of success can be achieved by anyone that has the entrepreneurial spirit. He encourages students to have a plan, but prepare for that plan to change. “What I am doing now in financial planning is a profession that did not exist,” he said.

“You have to be able to change because the world is always changing. Ivy Tech helps you get there. It helps you prepare for the first job and for the next job.”

Beyond his professional achievements, Tony has served his community through roles on boards like the Wabash Advisory board, Wabash Child Abuse Prevention Council, Ivy Tech Advisory Board, United Fund, and many others. Participating in various church boards and committees, Tony has also acted as an elder, teacher and youth group leader. Ivy Tech staff member Pam Guthrie described Tony as an “outstanding person” when she nominated him for the Distinguished Alumni Award.

“[Tony] has used his education to excel in his field. He exemplifies what we hope all our graduates will become in their communities.”

Ivy Tech Community College is proud to celebrate Tony’s success and achievements with the Distinguished Alumni Award. This annual award honors alumni for their commitment to the College and to their communities. The awardees are leaders in their professions who make significant contributions benefiting their community, state, or college.

The alumni recognized with this award represent the very best of what an Ivy Tech education makes possible. Alumni, faculty, staff, and friends are all encouraged to submit nominations online.