Awards

IU Indianapolis Spirit of Philanthropy Award - 2021

About Dawn Rhodes

Dawn Rhodes is known for being able to “think outside the box.” She is a team player who is both collaborative and generous. Her philanthropic giving toward multiple IUPUI initiatives began immediately upon her arrival on campus in 2008 as vice chancellor for finance and administration, a position she held for eight years. During her tenure, Dawn contributed to community, student-centered, and diversity initiatives, among others. As a campus leader she earned the respect of many, including the Black Faculty and Staff Council, which created a scholarship in her name when she left in 2016 to become chief business and finance officer and vice president at the University of Maryland, Baltimore. Just last month, she defended her dissertation in management at the University of Maryland and is now Dr. Dawn Rhodes! Even in her absence, Dawn continues to contribute to IUPUI, demonstrating that philanthropy is in her DNA. The Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is proud to honor Dawn for her sustained support of IUPUI.