HISTORY
Indiana Aerospace University (IAU) has a proud history of nurturing dreams and providing quality education to young individuals passionate about aeronautics and other disciplines. Established through the visionary efforts of its President and Founder, Dr. Jovenal B. Toring, IAU has grown from offering airline-related courses to becoming a comprehensive academic institution catering to the diverse needs of its students.
Founding Vision:
In its early years, IAU focused solely on airline-related courses, attracting young men and women eager to pursue careers in aeronautics. At the time, only one other school in Lapulapu City offered similar programs. Despite challenges, Dr. Toring demonstrated extraordinary foresight and resilience, taking significant risks to turn the dreams of these young students into reality.
While acquiring technical facilities was daunting, Dr. Toring remained undeterred, working tirelessly to overcome obstacles. His commitment ensured that IAU became a hope for students aspiring to achieve excellence in aviation and related fields.
Expansion to Basic Education:
As Lapulapu City grew more industrialized and populated, the demand for basic education increased. IAU responded to this need by opening its doors to Kindergarten and High School students. Although it started with only a handful of pupils, the school’s reputation for quality education quickly attracted more enrollees.
A large three-story building was constructed during the 1995-1996 school year to accommodate the growing student population. The school also received Government Recognition, further solidifying its status as a trusted educational institution.
Becoming Indiana Aerospace University:
A significant milestone was the institution renaming Indiana Aerospace University (IAU) as part of its continuous growth and commitment to academic excellence. By the school year 2000-2001, IAU moved to a larger 15-hectare campus. At the heart of this sprawling campus stands the St. Therese Chapel, symbolizing IAU’s dedication to nurturing its students’ minds and hearts.
The chapel serves as a sanctuary where students and teachers pray together, fostering a sense of community and moral responsibility. IAU inspires its students to lead lives of purpose, integrity, and intellectual discovery through this spiritual foundation.
Expansion of Flight Operations:
In 2007, IAU opened its Base of Flight Operations in Ormoc City, Leyte. This facility serves as a center for the flight training of its student pilots and the practicum training of its aircraft maintenance and avionics students. The base provides state-of-the-art resources and real-world experience, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the aviation industry.
Opening of the Senior High School Program:
In 2016, IAU launched its Senior High School program in compliance with the Department of Education’s K-12 curriculum. The program offers specialized strands in aviation-related fields, providing students with a solid foundation and preparing them for further studies or careers in the aerospace and aviation industries. This initiative highlights IAU’s commitment to adapting to educational reforms and meeting the needs of its students.
Advancements in Aerospace Engineering:
In 2021, IAU’s Research and Development Team achieved a significant milestone with the successful launch of the Teresa 1 Rocket. This achievement reflects the university’s commitment to innovation and its vision for the Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering program. The launch showcased the capabilities of IAU’s students and faculty and underscored its role as an aerospace education and research leader.
Commitment to Excellence:
IAU is committed to providing an environment that supports its students’ intellectual, emotional, and moral development. The university boasts a faculty with outstanding skills and a deep dedication to their students. Faculty members impart knowledge and serve as mentors, advisors, and role models. They continually pursue professional growth through graduate studies and participation in seminars.
A Vision Beyond the Horizon:
IAU embraces the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century by preparing its students to thrive in a global society characterized by diversity, creativity, and rapid technological advancement. Through a curriculum designed to meet the needs of an ever-changing world, IAU equips its graduates with the skills and knowledge to become innovative leaders and responsible citizens.
With a strong sense of community, IAU fosters deep connections among students, teachers, administrators, alums, families, and the larger society. These ties ensure the university’s mission to create a nurturing and dynamic learning environment remains steadfast.
Indiana Aerospace University continues to soar higher and fly farther, guided by its vision to go beyond the horizon. With its unwavering commitment to academic excellence, moral integrity, and community engagement, IAU remains a leader in shaping the future of education and the lives of its students.
Let us fly high and soar high in Indiana!