Megan Goley: a legacy of impact in the Honors College

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When Megan Goley reflects on her four years at IU Indianapolis, one theme rises above all: the transformative power of the Honors College community. A psychology major from Fishers, Indiana, Megan entered college already passionate about understanding people, shaped by her high school work in mental health advocacy. But she quickly discovered that her journey in the Honors College would shape not just her academic path, but also her sense of purpose, leadership, and belonging.

In her first year, Megan focused on finding her footing, but by sophomore year, she dove deeply into Honors College involvement, becoming a cornerstone of the Bepko Scholar community. She joined the Bepko Student Advisory Board, where she helped plan programming, organized monthly meetings, and fostered connections across scholar cohorts. One of her favorite memories was the Bepko retreat for incoming students: “Helping new scholars build friendships and acclimate—that is what it is all about,” Megan said.

Her most meaningful role came through H200, the Honors College’s mentorship program. Megan spent four semesters as a student mentor, supporting younger honors students. She did not just give advice, she built relationships. Her success as a mentor led to a promotion as student coordinator, where she trained and supported the mentors themselves, strengthened programming, and worked closely with Honors College staff. Megan credits H200 with shaping her into the compassionate, intentional leader she is today. “To really think and reflect on that experience . . . that is what makes the Honors College meaningful,” she shared.

But Megan’s leadership was not limited to the Honors College. She made a campuswide impact through her work with Regatta, IU Indianapolis’ signature student event that draws between 7,000 and 10,000 attendees. Megan first served as codirector of rules and teams, where she managed event logistics and ensured smooth operations. She was later promoted to executive director, where she led the entire Regatta leadership team, coordinated committee structures, handled conflicts, and oversaw the development of student leaders across the board. Megan credits her time with Regatta for sharpening her professionalism, cross-functional communication, and adaptability—lessons she carried into every part of her college experience.

Megan’s dedication was recognized across the university, earning her selection as a Top 100 Student in both 2024 and 2025, a prestigious honor awarded to students who excel academically, demonstrate strong leadership, and contribute meaningfully to campus life.

Her Honors College achievements were further celebrated when she was named the 2025 Honors College Chancellor’s Scholar, the highest honor given to a graduating senior who has made a profound impact on the Honors College community. For Megan, this honor reflected not just personal achievement, but the collective effort of mentors, peers, and scholars around her.

It is such an honor to be selected as the Chancellor’s Scholar and to be able to represent the Honors College in this way, but I also know that I could not have done it alone. I worked with Dr. Sheeler heavily during my time at the Honors College, and she has been such an immense supporter of mine and someone I can always lean on.

Megan Goley