Ivy Tech announces Moravec to be honored with building name

Note: This story has been updated

The Ivy Tech Community College building under construction at the Columbus Air Park campus will have a new name. The school announced yesterday that it will be Moravec Hall in recognition of Tony Moravec and his contributions to the school and community.

Moravec has previously served on the Ivy Tech State Board of Trustees. He owns BlairEx labs, Applied Laboratories, and is responsible for the restorations of both Zaharakos, which he also owns, and the Pump House restaurants in downtown Columbus.

Ivy Tech Columbus Chancellor Stephen Combs explains the decision:

Therese Copeland, with the Ivy Tech Foundation, said Moravec has a 30-year history of support for Ivy Tech. She explained that Moravec sponsors a scholarship for STEM education, aimed at students with average grades because of his belief in fighting for the underdog.

Moravec talked about his love of Ivy Tech and education.

The existing Poling Hall, named after Harvey S. Poling Jr., will be torn down when Moravec Hall opens, but it will be memorialized in the new building with details about the former school dean and vice president it is named for.

Photo: Tony Moravec signs a ceremonial beam at a ceremony Thursday at Ivy Tech. WRB photo