Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) is proud to recognize two exceptional staff members who have recently earned prestigious honors in their respective fields. Mt. Vernon Middle School (MVMS) boys’ basketball coach and teacher Dylan Freeman has been awarded the Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) Champion Educator Award, while MVCSC Human Resources Coordinator Brigitte Bussen has been named the Region 8 School Support Professional of the Year from the Indiana Association of School Business Officials (IASBO). These achievements highlight the dedication, leadership, and lasting impact both individuals bring to the Mt. Vernon community.

Freeman was recognized during the Mt. Vernon High School (MVHS) boys basketball state championship game, an especially meaningful moment given his deep connection to student-athletes across the district. The Champion Educator Award recognizes individuals who make a meaningful impact on student success by going above and beyond to challenge and inspire high school students to become the best versions of themselves. Freeman was nominated by members of the boys basketball team, along with the athletic staff. 

Freeman’s journey with MVCSC began during his own freshman year of college, when he volunteered as an assistant coach for the seventh-grade basketball team. He later became the sixth-grade boys' head coach and eventually contributed to coaching efforts at both the freshman and varsity high school levels. Over the years, his commitment has extended far beyond the classroom and court.

“This award was a blend of not just teaching, but also coaching,” Freeman shared. “For me, it was seeing all of the guys as more than just athletes or students, but people, and keeping in touch with them, even if I wasn’t coaching them at the time.”

Reflecting on the recognition, Freeman added, “It was a really incredible experience to be able to be on the court with the team, many of whom I had in class and coached.”

Freeman’s dedication, leadership, and ability to build meaningful relationships continue to leave a lasting impression on students and colleagues alike.

Brigitte Bussen’s recognition as the IASBO Region 8 School Support Professional of the Year is a testament to her longstanding dedication to excellence and service within MVCSC. Since beginning her career with Mt. Vernon as an instructional assistant in 2006, Bussen has continually grown in leadership and responsibility — serving as a school secretary in 2013 before advancing to her current role in 2023 as Human Resources Coordinator, where she plays a vital role in supporting employee recruitment and retention across the district. 

Bussen is instrumental in organizing job fairs and supporting teacher recruitment efforts, ensuring the district attracts and retains high-quality educators. The award criteria include excellence in job performance, quality of work, innovation, leadership, professionalism, and commitment to the school community, all areas in which Bussen consistently excels.

She was nominated by MVCSC Chief Financial Officer Greg Elkins and Assistant Superintendent Chris Smedley, both of whom highlighted her positive impact on the district.

“Through her efforts, the HR department is better organized, more consistent, and better positioned to support the needs of the district,” said Smedley. “Brigitte’s contributions have improved efficiency and strengthened the overall structure and functionality of the department, making her a valuable asset and a deserving candidate for recognition.”

Elkins added, “With a long history of service at MVCSC, Brigitte’s journey from school secretary to HR Coordinator highlights her deep operational expertise. She manages complex audits with precision and remains a hands-on leader, never hesitating to assist her team with payroll or onboarding to ensure district-wide reliability.”

“It means a lot to me to be recognized,” Bussen shared. “Chris and Greg have been amazing mentors to me, so to be able to be nominated by them and read what they had written about me and my work makes me feel very appreciated and supported.” 

Together, Freeman and Bussen exemplify the excellence, commitment, and passion that define Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation. MVCSC congratulates both individuals on their well-deserved honors and thanks them for their continued contributions to the success of students, staff, and the entire school community