Education on the fast track

With the 107th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge quickly approaching, the racing spirit could be felt throughout the state of Indiana this week, and one event that got kids in the community excited was Indy 500 Community Day presented by Cummins. 

With more than 2,000 students participating across the city, and plenty of Cummins employee volunteers on hand to support, the May 24 event taught kindergarten to 8th grade students the importance of mental well-being, physical fitness and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). Indianapolis Motor Speedway sent three drivers to each participating school to take part in a fun, hour-long assembly with the students, offering their perspective about the greatest spectacle in motor racing. 

Top drivers Josef Newgarden, Scott McLaughlin and Will Power, the 2018 race winner, joined 200 students and teachers at the Urban Act Academy. Meanwhile, at Thomas Gregg Neighborhood School, drivers Marcus Ericsson, last year’s race winner; 2008 winner Scott Dixon, and Alex Palou, the 2023 pole sitter, were joined by a special appearance from the Firestone Firehawk mascot and the race’s Borg-Warner trophy.   

Through Cummins’ Every Employee Every Community (EEEC) initiative, company employees supported the endeavor at Urban Act and Thomas Gregg, two east-side schools that partner with Cummins. 

“Investing in education helps Cummins build healthy and vibrant communities,” said Carole Casto, Vice President, Marketing and Communications at Cummins. “Partnering with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for Community Day right here in our very own front yard is the perfect opportunity to reach our youth, connect them to not only one of the most famous races in the world, but also connect them to one of the most historical companies in the world - Cummins.”

Cummins and IMS have enjoyed a long history together since the first Indy 500 race in 1911. During that Inaugural Indy 500, Cummins’ founder, Clessie Cummins, served on the pit crew for the Marmon Wasp driven by race winner Ray Harroun. 

“Thomas Gregg Neighborhood School was really excited to be part of this opportunity with Cummins and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway,” says Anuja Petruniw, Director of Operations and Neighborhood Engagement. “Community Day was a chance for our students to learn about racing traditions in Indianapolis during the Month of May. For many of our students, they have never had the opportunity before to experience the excitement and history of the Indianapolis 500. Today, that changed because of Community Day! The ongoing partnership we have with Cummins is so special to us because of the opportunities our students get to engage with real STEM professionals while learning real-world skills that are preparing them for college and career."

The students, from 10 schools across Indianapolis, were wide-eyed as the drivers visited and talked about what it’s like to be a race car driver – relaying their experiences about the physicality, dedication and fun! 

The students eagerly learned more about racing by not only hearing from the drivers directly but by also having the opportunity to participate in a variety of fun games and competitions. 

The sessions ended with the Indianapolis youth charged up for what lies ahead during Indy 500 race weekend, including a milk toast send-off for all the drivers!