Sulaiman Talib is known as a quiet, effective leader at Indianapolis Metropolitan High School. During his senior year, he took classes at Ivy Tech Community College, where he earned high school and college credits. He completed three internships, participated in community activities, and served as a student ambassador.

“I try to lead by example,” Sulaiman says. “I don’t go around telling other students what to do. What makes me a leader is my dedication and my willingness to help other people.”

Diagnosed at age 13 with Crohn’s disease, which can cause severe abdominal pain, Sulaiman worked overtime to improve his academics.

“When he has had attacks, he has the willpower and strength to work through it,” says Clete Ladd, his advisor.

This fall, Sulaiman will be a first-generation college student at Indiana University Bloomington where he will major in business marketing.

“My family, mentors and teachers motivated me to do the best I can no matter what,” he says.


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