Document Type

Article

Abstract

Krypton is a chemical element that is colorless, odorless, and difficult to discover. Krypton takes its name from the Greek word for “hidden,” kryptos. Like the chemical, which is often hidden, Juan Ortega (the name he is commonly known as) is a name that is not well-known in the annals of the history of Indiana State University. Actually, very few people at the University have probably even heard of this hidden figure. Names like Bird and Baumgartner are much more recognizable. However, Ortega was a leader in his field and taught and mentored countless students in his native Venezuela, building upon the solid foundation that was laid for him at Indiana State Teachers College (ISTC) during the late 1950s and early 1960s. Ortega was one of the earliest known international students at State and one of the earliest students of Hispanic descent to attend the Teachers College. Ortega, who attended the college from 1959-1962, saw the Teachers College as a bright light, a School that was supportive of international students, and got the most out of his experiences and education there. This El Quimico (Spanish for chemist) went on to do great things in the field of biochemistry with the solid foundation that the Teachers College laid for him. Ortega’s legacy continues at State today in the form of one of his daughters, Theresa Ortega, who is pursuing a degree in psychology and continuing his legacy of educational excellence. Theresa is also a support staff member in the Student Recreation Center.

Publication Date

2017

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