The Mt. Vernon Education Foundation is proud to announce Jaime Ray Arnett, a 1976 graduate of Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation, as a recipient of the 2026 Mt. Vernon Distinguished Alumni Award.

Arnett has built a distinguished career as an engineer, inventor, and technology innovator whose work has contributed to advancements in both telecommunications and pharmaceutical technologies.

A graduate of Purdue University, where he earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in engineering technology, Arnett has been credited with more than 50 patents and patent applications throughout his career—reflecting decades of innovation and problem solving.

Early in his career at Bell Laboratories, Arnett’s work earned the 1994 AT&T Patent Award, recognizing inventions considered of “significant importance to AT&T’s commercial success.” His contributions helped advance telecommunications technologies during a pivotal era of innovation.

Arnett later brought his engineering expertise to Eli Lilly and Company, where he worked on pharmaceutical delivery systems and medical device technologies, including the development of drug-delivery systems such as injector pen technology used in treatments like human growth hormone therapy. His work helped support the advancement of modern medical therapies that improve the lives of patients around the world.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Arnett is known for his deep commitment to family, faith, and community. He and his wife, Carol, have three children and seven grandchildren, many of whom remain connected to the local community. For more than 30 years, he has been actively involved in his church, where he contributes musically as a drummer and supports community activities.

Friends and colleagues describe Arnett as someone who never stops building and helping others—whether inventing new technologies, assisting friends with home projects, staying active in fitness, or enjoying family adventures and travel.

The Mt. Vernon Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes graduates whose professional success, character, and service bring pride and inspiration to the Mt. Vernon community.

Arnett will be honored during the 2026 “Doubling Down on Tomorrow” Gala hosted by the Mt. Vernon Education Foundation on April 11, 2026, at the Indiana Roof Ballroom in Indianapolis.

🎟 Tickets for the Gala are available at:
onecau.se/mvefgala26

The event supports programs and initiatives that benefit all 7 Mt. Vernon schools, 5,200 students, and 725 educators and staff.