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Whitten headed to White House to promote IndyCar race, academic partnership on foster care

WFIU | By WFIU/WTIU News

Published August 18, 2026 at 4:18 PM EDT

IU rising senior and USF Pro 2000 Series race car driver Joey Brienza's car adorned with Indiana University colors and logos. — The car of IU senior and USF Pro 2000 Series race car driver Joey Brienza. IU is a sponsor of Brienza, who competes in a minor league of IndyCar racing.

IU president Pamela Whitten will be at the White House on Thursday to promote this weekend's IndyCar race and an academic partnership on foster care.

A news release from the Office of the First Lady said Melania Trump's Fostering the Future initiative will include a partnership among IndyCar, Fox Corporation, IU and Purdue "to expand academic oportunities for individuals transitioning from foster care."

The news release didn't offer details, only that the announcement will highlight "the strong connection between education and sport."

Fox Sports owns IndyCar's television rights, including this weekend's Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, D.C. It is the first automobile race on the National Mall and the streets of the nation’s capital.

Last month, President Trump promoted the race at the White House with IndyCar drivers in racing suits. He is listed as participating in Thursday event.

Others scheduled to attend are IndyCar series owner Roger Penske, IndyCar president Doug Boles and five drivers — Scott Dixon, Alexander Rossi, Scott McLaughlin and Graham Rahal.