University of Evansville

PurplePulse

Wednesday, September 10, 2025

* September 2025 Board of Trustees | Front Oval Parking

The September 2025 meetings of the University of Evansville Board of Trustees will be held on campus Friday, September 12, and Saturday, September 13, 2025. Parking in front of Olmsted Administration Hall and the Schroeder Family School of Business Administration will be reserved for University Trustees. Employee parking on the front oval will be limited on both days.

Submitted by Abby Murphy am983@evansville.edu
 

Upcoming Events

* UE Music Conservatory presents Ross Erickson, percussion and Dr. Leanne Hampton, flute

Tuesday September 16

Wheeler Concert Hall

7:30 p.m.

Ross Erickson, percussion, and Dr. Leanne Hampton, flute, will share an evening of musical conversation featuring transcriptions of masterpieces by J.S. Bach, Henriette Renié, and Jacques Ibert as well as original works by living composers Kevin Bobo and Eve Beglarian. Homage to Keith Jarrett and Gary Burton by Barbara Kolb, scored for flute and vibraphone, opens the program with a playful mix of jazz and improvisational gestures. Honoring the genius craftsmanship of J.S. Bach, the suite of trio sonatas arranged by Robert Nicholls, is an elegant and contrapuntal dialogue between two instrumentalists. Inspired by Maurice Ravel's magnificent ballet, Daphnis et Chloé, Erickson will perform Jacques Delécluse's dynamic Etude No. 2 for snare drum from Keiskleiriana 1 as part of celebrations for Ravel's 150th birthday. Anne Fiedler will join Hampton in Paul Taffanel’s Andante Pastoral et Scherzettino for flute and piano, an exquisite masterpiece of the French Belle Époque. Join us for sparkling melodies, fascinating rhythms, flamboyant outbursts, and the occasional moment of irreverence in Wheeler Concert Hall. You won’t want to miss this eclectic program!

Ross Erickson, percussion, and Dr. Leanne Hampton, flute, will share an evening of musical conversation featuring transcriptions of masterpieces by J.S. Bach, Henriette Renié, and Jacques Ibert as well as original works by living composers Kevin Bobo and Eve Beglarian. Homage to Keith Jarrett and Gary Burton by Barbara Kolb, scored for flute and vibraphone, opens the program with a playful mix of jazz and improvisational gestures. Honoring the genius craftsmanship of J.S. Bach, the suite of trio sonatas arranged by Robert Nicholls, is an elegant and contrapuntal dialogue between two instrumentalists. Inspired by Maurice Ravel's magnificent ballet, Daphnis et Chloé, Erickson will perform Jacques Delécluse's dynamic Etude No. 2 for snare drum from Keiskleiriana 1 as part of celebrations for Ravel's 150th birthday. Anne Fiedler will join Hampton in Paul Taffanel’s Andante Pastoral et Scherzettino for flute and piano, an exquisite masterpiece of the French Belle Époque. Join us for sparkling melodies, fascinating rhythms, flamboyant outbursts, and the occasional moment of irreverence in Wheeler Concert Hall. You won’t want to miss this eclectic program!

Submitted by Mary Beth Deig md334@evansville.edu
 
* "Is The Constitution In Danger?" Panel Discussion on Thursday, September 17

The Department of History, Politics, and Social Change invites you to a panel discussion to mark the observance of Constitution Day on Wednesday, September 17, at 4 p.m. in Schroeder 170 (Smythe).  The panel discussion is entitled, "Is The Constitution in Danger?" and will feature observations from faculty members in the department.  The event is free and open to the public.  All members of the University of Evansville community are welcome to attend.

Submitted by Robert Dion rd35@evansville.edu
 
* Aces Pep Band

Come join the Aces Pep Band. An organizational meeting will be held on Monday, September 8 at 4:00pm in Krannert 110.  Rehearsals begin on Monday September 22, 4:00-5:00 in Krannert 110.

For more infomation contact Dr. Kenneth Steinsultz at ks306@evansville.edu

Go Aces!!

Submitted by Ken Steinsultz ks306@evansville.edu
 
* Center for Innovation & Change hosting Change Leadership Workshop Series this Fall

Join us for the first of two Change Leadership Workshops this Fall, Living on Purpose. Making change in the world is not easy, but this workshop series will make you feel like a pro! Join students, faculty, and staff in building the skills needed to design your life for living with intentionality and be leaders in a changing world. We’ll have pizza, drinks, and an experience way better than you'd expect for a three hour workshop. Plus, you'll earn a microcredential that will let everyone know you're a CIC-certified Change Leader!

Submitted by Robert Lopez rl138@evansville.edu
 
* 23rd Annual UE Chili Bowl Sale Returns on October 2

For the 23rd year, the UE Clay Club, Department of Art, and the Purple Potters are excited to announce the annual Chili Bowl Sale that will take place on Thursday, October 2, 2025, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., on the East Terrace Lawn near Ridgway University Center.

This longstanding tradition and philanthropy allow the community to purchase handcrafted ceramic bowls created by the UE community, with the majority of the proceeds supporting a food agency to fight local hunger. This event is part of the Empty Bowls initiative which is a grassroots effort by artists and crafts people in cities and towns across the country and around the world to feed the hungry in their communities. It supports food-related charitable organizations around the world, and has raised millions of dollars to help end hunger.

"This tradition offers the community the chance to own one-of-a-kind, handmade bowls, all while supporting our community," said Todd Matteson, Department Chair and Associate Professor of Art. "It's a wonderful way to showcase our creative talents, while giving back to the community. The funds raised allow us to continue our work with the local community to change the world."

There is a change in the cost of bowls this year. $15 will be the price of the smaller bowls, with other bowls being available from $20-$100. Each purchase includes a complimentary serving of chili sponsored by Chartwells Dining Services. Attendees are encouraged to buy a bowl, enjoy some chili, and spend time with friends. Come be a part of the largest one-and-a-half-hour event on UE's campus.

In the event of rain, the Chili Bowl Sale will move indoors to Eykamp Hall in Ridgway University Center. Please note that cash or checks are the only forms of payment accepted for this event.

For additional information, please call the UE Department of Art at 812-488-2043.

Submitted by Noah Alatza na122@evansville.edu
 
* Come Celebrate the UE Art Faculty Exhibition!

The Friends of Art invite you to this year's UE Art Faculy Exhibition at the Melvin Peterson Gallery, featuring the work of Erika Navarrete Anderson, Corliss Chastain, Kyle Darnell, Ralph Larmann, Nancy Lockyear, Todd Matteson, Valerie Milholland, and Sara Rhoades.

Opening Reception1

Thursday, September 11 · 6:30 p.m.

Exhibition Dates

September 2 - October 18

Gallery Hours:

Monday - Thursday · 12:00-6:00 p.m.

Friday - Saturday · 12:00-3:00 p.m.

Submitted by Jessica Carroll jc790@evansville.edu
 
* Dr Mark Cirino to Deliver Morgan Whitaker Stankey Andiron Lecture

Dr. Mark Cirino will deliver the first Stankey Andiron Lecture of the academic year on Thursday, September 18 at 4 PM in Koch 100. The lecture is entitled "Ernest Hemingway and the Road to A Farewell to Arms."   Ernest Hemingway’s A Farewell to Arms was published in 1929, a full decade after the writer was wounded in World War I and rejected by the war nurse that took care of him. These two traumas inspired the plot of his classic novel. This presentation describes those difficult personal experiences, the years Hemingway spent trying to cope with their memories, and then the triumphant way he chronicled them in A Farewell to Arms. This discussion will illuminate Hemingway’s creative process and inspire us to think more broadly about the way artists transform their own reality into their work.   Mark Cirino teaches American literature at the University of Evansville. He is the host of the Ernest Hemingway Society-sponsored program, One True Podcast. His most recent publication is an edition of A Farewell to Arms for the Norton Library.

The William L. Ridgway College of Arts and Sciences is delighted to support The Morgan Whitaker Stankey Andiron Lectures. The series is dedicated to the memory of University of Evansville alumna Morgan Stankey, who passed away suddenly in March, 2023. Many generous gifts in Morgan’s memory have allowed us to reinvigorate a long-established tradition – the Andiron Lecture - that was a significant part of the University’s intellectual life for many years. This event is free and open to the public.

Submitted by James MacLeod jm224@evansville.edu
 

Info You Should Know

* SAA Book Club September

It is not too late to join the Staff and Administrator's Book Club for this month. They will be gathering on Wednesday September 24th to discuss the book, My Friends by Fredrick Backman. Book club gatherings usually last under an hour at 12 noon on the last Wednesday of the month. This month they will be meeting in the conference room of the University Advancement house on Rotherwood. If you have any questions or would like to be added to the email list for book club please email Kathy Taylor at ks6@evansville.edu.

Submitted by Kathy Taylor ks6@evansville.edu
 
* Free Office Decor and File Organizers

Free office decor and file organizers available in Nursing Office. Please pick up by end of the day on 9/11/25.

Submitted by Stephanie Stoll ss810@evansville.edu
 
* The Couch S2E2: NFL Week 1 Recap

NFL week 1 recap talking about Daniel Jones success, Micah Parsons' impact, and Eagles defensive struggles!

The Couch S2E2: Indiana Jones and the Lost Treasure of INDY

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1ZiwliVGoDnMayYUV9CjaN?si=E7DkWGe8RtCOTlPSuJ4yuw

Submitted by Julian Shellnutt rs375@evansville.edu
 
* Peer Tutoring is Now Available

Peer tutoring is now available for the fall semester. Tutoring is a free drop-in service that is great for:

  • Asking clarifying questions
  • Preparing for exams
  • Reviewing course material
  • Completing assignments
  • Studying with support

Check out the schedule on our website here!

Don't see tutoring for your class? Please direct any questions or inquiries to peer tutoring supervisor Laci Rowe at 812-488-5170 / lr152@evansville.edu or by visiting the Office of Academic Services in Olmsted 116.

Submitted by Laci Rowe lr152@evansville.edu
 
* New Episode of The Couch: A Sports Show hosted by Julian Shellnutt

Talking NFL Week 1 Predictions and Hot Takes. Listen wherever you get your podcasts!

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5vbYhZXaxu2KjKrKnnWlwk?si=KQXSkaP7SjeghlZrh4F4qA

YT: https://youtu.be/Mxcy1RE3OSQ?si=qIr6w8SAT7XWhrNw

Submitted by Julian Shellnutt rs375@evansville.edu
 
* Wellbeing Hours | Sept 12

We live in a time of constant noise, pressure, and disconnection. Many are weary—longing for rest, meaning, and a deeper sense of belonging. Wellbeing Hours respond to that need by weaving together spiritual formation, creative expression, mental health practices, and embodied rhythms of wellbeing. These gatherings offer accessible pathways toward healing, clarity, and joy—not as quick fixes, but as practices that nurture wholeness for both individuals and communities. We believe this kind of integration is exactly what today’s generation is longing for.

Submitted by Breanna Bondurant bb369@evansville.edu
 
* 🚐 Ace CARE Van Driver Volunteers Needed!

Ace CARE is seeking additional van drivers to help transport participants to and from our Tuesday evening sessions. This is a meaningful way to support our pro-bono physical therapy services and make a direct impact in the community.

Who Can Volunteer:

  • Current UE faculty or staff
  • Must consent to a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check by Risk Management

Training Provided:

  • All drivers will complete a brief online training module via Vector

Schedule & Details:

  • Tuesdays, 4:00–8:00 PM
  • Transport participants to Ace+PT and ACErcise sessions
  • A student will accompany you to assist with directions and ensure safe entry/exit for participants
  • Remaining dates this semester:
    • September 16
    • September 30
    • October 21
    • November 4
    • November 25
  • Even if you can only help on one Tuesday, your support is greatly appreciated!

Interested or Have Questions?
Contact Kristen Harvey at kh399@evansville.edu

Thank you for considering this opportunity to serve!

Submitted by Charlene Nolen ck39@evansville.edu
 
* Wanted: UE ACE Mentors

UE Ace Mentors are changing lives, one mentor at a time. Mentoring transforms lives. UE Ace Mentors pairs Harper Elementary students with college student mentors for weekly on-campus activities that inspire growth, confidence, and brighter futures. Through games, reading, hands-on projects, and friendship, our little buddies gain role models who make a lasting difference—all at no cost to families. If you are interested in mentoring, it's a once-a-week time commitment, and we'd love to have you join our team. If you'd like more information or wish to become a mentor, please send an email to our president, Audrey Briles, at ab1002@evansville.edu.

Submitted by Lisa Hale lh241@evansville.edu
 
* Dr. Kenneth Steinsultz to be Featured Artist at A-State Brass Fest 2025

Dr. Kenneth Steinsultz, Professor of Music and Director of Bands will be a featured artist at the A-State Brass Fest 2025 on the campus of Arkansas State University on Saturday, September 27. He will conduct master classes and perform a euphonium recital.

Submitted by Mary Beth Deig md334@evansville.edu
 
* Employee Mobile Mammography Services

Employees - Ascension St. Vincent is providing mobile mammography services for the University of Evansville. The mobile mammography bus will be located in the Health Clinic parking lot on October 13th, 2025 from 8:00AM - 2:00PM. Please call the Ascension St. Vincent Breast Center at 812-485-4437 to schedule your mammogram! See the flyer attached for additional details.

Submitted by Taylor Kollak tk148@evansville.edu
 
* Employee Fall Health Risk Assessments

Employee & Spouse Fall Health Risk Assessments will take place September 15th -17th from 7:00am-10:45am each day in Eykamp Room 254. Complete your health risk assessment and earn HRA credits! This health risk assessment is available for UE employees and their spouses on the UE medical insurance plan. Please remember, fasting 8-10 hours is recommended. Drink plenty of water prior to your screening appointment. Take maintenance medications as prescribed, as long as they are not required to be taken with food. Click the link below to sign up today!

https://booknow.appointment-plus.com/1bblnzjg/

Submitted by Taylor Kollak taylor.kollak@ascension.org
 

Congratulations

* Professor Emeritus David Unger publishes Technical Paper

David J. Unger, Professor Emeritus of Mechanical and Civil Engineering, publishes a technical article titled, "Nonlinear Flamant Problem," in the Journal of Mechanics of Materials and Structures, vol. 20 (2025), No. 3, pp. 353-362.   This is his fifth journal publication since his retirement in 2022.

Submitted by David Unger du2@evansville.edu
 
* Professor Kimberling has three articles published

Clark Kimberling, Professor of Mathematics, has three recent publications in The Fibonacci Quarterly. They appear in the Proceedings of the 21st International Conference on Fibonacci Numbers and Their Applications, held last summer in Claremont, California. You can see portions of Dr. Kimberling's research article, coauthored with Peter Moses of England and entitled "Unusual Fibonacci Identities". At the conference, Dr. Kimberling led and later compiled and edited a Problem Session. The third publication is one of four contributions to "The Fibonacci Association: Memories and Reflections 1962-2024", entitled "The 21st International Conference on Fibonacci Numbers and Their Applications, With a Few Historical Notes".

Submitted by Clark Kimberling ck6@evansville.edu
 

Harlaxton Happenings

* Calling All Harlaxton Alumni

Did your semester at Harlaxton change your life? Do you find yourself telling stories about the manor, weekend travels, and friendships that will last a lifetime? Now’s your chance to share that magic with other UE students!

The University of Evansville is seeking passionate Harlaxton Ambassadors—students who have studied at Harlaxton College in Grantham, England—to help promote this life-changing study abroad experience. As an Ambassador, you’ll connect with current and prospective UE students, answer their questions, and inspire them with your own Harlaxton journey.

If you loved your time at the manor and want to help others discover the adventure of a lifetime, please join us as a Harlaxton Ambassador! Please email our president, Arwyn Horstman, at ah695@evansville.edu.

Submitted by Lisa Hale lh241@evansville.edu
 

Athletics

* Lammers Earns Second Consecutive MVC Goalkeeper of the Week Nod

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – After recording her second clean sheet in as many starts and helping the Purple Aces win their third game in a row, University of Evansville goalkeeper Allie Lammers (Cincinnati, Ohio/Mount Notre Dame) earned her second consecutive MVC Goalkeeper of the Week award, the league office announced Tuesday morning.  
 
Lammers ran her scoreless streak to 225 minutes in Thursday's win over Austin Peay, setting a career-high with four saves. With her team leading 1-0, the sophomore made three saves in the second half to seal the win and help the Aces improve to 4-1 on the season, their best start since 2021. Since entering in the second half against Purdue on August 28, Lammers has earned three wins without allowing a goal, facing 32 shots with nine saves. Lammers is one of five qualified goalkeepers in the country to have not allowed a goal this season.
 
The nod marks UE's fourth MVC weekly honor this season, the most of any Valley school, while Lammers becomes The Valley's first repeat weekly honoree of the year.
 
Evansville looks to win their fourth game in a row on Thursday with a road contest at UT Martin. Kick-off is set for 7 PM.

Submitted by Donovan Schultz ds326@evansville.edu
 
* Sammy Dowd promoted to Assistant Men's Basketball Coach

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – University of Evansville head men’s basketball coach David Ragland has announced the promotion of Sammy Dowd to a Assistant Coach – Director of Player Development with the Purple Aces program.

“I’m thrilled to share the news of Sammy Dowd’s elevation to Assistant Coach – Director of Player Development. Since our arrival in Evansville, Sammy has made a tremendous impact on our program. His journey has been one of steady growth and commitment — from player, to Graduate Assistant, to Director of Operations, and now stepping into this well-earned role on our coaching staff,” Ragland said. “Anyone who knows Sammy understands the contagious energy and unwavering work ethic he brings every single day. No task is beneath him, and his dedication to our players' development — both on and off the court — is unmatched.

I have full confidence that Sammy will thrive in this new position. He is a rising star in our profession, and we’re lucky to have him continue growing within our program.”

After joining the program as a graduate assistant prior to the 2022-23 campaign, Dowd was promoted to Director of Basketball Operations in 2024. In his work with the program, Dowd has contributed in a number of facets including team logistics, managing practice schedules, facilitating communication between the coaches and student-athletes, operations, and compliance.

"It is an incredible honor to step into a new role for the Purple Aces program. I am grateful to Coach Ragland for his belief in me and for the opportunity to continue learning under his leadership, as well as from the rest of our outstanding staff,” Dowd exclaimed. “Excited to step into a greater role where I can continue to impact the student-athlete experience both on and off the court. Heading into year four with such a special group makes this moment even more meaningful. Let’s keep building together. Go Aces!”

Dowd, a native of Seattle, Washington, came to Evansville after concluding his playing career for the University of the Philippines in 2020. He played his final two collegiate seasons at Idaho State where he saw action in 56 games while making 10 starts. His top performance came against Portland State where he scored 13 points.

Following his junior campaign in 2017-18, Dowd was the recipient of the US Basketball Writers Association’s Most Courageous Award,, which was presented at the NCAA Tournament Final Four.

Submitted by Bob Pristash rp113@evansville.edu
 
* Cruse named Missouri Valley Conference Runner of the Week

ST. LOUIS, Mo. - Following an emphatic team performance this past weekend, University of Evansville cross country freshman James Cruse (Melbourne, Australia) has been named Missouri Valley Conference Men's Runner of the Week, it was announced in a release by the Conference office on Monday afternoon.

Cruse finished tops among collegiate competition at the Panther Prowl Cross Country Classic in Owensboro, Ky. on Friday evening. The freshman completed the 6k course in a time of 18:48.3, besting the second-place collegiate runner by eight seconds. As a team, Evansville captured five of the top 10 collegiate times while earning the team title, its first since the Fleet Foot Invitational in 2013.

The honor is the first for a UE men's cross country runner since Stanley Chepchieng earned MVC Runner of the Week recognition on September 25th, 2018 and the first UE runner from either squad since Anna Lowry on September 24, 2019.

Evansville's men's and women's cross country teams are back in action on Saturday, Sept. 20th when the Aces travel to Terre Haute, Ind. to compete in the John McNichols Invitational hosted by Indiana State.

Submitted by Donovan Schultz ds326@evansville.edu
 
* Ainoah Cruz named MVC Defensive Player of the Week

ST. LOUIS – University of Evansville junior Ainoah Cruz averaged 4.59 digs per set in UE’s last four matches on her way to being named the Missouri Valley Conference Defensive Player of the Week.

“Ainoah winning defensive player of the week is deserved recognition for what she did this past week. She is our defensive leader and watching her frustrate our opponent's offense is a real treat as a coaching staff,” UE head volleyball coach Zach Weinberg exclaimed. “Ainoah does everything the right way and is one of the leaders of our team. This is a well-deserved honor!”

Cruz opened the week with eight digs and three service aces in the home opener against Big Ten foe Michigan State. At the GSU Invitational, she was at her best as she averaged 5.38 digs per game while helping the Purple Aces earn a pair of victories.

In the weekend opener against Florida A&M, Cruz recorded 28 digs, 5 assists, and two aces as the Aces outdueled the Rattlers in five sets. She completed the day with 20 digs and nine assists in the victory over Queens.

Saturday’s finale saw her tally 22 digs along with five assists and an ace in the contest against tournament host Georgia State.

Submitted by Bob Pristash rp113@evansville.edu
 

In The News

* UE Lands $200K NSF Grant to Expand Research, Boost Regional Innovation

The University of Evansville (UE) has received an approximately $200,000 planning grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to explore new ways of strengthening research on campus and across the region.

The grant, totaled at $195,681, comes from NSF's Office of Integrative Activities, which invests in projects that expand research opportunities and foster collaboration.

Over the next two years, UE will develop a plan for a future Grants Development Office that will support faculty research and connect the University more closely with community and business partners. The planning process will focus on designing a model that meets both campus and regional needs before the office is officially launched. A key component of this effort is building collaborative capacity with the City of Evansville, local industries, and strategic partners such as Talent EVV, the Evansville Regional Economic Partnership (EREP), and the Applied Research Institute (ARI).

"By preparing for new partnerships and funding opportunities, the initiative will create more research opportunities for students, support faculty scholarships, and encourage economic growth in Southwestern Indiana," said Dr. Dave Dwyer, Associate Provost of Academic Affairs. "With this support, UE will work with faculty, community leaders, and economic partners to lay the foundation for stronger research capacity and long-term impact."

Submitted by University Communications
 

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