We are excited to announce that our annual day of giving, Pep and Vim, will be on Friday, April 17, 2026.

This is a great time for departments and programs to raise funds for a specific project. If you are interested in funding a project, please contact Jaime Wilder jw663@evansville.edu with your project idea no later than February 2, 2026.

The AI Committee’s Research and Innovation Subcommittee invites you to:

Discoveries

A Monthly Forum for AI Research and Innovation

This month’s Discoveries meeting will take place in SOBA 172 on Tuesday, January 20^th at 4:00. We are excited to announce that the presentation will be:

Tommy Housman, “What Social Impacts Are Emerging from Artificial Intelligence, Data Centers, and Humanoid Robotics?”

All administrators, faculty, staff, and students are welcome. Please bring your own laptop.

Light refreshments will be provided.

Join us for prayer, Bible study, and fellowship! This semester, the Abundant Life women's group will be reading about some of the great women in the Old and New Testaments. The group meets weekly from 4 to 5 pm on Fridays at the Newman house, but feel free to stop by as much or as little as you are able. All students are welcome, regardless of religious affiliation!

To ask questions or to join our GroupMe, please email Grace at gg126@evansville.edu

Click here to sign up!

If you or someone from your team is in need of a headshot, please contact Julie Beer (jb855) to be added to the list. Headshots will be taken on Thursday, January 15, at 9:30 a.m. near the southwest corner of the front oval lawn. In the event of inclement weather for photos (like lots of wind or really cold temps), headshots will be moved indoors to the SOBA atrium.

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – For the third consecutive year, the University of Evansville will celebrate National Girls and Women in Sports Day by hosting a free event for Tri-State area children kindergarten through eighth grade on Saturday, January 31, in association with Ascension St. Vincent.
 
The event is a free multi-sport clinic led by current UE student-athletes, coaches and staff. UE teams represented include golf, volleyball, softball, women's basketball, women's soccer, track & field, and spirit. At the clinic, participants will work on sport specific drills taught and ran by student-athletes. Doors will open at 8:30 AM, with the camp beginning at 9 AM. Pick up starts at 11:45 AM.
 
The event is open for children ranging from kindergarten to eighth grade. Campers will receive a free t-shirt and a voucher to attend any home women's regular season sporting event (must be redeemed by December 31, 2026).  Registration is now open and will close on January 27^th, 2026. No walk-ups will be allowed. Camps are open to any and all, limited only by number, age or grade.

To register, visit – gopurpleaces.com/ngwsd

The University of Evansville (UE) will host the 2026 William G. & Rose Mays MLK Day Lectureship on Monday, January 19, welcoming renowned journalist and scholar Dr. Jelani Cobb as the keynote speaker. The event will take place in Eykamp Hall within Ridgway University Center, with doors opening at 3:30 p.m. and the program beginning at 4:00 p.m.

This year’s Lectureship focuses on the theme “Servant. Strategist. Change Agent. The Anatomy of Transformative Leadership.” The event is designed to help the campus and community reflect on what strong, positive leadership looks like today. Each year, UE uses this Lectureship to bring important voices to campus who help expand conversations about civil rights, fairness, and how we can work together to create meaningful change. The Center for Inclusive Excellence leads this effort and supports the programming that surrounds it.

Dr. Cobb’s work on race, history, democracy, and social change has established him as one of the most respected voices in contemporary public discourse. His participation in the 2026 Lectureship offers the campus and greater Evansville community an opportunity to explore transformative leadership in both historical and modern contexts.

The Lectureship is open to the public, and seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Additional details about the event and the full 2026 MLK Celebration schedule can be found here.

KURE Summer Research Program Info Session

Thursday, January 15 • 12:00 - 1:00 PM • Koch 101
Lunch Provided with RSVP by 4pm Wednesday, January 14.

Interested in hands-on biomedical research next summer?
Come learn about KURE: The Kidney, Urology, and non-malignant Hematology (KUH) Undergraduate Research Experience - a paid, NIH-funded 12-week research program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

This competitive summer program offers:

• Mentored lab research
• Clinical shadowing opportunities
• Poster and oral presentations
• A competitive stipend
• A supportive research community

A Special UE Partnership

KURE is led by UE alumni Dr. Jennifer Pollock and Dr. David Pollock, who developed an intentional partnership with the University of Evansville to expand research opportunities for UE students. Many Purple Aces have participated in the program.

Hear Directly From UE Students

Two current UE students, John Brown and Fairouz Alshwikh, completed the KURE program last summer and will be at the session to share their experiences.

Whether you’re considering a career in biomedical research, medicine, or simply want a transformative summer experience, all interested students are encouraged to attend.

View the flyer

Register in UE Career Bridge!

https://evansville.edu/careerbridge

RA Applications open on January 14th and close on January 30th. To apply, please visit evansville.erezlife.com. Any questions can be directed to Teddy DeCorrevont (kt194@evansville.edu)

The Office of Admisison is excitied to welcome over 45 families to Purple Visit Day taking place on Monday, January 19th.  To make the families arrival smooth, we will have a portion of the Front Oval (the area in front of Olmsted and Koch Center) blocked until 9:15 a.m. on Monday.  The families will also be dining in the Eatery.  If you see a visiting family Monday, please give them a friendly UE welcome!

The Admissions Ambassadors invite interested students to apply to join our organization.

Admissions Ambassadors play a key role in welcoming prospective students and families to campus. Ambassadors represent UE by leading campus tours, assisting with recruitment events, and sharing their experiences as Purple Aces.

Students selected for the program will receive training and work closely with the Office of Admission throughout the academic year. The role is ideal for students who enjoy meeting new people, speaking about their UE experience, and serving as representatives of the University.

Applications are open from January 12^th to January 23^rd- Apply here - https://apply2.evansville.edu/register/AmbassadorAppSpring26.

Email Maggie Gross mg415@evansville.edu with any questions!

Don't miss this chance to go on this short-term international experience in May! Join the Schroeder School of Business on this 10-day trip to Harlaxton, Leicester, Derby, Cambridge, Edinburgh, and London and earn academic credit while traveling and learning abroad. These trips are best if you are unable to travel to Harlaxton for the longer full semester trips.    For School of Engineering and Computer Science (SECS) students, this course may count as a free elective (note: not all SECS programs include free electives). Students outside the School of Business and SECS should consult their program advisor to confirm how this course can fit into their degree plan. Trip Details:

• Course: BUS 365 (3 credit hours)
• Dates: May 15–25, 2026
• Who Can Apply: Open to all UE students 
• February 2: Deadline for application (by email to yo21@evansville.edu)
• See attached flyer for more details.

This is a unique opportunity to gain global experience, earn credits, and explore Harlaxton in just 10 days. Apply now and be part of an unforgettable summer experience!   If interested, join us for an information session:

• January 29 at 12:15 pm in KC133 and
• January 30 at 12:15 pm in SB 250. 

Please promote this to your fellow students and friends. Hope you join this trip.

View the flyer.

The Office of Accounting/Payroll will be issuing W-2s for 2025 no later than January 31, 2026.  You may choose 1 of 2 options to receive your W-2:

• Electronic W-2 – If you provide your consent, you will be able to view/print in Self-Service as soon as they are ready.  Notification will be sent through Purple Pulse. 

• Paper W-2 – If you prefer, you can continue to receive your W-2 in the mail. 

An electronic W-2 will give you earlier access than a mailed copy.  It is IRS compliant and can be submitted with your tax return as usual. 

To give consent for the electronic W-2, log in to Self-Service https://selfservice.evansville.edu and go to “Tax Information”.  Select “Receive my W-2 only in electronic form” and save.

If you are eligible to participate in the university’s health plans, you may give consent to receive your 1095-C form electronically here also.  If you choose to withhold your consent to view/print your online W-2 and 1095-C, a paper copy will be mailed to your home address.  Please make sure that your current address is on file.

If you have questions, please contact Shannon Bray at payroll@evansville.edu.

The Honorary Degree Committee is seeking your recommendations for honorary degrees to be conferred at the May 2026 Commencement.

We need your help in selecting accomplished individuals to receive one of our university’s highest honors.  Nominations may be made on the basis of individual service to the University or individual achievement that exemplifies the University’s mission.  Recently selected persons have excelled in a variety of areas including law, medicine, education, business, literature, politics, and entertainment.

The committee will forward nominations to President Pietruszkiewicz so he can make his recommendations to the faculty for their approval later this semester.

Please send your suggestions to the committee chair (bj23@evansville.edu) by Thursday, January 22^nd.  It would help us if you could provide some biographical information, the rationale for your nomination, and contact information for the nominee.

Disability Services Checklist: Start Strong This Semester!

1. Renew your accommodations

Submit your accommodation renewal through the online form found on the Disability Services website as soon as possible.

2. Talk to your professors

Introduce yourself and discuss your accommodations to build a strong foundation.

3. Review your syllabi

Look for potential challenges (e.g., group work, timed exams) and plan ahead.

4. Check your tech

Ensure assistive technology is updated and compatible with course platforms like Black Board, Honor Lock, Microsoft Teams, or Zoom.

5. Explore campus resources

Visit the Writing Center, Counseling Services, Career Center, and other student support offices.

6. Plan for wellness

Make time for rest, mental health, and self-care.

7. Organize your schedule

Use planners, apps, or visual tools to track assignments and deadlines.

8. Connect with peers

Join student organizations or support groups to build community.

9. Save key contacts

Keep the disability services office email and phone number handy.

Got questions? Need accommodations? Just curious? Come say hi! We are located in Ridgway on the second floor in the Student Affairs Suite or call our office to make an appointment at 812-488-2663. We are open M-F from 8:00am – 5:00pm.

https://www.evansville.edu/counseling/disability/index.cfm

The United Methodist Higher Education Foundation (UMHEF) awards scholarships to United Methodist college students in the United States. Applications are now open for scholarships to help fund the 2026-27 academic year. Please visit https://umhef.org/apply for more information and to access the application. The deadline to apply is March 1, 2026.

If you're passionate about helping new students make connections and find their way at UE, enhancing your leadership skills, and being a part of a close-knit team, apply to be an Orientation Leader for the 2025 school year! Deadline to apply is January 30th. 

Application Link: https://forms.office.com/r/GtRwcuHArb 

What is an Orientation Leader (OL)?   

An orientation leader is a student committed to serving the University by offering information and assistance to incoming and new students and their families. OLs wear many hats so they must possess a “we care” attitude as they support students during orientation, welcome week, and beyond. OLs are held to the highest standards of good conduct and must possess leadership skills that allow them to be good role models for other students.

The “We Care” Attitude 

OLs must be able to adapt and adjust quickly and easily to different situations and support a variety of differing needs and backgrounds of incoming students. A genuine interest in caring for people and an ability to spend long hours working with others are important. OLs are frequently asked to embody a spirit of team work and prioritize the needs of new students and family members above their own interests.

Qualifications 

• Understand and believe in the mission of the University of Evansville.  
• Support the University, including the regulations and policies as stated in the Student Handbook.  
• Must maintain a 2.5 G.P.A. and be a full-time student.  
• Must be in good disciplinary standing.  
• Must relate well with faculty, administrators, families, and new students.  
• Must be reliable, confident, sincere, flexible, and display a willingness to help others. 
• Must have good communication and time management skills. 
• Must have the character, academic success, and exemplary attitude that will serve as a good role model for others. 
• Must be able to meet all time commitments associated with the position. 

Do you have any questions? Contact co-chairs Cole Johnson (cj174@evansville.edu) or Elise Horton (eh341@evansville.edu).

Join us on Saturday, January 17 for MLK Day of Service. Honor the legacy of Dr. King by giving back to the Evansville community. You can sign up as a group or as an individual, and after you register our team will assign you to a site. Volunteers will receive a free t-shirt. The day begins at 7:30 AM in Eykamp. See you there!

MLK Day of Service Participant Registration 2026 – Fill out form

We’re excited to announce a new streamlined disposal workflow. This updated process is designed to reduce paperwork and improve efficiency.

Effective immediately, please submit requests thru the Property Disposal workflow under Admin Services.

http://workflow.evansville.edu/

The Fall 2024 Dean's List is currently on display at the library. Congratulations!

The University extends our sincere sympathies to the family and loved ones of Henry Miner, who served the University of Evansville as a Professor of German from 1971 until his retirement in 2007. A passionate linguist and dedicated educator, Henry’s love of languages, global learning, and service left a lasting impact on our campus community. Our thoughts are with his family during this time. The full obituary can be found by clicking here.

The University extends our deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of James Walter Talbert, Ph.D., who passed away on Saturday, January 3, 2026.

Dr. Talbert served the University of Evansville with distinction for 35 years as a Professor of Spanish and for 12 years as Chair of the Department of Foreign Languages. During his tenure, Jim was a dedicated educator, trusted academic advisor, Spanish Club sponsor, and an active member of numerous university committees. He was honored as Chi Omega Professor of the Year and Chi Omega Parent of the Year, reflecting the profound impact he had on students both inside and outside the classroom.

A devoted Purple Aces supporter, Jim could often be found cheering on UE athletics at basketball, football, and soccer games for decades. Alongside Alicia and their family, he warmly welcomed international students into their home, offering hospitality, mentorship, and guidance that exemplified the spirit of our university.

Dr. Talbert’s legacy as an inspiring teacher, mentor, and community member will be remembered with gratitude and admiration. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time. His obituary can be found by clicking here.

The University of Evansville community extends heartfelt sympathies to Dianna Cundiff, Director of the Center for Career Development, and her family on the passing of her husband, Rodney William Cundiff (July 9, 1969 – January 7, 2026). We grieve with Dianna and her loved ones during this difficult time and offer our thoughts, support, and care as they remember Rodney and honor his life. Read the full obituary and schedule of services by clicking this link.

The University of Evansville community extends its deepest sympathies to the family, friends, colleagues, and former students of Charles “Chuck” Watson, a proud UE alumnus, longtime faculty member. Dr. Watson returned to his alma mater to chair the Department of Education for years, where he dedicated himself to teaching and preparing future educators for meaningful careers. His passion for students, commitment to educational access, and belief in the transformative power of learning left a lasting impact on the University and on the many lives he touched. He will be remembered with gratitude and respect by the UE community. Read the full obituary by clicking here.

Are you interested in studying abroad at Harlaxton College? Do you have questions about the program or want to learn more about the experience? Stop by to learn more about our semester programs and exciting new updates to the Summer programs!

• Where: Ridgway University Center
• When: Wednesday, January 14
• Time: 11:30 a.m- 12:30 p.m

This is a great opportunity to ask questions, pick up helpful information, and hear more about the unique opportunities available at Harlaxton. We are also happy to visit classes to talk with students about the Harlaxton experience. If you would like us to stop by, please reach out to schedule a time!

Harlaxton College is pleased to be accepting applications to teach at the Manor in Fall 2027, and Spring 2028.   These applications are online and can be found by clicking https://pursueharlaxton.evansville.edu/register/teach-with-harlaxton.

Applications for Fall 2027 and Spring 2028 are due on April 1, 2026.

Semester Applicants:
Semester benefits include room and board for family members at Harlaxton.   Faculty members who wish to bring children and enroll them in the local schools will be assisted in the visa process but will be required to pay any fees for the visa.  These fees are currently approx. $1500 per person, and visas are required for every person in the family.   Faculty and families will also be invoiced for health and transportation fees at the Manor for each member of the family and the faculty member.  These fees are approximately $400 per person.

Teaching at Harlaxton is a wonderful experience, and we welcome faculty members for a phenomenal summer or semester abroad.  If you have questions about teaching at Harlaxton and the experience overall, please feel free to email me at hc110@evansville.edu.

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – Leif Moeller and Bryce Quinet set their career scoring highs on Tuesday as the University of Evansville men’s basketball team fell to Bradley in a thrilling overtime game by a final score of 94-90 inside the Ford Center.

Moeller finished the night with a career-best 26 points. He was 8-of-17 from the field while hitting three triples and seven free throws. The freshman added six assists and two steals. His point tally was the highest for a UE player this season. Quinet added 20 points, eclipsing his previous high of 15, which was set against Oregon State. AJ Casey scored 13 points while Alex Hemenway had 11 and Josh Hughes recorded 10.

“I will never question the heart and fight of our team. We did a good job of punching Bradley in the mouth in the first half but knew they would fight back like any good team would,” UE head coach David Ragland said. “It was a game of runs in the second half and both teams battled. There are a few things we need to clean up but we kept responding and never gave up.”

Bradley recorded the opening four points of the evening while Leif Moeller got the Purple Aces on the board in the ensuing possession. Following another BU basket, Moeller connected from downtown to make it a 6-5 game. With Bradley holding an 8-5 lead, UE made its first run of the game. Converting five consecutive field goals, Evansville took its first lead of the night and pushed the advantage to 15-8.

Moeller got things rolling with a dunk before Bryce Quinet hit a pair of jumpers. Following another basket by Moeller, Trent Hundley’s long jumper capped the run with exactly 14 minutes on the clock. While UE made its run, the Braves missed six field goals in a row. Two minutes later, after the Braves closed to 17-13, the Aces had another strong stretch.

Scoring eight in a row, UE took its first double figure lead at 25-13 nearing the midway point of the period. Trent Hundley was fouled on a 3-point try and connected on all three attempts. He struck again on the next trip down the floor with his first triple of the game before Quinet finished the run with a jumper. With 8:01 remaining in the half, UE took its largest lead of 13 points and held the same advantage with at the 4:13 mark.

That is when Bradley shot its way back into the game. Trailing 33-20, the Braves reeled off nine in a row to cut the deficit to just four entering the final two minutes. Their defense held Evansville to four consecutive misses along with forcing three turnovers to chop into the deficit. Alex Hemenway knocked down a 3-pointer in the final minutes to send the Aces into the break with a 36-29 advantage. Quinet and Moeller had 10 points apiece in the period.

Picking up right where he left off to complete the first half, Hemenway hit his second triple to push the lead back to ten points. Bradley answered with seven in a row to get back within one possession for the first time since the early moments of the first half. After a layup from AJ Casey gave the Aces a 43-38 lead, Bradley stormed back once again with seven in a row to jump in front at 45-34 with 14:11 remaining.

Triples by Josh Hughes and Moeller put Evansville back in front at 51-48 and the squads would battle to a 56-56 score with 10:30 left in the game. Connecting on three field goals in a row, the Braves took their largest advantage at 62-56 until a Quinet free throw ended the run inside the 9-minute mark.

Evansville made its way back as a triple by Quinet and free throw from Casey made it a 62-61 game two minutes later. Bradley continued to hold the lead until 3:33 remaining when a 3-point play by Josh Hughes knotted the score at 70-70. After the Braves retook the lead on a layup, Casey drained a triple that put the Aces in front. The teams swapped the four times in the final moments until a pair of Casey free throws tied the game at 79-79. Bradley had a final chance in the final seconds but a shotclock violation gave UE the ball with 0.9 remaining. A final attempt fell short to send the game to overtime.

Bradley scored the opening six points of the extra period before Moeller brought his team back. After making a free throw, Moeller hit a triple to cut the deficit to a pair. Following a pair of missed free throws by BU, Moeller hit a layup to tie the game at 85-85 with 2:44 remaining in the extra session.

Seconds later, AJ Casey’s dunk put UE in front at 87-85 while the Braves quickly tied the score before taking a 4-point lead with 19 ticks remaining. Alex Hemenway knocked down another 3-pointer to get the Aces within one and the Braves would be fouled on their next trip down the floor. After making the first, they missed the second, however, Jaquan Johnson grabbed the offensive board and was fouled. He made both free throw tries to finalize the 94-90 victory.

Johnson led all players with 35 points for the Braves. His total tied him for the most points scored by a visiting player in Ford Center history. Robbie Avila and Cooper Neese, both of Indiana State, also accomplished the feat.

UE shot 50% from the field for the third game in a row finishing at 50.9% while the Braves shot an even 50.0%. Both squads finished with 35 rebounds. The Aces are back on the road at UIC on January 20.

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – Meeting for the second time in a span of just 15 days, the University of Evansville men's basketball team plays host to Bradley on Tuesday at 7 p.m. inside the Ford Center. ESPN+ and Purple Aces Radio Network will have the broadcast.

Last Time Out

- UE picked up its first MVC win of the season on Saturday at Indiana State by a final score of 72-69

- Leif Moeller and AJ Casey led UE with 17 points apiece while Josh Hughes had 14 and Alex Hemenway scored 12

- Moeller matched his career highs with 8 boards and 8 assists in the victory

- The win marked the second consecutive road win over the Sycamores marking the first time UE has done so since 2006-07

Another Reset

- For the second time in four games, AJ Casey reset his career scoring high with 24 points against the Racers

- Casey hit 10 of his 13 field goal tries to eclipse he previous scoring high of 21, which came at Bradley on Dec. 29

- Over his last six games, Casey is shooting 68.4% from the field

- Casey is averaging a team-high 15.9 PPG in MVC games while shooting 62.9%; for the season, Casey has posted 10.9 PPG

- Casey now has 10 double digit games on the season including 6 of the last 7 games

A Game of Firsts

- While Evansville's win at Indiana State was the first MVC victory of the season, it reversed multiple trends for the season

- Trailing 38-35 at halftime, UE outscored the Sycamores by a 37-31 margin in the second half to pick up its first win after trailing at the half (UE was 0-12 entering the game)

- Saturday marked the first win for UE when the opposition held the rebounding advantage; the Aces were outrebounded by a 41-31 tally (UE was 0-10 entering the game)

Making his Mark

- Alex Hemenway scored 12 points at Indiana State for his first double digit game since posting 11 against Drake

- He connected on three triples for the third time in the last six games

- Over his last 11 games, Hemenway is averaging 7.5 PPG while his last five games have seen him go 11-for-29 from outside

Back on Track

- Josh Hughes has scored 14 points in three of the last five games including the road win at Indiana State

- He is averaging 9.8 PPG over the last five contests after recording 5.6 PPG in the seven games prior to his current streak

- Hughes has posted 14 points in the last two games while shooting 50% (11-22)

Scouting the Opponent

- Bradley comes into Tuesday's game with a 12-6 overall record and stand at 5-2 in the MVC

- In the meeting just 15 days ago, the Braves took a 76-68 victory in Peoria overcoming an early 13-0 deficit to the Aces

- Three Bradley players average double figures led by Jaquan Johnson's 16.9 points per game

- Johnson also paces the team with 61 assists and 57 steals

- Alex Huibregtse is averaging 11.7 points while Demarion Burch checks in with 11.0

ST. LOUIS – University of Evansville freshman Sydney Huber (Cedar Rapids, Iowa/Mount Vernon) has been named Missouri Valley Conference Freshman of the Week for the first time in her career, the league office announced on Monday afternoon. Huber earns the award after averaging 13 points, 2.5 assists and 3.5 rebounds across two games this week.

On Thursday at Southern Illinois, Huber poured in 15 points on 6-for-11 shooting, including a 3-for-7 mark from three-point range, while matching a season-high with 31 minutes of action. Huber also added three assists and three rebounds, helping the Aces to their first win in Carbondale since 2017. Huber continued her strong play on Sunday at Illinois State, scoring 11 points while shooting 3-for-6 from three and grabbing four rebounds.

Huber has been one of the top freshmen in the Valley this season, ranking fifth in the conference in scoring among freshmen at 6.8 points per game. The sharpshooter has also been one of the top three-point shooters in the league, ranking third in the MVC and top among qualified MVC freshmen with a 34.7% mark from distance.

Huber has started the last 10 games for the Aces, emerging as a key contributor in her first season of collegiate basketball. Since being inserted into the starting lineup, Huber has scored 7.9 points per game while playing 25.8 minutees per game. In Valley play, Huber has been Evansville's number two scorer, scoring 9.6 ppg.

Huber and the Aces return to the floor on Friday for a home contest against UIC. Tip-off from Meeks Family Fieldhouse is set for 6 PM.

Dr. David Smith, former Superintendent of the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation (EVSC), has been named the inaugural Sustainability Coordinator for the Evansville Promise Neighborhood (EPN), the University of Evansville announced Wednesday. This new position represents a major milestone in ensuring the long-term success and impact of the Promise Neighborhood initiative well beyond the life of the federal grant.

Dr. Smith brings decades of leadership experience, deep local knowledge, and extensive national connections to the role. During his tenure as superintendent, EVSC became the lead education agency partner when UE was awarded the federal Promise Neighborhood grant in 2023. This required working closely with all partner organizations to develop innovative new data sharing agreements so that partners can better serve children and families in the neighborhood. His understanding of the EPN’s goals, partners, and community impact uniquely positions him to guide the next phase of the work.

“I wasn’t looking to stay busy in retirement, I was looking for something truly meaningful,” said Dr. Smith. “When this opportunity came up, I was truly excited. EPN represents the kind of collaborative, child-centered work that can change lives, and I’m honored to do what I can to ensure that the partners doing the work can continue for years to come.”

In his new role, Smith will focus on sustaining the collective work of EPN partners beyond the grant period, with a particular focus on strengthening organizational capacity, fostering collaboration across partners, and identifying structures and strategies that increase long-term collective impact. His work will help ensure that the systems built through EPN continue to serve children and families across the community.

“Dr. Smith brings a deep sense of purpose, a heart for service, and a lifelong commitment to children and families, qualities that align closely with the University of Evansville and Evansville Promise Neighborhood mission,” said Christopher M. Pietruszkiewicz, President of the University of Evansville. “His leadership will help advance the important work of Evansville Promise Neighborhood, strengthening it for the future. As an anchor institution, the University of Evansville has a responsibility to invest in the well-being of our community, and this appointment reflects that commitment. We are grateful to our partners whose support makes this work possible.”

Under the Promise Neighborhood Grant, federal funding cannot be used for sustainability and EPN is grateful to CenterPoint Energy Foundation, Welborn Baptist Foundation, United Way of Southwestern Indiana, Koch Enterprises, and Old National Bank for funding the Sustainability Coordinator position. The hiring followed an intentional search process led by an advisory committee tasked with identifying the right candidate to guide sustainability efforts. The committee was co-chaired by Pat Creech of Welborn Baptist Foundation and Pete Paradossi of the Evansville Regional Business Committee, whose leadership and guidance were instrumental in bringing the process to a successful conclusion. 

Smith will be an employee of the Center for Innovation and Change, which houses the EPN, so he will be able to work directly with that team in identifying opportunities for fundraising. This appointment marks a significant step forward in sustaining one of Evansville’s most ambitious and collaborative efforts to improve outcomes for children and families.

Organizations or individuals interested in sustaining the work of the EPN can contact epn@evansville.edu.

The University of Evansville (UE) is grateful to announce a $50,000 gift from alumna Kristin Bailey '81, establishing the James '79 and Kristin '81 Bailey Endowed Scholarship to celebrate the enduring connection Kris and her late husband, Jim Bailey, shared with UE.

The endowed fund will support undergraduate students in the College of Education and Health Sciences, helping them pursue meaningful careers in fields that reflect the Baileys' lifelong dedication to service.

For Kris, the scholarship is a heartfelt tribute to both her husband's life of service and the education that shaped their shared journey.

"UE has always been near and dear to our hearts," she said. "It's where we met. We served on several committees together, including student government and Union Board. We got to know each other through those experiences, and many of the friendships we made then have lasted to this day."

A 1981 nursing graduate, Bailey served as a registered nurse in both teaching and community hospital settings, and in private practice. She credits UE's nursing program with preparing her for a lifetime of compassionate care.

"We were taught critical thinking skills and given a broad base of clinical understanding," she said. "Our instructors were fabulous, both in the classroom and in clinical settings. Over the years, I've compared what I received at Evansville to other programs I've encountered, and I continue to hold UE among the very best."

She added, "There's such a need for advancement in education and health sciences. Our healthcare system is growing so quickly, and we need well-educated people to provide those services. I know that pursuing an education requires tremendous dedication and sacrifice, and I hope this scholarship can help open doors and create opportunities for students who are working toward their dreams."

Jim Bailey, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from UE in 1979 and later an MBA from the University of Dallas, dedicated his life to serving others. He built a respected career as a funeral director in Portage, Indiana, and served his community through the Rotary Club, the Orak Shrine Center, and the Masonic Lodge.

"Jim served our community in so many ways," Kris shared. "He was very active in Rotary and the Shrine, and we both believed deeply in using our lives to serve others. I am confident he'd be thrilled to know that UE students will benefit from this scholarship."

Kris also reflected on the values instilled at UE that continue to guide her life. "Even back then, there was an underlying intention for service," she said. "We were taught that the world exists beyond our own little bubble and that we have a responsibility to make it better. That's always stayed with me."

Bailey hopes this scholarship will inspire other alumni to give back. "I just think if you can, you should," she said. "If you've been blessed by your education and your experiences at UE, then pass it along. Even a small amount can make a difference for a student who needs a little help."

"This gift from the Baileys will make a remarkable difference in the College of Education and Health Sciences," said Dr. Andy Lampkins, dean of the College of Education and Health Sciences. "Their generosity strengthens our program's ability to expand opportunities for students to learn, lead, and serve. Their gift will prepare future professionals who will carry forward the compassion and dedication that have defined the Baileys' lives."

Each graduate who benefits from this scholarship will carry their spirit of compassion, service, and courage into the world, continuing the example that Kris and Jim set at UE.

The University of Evansville (UE) is building on the rapid momentum of its Esports program with the appointment of Ethan Jaworski '24 as Head Esports Coach & Coordinator.

Jaworski officially joined the program in July 2025, just months after leading UE's Overwatch 2 team to the program's first-ever NECC Regional Championship and National Championship as a student-athlete.

A December 2024 graduate with a bachelor's degree in Sports Communication, Jaworski brings a unique perspective as both a recent alumnus and championship team captain. His return marks a full-circle moment for a program that has quickly emerged as a competitive force on the national collegiate esports stage.

"This program gave me opportunities I never imagined when I arrived at UE as a student," Jaworski said. "To return as head coach and help guide the next generation of Aces, both competitively and professionally, is incredibly meaningful. We've built a strong foundation, and now the focus is sustaining excellence, expanding opportunities for our players, and continuing to raise the national profile of UE Esports."

Under Jaworski's leadership and momentum from the 2024-25 season, UE Esports continues to demonstrate sustained success across multiple titles. During the fall 2025 semester, both the Overwatch 2 and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate teams completed undefeated regular seasons. The Overwatch 2 team advanced to the Regional Championship finals, while Super Smash Bros. Ultimate reached the semifinal round of the Regional Playoffs.

The Overwatch 2 team also achieved a significant visibility milestone this fall, earning its first feature on the National Esports Collegiate Conference (NECC) Twitch broadcast during its semifinal victory, an indicator of UE Esports' growing national recognition.

Beyond competition, UE Esports is investing in experiential learning and student development. The program recently launched its official Twitch streaming platform, featuring live commentary provided by players and coaches to create a more immersive and accessible viewing experience. Plans are underway to further professionalize broadcasts with upgraded equipment, a dedicated commentary booth, custom graphics and transitions, and a student stream producer role.

These enhancements will also create hands-on learning opportunities through partnerships with UE's Creative Technologies program, connecting classroom learning with real-world experience in broadcasting, production, and digital media.