University of Evansville

PurplePulse

Wednesday, February 11, 2026

* UE Partners to Host Freedom Rider Hezekiah Watkins at Bosse Thursday

A lecture from one of the youngest Freedom Riders, Hezekiah Watkins, is happening tomorrow, Thursday evening at Bosse High School. View the flyer for more details.

Submitted by Noah Alatza na122@evansville.edu
 
* Harlaxton Summer 2026 Classes- Deposit Deadline Reminder

This is a reminder that the deposit deadline for Harlaxton Summer 2026 classes is Wednesday, February 11. Students planning to attend Harlaxton in Summer 2026 should submit their deposit by this date to secure their spot in the program.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please email harlaxton@evansville.edu or stop by the Harlaxton room in SOBA, room 155, between 8:30 am and noon.

Submitted by Jean Immanuel ji48@evansville.edu
 
* Important Security Reminder

Please be aware that neither the University of Evansville nor the Office of Technology Services (OTS) will ever send an email asking you to validate, verify, or confirm your email account or password.

If you receive an email requesting this information, it is a phishing attempt. Do not click any links, open attachments, or provide any personal information.

If you believe you may have received a phishing message, use the reporting tool in Outlook. If you did enter your credentials, change your password immediately.

Staying vigilant helps protect your account and the university’s systems.

Submitted by University Communications
 

Upcoming Events

* Discoveries: February Meeting of Monthly Forum for AI Research and Innovation

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, February 17th at 4:00. We are delighted to announce that the presentation will be:

Omid Khormali, “From Arabic Poetry to English Sentences: A Historical Puzzle Where AI Fails”

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

Light refreshments will be provided.

Submitted by Robert Baines rb211@evansville.edu
 
* Reminder: Exhibition Reception for A New Shade of Soul

Please join us for the exhibition reception for A New Shade of Soul by Aaron Soulberry on Thursday, February 12 at 6:30 PM in the Melvin Peterson Gallery.

This exhibition explores Soulberry's latest work and offers a chance to experience the pieces in person while celebrating the artist and his creative vision.  The reception is open to the campus community and guests.

All are welcome.  We hope to see you there!

Submitted by Jessica Carroll jc790@evansville.edu
 
* Employee Strengths Workshop

This session is hosted by the Center of Inclusive Excellence and facilitated by Dean Carpenter.

Please come prepared with your Clifton StrengthsFinder results from the Gallup webpage, as we will be using them throughout the workshop. Together, we’ll explore how our strengths show up in what we need and bring to our spaces, and even in what we love and hate.

This deeper dive will help us better understand ourselves and how we manage our emotions, communicate, and advocate for what we need. It’s all about growing our emotional intelligence and learning how to show up with greater intention.

Please RSVP on UEngage. We hope to see you there!

https://uengage.evansville.edu/event/12170969/attend?

Submitted by Madi Perez mp347@evansville.edu
 
* Student Showcase

The Department of Art invites the campus community to attend a Student Showcase featuring the work of Lilah Rogel and Zoe Caggiano.

Location: Krannert Gallery

Exhibit Dates: January 20 - February 28

Opening Reception: January 22 at 6:30 p.m.

This exhibition highlights student artwork and celebrates emerging artists within the Department of Art.  All are welcome to attend.

Submitted by Jessica Carroll jc790@evansville.edu
 
* Spiritual Formation Rhythms - Spring 2026

Click here to sign up!

Submitted by Breanna Bondurant bb369@evansville.edu
 

Info You Should Know

* 2026 Commencement Central - Graduating Seniors

Commencement Central is an event where students planning to graduate Spring or Summer of 2026 will check their diploma name and degree programs and touch base with the University Bookstore, Alumni Relations, and the Center for Career Development.

This event will be held in Eykamp Hall at the following dates/times:

March 2, 2026 : 11am-1pm

March 3, 2026 : 11am-1pm and 4pm-6pm

If you plan on graduating Spring or Summer of 2026, please use this link to sign up for a 20 minute time slot: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4DABA822A3FCCF8-62003536-2026

Even if you do not plan to attend the Commencement Ceremony, you should attend this event as this is the time when you ensure your degree and diploma information is correct.

Additional information about Commencement Central can be found at this web address:

https://www.evansville.edu/commencement/central.cfm 

**Note: Students at Harlaxton and graduate students out of state on clinical rotation, please reach out to Hannah Girten at hg64@evansville.edu**

Submitted by Hannah Girten hg64@evansville.edu
 
* A New Shade of Soul Reception Rescheduled

Due to recent weather, the opening reception for A New Shade of Soul has been rescheduled.

Please join us on Thursday, February 12 at 6:30 p.m. in the Melvin Peterson Gallery for the opening reception.

All are invited and welcome to attend.  We hope to see you there!

Submitted by Jessica Carroll jc790@evansville.edu
 
* 2026 Senior Keynote Commencement Speaker Selection Contest

All graduating seniors in good standing at UE are eligible to be considered for the Senior Keynote. We encourage you to consider applying at https://www.evansville.edu/commencement/keynote.cfm by Friday, March 27, 2026.

Submitted by Abby Murphy am983@evansville.edu
 
* Applications for Short-term Harlaxton Travel Opportunity is still open! Apply Now! Info sessions available.

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.

Submitted by Yolanda Obaze yo21@evansville.edu
 
* 2026-27 United Methodist Higher Education Foundation Scholarship Applications Now Open

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.

Submitted by Amber Chandler ac547@evansville.edu
 

Harlaxton Happenings

* Harlaxton Table at SOBA -Come Chat With Us!

Are you curious about studying abroad in England? Have questions about the Harlaxton experience or want to learn more about our semester and summer programs? Stop by and chat with us!

Where: SOBA, Atrium
When: Tuesday, February 17
Time: 9 AM to10:30 AM

This is a great opportunity to ask questions, pick up helpful information, and learn more about the unique academic and cultural opportunities available at Harlaxton College.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Submitted by Jean Immanuel ji48@evansville.edu
 

Athletics

* UE swimmers earn four MVC weekly awards

ST. LOUIS – Four University of Evansville swimmers earned weekly Missouri Valley Conference awards from the league on Tuesday. The Purple Aces earned the league’s Men’s and Women’s Swimmer of the Week and both Freshmen of the Week as well.

Women’s Swimmer of the Week – Jadyn Dauphinais

In a stellar meet for the Purple Aces, Jadyn Dauphinais picked up a pair of victories while setting personal records in both. Her first individual win came in the 200-free where she posted a 1:58.03. Her time came in 0.54 in front of the runner-up. She followed that up with a strong time of 57.46 in the 100-backstroke race where she finished 0.80 on top of the field. Dauphinais also contributed to a win in the 200-medley relay. Her efforts helped UE complete the race in 1:46.69, over a second in front of the runner-up.

Men’s Swimmer of the Week – Logan Tenison

Logan Tenison was the top performer for the Purple Aces men at Bellarmine on Saturday. Tenison earned the top individual finish of the day for the team, taking second in the 100-backstroke. He finished in 50.85. He took part in both relay races that each picked up runner-up finishes. In the 200-medley relay, UE finished in 1:34.86 while the 200-free relay crew took second place completing the race in 1:26.42.

Women’s Freshman of the Week – Jillian Giese

Freshman Jillian Giese was victorious in the 200-IM in Saturday’s meet at Bellarmine. Giese’s time of 2:14.41 highlighted a close finish where she edged the Knights by just 0.18. She added another top five finish in the 100-free. Her finish of 56.67 was good for 4th place. Giese completed the day by taking part in the 200-free relay where the Aces took second place registering a time of 1:40.81.

 

Men’s Freshman of the Week – Alex Willis

Highlighting the weekend for freshman Alex Willis was a pair of runner-up efforts that he assisted with in both relay races. He swam in the 200-medley relay team that took second with a time of 1:34.86 before helping the Purple Aces take second in the 200-free relay with a time of 1:26.42. Individually, Willis came in fourth place with a time of 51.92.

Submitted by Bob Pristash rp113@evansville.edu
 
* Casey and Berridge post career efforts in win over Redbirds

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – AJ Casey and Kaia Berridge set their career scoring marks as the University of Evansville men’s basketball team defeated Illinois State by a final score of 88-80 on Monday at the Ford Center.
 
Casey scored 28 points on 10-of-15 shooting while Berridge registered 14 points connecting on 4 of his 5 outside attempts. Bryce Quinet scored 17 points on the night while Leif Moeller picked up his first collegiate double-double with 16 points and 10 boards.
 
“We were close to putting together a full 40 minutes tonight and played our tails off,” UE head coach David Ragland said following the victory. “Just really proud of our group for being resilient and staying the course. We were short-handed tonight but found a way to win.”
 
Illinois State had the early momentum, connecting on their opening four shot attempts, including three from outside, to take an 11-4 lead in the opening two minutes. Evansville knocked down three of its opening four tries to keep it close at 11-6. Four more by the Redbirds pushed their lead to 15-6.
 
Evansville made its first rally at that point as Alex Hemenway and AJ Casey connected on consecutive triples to get within three. ISU temporarily halted the run with a basket before the Aces continued to storm back. Leif Moeller converted his first triple of the game before Bryce Quinet tied the game with 13:43 remaining with a layup.
 
Casey scored the next seven points for UE to push the lead to 24-19 entering the final 11 minutes of the half. The Aces hit six consecutive baskets during the run. After trailing 15-6, UE outscored ISU by an 18-4 margin to take the lead. Over the final minutes of the half, the Aces added their advantage. With 4:18 on the clock, Evansville completed an 8-0 run to go up 35-22. Kaia Berridge knocked down two triples during the stretch.
 
Moeller’s third 3-pointer of the half gave the Aces their largest lead at 45-29 inside the final minute before ISU’s Landon Moore hit a triple with a second remaining to make it a 45-32 contest at the break. UE shot 63.0% in the first half including 72.7% (8-11) from long range. After opening the game going 4-for-4 from the field, the Redbirds were 7-of-24 for the remainder of the half. Casey led all players with 14 points in the opening 20 minutes.
 
After the Redbirds posted the first basket of the second half, the Aces scored eight in a row to take their largest lead of 19 points at 53-34. Quinet’s first triple of the night capped the run while Alex Hemenway hit three free throws. With 16:07 remaining, ISU cut the deficit to 12 points (53-41) before UE extended the lead back to 19 points (66-47) inside the 12-minute mark.
 
As the second half passed its midway point, another run by Illinois State closed the deficit to 10. Two more triples by Moore made it a 70-60 game with 8:33 left. The Aces held strong as they slowly matched the 19-point lead thanks to a pair of Trent Hundley free throws with 3:57 left.
 
Just when it looked like the Aces would cruise to the easy victory holding an 86-67 lead, the Redbirds staged a furious rally. Hitting four consecutive triples, ISU made It an 86-79 game entering the final 90 seconds. UE was able to regroup and finish with the 88-80 victory.
 
The Aces shot a season-high 56.9% while matching its season mark with 14 made triples. Illinois State shot 49.2% in the contest. Evansville shot 55.7% from outside marking the highest percentage UE shot in a game since hitting 80% of its attempts at Bowling Green in 2017. UE completed the night with a 28-27 rebounding advantage. Next up for UE is a road game at Southern Illinois on Thursday evening.

Submitted by Bob Pristash rp113@evansville.edu
 

In The News

* Over $1 Million Estate Gift from UE Alum to Fuel Student Scholarships

An estate gift of over $1 million from the late Patrick L. Roberts and the late Christine (Sowinski) Roberts '73 will support scholarship opportunities at the University of Evansville (UE), reflecting the couple's lifelong commitment to service, integrity, and the transformative power of education.

Christine Roberts earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from UE in 1973. She later went on to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) and built a respected career in Missouri, where she operated a consulting practice that matched hospitals with highly skilled anesthesia providers. Her brother, David Sowinski, described her time at UE as one of the happiest chapters of her life, an experience that affirmed her path and deepened her confidence in serving others through healthcare.

Patrick Roberts owned and operated a CPA firm in Dexter, Missouri, for more than three decades. Known for his precision and professionalism, he was a trusted advisor to individuals and small businesses across the region. Christine occasionally supported his work during busy seasons, and together they built a life grounded in quiet generosity and a shared belief in education as a force for good.

Their decision to include UE in their estate plans ensures that future generations of students will benefit from that belief. Through scholarship support, the Roberts' gift will help ease financial burdens, expand access to life-changing academic experiences, and empower students to make a lasting impact in their communities.

"This scholarship investment from Patrick and Christine Roberts demonstrates the transformative power of philanthropy at the University of Evansville," said Christopher Pietruszkiewicz, President of the University of Evansville. "Their generosity expands access and opportunity, empowering students to fully engage in their education and prepare to live lives of purpose in a changing world."

"This gift reflects remarkable generosity and foresight, and we are sincerely thankful to the Roberts family for their investment in our students," said Abigail Werling M'09, Vice President for University Advancement. "Their scholarship support will have a lasting impact, helping students pursue their education with confidence well into the future."

Submitted by University Communications
 
* University of Evansville and the U.S. Chamber Foundation Partner to Bring the 2026 National Civics Bee to Southern Indiana

The University of Evansville (UE) is proud to host the first-ever Evansville Civics Bee, in partnership with the Evansville Regional Economic Partnership (E-REP) and U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, marking the inaugural Civics Bee in Southern Indiana.

This live event, part of the 2026 National Civics Bee, will take place on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. in Hyde Hall, Shanklin Theatre.

The National Civics Bee is a nonpartisan, nationwide competition designed to engage middle school students in civics, critical thinking, and community involvement. Students in grades 6-8 are invited to submit a four-paragraph essay proposing a solution to improve their community. Top finalists will advance to a live quiz competition, with prizes including a $5,000 donation to the winning student's school, as well as recognition at the state and national levels. This initiative strengthens civic knowledge while developing writing, public speaking, and problem-solving skills.

"Changing lives and changing the world starts with engaged, informed citizens," said Christopher Pietruszkiewicz, President of the University of Evansville. "By hosting the first-ever Civics Bee in Southern Indiana, we are empowering young learners to recognize the difference they can make in their communities while building the skills and confidence to be engaged, active participants in democracy."

"Hosting the first-ever Civics Bee in Southern Indiana is exactly the kind of unique opportunity that strengthens a region," said Kara Yates, Executive Director of Workforce & Education at E-REP. "When students learn how their communities work, they're more prepared to lead, serve, and improve the place they call home.

"As we approach America's 250th anniversary, we have a powerful opportunity - and responsibility - to reignite civic learning across the country," said Hilary Crow, vice president of civics at the U.S. Chamber Foundation. "Our hope is that the National Civics Bee inspires more schools to prioritize civics education, equipping young people with a deeper understanding of how our government and democracy work - and the essential role they play in strengthening their communities and our nation."

Students and families interested can learn more at https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/national-civics-bee/.

Submitted by University Communications
 
* Evansville Native Monique Dozier Appointed UE Assistant Vice President for Development

The University of Evansville (UE) is pleased to announce the appointment of Monique Dozier as Assistant Vice President for Development, effective March 3.

A graduate of Harrison High School in Evansville, Dozier returns home to serve the community that helped shape her, bringing with her more than two decades of distinguished leadership in higher education..

In this role, Dozier will provide strategic leadership to the University's Development operations, including oversight of Major Gifts and Advancement Services, with a focus on advancing philanthropic strategy, strengthening donor engagement, and supporting the University's long-term fundraising goals. Partnering closely with the Vice President for University Advancement, she will help ensure a coordinated, donor-centered approach to fundraising aligned with institutional priorities.

Dozier brings extensive senior-level experience in fundraising and development operations. Most recently, she served as Vice Chancellor for University Advancement and President of the Foundation at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Her career also includes senior advancement leadership roles at the University of California, Riverside; Morehouse College; and Michigan State University. She has served on the board of trustees for the Council and Support of Education (CASE), Salesforce Advancement Advisory Board, IBM Predicative Analytics Board, amongst others.

"We are delighted to welcome Monique to the University of Evansville as she returns to her hometown. Her professional experience and accomplishments, combined with a deep personal connection to this community, will be a tremendous asset as we continue advancing the philanthropic priorities of UE," said Abigail Werling, Vice President for University Advancement.

In addition, the Office of University Advancement has announced that Sylvia DeVault will transition into the role of Senior Director of Community and Engagement, also effective March 3. In this expanded leadership position, Sylvia will oversee Corporate and Foundation Relations, in addition to leading the Alumni and Engagement team, which includes Alumni Relations and Annual Giving. This transition reflects both Sylvia's strengths after serving UE for more than 30 years and the University's continued commitment to deepening community partnerships, alumni connections, and external engagement.

These leadership appointments are part of a thoughtful restructuring within University Advancement designed to strengthen alignment, enhance collaboration, and support long-term philanthropic growth. Together, these changes position the University's Advancement unit for continued momentum and success in advancing the mission of the University of Evansville.

Werling added, "Sylvia has been an integral part of the University for many years, and we look forward to the leadership, partnership, and energy she and Monique will bring to the Office of University Advancement as we continue working together to move the University Forward."

Submitted by University Communications
 
* Evansville Promise Neighborhood Welcomes Ten New Community Partners, Expanding Collective Impact

The Evansville Promise Neighborhood (EPN) welcomes the first cohort of new program partners, an expansion that strengthens collaboration, deepens community impact, and creates new pathways of opportunity for children and families across the Promise Neighborhood.

The EPN network now includes 33 partner organizations working together across the community, a growth that reflects strong alignment around the students, families, and six schools that make up the Promise Neighborhood.

"We're excited to expand our partner network and deeply grateful to the first cohort of program partners that have come on board," said Derek McKillop, Director of the Evansville Promise Neighborhood. "Their engagement speaks to the momentum behind this work and the power of partnership."

The new partners bring expertise across various industries, including healthcare, education, talent development, mentoring, and family support, increasing EPN's capacity to coordinate services and advance shared strategies. That added capacity directly strengthens the work already underway across EPN's four focus areas.

EPN Pipeline Workgroups are currently implementing initial collective action plans across four focus areas, each centered on a shared, high-impact strategy. Pipeline 1 focuses on kindergarten readiness and advancing literacy through Little Moments, Big Growth, a community-wide campaign that equips caregivers of children ages 0-5 with practical, everyday strategies to support early development. Pipeline 2 is focused on strengthening family engagement, improving access, and exploring shared incentives and solutions to help students stay connected to their school and be present in the classroom every day.

Pipeline 3 is bringing college and career conversations directly to families through mobile, community-based engagement, supporting multigenerational planning for the future. Pipeline 4, with a focus on health and wellness, is currently working to expand access to fresh fruits and vegetables while building knowledge around healthy choices through family and community engagement events and after-school programs. The addition of new partners strengthens each focus area by expanding reach, aligning resources, and accelerating progress across the Evansville Promise Neighborhood.

The following organizations have joined the Evansville Promise Neighborhood network:

  • Ascension St. Vincent - Evansville
  • Carver Community Organization
  • City of Evansville / Mayor's Office
  • Community Action Program Evansville (C.A.P.E.)
  • J.D. Sheth Foundation
  • Koch Family Children's Museum of Evansville
  • Old National Bank
  • Southern Indiana Mentoring Academy
  • Welborn Baptist Foundation
  • YWCA

Together, EPN continues working on building strategic partnerships that unlock resources and create pathways of opportunity for children, families, and the entire community.

For more information, visit evansville.edu/epn.

Submitted by University Communications
 
* University of Evansville Welcomes Grammy-Nominated British Ensemble VOCES8 for Free Public Concert

The University of Evansville (UE) is proud to announce that the world-renowned British vocal ensemble VOCES8 will perform as part of the Patricia H. Snyder Concert and Lecture Series.

This special event will take place on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at the historic St. Benedict Cathedral on Lincoln Avenue just a few blocks from the UE campus. Doors open at 6:45 p.m.

Known as the world's top-streaming classical vocal group, VOCES8 has captivated global audiences with performances described by The Times as "flawless." Their repertoire spans five centuries, ranging from the sacred polyphony of the Renaissance to sophisticated contemporary pop and jazz arrangements. The ensemble earned a Grammy nomination in 2023 for The Lost Birds and is celebrated for a tonal clarity and "Rolls-Royce" precision that has made them staples at prestigious venues such as Wigmore Hall, the Sydney Opera House, and the Vienna Konzerthaus.

The Patricia H. Snyder Series is made possible through an endowment from the late Patricia H. Snyder, a University of Evansville trustee and longtime friend of the institution. Established in 1997, the series brings speakers and performers of national and international renown to Evansville at no cost to the public.

By hosting VOCES8, the University continues this tradition, providing access to artists who exemplify the highest standards of musical excellence and global education. Through the VOCES8 Foundation, the ensemble reaches more than 40,000 people annually with its mission of "Music Education for All," closely aligning with the University's commitment to community enrichment. This performance is free and open to the public.

Submitted by University Communications
 
* University of Evansville Welcomes Grammy-Nominated British Ensemble VOCES8 for Free Public Concert

The University of Evansville (UE) is proud to announce that the world-renowned British vocal ensemble VOCES8 will perform as part of the Patricia H. Snyder Concert and Lecture Series.

This special event will take place on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at the historic St. Benedict Cathedral on Lincoln Avenue just a few blocks from the UE campus. Doors open at 6:45 p.m.

Known as the world's top-streaming classical vocal group, VOCES8 has captivated global audiences with performances described by The Times as "flawless." Their repertoire spans five centuries, ranging from the sacred polyphony of the Renaissance to sophisticated contemporary pop and jazz arrangements. The ensemble earned a Grammy nomination in 2023 for The Lost Birds and is celebrated for a tonal clarity and "Rolls-Royce" precision that has made them staples at prestigious venues such as Wigmore Hall, the Sydney Opera House, and the Vienna Konzerthaus.

The Patricia H. Snyder Series is made possible through an endowment from the late Patricia H. Snyder, a University of Evansville trustee and longtime friend of the institution. Established in 1997, the series brings speakers and performers of national and international renown to Evansville at no cost to the public.

By hosting VOCES8, the University continues this tradition, providing access to artists who exemplify the highest standards of musical excellence and global education. Through the VOCES8 Foundation, the ensemble reaches more than 40,000 people annually with its mission of "Music Education for All," closely aligning with the University's commitment to community enrichment. This performance is free and open to the public.

Submitted by University Communications
 
* 2026 Changemaker Challenge Winners Receive Scholarships

High school students throughout the Tri-State and beyond were awarded significant scholarships on Friday, January 23, at the University of Evansville's 10th annual High School Changemaker Challenge, made possible by Toyota Indiana.

The challenge is designed to motivate young people to take a leading role in identifying and solving challenges in the world through innovation and creativity. A panel of judges heard pitches from the top 20 teams and individual students who had been invited to the in-person competition. From those top 20, six ideas were then chosen for the championship round. During that event, judges awarded first, second, and third place. Additionally, a surprise $10,000 UE scholarship was given to each of the runners up.

UE has committed more than $1 million in scholarships to winners of this competition since its inception. Those who choose UE as their college destination will each receive four-year scholarships as listed below:

First Place Helping Hands (Full tuition UE scholarship)

First Place Winners Helping Hands holding check

Team: Noma Ohonba, Chaz Burkett; Signature School, Evansville, Indiana

HelpingHands is a streamlined platform to make volunteering more convenient, people can find events that match their interests and keep track of their hours & verification all in one place. It basically functions as a social network for service, making it easy to stay informed, get involved, and track real impact without extra hassle.

Second Place / Team Promise ($27,000 UE scholarship)

Team Promise with check

Team: Lucy Howe, Elodie Thomason; Reitz Memorial High School, Evansville, Indiana

This program proposes a co-ed or all-girls flag football league in the Evansville Promise Neighborhood, offering kids a fun and active way to build healthy habits. It emphasizes physical activity, teamwork, and confidence while creating a positive space for youth to play and grow.

Third Place / VeraWell for Women ($25,000 UE scholarship)

VeraWell team with check

Team: Jaini Haria, Adria Saha; Signature School, Evansville, Indiana

This app provides a secure way for victims of domestic abuse to reach licensed health and mental-health professionals through private chat or video, offering crisis triage and personalized safety planning. It also includes anonymous peer-support spaces where survivors can connect and share experiences, along with accessible resources to help them find safety and begin healing.

Runners up ($23,000 UE scholarship)

Accessible Cam

Accessible Cam team with check

Team: Cameron Jenkins; Franklinton High School, Franklinton, North Carolina

Accessible Cam is designed to bring awareness to sidewalk and path accessibility issues throughout our city. It provides a street-level view of the challenges faced by pedestrians using wheelchairs and walkers, new mothers using strollers, and others navigating Evansville sidewalks and paths.

MyJourney

MyJourney contestant with check

Team: Nicholas Fleming; Signature School, Evansville, Indiana

An online therapy extension providing reusable resources to patients for use out of session, along with storage for session notes and action plans and mood and progress tracking. It helps the financial and time burden on both therapists and patients, ensuring that more people have access to therapy.

LungCheckVOC

LungCheckVOC team with check

Team: Jonathan Davis; Signature School, Evansville, Indiana

This project introduces a non-invasive diagnostic tool that analyzes exhaled VOCs with machine learning to support early detection of lung cancer. It offers a simple, patient-friendly approach that can improve screening access and lead to faster, more informed care decisions.

ChangeLab Coach Awards

Emerging Coach of the Year: Max Flowers, Graduate Research Librarian, Clinical Assistant Professor

Coach of the Year: Dr. Valerie Stein, Professor of Religious Studies; Director, Social justice Program and Race & Ethnicity Studies; director, UE's Journey to Justice

Fan Favorites

Evansville Youth Music Collective

Team: Ethan He, Layne Jenkins, Stephanie Panayides; Signature School

We are a student-led volunteering ensemble and initiative composed of high school musicians driven by the philosophy that everyone deserves access to live music. Since 2024, our ensemble has performed at hospitals, retirement communities, and care facilities, bringing joy to patients, residents, and families when they need it most.

Future Women of Criminal Justice

Team: Taylor McRoberts; Boonville High School, Boonville, Indiana

The project aims to organize outreach events that connect young girls with female role models in the criminal justice field, offering mentorship and support. The initiative seeks to inspire and empower the next generation of women to pursue careers in criminal justice.

GrowIN' Soy: Indiana's Tiny Beans, Big Climate Impact

Team: Matthew Goff, Alexander Rawlinson; Signature School, Evansville, Indiana

GrowIN' Soy is an educational program to teach 3rd graders about the growth and value of soybeans and recieved an Ag Literacy grant from Indiana Farm Bureau to present this in Warrick Co. schools. Our goal is to expand this program statewide to create change by promoting more informed consumers for a positive environmental impact that supports Indiana's agricultural communities.

To learn more about High School Changemaker Challenge please visit https://www.evansville.edu/changemaker/

Submitted by University Communications
 

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