University of Evansville

PurplePulse

Wednesday, September 3, 2025

* PurplePulse Schedule Reminder

Reminder: PurplePulse issues are published only on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays during the academic year. Please plan your submissions accordingly to ensure timely publication.

Submitted by na122@evansville.edu
 

Upcoming Events

* University of Evansville Theatre to Preview JAGGED LITTLE PILL: The Musical at Front Porch Fest

The University of Evansville Theatre will present a special preview of songs from this season’s musical, Alanis Morisette’s JAGGED LITTLE PILL: The Musical, at Front Porch Fest on September 6, from 3:00–3:45 p.m. at 50 Adams Ave, Evansville, IN 47713.

This sneak peek is just a taste of what’s to come when the full production of Alanis Morisette’s JAGGED LITTLE PILL: The Musical takes the stage in Shanklin Theatre. Performances will be held on October 17, 18, 23, 24, and 25 at 7:30 p.m., with a matinee on October 26 at 2:00 p.m.

Don’t miss the chance to experience this electrifying musical, inspired by the Grammy Award–winning album, brought to life by UE Theatre’s talented students.

Submitted by Claire Londenberg cl265@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
 
* Vanderburgh County Tox-Away Day

UE’s Environmental, Health and Safety Manager would like to let the UE Community know about the 2025 Tox Away Day planned for Saturday, September 6. The event is from 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at the Civic Center parking lot (Ninth and Walnut). They request you enter off of 9th street.  This program is for Vanderburgh County households only. Help dispose of hazardous materials properly, so they don’t end up entering local streams and rivers.

Items accepted include oil-based paint, solvents & thinners, pesticides, herbicides, household cleaners, motor oil, antifreeze, gasoline, auto batteries and fluids, smoke detectors, fluorescent bulbs, fire extinguishers and pool chemicals at this free disposal program. (No latex paint.)

Please load items into your trunk or truck bed for safe unloading.

For a complete list, and for items not accepted, see the Vanderburgh County website: https://www.evansvillegov.org/city/department/division.php?structureid=259

Submitted by Amber Elkins ae152@evansville.edu
 
* United Way Day of Caring: Make an Impact Sept. 12

Aces, join us for the United Way Day of Caring – the Tri-State’s largest one-day volunteer event!   📅 Friday, Sept. 12, 2025   Start the day with a free breakfast at Old National Events Plaza, then make an impact through projects like landscaping, painting, cleaning, and more. Skilled volunteers and those with trucks/trailers are especially needed!   Sign up at unitedwayswi.org.

Submitted by Noah Alatza na122@evansville.edu
 

Info You Should Know

* 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
 
* EmployeeTIAA Individual Counseling Sessions

View list of sessions

Submitted by Lori LeDuc ll138@evansville.edu
 
* Career Advocates Available to Students

The Center for Career Development is happy to announce that our Career Advocates are ready to help students with resumes, cover letters, and more! They are available on a walk-in basis during the hours listed on our website at www.evansville.edu/careercenter/students/careeradvocates.cfm. Come visit them upstairs in Ridgway in the Student Life Suite!

Lilly Roskind

Elliot Boutell

Emma Sowders

Owen Lawrence

Mackenzie Earney

Follow the UE Center for Career Development!

https://www.instagram.com/uecareers/

Submitted by Tracy Gerth tg182@evansville.edu
 
* Spiritual Conversation Circles

Tuesdays @ 12 PM & 2:30 PM
Honeymoon Coffee Co.


Follow the QR Code to Sign Up

Submitted by Breanna Bondurant bb369@evansville.edu
 
* Meditation and Prayer - Wed 9/3

A weekly pause to breathe, rest, and return to what matters most. Guided practices—drawn from silence, breath, prayer, and mindfulness—invite you to reconnect with yourself, the Sacred, and the rhythms of life. No experience needed—just come as you are.

Submitted by Breanna Bondurant bb369@evansville.edu
 
* FREE TEXTBOOKS IN SOBA

There are two tables of free textbooks in SOBA on the second floor outside the Marketing office.

Free to anyone.

Submitted by Abbie Perry ap445@evansville.edu
 
* IM Sand Volleyball and Soccer Leagues!

🏐 Intramural League Signups are OPEN! ⚽

Students, Staff, and Faculty are welcome to participate!

🌟 Get ready to serve, spike, kick, and score this fall!
UE Intramurals is bringing you TWO epic leagues:

🏐 4v4 Sand Volleyball

Dig, dive, and dominate in the sand on our brand new Legacy Sand Volleyball Courts!

⚽ 10v10 Outdoor Soccer

Lace up and bring your best game to the field!

📅 Registration Deadline: Wednesday, Sept. 4
📍 Sign up on IMLeagues (don’t wait until the last minute!)

💜 All skill levels welcome – whether you’re here for the competition or just for the fun vibes.

👉 Grab your friends, make a team, or join as a free agent.
👉 Champs earn bragging rights and intramural glory.

🔥 Don’t sit this one out—register TODAY!

Submitted by Andrew Hawkins ah519@evansville.edu
 

Congratulations

* Kim McDonald Named Director of Undergraduate Admission

We are pleased to share that Kim McDonald has been promoted to Director of Undergraduate Admission, effective September 1, 2025.

Kim most recently served as Director of Enrollment Marketing and Operations and has been an integral member of the recruitment team since January 2020. She has been with the University of Evansville since 2003, including eight years in the Office of Marketing from 2012-2020.

A seasoned admission professional, Kim brings a deep understanding of our enrollment landscape, a strong commitment to our mission, and a collaborative leadership style that has positively shaped both strategy and operations across departments.

In this new role, Kim will oversee all aspects of undergraduate recruitment, bringing together her marketing expertise and operational insight to further enhance our outreach and enrollment efforts. Her transition into this position will help ensure continuity, stability, and forward momentum as we continue to serve future Aces.

Please join us in congratulating Kim and thanking her for her ongoing dedication to the University of Evansville!

Submitted by Shelby Roscoe mr410@evansville.edu
 
* University of Evansville Honors Faculty with Endowed Positions at Investiture Ceremony

Three distinguished University of Evansville (UE) faculty members from the William L. Ridgway College of Arts and Sciences were honored Tuesday for their academic excellence during a formal Investiture Ceremony in Neu Chapel.

The event recognized the appointment of three faculty members to endowed chairs and professorships. It also honored the legacies of generous donors and families whose enduring investments continue to elevate the University's faculty and academic excellence.

Endowed faculty positions represent one of the highest honors a university can bestow, recognizing distinguished scholars and educators, while advancing innovation in teaching, scholarship and service.

At the ceremony, the following faculty members were honored:

Dr. Diane Brewer was invested as the John David Lutz Distinguished Professor of the Arts. Brewer, a dramaturg, director, and scholar, is recognized nationally for her work in theatre history and criticism. She has served as Coordinator of Dramaturgy and Research Programming for the Kennedy Center National College Theater Festival and directs UE's Honors Program. The Lutz Professorship was established in honor of John David Lutz by alumni and friends, including acclaimed television and film creators Matt Williams and David McFadzean, both former students of Professor Lutz, whose lives and careers were shaped by his mentorship and example. Over his five-decade tenure at UE, Professor Lutz directed more than 80 productions, served as Chair of the Department of Theatre, and led the program to national prominence. He was a beloved teacher and mentor who instilled in his students a deep respect for their craft and the courage to pursue bold artistic paths.

Dr. Dennis Malfatti was invested as the Oramay Cluthe Eades Distinguished Professor of Music. Malfatti is Director of Choral Activities and Co-Chair of the UE Music Conservatory. His ensembles have performed nationally and internationally, including acclaimed appearances at Carnegie Hall, most recently in 2025. The professorship honors Oramay Cluthe Eades, founder of the Cluthe School of Music, whose vision and leadership laid the foundation for the University's music conservatory. Her family, including David and Susan Eades, have continued her legacy of generosity and support.

Dr. Robert Baines was invested as the Melvin M. Peterson Endowed Chair in Literature. Baines specializes in twentieth-century British and Irish literature, particularly the works of James Joyce. His book, Philosophical Allusions in James Joyce's Finnegans Wake, was published by Oxford University Press. The endowed chair was established in 2016 by Dr. Melvin M. Peterson, a devoted friend of the University and longtime trustee, whose philanthropy also created the Peterson Gallery and other vital spaces for the arts and humanities on campus.

UE President Christopher M. Pietruszkiewicz highlighted the importance of endowed positions during the ceremony. "Endowed positions are more than a recognition of past accomplishments. They are an investment in the future, enabling faculty to explore new ideas, mentor students at the highest level, and contribute meaningfully to the world." he said.

In addition to the president's address, the ceremony featured remarks from Mary Kessler, Acting Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, and Amanda Krause, Dean of the Ridgway College of Arts and Sciences, who spoke about the significance of these endowed positions for the University's academic mission.

These faculty members exemplify the excellence, passion, and dedication that define the University of Evansville's academic community. Their achievements in teaching, research, and service continue to elevate the institution and inspire generations of students.

Submitted by Noah Alatza na122@evansville.edu
 
* Purple Tam Ceremony Honors Full Professor

During Academic Convocation, UE proudly awards the Purple Tam, a symbol of distinction for faculty who achieve the rank of full professor—a mark of academic excellence, scholarship, and service to the University. These purple velvet tams, worn at official academic events, represent the highest level of professional commitment to higher education at UE.

This year, Dr. Jennie Ebeling, Department of Archaeology and Anthropology, was honored with this distinction. Dr. Ebeling holds a PhD in Near Eastern Studies from the University of Arizona and is an accomplished scholar specializing in the archaeology of ancient southwest Asia. Her work includes co-directing the Jezreel Expedition in Israel, authoring and editing six books, and earning prestigious fellowships such as the Fulbright and National Endowment for the Humanities. She has been recognized with UE’s Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award and the Dean's Teaching Award for her exceptional contributions in the classroom.

Congratulations, Dr. Ebeling!

Submitted by Noah Alatza na122@evansville.edu
 

Thank You

* First Professional Clothing Closet was a HUGE success!

Last Friday, the Office for Career Success and the Center for Career Development hosted our first Professional Clothing Closet Pop-Up! It was a HUGE success! Thanks to the generosity of our campus community, 75+ students received more than 102 articles of professional clothing and accessories.

We are excited to reach even more students at our next pop-up event on September 12, this time in the Koch Building from 11am-2pm.

Don't miss the chance to bolster your professional wardrobe ahead of our first career fair!

Submitted by Amanda Wood aw505@evansville.edu
 

Athletics

* Volleyball welcomes Michigan State on Wednesday

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – Set for an exciting home opener, the University of Evansville volleyball team welcomes Michigan State to Meeks Family Fieldhouse on Wednesday evening at 6 p.m.

Recapping the Weekend

- UE opened the 2025 campaign over the weekend at the Butler Big Dawg Kickoff

- After dropping a 3-1 contest in the opener versus Butler, the Purple Aces battled Middle Tennessee State before falling in five sets to open Saturday

- In the weekend finale, UE was on the winning end of a 3-2 decision against Purdue Fort Wayne

 

Freshmen Pace the Offense

- Leading the UE offense in the opening weekend was the freshman due of Ryan Scheu and Hinsley Everett

- Scheu completed the weekend a team-high 3.14 kills per set including her high tally of 17 versus MTSU

- Just behind her was Everett with 3.07 kills per frame

- Everett notched double digit kills in all three matches with her high of 17 coming against MTSU

- Another freshman made her mark in the win over the Mastodons as Brooke Herdes tied for the match high with 17 kills

All-Tournament

- Averaging an unbelievable 5.86 digs per set, Ainoah Cruz earned a spot on the All-Tournament Team as the Butler Big Dawg Kickoff

- She improved in each match over the weekend going from 22 to 29 to 31 digs

- Cruz added a total of 21 assists and an ace

 

Career Mark

- Carlotta Pascual Centelles put forth the top offensive performance of her UE career in the weekend finale

- She set her career high with 15 kills in the win over PFW, surpassing her previous mark of 11 kills, which was set last season against Murray State

Scouting the Opposition

- Michigan State comes into Wednesday’s match with a 2-0 mark with home victories over Merrimack and Chicago State to open the season

- Taylah Holdem paces the Spartans with 4.33 kills per set while Caroline Formankova averaged 3.00 in the first two contests

Submitted by Bob Pristash rp113@evansville.edu
 
* Wehrer, Lammers Earn MVC Women's Soccer Weekly Honors

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – Following a 2-0 week that included wins over Purdue and SIUE, the University of Evansville women’s soccer team claimed two MVC weekly awards, with Taylor Wehrer (Las Vegas, Nev./Desert Oasis) being named MVC Player of the Week and Allie Lammers (Cincinnati, Ohio/Mount Notre Dame) tabbed as MVC Goalkeeper of the Week, the league office announced Tuesday morning.

Wehrer continued her breakout sophomore campaign with a two-goal week, bringing her season total to three. In Thursday’s win over Purdue, Wehrer broke a 1-1 tie with a bar-down goal off a free kick from 28 yards out, giving the Aces the game-winner for their first win over a Power-4 opponent since 2008. On Sunday, Wehrer opened the scoring against SIUE with a goal in the 11th minute, the first of three UE goals in the first half en route to a 3-0 win. Through the first four games of the season, Wehrer has played a key role in a much-improved Evansville attack, ranking second in the MVC in points per game (1.75) and third in goals (3). UE’s 10 goals this season are their most through four games since 2008, a season in which the Aces won the MVC regular season and tournament titles to reach the NCAA Tournament, and is just three goals shy of their season total from a year ago.

Lammers made her collegiate debut in a big way last week, entering in the second half against Purdue on Thursday and keeping the Boilermakers off the board over the final 45 minutes. Lammers faced 13 shots and made three saves to earn her first collegiate win. On Sunday, the sophomore made her first career start and was excellent once again, making two saves to post the Aces’ first clean sheet of the season.

Evansville looks to win their third game in a row on Thursday, hitting the road to take on Austin Peay. Kick-off is set for 6 PM.

Submitted by Donovan Schultz ds326@evansville.edu
 

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