The University of Evansville (UE) proudly honored four outstanding educators in Vanderburgh County with prestigious awards during its 35th annual ceremony on April 8.

Each recipient received a surprise announcement within their school, celebrating their remarkable contributions to education.

Specific to Vanderburgh County, this competition recognizes exemplary classroom teachers and building principals in grades K-12, each possessing a minimum of three years of experience. These esteemed awards are made possible through the generous sponsorship of UE, Evansville Liberty Federal Credit Union, and the Evansville Courier & Press.

Outstanding Elementary Teacher of the Year: Holly Carey

Holly Carey, a fourth-grade teacher at McCutchanville Elementary School, has been named the Outstanding Elementary Teacher of the Year. With 21 years of teaching experience, including seven at McCutchanville, Carey is recognized for her commitment to fostering both academic growth and a strong sense of belonging among her students. She teaches reading, writing, and social-emotional learning, creating a classroom environment where students are encouraged to build relationships, develop confidence, and grow as lifelong learners.

Beyond her classroom, Carey plays a significant leadership role within her school community. She supports colleagues through professional development in inclusion, universal design for learning, and instructional best practices, while also helping to realign curriculum and assessment strategies across grade levels. A passionate advocate for student leadership, she leads the school's Student Lighthouse team as part of the Leader in Me initiative, guiding efforts that promote kindness, community engagement, and a positive school culture.

Carey's teaching philosophy centers on creating a safe, engaging, and joyful learning environment where students feel valued and empowered to take risks. Through hands-on activities, collaborative learning, and intentional relationship-building, she encourages students to develop resilience, empathy, and a love of learning. Her dedication to both her students and colleagues exemplifies her lasting impact on the McCutchanville community.

Outstanding Middle School Teacher of the Year: Stefanie Simmons

Stefanie Simmons, a middle school science teacher and K-8 resource teacher at Corpus Christi School, has been named the Outstanding Middle School Teacher of the Year. With 20 years of teaching experience, including 14 at Corpus Christi, Simmons is recognized for her dedication to fostering meaningful relationships and creating an inclusive, student-centered learning environment. She teaches science across grades 6-8 while also supporting students throughout the school in a variety of subjects, allowing her to build strong connections with learners at every level.

Beyond the classroom, Simmons is deeply involved in her school community through a wide range of leadership roles. She serves as an eighth-grade homeroom teacher, helping prepare students for the transition to high school, and plays a key role in organizing milestone events such as graduation and service initiatives. As a Family Council sponsor, she helps guide student leadership and coordinate school-wide programs that promote community and engagement. Her contributions also extend to academic event coordination, fundraising efforts, and showcasing student achievements through social media.

Simmons' teaching philosophy centers on connection, emphasizing the importance of strong relationships as the foundation for meaningful learning. She creates a welcoming and inclusive classroom where students feel valued and supported, using hands-on, project-based learning and differentiated instruction to meet diverse needs. Through her commitment to both academic and personal growth, Simmons inspires students to build confidence, think critically, and develop a lifelong love of learning.

Outstanding High School Teacher of the Year: Maren Smith

Maren Smith, a College Credit Anatomy teacher and Department Chair for Science, P.E., and Health at North High School, has been named the Outstanding High School Teacher of the Year. With 19 years of teaching experience-all at North-Smith is recognized for her commitment to student success, hands-on instruction, and fostering meaningful connections in the classroom. She teaches juniors and seniors in a rigorous dual credit anatomy course, preparing students for both college-level expectations and future careers in science and healthcare.

In addition to her teaching role, Smith serves as the campus liaison for the University of Southern Indiana's College Achievement Program, helping guide students and families through the dual credit enrollment process. Her leadership as department chair and dedication to supporting students beyond the classroom reflect her strong commitment to academic excellence and opportunity.

Smith's teaching philosophy emphasizes experiential learning, critical thinking, and relationship-building. Through engaging lab activities, collaborative work, and real-world applications, she creates a classroom environment where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to learn. By fostering trust and encouraging intellectual curiosity, Smith empowers her students to take risks, build confidence, and develop a lasting passion for learning.

Outstanding Principal of the Year: Dr. Andrew Freeman

Dr. Andrew Freeman, principal of Central High School, has been named the Outstanding Principal of the Year. With 17 years of experience in education, including seven years as principal at Central, Freeman is recognized for his visionary leadership, commitment to student success, and dedication to fostering a people-first school culture.

Under his leadership, Central High School has achieved sustained national recognition, including being named a U.S. News & World Report "Best High School" for seven consecutive years. Freeman has also led the transformation and expansion of the EVSC Academy of Science and Medicine, growing enrollment, strengthening equitable access, and building partnerships with local hospitals, universities, and industry leaders to provide students with real-world learning opportunities.

Freeman's leadership philosophy centers on servant leadership, emphasizing relationships, trust, and continuous growth. Through initiatives such as annual "Listening Tours" with students and staff, he ensures that every voice is heard and valued within the school community. He also prioritizes professional development and innovative practices, equipping educators with the tools and support needed to create dynamic, engaging learning environments.

By balancing high expectations with strong support, Freeman has cultivated a culture of accountability, inclusion, and excellence at Central High School. His unwavering commitment to students, staff, and the broader community exemplifies his lasting impact as an educational leader.

The University of Evansville is excited to announce the return of UE Gives Back! Please mark your calendars for Friday, May 1, and join us for a day of service to support and enhance our campus.

With approval from your immediate supervisor and as schedules permit, employees may participate without using vacation time.

Projects this year include:

• Mulch areas along the walk between the Library, Olmsted, and the Oval (including Memorial Plaza/Ann Cooper Garden and surrounding beds)
• Add trap rock to the bed near the ADA entrance on the southeast corner of Olmsted
• Paint curbs and parking lines along the Oval
• Paint curbs at the Koch Center parking lot
• Mulch areas around building signage or place trap rock where applicable
• Power wash at Memorial Plaza, SOBA, and the Koch Center
• Clean outfield mats at the baseball field
• Paint handrails at the Panhellenic Center
• Add sand to the Hale Hall volleyball court and clean up the surrounding area

You can sign up for a project using the following link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E44AAAC2EAAFDC25-63105190-uegives

If you have any questions, please contact Keith Gehlhausen (kg77@evansville.edu) or Apryl Weatherford (aw605@evansville.edu).

Division of Talent & Community

Parking Lot H will be closed beginning Monday, April 13, 2026, to support preparations for the upcoming campus bike race and Athletics events. This closure will allow Facilities and Grounds crews time to clean and repaint the lot as part of the racecourse setup.

Time trials are scheduled to take place from Wednesday, April 15 through Friday, April 17, with the bike race set for Saturday, April 18. Additionally, A dedication ceremony for the Begle Family Sports Performance Center will take place on Friday afternoon with plans to utilize some portions of Parking Lot H for event parking.

Please plan accordingly and use alternate parking areas during this time.

The University of Evansville will formally dedicate its newly renovated athletics facility as the Begle Family Sports Performance Center on Friday, April 17 at 11:00 a.m. in the Carson Center (located in the former Maikranz Gym.) Named in recognition of the leadership support of Trustee Curt Begle ’99 and his wife, Kelley Begle ’00, the new space significantly enhances training, recovery, and development opportunities for UE’s more than 300 student-athletes across 17 Division I programs. The campus community is welcome to attend.

You are invited to join UE Athletics in a celebration of the new Begle Family Sports Performance Center!

Join us inside Carson Center from 3:30 to 5 PM on Friday, April 17th as we dedicate Begle Family Sports Performance Center and open it to the public to view for the first time!

The Pep & Vim Rally for the Aces features behind-the-scenes access to the new Begle Family Sports Performance Center, exclusive giveaways, Purple Aces themed snacks and drinks, and appearances from student-athletes, coaches, and the UE Pep Band!

Schedule of Events

3:30 PM - Registration Opens

3:45 PM - Welcoming Remarks by UE Director of Athletics Dr. Ziggy Siegfried and Assistant Sports Performance Coach Floyd King

4:00 PM - Door Prize Drawings Begin, Drawn Every 10 Minutes

5:00 PM - Event Ends

https://youtu.be/eVOq-Z6eoqQ

The University of Evansville’s Department of Communication proudly presents a collaborative short film project between students from COMM-345 Video Production and COMM-340 Sound Reinforcement and Recording, led by Tommy Housman and John Robertson, produced by UE Student Media and in partnership with talented theater students.

The Switch will premiere on Friday, May 1, 2026, at the Creative Technologies Showcase in the Lutz Lab (Hyde Hall).

Join us for the official screening. More details about the showcase will be announced soon.

Celebrate the Festival of Colors with International Club!

Throwing vibrant powders, enjoying music, and embracing the spirit of togetherness.

🎨 Wear a white shirt and get ready to be covered in color.

🎶 Enjoy music, laughter, and a festive atmosphere.

🥮Try International snacks and bevarages.

Bring friends to make colorful memories!

Join us for the Spring Choral Masterworks concert at University of Evansville on Tuesday, April 14 at 7:30 p.m. in Neu Chapel. The choirs will be joined by guest soloists and orchestra to perform Beethoven’s monumental Mass in C, Op. 86. Also on the program are works by Orlando Gibbons, Antonio Lotti, and modern composer John Tavener. The event is free and open to the public. We hope to see you there!

For the first time in program history the UE Bike Race will be livestreamed on Youtube for any out of town alumni or parents that are unable to join us in person the day of the race.

Follow/Subscribe to @ueintramurals for an exciting day of bike racing!

Womens Race begins at 9:30am

Mens Race begins at 12:30pm

The BiSci Club will host their Annual Plant Sale beginning on Saturday, April 11, at the Earth Day Celebration on East Terrace Lawn from 12-4 pm.  The plant sale will continue next week, April 13-16, in the McCarthy Greenhouse on Monday from 12-2 pm, Tuesday 11 am-1 pm, Wednesday 8-10 am, and Thursday 12-2 pm.  Enter the greenhouse through the Potting Room (KC 180), which is located just inside the building's south doors that go to the parking lot.

This month the SAA book club had a tie when chosing books. Both The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah and Cleopatra by Saara El-Arifi recieved the same amount of votes. Join us on Wednesday April 29th at 12 noon to discuss both books. Feel free to pick one to read or challenge yourself to read both. The SAA Book Club gathering takes place in the conference room of the University Advancement House on Rotherwood. Feel free to bring your lunch. Contact Kathy Taylor at ks6@evansville.edu, if you have questions or want to be added to the Book club email.

We need your Blood! Help save a life by donating to the American Red Cross Blood Drive at UE. Monday, April 20th 9am-3pm, Eykamp. Visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter: UE to schedule an appointment.

Come join us on Sunday, May 3 at 6 PM in Neu Chapel as we gather to honor and send off our senior class with a meaningful time of reflection and blessing.

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, April 14^th at 4:00. We are delighted to announce that the presentation will be:

Rachel Carpenter, “Beyond Cheating: The Student AI Playbook (and what we can learn!)”

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

Light refreshments will be provided.

On Tuesday, April 14, the UE Gerontology Center and Sociology Programs will host the 2026 Research in Gerontology Symposium from 11:30am-1:00pm in the SoBA Atrium. This year's symposium will feature student poster presentations across a variety of topics in aging and the life course, from majors in Sociology, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Biology, and Public Health. Hope you are able to join us!

We are pleased to announce that the UE Employee Photo Exhibit will be held from April 20 through August 16 in the Krannert Gallery. All active and retired University of Evansville employees are invited to submit their work.

Images of all sizes are welcome, though 16" × 20" is the maximum size for display cases. Photographs should be framed and wired for hanging in the Krannert Gallery. Entries will be returned at the end of the exhibition.

On the back of each framed photograph, please include:

• Your name, current or former department, and email address
• A title for your image
• Details such as the location or the meaning/memory attached to the photo
• The approximate value of the image (most photographers assess a value of $25) for insurance purposes

Please bring your work to Jessica Carroll in the Art Department, Krannert 212, between Wednesday, April 8, and Tuesday, April 14.

The UE campus community (and guests) are invited to a reception in the Krannert Gallery on Thursday, April 23, at 4:30 p.m. Please plan to join us to celebrate the tradition of displaying meaningful work created by our UE community.

If you have questions, please contact Jessica at jc790@evansville.edu.

The reproductive rights ChangeLab is putting on a performance entitled “Monologue A” at the StageTwo Theater here in Evansville. Monologue A is a short monologue-based performance directly inspired by the stories of students on the UE campus and those close to them. All stories center around the necessity of accessible reproductive care, and the nuances of navigating a world where such care may not be possible.

This performance is in collaboration with the League of Women Voters and will be held on April 15th at 4pm with both pre-show and post-show activities. StageTwo Theater is located at 321 N. Congress Ave.

Monologue A is open to everyone and is completely free! Come out to support both the reproductive rights ChangeLab and the League of Women Voters and hear stories about the need for reproductive health!

• More people trained in CPR
• More groundbreaking research
• More lifesaving moments for families in our community

Read Harder Challenge!

If you’ve participated in the Read Harder Challenge this year then it’s almost time to turn in your reading list! Your goal was to read eight books from September to April, four of which fill one of the criteria below. It’s not too late! If you’re an avid reader you can still read eight books before April 30!

1.      Read a book by a BIPOC author.

2.      Reread a Childhood favorite.

3.      Read a book about immigration or refugees.

4.      Read a nonfiction book about nature or the environment.

5.      Read a banned book.

6.      Read a book about little known history.

7.      Read a queernorm book.

8.      Read a book in a genre that you haven’t explored before.

When you finish your eight books, turn your reading list in to the Information Desk on the first floor of the library. Students will be entered into a drawing for a $50 gift card. The winner will be announced on May 1^st.

A growing group of pastors and ministry leaders in Evansville have been gathering to pray and seek God's heart for greater unity across the Church in our city. The One Church Forum is a space to come together for prayer, conversation, and relationship as we explore what it means to live as one Church.

Our hope is to celebrate the diversity of cultures and backgrounds across our community while lifting high the name of Jesus together, pursuing greater unity in Evansville for the sake of God's Kingdom.

CHEM 240/240L-Organic Chemisty I (4 credit hours) will be offered in person this summer - Summer Session 2. Please see Dr. Michael Slade with questions.  Course Description: Introduction to the structure, nomenclature, and chemistry of carbon compounds. Covers all major functional group classes and their simple characteristic reactions. Introduces mechanistic considerations as a basis for understanding reactions. Laboratory includes basic techniques, simple reactions, and qualitative analysis.

Jon Robertson, Director of Creative Technologies, is building an internal database of singer/songwriters and composers across the university, welcoming all skill levels from both students and faculty alike.

This is a Creative Technologies initiative aimed at connecting musicians who may want to collaborate and create together, with more opportunities on the horizon.

If that sounds like you, please reach out to Jon with a brief introduction: jr462@evansville.edu 488-1158 

The William L. Ridgway College of Arts and Sciences invites lecture proposals from University of Evansville faculty for the 2026–27 Morgan Whitaker Stankey Andiron Lecture Series.

This series honors the memory of University of Evansville alumna Morgan Stankey, who passed away unexpectedly in March 2023. Generous gifts made in her memory have enabled the revival of the Andiron Lecture—a long-standing tradition that has in the past played a vital role in the University’s intellectual life.

We welcome proposals from all academic fields. Lectures are typically delivered as 45-minute, single-speaker presentations, though collaborative proposals with multiple presenters are also encouraged. We look forward to broad faculty participation in this renewed tradition, which celebrates both Morgan’s legacy and the distinguished history of the Andiron Lectures.

Please email your proposal to Dr James MacLeod, Director of the Series, at jm224@evansville.edu

Finals can be overwhelming for anyone, and it’s completely normal to feel the pressure. As the semester is nearing the end, remember that you don’t have to navigate it by yourself. Our office is here to ensure you have the academic accommodations and support you need. Whether you’re already connected with us or thinking about reaching out for the first time, we’re ready to help you finish strong.

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-Th 8:00am – 5:00pm and 8-4:30pm on Friday’s.

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

The Promotion & Tenure Committee invites anyone who is considering application for promotion or tenure who wants more information to meet with the Chair and representatives of the committee on Tuesday, April 14 at 4 PM in the Library boardroom 203. We will endeavor to answer any questions, and representatives of the Eykamp Center for Teaching Excellence will also be there.

The Encyclopedia of Triangle Centers, ETC (https://faculty.evansville.edu/ck6/encyclopedia/etc.html ), is the subject of an article in the online publication of the French association of mathematics teachers: https://www.apmep-iledefrance.fr/Connaissez-vous-ETC.  The article can be quickly translated, with caption "Are you familiar with ETC? For lovers of triangle geometry!". Published just last week, the author of the article is René Drucker, who has contributed hundreds of GeoGebra pictures of individual triangle centers. The pictures are accessible as zip files in the Introduction to ETC. The encyclopedia, having been hosted by UE for a quarter-century, recently reached a total of 72,000 triangle centers, starting with the famous ancient Greek points: centroid, incenter, circumcenter, and orthocenter. More recent developments in triangle geometry are given in https://grokipedia.com/page/Triangle_center and https://grokipedia.com/page/Encyclopedia_of_Triangle_Centers.

UE's Marketing Department is seeking multiple student workers to assist with TikTok and Instagram content creation for Fall 2026.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Understands how to use TikTok and Instagram 
• Video editing
• Can quickly put together creative video material if needed
• Has a creative eye for social media and can not only film and edit material but craft captions too
• Can attend UE events and work independently to capture student life and share the UE experience from a current student perspective (e.g., interviews, student takeovers, event recaps)
• Follows/Stays up-to-date on TikTok and Instagram trends and can produce content to match these trends

This is a paid position. Interested students should send resumes to Abigail Perry at ap445@evansville.edu.

If you are interested in building bridges instead of walls, register for CHNG-310-S02: Latino Community Outreach for the fall semester. We work collaboratively with businesses and nonprofits to promote diversity and multicultural  harmony and to meet the needs of the local Latino community. Examples of outreach include working with healthcare providers; presenting research; translating documents; teaching basic Spanish and promoting Latino culture in after-school programs; tutoring English language learners in local schools; and offering English classes for adults.  Students choose the project(s) they wish to pursue.
If you want to learn more about this award-winning ChangeLab, email Dr. Cindy Crowe: cc109@evansville.edu

SPAN-212- Intermediate Spanish (3 credit hours) will be offered asynchronously online during Summer Session 2 (June 15 – July 17, 2026).                                                                                                                  Please contact Dr. Cindy Crowe cc109@evansville.edu with any questions.

SPAN-211- Intermediate Spanish (3 credit hours) will be offered asynchronously online during Summer Session 1 (May 11-June 12, 2026).
Please contact Dr. Cindy Crowe cc109@evansville.edu with any questions.

SPAN-112- Elementary Spanish (3 credit hours) will be offered asynchronously online during Summer Session 2  (June 15 – July 17, 2026).                                                                                                              This course fulfills Outcome 6. Please contact Dr. Cindy Crowe cc109@evansville.edu with any questions.

Three University of Evansville mathematics students, Alexander Bastien, Benjamin Honnigford, and Noel Tafa, recently competed in the Indiana Collegiate Mathematics Competition (ICMC) as part of the MAA Indiana Section Meeting, held April 10–11, 2026, at Purdue University Fort Wayne. The team earned an impressive 6th-place finish among 21 teams statewide, demonstrating outstanding problem-solving and mathematical excellence.

We congratulate Alexander, Benjamin, and Noel on this significant achievement and thank them for representing the University of Evansville with distinction.

At the same meeting, Dr. Omid Khormali moderated the Section NExT panel titled “Preparing Students for Non-Academic Careers.” He served as Vice Coordinator of the MAA Indiana Section NExT program and will assume the Section NExT Coordinator role in Summer 2026.

Dr. Kevin Jordan published an article as the principle investigator in the Journal of Clinical Psychology entitled, “Are Online Social Experiences Associated with General Interpersonal Problems? A Circumplex Assessment.” In the article, Dr. Jordan and colleagues discuss the interpersonal perspective of clinical psychology and use its methodological framework to examine online negativity and excessive social media use and their relationship with social problems. The article is available at http://doi.org/10.1002/jclp.70142

Dr. Melissa Eisenhauer, Nurse Anesthesia Program Administrator, has been selected as a candidate for induction as a 2026 Fellow of the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology. She will join a group of leaders whose achievements and enduring contributions have had a meaningful and lasting impact on the nurse anesthesia profession and the role of CRNAs.

The Fellows of the AANA (FAANA) designation distinguishes certified registered nurse anesthetists as being the premier anesthesia provider with a high level of skills, training, experience, achievement, and professional standards. The FAANA designation represents a commitment to quality, professional development, and continued education, ensuring that FAANA designees stand apart from other providers.

Dr. Eisenhauer will be inducted as a Fellow of the AANA at the association’s Annual Congress in Boston, MA in August 2026.

Dr. M. Fahad Humayun, Assistant Professor of Cummunication, has been awarded $1,000 and the title of Faculty Champion by the Center for Community News (CCN) at the University of Vermont.  The Center supports journalism leaders in their efforts to start or expand university-led reporting programs.

This recognition is for his Fall 2025 collaboration with Andrew Carter, UE Center for Innovation & Change Associate Director, and Steve Burger, WNIN Vice President of Radio and New Media Manager.  UE News Lab will be utilizing the money to expand its advertising efforts to reach out to more members in the Evansville community.

The University of Evansville is proud to share that Dr. Hannah LaMar, faculty member in the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, is a contributing author to the newly released Fifth Edition of Neurologic Interventions for Physical Therapy.

This widely used textbook serves as a key resource for physical therapy students and clinicians, offering evidence-based strategies for the examination and treatment of individuals with neurologic conditions. Dr. LaMar’s contribution reflects her expertise in neurologic rehabilitation and her commitment to advancing physical therapy education.

In addition, UE alumna Dr. Emily Schultz also contributed authorship to this edition, highlighting the continued impact of UE graduates within the profession.

This accomplishment underscores the strong culture of scholarship and clinical excellence within UE’s DPT program and the broader School of Health Professions. Faculty and alumni contributions to nationally recognized publications help ensure that UE remains at the forefront of educating future physical therapists and advancing evidence-based practice.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. LaMar and Dr. Schultz on this outstanding achievement!

The Office of Human Resources was pleased to present the 2026 - 2027 employee benefits package to all who attended one of the information sessions. This year, our insurance representatives offered up incentives to attend one of the six presentations.

The winners are:

• Sylvia DeVault for attending a March 31 session: $100 MasterCard, compliments of Auxiant
• Zach Weinberg for attending an April 1 session: $100 MasterCard, compliments of Auxiant
• Chris Koehler for attending a session: $25 Amazon Gift Card, compliments of Ascension Tri-State Community Clinics
• Annie Sills for attending a session: $100 Biaggi's Gift Card, compliments of Southwood Insurance
• Jill Griffin for attending a session: 30 oz Yeti Tumbler, compliments of Wellbridge Surgical

For those unable to attend a live presentation, please find a recording here:

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/91i5ow2sq0lwgbjdvwlpo/benefits-2026-comp.mp4?rlkey=5vsaehnk8lce8iwfgvn5pbddo&st=ixq6mhyq&dl=0

The UE community is welcome to attend the Faculty Retirement Tree Planting Ceremony that will take place on Sunday, April 26.  This event will begin at 1:00 p.m. outside of the Koch Center’s front doors in the landscaped area closest to Clifford Memorial Library.  The following faculty members will be honored at the event:

• Bruce Mabis- Clinical Assistant Professor of Computer Science
• Amy McBride- Associate Professor of Education
• Kenneth Steinsultz- Director of Bands and Professor of Music
• Brian Swenty- Professor of Mechanical and Civil Engineering

Please join us to wish them well in their retirement.

Bruce Mabis, Clinical Assistant Professor of Computer Science

Dr. Bruce Mabis earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from Capital University.  From the University of Evansville, he received a Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering.  His PhD in Computer Science was awarded from Vanderbilt University in 1992, specializing in software engineering.

Dr. Mabis has lived in Evansville for the last forty-six years. He started teaching Computer Science at UE in 1975. He taught at UE and three other universities all in the tristate area.  Away from academics, he enjoys time with his wife, three sons, and three grandkids. In his spare time, he finds a little time to do things like cut firewood and perform magic whenever he gets the chance.

Amy McBride, Associate Professor of Education

Dr. Amy E. McBride has devoted nearly three decades to the University of Evansville, serving as Associate Professor of Education and a cornerstone of the School of Education since 1997.  Prior to coming to UE, she taught fifth grade in Iowa for twelve years.  She earned her BS degree in Elementary Education and a BA degree in English Education from the University of Iowa.  She earned her master’s degree in Effective Teaching from Drake University and her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction and Elementary Mathematics Education from Indiana State University.  Tenured in 2007, Dr. McBride coordinated the elementary education program, mentored countless teacher candidates, and taught across undergraduate and graduate programs, including the Master’s in Leadership.  Her leadership extended to serving as Part-time Associate Chair and chairing numerous committees focused on curriculum, accreditation, advising, and retention.  Whether supervising pre-service teachers, leading study abroad programs in Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica, or mentoring student-athletes, she consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to student growth and professional excellence.

A respected scholar, Dr. McBride’s research has centered on standards-based mathematics instruction, cultural competence, and immersive teacher preparation.  She has published in peer-reviewed journals, presented at international and national conferences, including AERA and AACTE, and secured significant grant funding to advance STEM education and curriculum innovation.  As a qualified administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI), she has fostered intercultural competence on campus, offering workshops, presentations, and a course on multicultural understanding.  She has been recognized with numerous honors, including the University of Evansville Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award (2004), the Exemplary Teaching Award (2002), the Dean’s Teaching Award (2000), the Connie Belin Award for Excellence in Teaching, and induction to the School of Education Honor Wall (2021).

Beyond titles and accolades, Dr. McBride’s legacy is rooted in relationships, mentorship, and service.  The students are her priority.  As an active advisor, she not only advised students in the School of Education but also served as an academic mentor for student-athletes.  She has championed professional development schools, community partnerships, after-school programs, and initiatives supporting diversity, inclusion, and student success.  Her work with Kappa Kappa Iota, recruitment and retention efforts, athletics mentoring, and countless university committees reflects a career marked by leadership and heart.  Through her teaching, scholarship, and service, Dr. McBride has shaped generations of educators and strengthened the fabric of the University of Evansville community.

Kenneth Steinsultz, Director of Bands and Professor of Music

Prior to coming to Evansville in 2008, Dr. Steinsultz served as assistant to the Director of Bands at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1993-2008.  At the University of Evansville, Dr. Steinsultz conducts the UE Wind Ensemble, UE University/Community Band, Aces Pep Band, UE Low Brass Ensemble, and teaches courses in applied low brass and conducting. Under his leadership, the UE Wind Ensemble has performed, by invitation, for the Chicagoland Band Festival; the Indiana Music Educators Conference; and the College Band Directors National Association, North Central Division Conference. The UE Wind Ensemble has also recorded two compact discs during his tenure.

As a solo musician, Dr. Steinsultz was an invited guest artist for the International Tuba and Euphonium Association’s Midwest Conference in 2013 and 2015. In May 2022, he performed a recital at the Great Plains Regional ITEA conference on the campus of Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. Dr. Steinsultz also performed at the 2014 International Tuba and Euphonium Conference at Indiana University.

As an ensemble musician, he has performed with the Quincy (Illinois) Park Band, Quincy Symphony Orchestra, Mississippi River Brass Band, Champaign-Urbana Symphony, Danville (Illinois) Symphony, Illinois Symphony of Springfield/Bloomington, Evansville Symphonic Band, Bend in the River Brass Band, and the Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra.

Dr. Steinsultz is a member of the College Band Director’s National Association, the National Band Association, the Indiana Bandmaster’s Association, the International Tuba and Euphonium Association, the International Trombone Association, and is an elected member of the Phi Beta Mu Bandmasters Fraternity. He holds degrees from Quincy University and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Brian J. Swenty, Professor of Mechanical and Civil Engineering

Dr. Brian J. Swenty received his PhD in Civil Engineering from the University of Missouri-Rolla and his master’s degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Florida.  He joined the faculty at the University of Evansville in August 1993.  He served as Chair of the Mechanical and Civil Engineering Department for twenty-one years and interim Dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Science for nineteen months.  He received the College of Engineering and Computer Science Dean’s Teaching Award (1997, 2010), the University of Evansville Alumni Outstanding Teaching Award (1998), Distinguished Service Award, Harlaxton College (2004), United Methodist Church Exemplary Teaching Award (2006) Berger Award for Service (2010), and the College of Business and Engineering Outstanding Teaching Award (2022).

Dr. Swenty served on numerous faculty committees and university task forces.  He served on the Faculty Senate and chaired the university Curriculum Committee, the General Education Subcommittee, and the Enduring Foundation Task Force.  He is a licensed professional engineer in Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Florida, and California.  He has provided professional engineering services to government, industry, and private clients.  Dr. Swenty has authored and co-authored numerous peer-reviewed publications, engineering reports, guidelines, and manuals.  Prior to joining academia, he was director of the Missouri Dam & Reservoir Safety Program, a senior civil engineer with Stottler, Staff & Associates (Florida), and an officer in the United States Army.

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – Halfway through the Indiana State Invitational, the University of Evansville women’s golf team leads the field at the Country Club of Terre Haute.

Leading the way for the Purple Aces following the first round is Jane Grankina. The reigning Missouri Valley Conference Women’s Golfer of the Week shot a 2-over 74 on Sunday and is tied for the lead with Renae Jaeger of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. They are one stroke in front of a 3^rd-place tie.

Louise Standtke and Haley Hughes are tied for 9^th place following the opening round. Both completed the day with scores of 5-over 77’s. Elizabeth Mercer is 13^th with a 78 while Kate Petrova is tied for 14^th with a 78. Adeline Wittmer is tied for 36^th after carding a 96 in the opening 18 holes.

UE heads into Monday’s final round with a 306. They are two in front of Indiana State and lead UIC by seven strokes.

The University of Evansville's (UE) Department of English and Creative Writing will host its fourteenth annual LitFest, a three-day celebration of literature and storytelling, April 16-18 on campus. Attendance is free and open to the public.

The annual LitFest gives undergraduate students the opportunity to present creative and critical papers to audiences made up of their peers, their professors, and members of the community. Students also have the opportunity to win awards for their scholarly and creative writing.

The events for 2026 will kick off on Thursday, April 16 at 4:00 p.m. with a Senior Coffee Hour Reading, showcasing the work of graduating students.

Events will continue Friday, April 17, featuring visiting scholar Alex Vernon as part of the Melvin M. Peterson Literary Forum. Vernon will present on his new biography of Tim O'Brien, the acclaimed American novelist known for The Things They Carried, Going After Cacciato, and other influential works. Vernon's biography, called Peace Is a Shy Thing, marks his eleventh book.

Vernon is a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where he was the only literature major in his class of more than 1,000 cadets. He served in combat as a tank platoon leader during the Persian Gulf War and later earned his Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He currently serves as the M.E. & Ima Graves Peace Distinguished Professor of English at Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas.

His presentation will take place at 7:00 p.m. in Shanklin Theatre in Hyde Hall on the University of Evansville campus. LitFest will conclude on Saturday, April 18 at 9:30 a.m. with the annual Student Literary Conference, highlighting undergraduate scholarship.

For more information about LitFest 2026, please contact the Department of English and Creative Writing or click this link.

The University of Evansville (UE) and Vincennes University (VU) have formalized a new partnership designed to create streamlined, direct-entry pathways for students pursuing careers in athletic training and physical therapy.

Through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), students enrolled in VU's Bachelor of Science in Health Care Services Administration with a Pre-Doctor of Physical Therapy/Master's of Athletic Training concentration will have the opportunity to transition directly into UE's graduate programs, including the Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) and Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT). The agreement establishes a clear, structured pathway for qualified students, providing early assurance for admission into competitive graduate programs.

Eligible students may apply for direct entry into UE's MSAT program after their sophomore year by maintaining a minimum 3.50 GPA, completing an interview, and securing a faculty recommendation, with up to five students admitted annually. Students may also pursue direct entry into UE's DPT program, where up to three students per year are selected through a competitive process. In both pathways, students must maintain academic standards to retain their direct entry status.

"At the heart of this partnership is student opportunity," said Dr. Andy Lampkins, Dean of the College of Education and Health Sciences. "We are creating a direct, supportive pathway that allows students to stay focused on their goals while preparing for success in high-demand healthcare fields."

The agreement also includes coordinated academic advising between the two institutions to ensure students complete prerequisite coursework and remain on track for success. Faculty and administrators from both universities will work together to monitor progress and support a seamless transition from undergraduate to graduate study.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment by UE and VU to expand access to high-demand healthcare careers and strengthen the pipeline of highly trained professionals in athletic training and physical therapy.