Lot H

Lot H will remain closed through the morning of Saturday, April 18. An inner portion of Lot H will be utilized for a scheduled ribbon cutting and lunch event on Friday and will be monitored at the gate. Please continue to plan accordingly.

Armory Lot

In addition, the Armory Lot will be designated for event parking for the Pep Rally at the Carson Center (3:30–5:00 p.m.) on Friday. This adjustment is in place due to overlapping Pep & Vim Week activities, including bike race preparations.

Thank you for your flexibility as we work through a high-activity week on campus.

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

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

The University of Evansville Theatre closes out its 2025–2026 season with THE HUMANS, by Stephen Karam. This production opens at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, April 23, in the May Studio Theatre. Additional performances are at 7:30 p.m., on April 24 and 25, and, at 2 p.m., on April 25 and 26.

A finalist for the Pulitzer Prize and the 2016 Tony Award-winner for Best Play, THE HUMANS, packs a punch in this tragicomedy dealing with economic anxiety, guilt, grief, and forgiveness.  Masterfully rendered by a brilliant playwright, the play centers around a family gathering on a Thanksgiving night in a ramshackle apartment in lower-Manhattan.  As the sun goes down, tensions rise, and this middle-class family is left exposed and vulnerable—resulting in both a humorous and heartbreaking look into the realities of modern familial life.

THE HUMANS is directed by Landry Barker, a senior performance major from Fort Worth Texas. Brayden Havard, a junior performance major from Montgomery, Texas, serves as the scenic designer; Mia Lacy, a junior directing and dramaturgy major from Frisco, Texas, is the costume designer; Jonah Charpie, a junior design and technology major from Noblesville, Ind., is the lighting designer; Danny Perez, a senior performance major from San Antonio, Texas, is the sound designer; Olivia Roy, a junior stage management major from Henderson, Ky., serves as the stage manager; Sydney Gepson, a sophomore theatre studies major from Queen Creek, Ariz., is the dramaturg; and Visiting Assistant Professor Andy Hammond is the technical director.

The cast features Gage Dragoo, a sophomore performance major from Frisco, Texas, as Erik Blake; Rachel Disney, a sophomore performance major from Louisville, Ky., as Deidre Blake; Reese Hickman, a sophomore performance major from The Woodlands, Texas, as Momo Blake; Jamy Lentz, a junior performance major from Denton, Texas, as Aimee Blake; Ally Cavender, a first-year performance major from Arab, Ala., as Brigid Blake; and Antonio Cortés Román, a senior performance major from Metepec, Mexico, as Richard Saad.

Single tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for senior adults, UE faculty/staff, and non-UE students. UE students may obtain one free student rush ticket beginning at noon on the day of the performance they wish to attend. UE Theatre is also excited to continue the “Pay What You Will” initiative for the Thursday evening performance in the May Studio. Tickets may be purchased online at theatre.evansville.edu or by calling the ticket office at 812.488.2031, Monday through Friday, 12 to 5 p.m.

Join the International Club for Color Bash on April 24th at 4:00 PM on the lawn next to the Carson Center!

Even though Holi was originally on March 4th, we’ll be celebrating at the end of May to enjoy better weather and a bright spring atmosphere. Come experience the spirit of Holi with music, color, and community. We’ll throw powder, dance, and celebrate spring together. Wear white or clothes you don't mind getting colorful! See you there!!

MOCKTAILS!!! All University of Evansville students are invited to the first ever UE Sip-In, set on the 60^th anniversary of the original Sip-In. This event is set up in coordination with Julius’ Bar from New York, NY. The 1966 Sip-In in NYC challenged anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination. This anniversary is your chance to show up and be seen. Join us April 21^st, 2026, at the Ridgway ’59 Gallery from 5:30 – 7:00PM and sip on some delicious mocktails as we connect with various locations from all across the continent!

Dear Team Members,

We are sincerely grateful for those who have participated in the Identity/Culture Listening Sessions occurring across campus, your time and input have truly been invaluable. If you have not had an opportunity to participate in an Identity/Culture Listening Session, we welcome your presence at one of our following open forums:

• ·         Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | 01:30-02:00 PM CT | J Henry Schroeder Boardroom, LI 203
• ·         Thursday, April 23, 2026 | 10:00-10:30 AM CT | J Henry Schroeder Boardroom, LI 203
• ·         Friday, April 24, 2026 | 10:00-10:30 AM CT | J Henry Schroeder Boardroom, LI 203

We additionally recognize that not all are able to participate in person. As such, we welcome and encourage you to utilize the following private survey link to provide additional feedback that you may feel inclined to offer:

University of Evansville | Identity and Culture Listening Session – Fill out form

Please expect to hear more from our task group by the end of the spring semester regarding next steps in the process.

Sincerely,

Identity/Culture Task Group

Abby Murphy, Bre Bondurant, Alexa Ferguson, Trace Stevens and Katie Thomas

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!

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.

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.

End the semester on a high note at our International Singalong. 🎤

Students, faculty, and staff are invited to sing, perform, or enjoy music from around the world in any language or style. Whether you are taking the stage or cheering from the audience, this is a great opportunity to celebrate global cultures through music in a fun, relaxed environment.

Sign up to perform using this link: End of Semester Sing Along – Fill out form

If you have any questions, please contact Tim Sorota at ts355@evansville.edu. We look forward to seeing you on the 27th!

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!

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.

Beginning Friday, May 1st, all official transcript requests will be held until final grades for the spring term have been verified. Unofficial transcripts will still be available through Self-Service.

Spring graduates should select “Hold for Degree" when ordering a transcript. Once final grades are verified and degrees are conferred, official transcript orders will be processed.

Please note a correction regarding the upcoming reception for the Employee Photo Exhibit in the Krannert Gallery. 

The reception will now take place on Thursday, April 30, at 4:00 PM.

We apologize for any confusion caused by the previous announcement and look forward to seeing you there to celebrate the work of our colleagues.

The final 2025-2026 issue of the Crescent is available on campus and online at https://crescent.evansville.edu/. Topics include book recommendations, community service, campus clubs, and original poetry!

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.

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

Summer session due dates:

Summer Session 1: May 1, 2026

Summer Session 2: June 1, 2026

Summer Session 3: July 1, 2026

Summer Session 4: May 1, 2026

For more information, please contact Student Financial Services at 812-488-2565

Family, friends and loved ones of the late Dr. Marvin E. Hartig are pleased to announce the application process for the Dr. Marvin E. Hartig Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship is dedicated to the loving memory of Dr. Hartig, Dean of Evansville College’s Evening College in 1967, and administrator for the Center for Advanced Study, director of the Evansville chapter of the American Institute of Banking (AIB), and the international student advisor. In 1974, Dr. Hartig was appointed Dean of Academic Services. He retired in 1984 after serving his alma mater for thirty-five years and passed away in 2007.

This scholarship will be awarded annually to a deserving sophomore student. Preference will be given to a student working while being enrolled as a full-time student. International students are encouraged to apply.

Eligible students for the 2026-2027 Hartig Memorial Scholarship will be sophomores in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Deadline: Please return all materials to the Office of Student Financial Services by May 4, 2026. The decision will be announced by May 25, 2026.

Questions: Amber Chandler, Administrative Assistant to the Office of Student Financial Services, at ac547@evansville.edu or 812-488-2364

Access the application and faculty recommendation information.

2026-27 MARGERY FLORENCE KAHN SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION NOW AVAILABLE

It was the desire of the donor, Margery Florence Kahn, that her scholarship be awarded to "dedicated and conscientious students who exhibit a true passion for their chosen fields of study, and who, in the opinion of the members of the University of Evansville faculty, are likely to bring the same enthusiasm into the performance of their jobs or the practice of the professions which they will pursue following graduation."

All University of Evansville full-time undergraduate students who will be juniors or seniors in the 2026-27 academic year may apply. An essay of about 300 words must accompany the application along with two to five faculty recommendation letters.

Download the application and faculty recommendation information.

Completed applications and recommendation letters should be returned to the Office of Student Financial Services by MAY 8, 2026.

Questions may be directed to the Office of Student Financial Services at 812-488-2364 or studentfinancialservices@evansville.edu.

Summer session courses can be added to your monthly payment plan now with no additional set-up fee. If you are enrolling in summer courses, anticipated summer charges can be included in the spring semester payment plan and the plan extended through May (for Summer 1 charges) or June (Summer 2 charges). The undergraduate tuition rate for Summer 2026 is $620 per credit hour. Fees per summer term include a $55 registration fee and a $46 technology fee. Payment arrangements are due prior to the start of the summer term.

Students should contact the Office of Student Financial Services no later than Reading/Study Day, April 30, 2026, to determine if financial aid is available for their summer courses.

To modify your current payment plan to include summer, contact the cashiers in the Office of Student Financial Services at 812-488-2565.

The Margaret E. Schriefer Liberal Arts Scholarship has been established for the University of Evansville in loving memory of Margaret E. Schriefer. This scholarship will be awarded annually to a deserving student, covering full tuition, books, supplies, materials, and laboratory fees. To be considered for this scholarship, students must meet the following qualifications:

• Must be enrolled at the University of Evansville and have a major of study in Literature, English, Music or Theatre.
• Must be a natural-born citizen of the United States of America with no prior criminal record, other than minor traffic violations.
• Must be a free and accepted Mason in good standing in a local lodge under the authority of the Grand Lodge of its state, or be the descendant, sibling, or nephew/niece of a Master Mason in good standing in his respective lodge under the authority of the Grand Lodge of its respective state. If the related Mason shall not be living at the time of the student’s consideration for this scholarship, a letter shall be obtained from the Lodge of the related Mason to the effect that the related Mason was in good standing at the time of his death.

Must have and maintain a “C” average.

*Previously awarded students are eligible to re-apply for this opportunity.

If you meet the requirements for this scholarship, please complete the scholarship application and return to the Office of Student Financial Services by April 17, 2026.

Questions may be directed to Carly Cox, Office of Student Financial Services, by email at cc477@evansville.edu or by phone at 812-488-2364.

The 64th Annual Undergraduate Student Art Exhibition, held March 23–April 10, showcased an inspiring range of creativity, innovation, and artistic excellence from our students. Thank you to everyone who visited the exhibition and supported this important annual event.

We are proud to recognize the following award recipients:

Awards of Excellence
Best in Show Purchase Award – Abbey Kyle, Herd Immunity
1st Place Award of Excellence – Eileen Flanigan, Portrait of the Moon
2nd Place Award of Excellence – Sam Ottinger, Road to Acceptance
3rd Place Award of Excellence – Heidi McCombs, On the Vine

Awards of Recognition
Dorothea Schlechte Award – Eileen Flanigan
Dean Long Award – Sam Ottinger, Road to Acceptance
Les Miley Award (Ceramics) – Avery Mason, Forms in Blue Tiles
Les Miley Award (Watercolor) – Abbey Kyle, Hometown Downtown
Art Therapy Award – Zoe Caggiano, Dragonfly Plate
Jack Schriber Award for Art Education – Avery Mason, Forms in Blue Tiles

Special Awards
Melvin Peterson Award – Abbey Kyle, Hometown Downtown
Gumberts Award – Lilah Rogel
Presidential Collection Purchase Award – Elle Gramooré, Mentored Reflections

Emeriti Faculty Awards
Bill Richmond Award for Sculpture/Metals – Ainsley Kurtz, Pin Cushion Doll
William Brown Award for Drawing/Painting – Lilah Rogel, A Self Portrait in Pens

Merit Awards
Avery Mason, Forms in Blue Tiles
Audrey Cracraft, Spring Evening at Home
Sofia Lupi, Fragments of Memory and Taste (Fragments de Memoria y Sabor)
Elle Gramooré, Mentored Reflections
Olivia Halter, Summer View

We are especially excited to announce the People’s Choice Award, determined by votes from our campus community:

People’s Choice Award – Heidi McCombs, Crave

Congratulations to all of the student artists whose work was exhibited, and to each of this year’s award recipients. Your creativity and dedication continue to enrich our campus community.

Thank you for supporting the arts!

On Tuesday, April 14, students from SOC 460- Aging and Society presented posters at the annual Research in Gerontology Symposium, hosted by the UE Gerontology Center. Topics included:

Physical Mobility and Mental Well-Being in Older Adults
Haley Anderson ‘27 (Psychology)

Infantilization: The Socialized Age Regression of Older Adults in Caregiving
Audrey Blanner ’26 (Criminal Justice & Sociology)

Elder Abuse
Olivia Buehler ’26 (Public Health)

Elder Victims of Financial Fraud
Luana Carrotta ‘27 (Criminal Justice & Sociology)

Retirement and Its Effects
Charlie Cole ‘27 (Criminal Justice)

Mental Health Care for Older Adults
Isabel Daniel ‘28 (Psychology)

Social Loneliness in Older Adults
Riley Hills ‘27 (Criminal Justice)
Alexis Tucker ‘27 (Public Health)

Effects on Caregivers of Alzheimer’s Patients
Lillian Lacer '29 (Psychology & Sociology)

Elder Adults and New Technology
Dyllan McColl ‘28 (Public Health)

Fear of Developing Alzheimer’s
Megan Merta ‘27 (Criminal Justice & Sociology)
Mia Lara ‘26 (Criminal Justice)

Beyond the Park Bench: How Community Gardens Benefit Urban Elders
Julia Morando ‘26 (Biology)

The Feminization of Aging: Gender Inequality across the Life Course
Maggie O’Bryan ‘27 (Criminal Justice & Sociology)

Long-Term Care Facilities and Institutional Life
Madison Perez ‘26 (Sociology & Criminal Justice)

Dementia and Its Effects on the Patient
Kaylie Petersen ‘27 (Psychology)

Elder Suicide: The Silent Yet Resilient Killer
Kyra Roquet ‘27 (Sociology)

Marriage in the Later Years: Remarriage, Widowhood, and Divorce
Rory Book ’27 (Sociology)
Kayla Stephenson ‘27 (Sociology & Criminal Justice)

Faith and Church Community Involvement in Successful Aging
Ella Thompson ‘26 (Psychology)

The Potential of Menopausal Hormone Therapy in Successful Social and Biological Aging
Allyson Wary ‘26 (Biology)

This past weekend, the Music Therapy program at UE, established in 1975, celebrated 50 years. Many current students, current faculty, music therapy alumni, and past Music Therapy professors were in attendance, including the first Director of Music Therapy and founder of the program, Dr. Cheryl Dileo, and Dr. Alan Solomon, another Director of Music Therapy who taught at UE from 1977 to 2000.

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.

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

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – Late home runs from Emma McDonald and Maliyah Wilkins sealed a 5-1 victory for the University of Evansville softball team over Southeast Missouri State on Tuesday afternoon at Tri-State Orthopaedics Field at Cooper Stadium.

Wilkins, McDonald, and Niki Bode each recorded two hits in the game. Bode added two runs and a walk. Kate Ridgway had a strong outing in the circle. Tossing all seven innings, Ridgway allowed one run on four hits while striking out seven. She earned her 8^th win of the season.

Recording four hits in the first inning, the Purple Aces took a 2-0 lead. Brooke Voss and Taylor Howe opened with singles before Voss scored the first run of the day on a Niki Bode single. Bode made it a 2-0 game when she scored on a Morgan Adams fielder’s choice.

The score remained 2-0 until the top of the fourth when SEMO cut the lead in half. A solo home run by Raigan Brannon made it a 2-1 game. UE added some important insurance with two home runs in the bottom of the fifth. Emma McDonald’s solo shot made it a 3-1 game. With two outs, Bode reached on her second single of the day to being Maliyah Wilkins to the plate.

Wilkins delivered a 2-run home run to deep center field to make it a 5-1 game. From there, Ridgway got the job done allowing two baserunners in the final two innings before finishing with the complete game victory.

On Wednesday, the Aces are back home to face Western Kentucky at 5 p.m.

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Omar Khalid and Julian Kiessling finished in the top 15 as the University of Evansville men’s golf team completed the Bluegrass Collegiate Invitational at the Big Blue Course at the University Club of Kentucky on Tuesday.

Khalid was the top finisher for the Purple Aces as he finished in a tie for 12^th place with a 220. After opening with a 70 on Monday, he posted scores of 72 and 78 to complete the event. Finishing two strokes behind him was Kiessling. Identical rounds of 75 on Tuesday saw the sophomore tie for 15^th place with a 222.

Jamison Ousley came home in a tie for 45^th place. His low round came in Monday’s first 18 holes as he carded a 72. His final two rounds finished at 78 and 79. Fourth in the Purple Aces lineup was Andrew Rottschalk. After beginning the tournament with a 79, he posted scores of 78 and 76 in the final two rounds. His 233 tied him for 62^nd.

Daniil Romashkin wrapped up the tournament with a 234. He improved in each round starting with an 80 before finishing with a 78 and 76 in the final two rounds.

Evansville took 7^th place with a final score of 901. They were one behind Tennessee Tech for 6^th. Kentucky took the team championship with an 858. They bested Marquette by four strokes. Cole Stockard of UK and Vinny Cervantes of Marquette tied for the individual win with totals of 213.

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – The University of Evansville baseball team looks to complete the season sweep of the Indiana Hoosiers on Wednesday, traveling to Bloomington for a midweek contest. First pitch is set for 5 PM CT.

Evansville at Indiana | Wednesday, April 15 | 5 PM CT Site | Location Bart Kaufman Field | Bloomington, Ind. Links Wednesday, 5 PM CT:  Live Stats | TV: Big Ten Plus  | Radio: 107.1 WJPS

Expected Pitching Match-Up:  UE LHP Jack Willhite (1-1, 6.75 ERA) vs. Indiana TBA Follow the Aces  Baseball Site | Twitter  | Game Notes

Series History
- Wednesday marks the 59th meeting between Evansville and Indiana
- Indiana leads the series 36-22, including a 20-9 edge in Bloomington
- Evansville won the first meeting this season, a 5-4 win in 11 innings on March 31 in Evansville
- Indiana won the last meeting in Bloomington, a 7-4 victory on March 18, 2025

Getting Hot
- Evansville has found their stride as of late, winning 5 of their last 6 games and 8 of their last 11
- The Aces have won their first three MVC series, most recently taking 2 of 3 games from Southern Illinois
- Over the last 11 games, the Aces pitching staff has been excellent, boasting a 4.54 ERA
- Offensively, the Aces have scored 6.4 runs per game over their last 11 contests

Player of the Week
- Drew McConnell became the first Ace this season to be named MVC Player of the Week on Monday 
- McConnell went 11-for-16 at the plate on the week, helping the Aces to a 3-1 record
- Over his last 11 games, McConnell is hitting .455 with an OPS of 1.106

Willhite Gets the Ball
- Freshman left-hander Jack Willhite will make his third career start on Wednesday
- Willhite picked up his first collegiate win last Wednesday against Lindenwood, limiting the Lions to one run over five strong innings
- Willhite threw two innings in Evansville's win over Indiana on March 31 and did not allow a run

ST. LOUIS – Following a 3-1 week and a third consecutive MVC series win, Drew McConnell (Blue Springs, Mo./Blue Springs, Mo.) and Tanner Graham (Rocheport, Mo./Hickman) earned Missouri Valley Conference honors, the league office announced on Monday afternoon. McConnell was named Player of the Week for the first time in his career, while Graham took home his fourth Freshman of the Week award.

McConnell was on fire at the plate this week, hitting .687 (11-for-16) in four games. The sophomore turned in three 3-hit performances and one 2-hit game, scoring six runs while driving in three.
 
McConnell has been red-hot as of late, riding an 11-game hitting streak to raise his batting average to a team-leading .302. McConnell leads the team with 21 RBI and is second on the team with nine multi-hit games, including the first 4-hit game by an Ace since 2024. In nine MVC games, McConnell leads the Aces with a.432 batting average, collecting 16 hits.
 
Graham continues to emerge as not only one of the best freshmen in the MVC, but one of the pitchers in the conference. The right-hander turned in another quality start on Saturday, allowing just one earned run while sticking out seven, picking up the win to help the Aces take the series over SIU.
 
On the season, Graham ranks third in the Valley and seventh nationally among freshmen in ERA at 2.41. In Valley play, Graham leads the conference in ERA with a sparkling 0.53 mark, picking up two wins over the Aces' first three conference weekends.

The Aces are back in action on Wednesday, looking to complete the season sweep of the Indiana Hoosiers with a midweek contest in Bloomington. First pitch is set for 5 PM CT.

EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. – The University of Evansville track & field team wrapped up competition at the SIUE Cougar Classic on Saturday, highlighted by a sweep of the 1500 meter events. Rafael Rodriguez (Segovia, Spain/Colegio Claret) took the men's crown, while Chase Hayes (Noblesville, Ind./Western) took the women's title. 

Women 
In the 100 meters, Tristen Thomas (York, Pa./West York) placed 17th with a time of 12.62. Two Aces competed in the 200 meters, led by Clara Kelty (Louisville, Ky./Presentation Academy) in 29th with a time of 28.69. In the 800 meters, Hayes led six Aces in ninth with a time of 2:22.65. 

Hayes took the 1500 meter title with a time of 4:44.93, while Kyleigh Wolf (Columbus, Ind./Columbus North) placed sixth at 4:53.40 and Amick McClelland (Quincy, Ill./Quincy) took eighth at 4:54.40. 

In the 100 meter hurdles, Lissa Willis (Vincennes, Ind./Vincennes Rivet) placed 10th with a time of 16.28. In the 400 meters, Mallory Hagan (Henderson, Ky./Henderson County) took sixth at 1:23.16.

Lilyana Gargano (Hudson, Fla./Fivay) placed 13th in the high jump with a mark of 1.43 meters. In the long jump, Thomas took 14th with a mark of 5.02 meters. Thomas had a strong showing in the triple jump, placing seventh with a mark of 10.63 meters. 

Emma Bertel (Franklin, Ind./Franklin Community) led three Aces in the shot put with a mark of 11.55 meters to finish fifth. In the discus, Bertel again led the Aces with a 13th place finish and a mark of 31 meters. In javelin, Holland Morris (Florence, Ky./Randall K. Cooper) placed ninth with a mark of 28.67 meters. 

Men
Two Aces competed in the 100 meters, with Jose Ocampo (Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico) taking 11th with a time of 10.98 and Josiah Hoehn (Hazel Crest, Ill./Homewood-Flossmoor) taking 12th at 11.09. In the 200 meters, Myles Terry (Evansville, Ind./North) took 16th at 22.63. Three Aces finished inside the top 10 in the 800 meters, with Rodriguez finishing fifth at 1:56.72, Jake Antibus (Switz City, Ind./White River Valley) placing seventh at 1:57.50, and Kadin McAllister (Lilburn, Ga./Parkview) placed 10th at 1:58.23.

In the 1500 meters, Rodriguez led 11 Aces to finish first at 3:54.16. Continuing in the distance events, Nathan Whitehead (Vincennes, Ind./South Knox) led three Aces with a seventh place finish at 8:53.20.

Brody Riggs (Fort Branch, Ind./Gibson Southern) and Hoehn each placed in the top 10 of the 110 meter hurdles, with Riggs finishing fifth at 15.16 and Hoehn placing seventh at 15.48. In the 400 meter hurdles, Riggs placed eighth at 1:01.03 and Tristen DeTalente (Evansville, Ind./North) placed ninth at 1:03.07. In the 3000 meter steeplechase, Woody Burrell (Cedarburg, Wis./Cedarburg) took third at 10:03.60.

In the 4x400 relay, Evansville's team of Hoehn, Terry, Antibus, and McAllister led three Evansville squads with a 4th place finish at 3:23.05. 

Two Aces competed in the long jump, led by DeTalente in 15th at 5.73 meters. In the triple jump, Antwaun Powell (Ringgold, Ga./Heritage) placed ninth at 11.79 meters. 

In throws, Drew Aaron (Mount Vernon, Ind./Mount Vernon) placed 16th in shot put at 10.65 meters, while Tyler Cherne (Boardman, Ohio/Boardman) placed 11th in discus at 38.14 meters.

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Monday’s opening day of the Bluegrass Collegiate Invitational at the Big Blue Course of the University Club of Kentucky saw the University of Evansville men’s golf team sit in 4^th place following the opening round.

Two rounds were set for Monday before a weather delay halted play. On Tuesday, teams will complete their second round before beginning the third and final round of play. Most players completed between 14 and 17 holes of their second round.

Through the first round, Omar Khalid recorded a 1-under 70. His efforts put him in a tie for third place. Just behind him was the duo of Jamison Ousley and Julian Kiessling. Both registered scores of 72, 1-over-par.

Andrew Rottschalk posted a 79 to open the event while Daniil Romashkin completed the opening round with an 80.

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – Midweek non-conference action will see the University of Evansville softball team play host to SEMO (Tuesday) and Western Kentucky (Wednesday). Both games are set to begin at 5 p.m. and will be carried on ESPN+.

On a Roll

- Over the last eight games, Taylor Howe is batting .480 with 12 hits in 25 at-bats

- The surge has seen Howe improve her season batting average to .327

- She has scored a team-best 29 runs, which is tied for 15th in the MVC while her nine doubles are tied for 10th in the league

- She went 2-3 with two runs against Bellarmine before going 3-6 in the doubleheader versus UNI

- In the opening game at Drake, Howe matched her career high with four hits as she went a perfect 4-for-4 with two RBI and two runs scored

Near the Top

- With 108 strikeouts on the season, Kate Ridgway is second in the MVC and 43rd in the nation

- Ridgway has won seven games in 2026 while posting a 3.93 ERA

- Over her last two games, Ridgway has allowed 10 runs (9 earned) in 8 innings of work; in the 32 1/3 previous frames, she allowed just four earned runs

- In the road series sweep at Drake, Ridgway earned two victories and a save while resetting her single-game strikeout mark

Top of the Charts

- Niki Bode continues to lead the MVC with 14 doubles while her season batting average of .396 is 5th in the league

- Bode has performed even better against Valley foes batting .411

- In 14 games since March 14, Bode is batting .444 going 20-for-45

- While a 6-game hit streak came to an end in the opener at Southern Illinois, Bode picked up a hit in game two of the doubleheader

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – University of Evansville junior Jane Grankina and the Purple Aces women’s golf team swept the individual and team championships at the Indiana State Invitational on Monday at the Country Club of Terre Haute.

Evansville led the field by two strokes entering the final day. The Aces combined for a 298, the lowest team round of the tournament, to defeat Indiana State by 15 strokes. UE completed the event with a 604 while the Sycamores finished with a 619.

Grankina, who was tied for the lead following the opening round, registered the low sore of the day to win by three shots. Posting a 1-over 73 in the final 18 holes, Grankina completed the event with a 147. She bested Renae Jaeger of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods by three.

Second for UE was Louise Standtke. After opening with a 77, Standtke lowered her score to a 75 in round two. Her final score of 152 tied her for fourth place. Kate Petrova rallied to tie for 6^th place. Following a 79 on Sunday, Petrova carded a 74 in the final round to finish with a 153.

Haley Hughes also tied for the 6^th position. She recorded a 77 to open the weekend before posting a 76 on Monday. Elizabeth Mercer tied for 10^th with a final score of 155. Her scores finished at 78 and 77. Adeline Wittmer came in 36^th as an individual. Her final tally checked in at a 185.

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) 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/.