EVANSVILLE, IND. (08/27/2025) Three distinguished University of Evansville (UE) faculty members from the William L. Ridgway College of Arts and Sciences were honored Tuesday for their academic excellence during a formal Investiture Ceremony in Neu Chapel.
The event recognized the appointment of three faculty members to endowed chairs and professorships. It also honored the legacies of generous donors and families whose enduring investments continue to elevate the University’s faculty and academic excellence.
Endowed faculty positions represent one of the highest honors a university can bestow, recognizing distinguished scholars and educators, while advancing innovation in teaching, scholarship and service.
At the ceremony, the following faculty members were honored:
Dr. Diane Brewer was invested as the John David Lutz Distinguished Professor of the Arts. Brewer, a dramaturg, director, and scholar, is recognized nationally for her work in theatre history and criticism. She has served as Coordinator of Dramaturgy and Research Programming for the Kennedy Center National College Theater Festival and directs UE’s Honors Program. The Lutz Professorship was established in honor of John David Lutz by alumni and friends, including acclaimed television and film creators Matt Williams and David McFadzean, both former students of Professor Lutz, whose lives and careers were shaped by his mentorship and example. Over his five-decade tenure at UE, Professor Lutz directed more than 80 productions, served as Chair of the Department of Theatre, and led the program to national prominence. He was a beloved teacher and mentor who instilled in his students a deep respect for their craft and the courage to pursue bold artistic paths.
Dr. Dennis Malfatti was invested as the Oramay Cluthe Eades Distinguished Professor of Music. Malfatti is Director of Choral Activities and Co-Chair of the UE Music Conservatory. His ensembles have performed nationally and internationally, including acclaimed appearances at Carnegie Hall, most recently in 2025. The professorship honors Oramay Cluthe Eades, founder of the Cluthe School of Music, whose vision and leadership laid the foundation for the University’s music conservatory. Her family, including David and Susan Eades, have continued her legacy of generosity and support.
Dr. Robert Baines was invested as the Melvin M. Peterson Endowed Chair in Literature. Baines specializes in twentieth-century British and Irish literature, particularly the works of James Joyce. His book, Philosophical Allusions in James Joyce’s Finnegans Wake, was published by Oxford University Press. The endowed chair was established in 2016 by Dr. Melvin M. Peterson, a devoted friend of the University and longtime trustee, whose philanthropy also created the Peterson Gallery and other vital spaces for the arts and humanities on campus.
UE President Christopher M. Pietruszkiewicz highlighted the importance of endowed positions during the ceremony. “Endowed positions are more than a recognition of past accomplishments. They are an investment in the future, enabling faculty to explore new ideas, mentor students at the highest level, and contribute meaningfully to the world.” he said.
In addition to the president’s address, the ceremony featured remarks from Mary Kessler, Acting Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, and Amanda Krause, Dean of the Ridgway College of Arts and Sciences, who spoke about the significance of these endowed positions for the University’s academic mission.
These faculty members exemplify the excellence, passion, and dedication that define the University of Evansville’s academic community. Their achievements in teaching, research, and service continue to elevate the institution and inspire generations of students.
