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This Week at USI – November 11, 2024

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Monday through Friday, November 11-15

USI celebrates International Education Week

 

The Center for International Programs celebrates International Education Week through globally-themed events Monday-Friday, November 11-15.

Noon Tuesday, November 12

USI Anthropology Speaker Series to present Dr. Richard Lunniss

 

USI’s Anthropology Speaker Series will present a lecture and Q&A by Dr. Richard Lunniss at noon Tuesday, November 12 in Rice Library Room 0017. This event is open to the public at no charge.

 

7:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, November 16

Registration open for November USI Open House

USI will host an Open House for prospective students from 7:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, November 16 to provide interested students and families an opportunity to explore campus and learn about what the University has to offer.

Saturday, November 16
20th annual USI Norwegian Foot March happening November 16

The 20th annual Norwegian Foot March, an intense mental and physical challenge, will take participants 18.6 miles (30 km) through the rolling hills of Evansville’s west side. Carrying a 25-pound rucksack, participants will begin and end on the USI campus, working to make it back to the finish line generally in under four and a half hours depending on age and gender.

SAVE THE DATE

December 5

USI to host annual Lighting a Tradition event December 5

Alumni Engagement and Volunteer USI and the Activities Programming Board will host the annual University of Southern Indiana Lighting a Tradition holiday celebration from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, December 5 in the Performance Center Dunn Lobby and University Center East. Full of family-friendly festivities, the event is open to the public at no charge.

December 5-8

USI 53rd annual Madrigal Feaste returns December 5-8

 

The USI Chamber Choir will host the 53rd annual Madrigal Feaste Thursday through Sunday, December 5-8, in Carter Hall, located in University Center West on the USI campus. Performances will begin at 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, December 5-7, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m., and the Sunday, December 8 matinee performance will begin at 1 p.m. with doors opening at 12:30 p.m.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Released Monday, November 4

USI Dental Clinic provides free preventative care to military veterans

 

The USI Dental Clinic, located in the Health Professions Center on the University’s campus, provides free preventive dental care to U.S. military veterans during the Fall and Spring Semesters. Services include dental exam, dental hygiene treatment (cleaning), X-rays, fluoride treatment and sealants.

Released Thursday, November 7

USI Board of Trustees approves two new master’s degrees, nine certificates and microcredentials, hears update from Presidential Search Committee Chair

 

At its regular meeting on Thursday, November 7, the USI Board of Trustees approved two online Master of Science in Education degrees—one in Mathematics Leadership and one in Special Education. It also heard an update from the USI Presidential Search Committee Chair.

 

USI CALENDAR

A collection of events on campus and in the community can be found on the USI Events Calendar.

2024 SIAC ALL CONFERENCE VOLLEYBALL TEAM

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2024 SIAC ALL CONFERENCE VOLLEYBALL TEAM

FIRST TEAM

PLAYER GRADE SCHOOL

Emma Bruggenschmidt 11 Castle

Addisen Gallentine 12 Castle

Maya Joska 12 Castle

Lacy Marx 12 Mater Dei

Carlee Rogers 12 Jasper

Ryan Scheu 12 Memorial

Iana Tecson 11 North

SECOND TEAM

PLAYER GRADE SCHOOL

Kendall Agler 12 Memorial

Nora Breitwieser 10 Jasper

Reegan Buck 12 Memorial

Brooke Herdes 12 Mater Dei

Camden Hiatt 12 North

Ava McNair 11 Harrison

Kendra Wilke 12 North

PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Maya Joska, Castle

COACHES OF THE YEAR

Dan Watson, Castle

Ashley Kaczmarski, North

Finding Common Purpose Through Common Sense

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joe wallace
joe wallace

Finding Common Purpose Through Common Sense

By Joe Wallace 11/12/2024

In a political landscape that feels increasingly dominated by extremism on both ends of the spectrum, many Americans find themselves asking, “Where is the middle ground?” Our two-party system, traditionally balancing views from both sides, now seems a battleground where the loudest and most polarizing voices often prevail. This leaves a substantial portion of Americans, who don’t resonate with far-left or far-right ideologies, marginalized and without adequate representation. Imagine, then, a three-party scenario: one that allows for true representation across the spectrum—Progressives, Tea Party Survivalists, and a broad, inclusive Common Sense Party.

This hypothetical realignment could bring about a rejuvenated democratic process, offering a pragmatic alternative to the binary political landscape. Let’s take a closer look at what each of these parties might represent and how the demographics could play out.

The Progressive Party: Championing Radical Reform

A Progressive Party would appeal to those at the furthest left of the current Democratic Party, advocating for systemic changes that align more closely with socialist and even collectivist ideas. Policies would focus on wealth redistribution, expanded social programs, and a strong role for the government in addressing economic and social inequities. This party would likely attract activists, academics, and the younger, more ideologically driven members of society who believe that rapid reform is essential for addressing systemic issues such as climate change, social justice, and economic inequality.

While the Progressive Party’s policies may resonate strongly in urban centers and among certain demographics, it would likely appeal to roughly 15-20% of the American population. This segment is vocal and committed but limited in its demographic reach, as its policy proposals tend to alienate moderates and those with more conservative values.

The Tea Party Survivalists: Embracing Hard-Right Conservatism

At the opposite end of the spectrum, we have what might be called the Tea Party Survivalists. This party would cater to individuals who embrace a blend of libertarian and authoritarian philosophies, advocating for a “survival of the fittest” mindset. This faction would prioritize individual freedoms, minimal government intervention, and a focus on nationalistic, sometimes isolationist, policies. They would reject what they see as government overreach and view international engagement with suspicion, preferring a “fortress America” approach to security and economy.

Appealing to about 10-15% of the population, this party would resonate most strongly with rural voters, deeply conservative regions, and those who feel the current Republican Party has not gone far enough in challenging federal authority. It would attract those frustrated with cultural changes they see as threatening traditional values, as well as those who fear the economic and social impacts of immigration and globalism.

The Common Sense Party: A Pragmatic Approach for the Majority

Finally, the Common Sense Party could represent the silent majority who find themselves politically homeless in the current system. This party would encompass moderate Democrats uncomfortable with far-left Progressivism, centrists, Libertarians with a social conscience, and Republicans turned off by authoritarianism. Essentially, it would attract individuals who desire balanced, thoughtful governance that values both personal freedoms and social responsibility.

The Common Sense Party’s ideology would center around pragmatic solutions: market-driven but socially inclusive economic policies, sensible immigration reform, climate policies that consider economic impacts, and a foreign policy that balances American interests with global cooperation. It would appeal to the vast middle ground that believes in incremental rather than revolutionary change.

In terms of demographics, the Common Sense Party could encompass a large portion of the American electorate—approximately 65-75%. This includes suburban voters, working-class families, professionals, and business owners who feel alienated by the radical rhetoric of both major parties’ extreme factions. These are people who value stability, compromise, and functionality over ideological purity.

Demographic Impact and Political Dynamics

Under this three-party system, the political landscape would transform dramatically. Here’s how the numbers could realistically shake out:

Progressive Party (15-20%): Concentrated in metropolitan areas and among younger voters, the Progressives would remain a minority party but could wield influence through coalition-building with the Common Sense Party on specific issues, such as climate action and social equity.

Tea Party Survivalists (10-15%): This faction would have strongholds in the South, Midwest, and rural America, acting as a counterbalance to Progressive influences and maintaining a powerful voice on issues like gun rights, state sovereignty, and anti-regulation stances.

Common Sense Party (65-75%): The majority of Americans would align with the Common Sense Party, bringing a blend of liberal, conservative, and centrist perspectives. This coalition would likely dominate the House and Senate, creating a new governing class that values balanced solutions and cross-party collaboration.

Potential Outcomes of a Three-Party System

One of the most significant shifts in a three-party system would be the increased need for compromise and coalition-building. Neither the Progressive Party nor the Tea Party Survivalists would command enough power to push through their agendas unilaterally. This dynamic would prevent either extreme from dominating policy-making, forcing both to negotiate with the Common Sense Party for influence.

The legislative gridlock that plagues today’s Congress might ease as the Common Sense Party—representing the largest segment—would prioritize practical policies over ideological standoffs. This new center-ground coalition would be more likely to pass bipartisan legislation on issues such as infrastructure, healthcare reform, and economic growth initiatives, addressing everyday concerns rather than waging ideological battles.

Additionally, with three distinct voices in the political arena, voters would enjoy a more accurate representation of their beliefs and values. Voter turnout might increase as individuals feel more empowered and represented by parties that genuinely reflect their views, rather than voting for the “lesser evil” in a two-party system.

A Path Forward

This hypothetical three-party system offers a way forward for a democracy currently strained by polarized extremes. By providing a platform for the true diversity of American perspectives, it could foster a political climate where pragmatic solutions, rather than ideological purity, guide decision-making.

The vast majority of Americans want a government that functions, that represents their values, and that can address issues without descending into political grandstanding. A Common Sense Party could offer that middle ground, acting as a bulwark against extremism while promoting policies that serve the broadest interests of the American people.

In a nation as diverse and complex as the United States, no system will be perfect. But by imagining a three-party scenario, we open up the possibility of a political future driven by collaboration, common sense, and the pursuit of shared goals. In doing so, we could finally find a common purpose that transcends the divides currently threatening to pull our democracy apart.

Electoral College Dynamics in a Three-Party Race

In a three-party presidential race, the Electoral College map would likely transform, with the Common Sense Party emerging as the dominant force due to its broad appeal across the majority of states. Here’s how the breakdown might look:

Widespread Appeal for Common Sense: Given that the Common Sense Party would represent a moderate, pragmatic majority, it would have a strong hold over states that traditionally swing between Democrat and Republican leanings. States like Florida, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Arizona—often critical in tight races—would likely lean Common Sense, as voters tired of polarized politics gravitate toward a more centrist platform.

Isolated Strongholds for Progressives and Tea Party Survivalists: The Progressive Party, with its focus on far-left policies, might maintain strongholds in areas that lean heavily Democratic and embrace more radical change, such as the District of Columbia, California’s urban centers, and perhaps a few East Coast states like Massachusetts or Vermont. Meanwhile, the Tea Party Survivalists would hold onto deeply conservative and rural areas, possibly sweeping through parts of Wyoming, Idaho, and Oklahoma. However, these strongholds would be limited and scattered, lacking the broad, nationwide support needed to secure significant Electoral College votes.

Electoral College Outcome: With Common Sense likely winning broad majorities across much of the country, it would take a commanding lead in the Electoral College. Traditional swing states would shift toward Common Sense due to its unifying platform, and states with mixed urban and rural populations would likely reject extremes on both sides, favoring the balanced, centrist policies of Common Sense. The final map might resemble a near-clean sweep for the Common Sense candidate, with only a few states or districts—such as the District of Columbia on the left and Wyoming on the right—remaining aligned with the extreme factions.

This three-party structure could, paradoxically, make the Electoral College a clearer, more decisive tool in choosing a president, as the Common Sense Party consolidates the middle ground across the country, leaving only isolated pockets of resistance for Progressives and Tea Party Survivalists. The result would be a stronger mandate for governance based on common interests, driving the country toward more balanced and collaborative policy-making.

ROKITA REVIEW

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University of Evansville Named Top 2024 Veteran-Friendly School by U.S. Veterans Magazine

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University of Evansville Named Top 2024 Veteran-Friendly School by U.S. Veterans Magazine

NOVEMBER 12, 2024

EVANSVILLE, IND. The University of Evansville (UE) has been recognized as a top veteran-friendly school for 2024 by U.S. Veterans Magazine, a leading publication that promotes the accomplishments and contributions of veterans in higher education and across various industries.

A team of individuals from across UE’s campus, including Cherie Leonhardt, Manager of Transfer Admission, has worked for years to create an environment that supports student veterans.

“We have something pretty special going on here at the University of Evansville,” she shared.

The university supports veterans through a variety of programs, including the Post-9/11 GI Bill Yellow Ribbon Program. UE waives any tuition not covered by the Department of Veterans Affairs, ensuring that veterans and qualifying dependents receive a quality education without financial barriers.

“We’re proud to offer a supportive environment where veterans can thrive,” said Leonhardt. “UE is a great place for student veterans, our size and close-knit community allow veterans to connect easily with faculty and peers, making the transition back to academic life smoother and more personalized.”

UE also offers a student veteran lounge, which fosters camaraderie and creates an inclusive environment where veterans can relax and connect with others between classes.

For more information on the University of Evansville’s veteran programs and support services, please click here.

To read the U.S. Veterans Magazine article about the University of Evansville click here.

About Veteran-Friendly

Each year, U.S. Veterans Magazine conducts select evaluations of the nation’s employers, law enforcement agencies, veteran outreach programs, and schools. These evaluations identify the most veteran-friendly organizations in terms of outreach and accessibility to veterans, military families, and transitioning service members. These non-biased studies are a valuable resource for the publication’s readers, job seekers, business owners, students, transitioning veterans, and consumers.

The University of Evansville is a private, comprehensive university with a solid foundation in the arts and sciences and professional schools in business, engineering, education, and health sciences. Established in 1854, UE is recognized across the globe for its rich tradition of innovative, academic excellence and dynamic campus community of #Changemakers.

Home of the Purple Aces, UE is located in the southwestern region of Indiana and offers over 75 majors, 17 Division I sports, and a unique study abroad experience at Harlaxton, the University’s very own Victorian manor located in the countryside of England. For more information, please visit evansville.edu.

Grow Up! exhibition on display at USI New Harmony Gallery of Contemporary Art

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Grow Up! exhibition on display at USI New Harmony Gallery of Contemporary Art

Grow Up BG Projects PR (1).jpg

Image copyright: Ashley Banks and Jade Young

View this release in a browser

The University of Southern Indiana New Harmony Gallery of Contemporary Art (NHGCA) is proud to present Grow Up!, a ceramics-focused exhibition by Ashley Banks and Jade Young. The exhibit opens at 3 p.m. Saturday, November 16, with a public opening reception from 3 to 5 p.m. The exhibit will run through December 7.

Partnering with New Harmony Clay Project, more than 80 submissions were received, 57 of which were accepted by the juror. The cup, one of ceramics more iconic images, has been used as a metaphor, a sculptural element, a sculptural foundation and a functional daily piece of dinnerware. Whether you choose to fill your cups with beverages, food, pencils or ideology, this exhibition will feature a multitude of handmade creations from artists across the country.

“The term ‘grow up’ is a derogatory remark used to insult a person for being silly. In Grow Up!, we explore embracing your inner child and rejecting the notion of leaving behind the magical and wonderful parts of yourself for the sake of maturing,” says Banks and Young. “We evoke thematics of clowns, childhood nostalgia and growing up. We do this by including imagery of the circus, buttons and textiles and toys as physical representations of play. The works in Grow Up! do this through a format of kitsch, hyper-color and super-silly charm.”

Ashley Banks is a multimedia artist and art educator from Washington, Indiana. She is attending the University of Southern Indiana and will complete her bachelor’s degree in studio art and Pre-K through grade 12 art education in Spring 2025. She has exhibited her artwork around Southern Indiana for the past three years. Ashley serves as an Education Guide at the Children’s Museum of Evansville and as the Summer Studio Monitor at the New Harmony Clay Project. She lives and works in Evansville, Indiana, alongside her husband Benjamin Grubbs, and their two fat rabbits.

Jade Young is a ceramicist from Evansville, Indiana. She graduated from the University of Southern Indiana in 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in studio art and graphic design. She has previously worked as a Studio Technician at the USI Dowhie Ceramics Center. Young currently works at Sam’s Club as a baker. She has exhibited her artwork locally for many years. She currently resides in Evansville.

The NHGCA promotes discourse about and access to contemporary art in the southern Indiana region and is an outreach partner of the University of Southern Indiana. The gallery is located at 506 Main Street in New Harmony, Indiana. Regular hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For more information, visit the NHGCA website, or call 812-682-3156.

NHGCA is dedicated to enhancing the experiences of students through an artist-run exhibition space in the Back Gallery. BG Projects at NHGCA allows students to exhibit, experiment, and/or curate within a working contemporary art gallery setting. Through exhibition and curatorial strategies, students can envision new possibilities for collaborations and their art practice.

New Harmony Gallery of Contemporary Art promotes discourse about and access to contemporary art in the Southern Indiana region.

Downtown Evansville e-Gift Card Launches

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Downtown Evansville e-Gift Card Launches

New e-Gift Card functions at 20+ participating Downtown businesses
The Downtown Evansville Economic Improvement District (EID) has launched a Downtown Evansville e-Gift Card in partnership with Yiftee, a company that works with over 600 communities in creating custom-branded gift card programs to keep consumer spending local.
Upon purchase, Downtown Evansville e-Gift Cards are promptly delivered via email or text, allowing for instant gifting and spending. The digital gift cards are exclusively redeemable at participating businesses within the EID boundaries.The initiative offers a cost-effective avenue for businesses to enhance foot traffic and sales. According to Yiftee, 51% of cardholders try new places and spend 30% more than the card’s value.
Participating locations include: Angelo’s, Bargetown Market, Birdie’s, Emerald Design, First House Salon, Grateful Threads Fabric & Furnishings, Hometown Nutrition Evansville, Joe Brewski, Just Rennie’s Cookie Co., Memo, Pangea Pizzeria, Patsy Hartigan’s Irish Pub, Piece of Cake, Posh on Main, River City Coffee + Goods, River Kitty Cat Café, Roger’s Academy of Hair Design, Samuel’s, Second Language, Sixth + Zero, The Secret Garden, and Your Brother’s Bookstore, with more businesses joining every day.
Businesses retain all the funds from the gift cards.“Year-round we talk about the economic impact of shopping local, and we’re taking it to the next level with our new Downtown Evansville e-Gift Card. By purchasing an e-gift card, you’re not just giving a gift; you’re investing in our neighborhood,” said Adam Trinkel, executive director, EID.With the holiday season underway, companies are invited to purchase e-gift card bulk orders for company gifting. This convenient solution allows businesses to easily reward employees, clients, and partners with the gift of choice while also supporting our local economy.To purchase a Downtown Evansville e-Gift Card or for more information, visit downtownevansville.com/egiftcard.

Future Women of Criminal Justice Symposium

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Future Women of Criminal Justice Symposium

The Southern Indiana Career and Technical Center’s Criminal Justice class is pleased to announce the inaugural Future Women of Criminal Justice Symposium scheduled for November 12th. This event aims to showcase the increasing number of female students in the program, with 32 out of the 42 enrolled students being women. In addition to recognizing the female students, the symposium will also celebrate and honor women currently working in the criminal justice field.

The inclusion of women in leadership roles is crucial for the success and advancement of our community. By recognizing and appreciating the diverse perspectives, strengths, and leadership styles that women bring, we are able to empower them to take on impactful roles that drive positive change and inspire future generations. During the event, several speakers will share insights on their respective professions and discuss the significance of their roles as women. The following is the scheduled order of speakers:

• Evansville Mayor Stephanie Terry,
• Vanderburgh County Prosecutor Diana Moers,
• Magistrate Emily Kemper,
• Evansville Police Department Sergeant Trudy Day,
• Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Deputy Amanda Mentzel and,
• Indiana State Police Major Dana Harshman

Following the conclusion of the speaking segment, a group photograph will be taken, followed by a brunch prepared by SICTC’s Lunchbox. The Evansville Police Department is privileged to participate in this event and support the aspiring women in the field of criminal justice through the coordination of this inaugural gathering.