UE men’s soccer road trip heads to Xavier
After a season off from playing the Musketeers, UE returns to play at Corcoran Field for the first time since 2016. Evansville will try for the team’s first win in Cincinnati in almost 25 years on Tuesday after the two teams did not play each other for two separate six-year stretches. The two teams last met during the 2022 season in Evansville where Xavier left the River City with a 3-1 victory.
The Musketeers come into Tuesday’s game with a 3-2-3 overall record and a 1-0-0 Big East conference record. Xavier began conference play over the weekend with a 1-0 win over St. Johns for their second straight shutout match. The Musketeers are led on offense by junior defender Matthew Senanou who has three goals on the season. Xavier has had eight different players score a goal through eight matches.
Two separate UE players scored their first goals of the season in the Aces last week of matches. Redshirt freshman Jacopo Fedrizzi (Giulia, Italy) first goal came against Indiana in the 73rd minute and was the match-tying goal. While freshman defender Martin Wurschmidt (Fram, Norway) scored his first career goal at Western Michigan in the 63rd minute of the match.
Sophomore midfielder Will Bencic will play in his hometown for the first time since joining the Aces in 2023. Bencic has started the past two games for UE on the road and played at Lakota East HS in Cincinnati for four years prior to moving to Evansville.
The City Of Evansville Ignores Requests Information From Former Mayoral Candidate
Michael Daugherty, who ran for mayor of Evansville last year, has been looking for answers to questions about city spending. Last March, he submitted an official request for records under the Public Records Act, and after six months, he is still waiting for a reply.
The requested information involves contracts with the city and Commonwealth Engineers, Inc., between 2020 and 2024.
The request was made with Mayor Stephanie Terry’s communications director, Joe Atkinson. Daugherty has not received any follow-up communications about rejecting or processing the request.
The Public Records Act keeps the government accountable by providing guidelines for providing the public with access to documents and financial records. Government entities are required to answer formal requests for information within a reasonable time, and if they fail to do so, the act provides a process for appeal.
Daugherty is planning to take the next step to appeal the lack of response.
Handling Credit Claimers: How to Deal with Organizations That Publicly Take Credit for Economic Success
Handling Credit Claimers: How to Deal with Organizations That Publicly Take Credit for Economic SuccesSEPTEMBER w24,
by JOE WALLACE
-SPECIAL ASSIGNMENT WRITER
SEPTEMBER 24, 2024
In the realm of economic development, there’s a familiar cast of characters: Chambers of Commerce, economic development entities, and various non-profits. Many do valuable work, connecting businesses, fostering growth, and improving communities. But there’s a recurring issue—some of these organizations and their leaders frequently step into the limelight to claim credit for successes, often overshadowing those who genuinely contributed. Whether they’ve played a role or merely seized the narrative, dealing with these credit-claimers requires a strategic approach. Here are ways to navigate this dynamic and maintain focus on genuine contributions.
1. Recognize the Pattern
Understanding the motivations behind these credit claims is the first step. Organizations, especially those reliant on public perception for funding and influence, often use moments of economic success to showcase their value. This behavior is not inherently bad; they need to justify their existence and funding. However, the problem arises when these groups overstate their impact, diminishing the contributions of those who were truly involved. Recognize that this behavior is common and often strategic rather than malicious.
2. Document Contributions Clearly
Documentation is your best defense against misplaced credit. Whether you’re an individual, business, or another entity actively involved in a successful initiative, keep clear records of your contributions. Detailed documentation, including timelines, actions taken, and specific outcomes, can serve as evidence of your role when disputes arise. Not only does this safeguard your efforts, but it also sets a precedent that contributions should be transparent and accountable.
3. Be Proactive in Telling Your Story
Rather than waiting for others to claim the narrative, be proactive in sharing your story. Use press releases, social media, blogs, and other platforms to highlight your role and contributions. Being first to the story often positions you as the credible source of information. Don’t shy away from using data and specific examples to underscore your impact. The goal isn’t to discredit others but to ensure that your work receives the recognition it deserves.
4. Build Relationships with Media
Media plays a crucial role in shaping public perception. Building strong relationships with journalists and local media outlets can help ensure that your contributions are accurately reported. Engage with reporters, provide them with clear, concise, and factual information, and make yourself available as a reliable source for stories. By establishing a reputation as a credible and accessible contributor, you increase the likelihood of balanced coverage.
5. Engage in Collaborative Recognition
Sometimes, the best approach is to turn the tables and involve these credit-claiming organizations in a collaborative recognition effort. Publicly acknowledging all parties involved, including those who tend to overstate their impact, can foster a spirit of inclusivity and shared success. By framing recognition as a collective effort, you not only validate your contributions but also subtly hold others accountable for the accuracy of their claims.
6. Stay Focused on Your Mission
The noise created by organizations seeking attention can be distracting. However, staying focused on your mission and continuing to deliver results is the most effective long-term strategy. Results speak louder than claims, and a track record of consistent, impactful work will ultimately overshadow empty proclamations. Over time, the community, stakeholders, and media will come to recognize who truly drives economic progress.
7. Call Out Misattributions Tactfully
When credit-claiming crosses the line into outright misrepresentation, it’s appropriate to address it—tactfully. Publicly correcting the record should be done carefully to avoid unnecessary conflict. Focus on stating the facts rather than attacking the other party. For example, a statement like, “We are proud of our role in this initiative, where we led the development of [specific action],” can correct the record without appearing confrontational.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of credit-claiming organizations requires a mix of diplomacy, strategic communication, and a steadfast commitment to your own mission. While it’s frustrating to see others take undue credit, remember that your ongoing work and genuine impact will speak volumes in the long run. By proactively telling your story, building credibility, and staying focused on meaningful contributions, you can ensure that the right parties receive the recognition they deserve.
University of Evansville Student Publishes Article on Disability Inclusion in Archaeology
EVANSVILLE, IND. (09/23/2024) University of Evansville (UE) Senior Archaeology and Anthropology major, Sophia Caci, has achieved a significant academic milestone with the publication of her first article, “Disability Inclusion in Archaeology.” The piece was featured in June 2024 on the Enabled Archaeology Foundation website, a platform dedicated to promoting accessibility within the field of archaeology.
Sophia’s journey began during her semester at Harlaxton, where she undertook a research project comparing Community Archaeology practices in the U.K. and the U.S. Her work led her to discover the Enabled Archaeology Foundation (EAF), an organization committed to making archaeology more inclusive for individuals with disabilities. While at Harlaxton, Sophia conducted research on community archaeology in Britain, working with Dr. Emily Stammitti, who connected her with the EAF. After sharing her completed paper with interviewees, including officials from EAF, Sophia was invited to write an article based on her research for the organization’s website.
Sophia’s article draws on elements of her research project, particularly an interview with Sarahjayne Clements, and highlights the crucial work EAF does to increase accessibility in archaeology for people with disabilities.
You can read her full article here: Disability Inclusion in Archaeology.
The University of Evansville is a private, comprehensive university located in the southwestern region of Indiana. Established in 1854, UE is recognized across the globe for its rich tradition of innovative, academic excellence and vibrant campus community of changemakers.
Home of the Purple Aces, UE 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.
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8th Annual Friday Knights Hunger Bowl Donations Reach New Height
8th Annual Friday Knights Hunger Bowl Donations Reach New Heights
SEPTEMBER 24, 2024
The 8th Annual Friday KNIGHTS Hunger Bowl was played on Friday, September 13th at Reitz Bowl and culminated in raising $26,000 for the St. Vincent DePaul Food Pantry. The Friday Knights Hunger Bowl Game featured the Reitz Memorial Tigers and Mater Dei Wildcats football teams. This is the eighth year for the HUNGER BOWL. Sister Donna Marie Herr, OSB SVDP
The Pantry Director appreciates all the monies from the supporters of Memorial and Mater Dei. Reitz Memorial won the game 41 to 3.
Fundraising amounts have grown from $3,151.36 in the first year in 2017 to $26,000 for 2024. For an eight-year total of over $120,000.
The students of Reitz Memorial and Mater Dei Catholic High Schools, students of area Catholic Grade Schools, area Knights of Columbus Councils and the attendees of the game itself were involved
in the fundraising. Special thanks to the cheerleaders of both teams for assisting with the halftime collections. Each year we have worked to involve more people, more councils, more schools and more parishes to grow the amount of support we can offer the St. Vincent DePaul Food Bank.
The Friday Knights Hunger Bowl began eight years ago with a conversation between fellow Knights: John Sandwell, from the west side K of C Council Auxilio Council #16454 (St. Phillips and Corpus Christi parishes) and Mark Hackert, from the east side St. Benedict Cathedral Council 7544) from an article Sandwell read in the Knights of Columbus magazine Columbia about two Florida Catholic High Schools that raised money to purchase turkeys for the needy at Thanksgiving, called THE TURKEY BOWL. The topic was how we can work together with the other councils in Evansville
area promote the Knights of Columbus mission toward a worthy goal. The conversation turned to the St. Vincent DePaul Food Pantry and Sister Donna Marie Herr, the food pantry coordinator, who had been a teacher at Mater Dei. From this conversation the Friday Knights Hunger Bowl was born.
For more information or conversation on the Knights of Columbus and Hunger Bowl contact:
Co-Chairs for Friday Knights Hunger Bowl Brother Knight Mark Hackert Brother Knight John SandwellKnights of Columbus Knights of Columbus St. Benedict Cathedral Council 7544 Auxillio Council 16454 812-319-6403 812-250-1923 Mhackert76@gmail.com sandwell@sbcglobal.net
Friday Knights Hunger Bowl Committee Members Joe Cook, SVDP Executive Director, Nick Hermann, K of C Council 7544, Martin Stagg, K of C Council 7544, Julie Folz,
Chief of Staff Announces Departure from FSSA
Chief of Staff Announces Departure from FSSA
SEPTEMBER 24,. 2024
Deputy Secretary and Chief of Staff Kim Opsahl announced today that she is departing the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration next month after six years of service.
“Working in support of FSSA and our incredible team has been the highlight of my career. I am both humbled by and immensely proud of the work that our team does to support their fellow Hoosiers to access the support they need to live, work, and be a part of their communities,” Opsahl said. “I am particularly grateful for former Division of Disability and Rehabilitative Services Director Kylee Hope providing me the initial opportunity to join FSSA and to Secretary Rusyniak for the honor of working alongside him to support the agency and our shared mission.”
“Today’s announcement is bittersweet – while I will miss our team and the work that we do, I am fortunate that my next role will provide me with similar opportunities to support state agencies that support people with disabilities across the country.”
Opsahl came to FSSA in 2018 as associate director of the Division of Disability and Rehabilitative Services, then became director in 2021. She was named chief of staff and deputy secretary in 2022. In her role, she worked in partnership with Secretary Rusyniak to support FSSA’s eight care divisions in their efforts to provide members with access to the services and supports they need, while advancing strategic initiatives related to long-term services and supports, mental health, and child care. The work she has done at FSSA has been empowered by her deep experience supporting Hoosiers with disabilities, which began with her first job as a direct service professional.
Opsahl said she is most proud of the opportunity to contribute to DDRS’ pandemic response – including coordinating vaccine access for thousands of individuals with disabilities who resided in congregate residential settings – and the work that she and Dr. Rusyniak have done to promote an agency-wide culture that values collaboration and centering the work on people.
“It is nearly impossible to capture in words the profound impact Kim has had on this agency, its staff, and the countless individuals we serve,” Rusyniak said. “Her unwavering dedication, selflessness, and passion have left an indelible mark, and we are deeply grateful for the many years she has devoted to making a difference.”
Opsahl is leaving to serve as the new chief operating officer at the National Association of State Directors of Developmental Disabilities Services. The organization promotes visionary leadership, systems innovation, and the development of national policies that support home and community-based services for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities and their families. FSSA’s DDRS is one of the state members that is supported by NASDDDS.
Opsahl’s last day is Oct. 11. A new deputy secretary is not being named at this time.
