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USI Women’s Basketball soars to win 2024 OVC Championship Tournament crown

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EVANSVILLE, Ind. – University of Southern Indiana Women’s Basketball added on to a historic 2023-24 championship season by winning the 2024 Ohio Valley Conference Women’s Basketball Championship Tournament crown, 81-53, over the University of Tennessee at Martin on Saturday afternoon at Ford Center in downtown Evansville to deliver the first OVC team tournament championship in USI history.
 
USI Women’s Basketball (24-6) already claimed the first OVC team regular-season championship in the last two weeks of the 2023-24 season, securing the No. 1 seed for the Ohio Valley Conference Basketball Championship. USI defeated Eastern Illinois University, 69-54, in Friday’s semifinal to get to Saturday’s championship game against UT Martin (16-16).
 
The Screaming Eagles’ championship game victory marked USI’s 10th consecutive win, matching the longest winning streak of the season for USI. The Screaming Eagles also won 10 in a row between December 22 to February 1.
 
USI’s 28-point margin of victory in Saturday’s championship game also ranked among the largest margins of victory in the OVC Women’s Basketball Tournament championship game history, just short of the championship game’s top-two point differentials of 32 and 30 points.
 
Compared to recent history, Saturday’s championship win put Southern Indiana with the likes of the University of North Dakota’s 2011-12 team (Great West Conference) and California Baptist University’s 2020-21 team (Western Athletic Conference) to win a regular season and conference tournament championship in the same season during a transition period.
 
On Saturday, UT Martin scored the game’s first points at the free-throw line, but then Southern Indiana went on a 12-2 run over five minutes. The run included a pair of jumpers by junior guard Vanessa Shafford (Linton, Indiana) to give USI a 12-4 advantage halfway into the opening quarter. Each side experienced a two-minute scoreless drought in the back half of the first quarter, but the Screaming Eagles finished the period with a couple of field-goal makes in the last two minutes to take a 17-8 lead to the second quarter.
 
In the first two minutes of the second period, UT Martin came out with a barrage of three-point attempts, swishing three in a row through the bottom of the net. Southern Indiana answered with back-to-back layups before senior forward Meredith Raley (Haubstadt, Indiana) dropped in a triple of her own to make the score 24-17 USI with 7:30 left in the first half. Then freshman guard Triniti Ralston (Louisville, Kentucky) sparked another big run for the Screaming Eagles with a dribble-drive layup and a three-pointer. USI’s lead grew to 33-19 past the five-minute mark of the second frame. The final minutes of the first half featured a defensive struggle before Shafford stroked a buzzer-beating three, giving the Screaming Eagles a 36-23 halftime lead.
 
Southern Indiana came out of halftime with 10 unanswered points, and by the 6:30 mark in the third quarter, USI doubled up UT Martin, 50-25. Senior forward Madi Webb (Bedford, Indiana) tallied a pair of layups, while redshirt senior guard Addy Blackwell (Bloomington, Indiana) scored seven points during USI’s big run. Near the midway point of the second half, Ralston continued to make a huge impact with consecutive three-point makes. Southern Indiana’s advantage continued to climb, as a last-second transition layup by Raley capped off a 64-36 USI lead through three periods of play.
 
The fourth quarter had a slow start for both teams. For Southern Indiana, freshman forward Chloe Gannon (Manchester, Tennessee) had a solid second half with a pair of makes in the fourth stanza. Gannon joined Raley and Ralston in double figures scoring, as Ralston added to her career game in the scoring column and three-point shooting. Leading 70-48 near the middle of the fourth quarter, Southern Indiana put the cherry on top of the 81-53 championship victory with multiple baskets by Gannon and Shafford in the waning minutes before storming the court in celebration as the final buzzer sounded.
 
With Southern Indiana not eligible for the NCAA Tournament due to NCAA program reclassification rules, UT Martin received the OVC’s automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament as the runner-up.
 
For the game, Southern Indiana was 32-68 for 47 percent shooting, hitting 10 three-pointers and also going 7-7 at the free-throw line. USI outrebounded the Skyhawks, 41-27, and outscored UT Martin in the paint, 36-14. Individually, Shafford led USI with 15 points and also grabbed nine rebounds. Ralston poured in a career-high 14 points and a career-best four three-pointers made. Gannon also chipped in 14 points. Raley recorded 13 points. Blackwell and Webb had nine and eight points, respectively.
 
UT Martin shot the ball at nearly 39 percent (19-49), connecting eight times from outside the perimeter. The Skyhawks were 7-12 at the foul stripe. UT Martin was led in scoring by freshman Amari Bonds’ 26 points.
 
Following Saturday’s game and the postgame celebration, the 2024 Ohio Valley Conference All-Tournament Team was announced, which included four USI players. Raley was named to the OVC All-Tournament Team and was selected for the Most Valuable Player Award of the OVC Championship Tournament. Between the two games played, Raley posted 30 total points and 15 rebounds while shooting 55 percent overall. Joining Raley on the OVC All-Tournament Team was Gannon, Webb, and sophomore guard Ali Saunders (Depauw, Indiana). Gannon dropped 29 points, 10 boards, and shot for nearly 57 percent in the two games. Webb totaled 26 points, and Saunders tallied 16 points, 15 assists, and 12 rebounds in the tournament. Saunders flirted with a triple-double on Friday, coming up a rebound shy.
 
Southern Indiana’s first-ever appearance in the OVC Women’s Basketball Championship Tournament also brought the top-two largest crowds in OVC Women’s Basketball Tournament history since the postseason championship moved to Evansville, Indiana, and Ford Center in 2018. Friday’s semifinal session brought 1,157 spectators, which was outdone by Saturday’s championship game attendance of 1,715.
 
Next up, USI Women’s Basketball will turn its attention to further postseason competition after securing its spot in the WNIT with its regular season title. The WNIT is a postseason tournament not sanctioned by the NCAA. The Screaming Eagles will wait and see to find out the field as well as dates and times in a little over a week. Stay tuned to usiscreamingeagles.com and @USIAthletics on social media for more information.

 

THUNDERBOLTS SHUT OUT 3-0 IN HUNTSVILLE

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Huntsville, Al.:  Despite a stronger effort in both ends of the ice and fewer penalties, the Thunderbolts were unable to solve Havoc goaltender Mike Robinson, as they fell 3-0 in Huntsville on Saturday night.   The Thunderbolts’ next home game will be on Sunday, March 10th against the Pensacola Ice Flyers, puck drop at 3:00pm CT.

 

Despite several high-quality chances early, the Thunderbolts were unable to grab the first lead.  Instead, the Havoc took a 1-0 lead in the first period, as Craig McCabe scored at 10:29.  The second period was close but scoreless, as the Thunderbolts twice hit the post but could not score.  Huntsville extended their lead early in the third period, as Doug Elgstam scored at 1:49, later followed by Phil Elgstam on a power play at 15:39 to put Evansville behind by a 3-0 score.  In goal, Ty Taylor made 30 saves on 33 shots.  The Thunderbolts and Havoc do not meet again this regular season.

 

USI Board of Trustees approves two new certificates, Spring degree candidates

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At its regular meeting on Thursday, March 7, the University of Southern Indiana Board of Trustees approved two new certificates, an undergraduate Financial Institutions Certificate and a graduate Certificate in Leadership. It also approved six honorary degree candidates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree candidates for conferral at the Spring Commencement Ceremonies, to be held Friday and Saturday, May 3-4, at the Screaming Eagles Arena.

New Certificates

The 12-hour, four-course undergraduate Financial Institutions Certificate, offered in-person and in online formats, will address the rising demand for skilled professionals in banks, credit unions and regulatory oversight agencies. With active recruitment of USI graduates by regional banks and credit unions, this Certificate will directly address the specific labor needs of the Evansville market where over 26 financial institutions operate.

Students who complete the Certificate will be familiar with the functions of banks, credit unions and regulatory agencies that provide oversite to these industries. The program will be housed in the Romain College of Business which is AACSB accredited.

Tailored to meet the demands of professionals aspiring to advance their careers or secure new positions, the accelerated format graduate Certificate in Leadership will offer a comprehensive and multidisciplinary curriculum focused on essential leadership skills. The nine-credit hour Certificate, with a concentration on leadership communication and context, will be delivered entirely online in an asynchronous format, providing working professionals with the flexibility to complete the program on their own schedules.

The rationale behind the Certificate is rooted in the University’s collaborative efforts with community stakeholders. The Certificate will address concerns raised by regional business leaders regarding a skills gap among mid-level employees hindering their progression to leadership roles. It will not only align with the University’s commitment to regional workforce needs but also will complement existing graduate programs in healthcare, education and other disciplines.

The program will be offered through the School of Graduate Studies.

Both certificates will now go to the Indiana Commission of Higher Education and the Higher Learning Commission for review and approval. Upon successful approval, both certificates are scheduled to be implemented in the 2024 Fall Semester.

Honorary Degrees

The following candidates were approved for honorary degrees:

  • Dr. James D. Anderson, Professor of Education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, will receive an honorary Doctor of Laws degree for his lifetime commitment to education.
  • Neal A. Franklin will receive an honorary Doctor of Laws degree for her passion, leadership and profound dedication to advancing higher education at USI
  • Dr. M. Edward Jones, Vice Provost Emeritus for Outreach and Engagement, and Cynthia S. Brinker, Senior Vice President Emerita for Government and University Relations, will receive honorary Doctor of Laws degrees for their collective 75 years of exemplary service to the University.
  • Dr. Mohammed F. Khayum, USI Provost Emeritus and Professor Emeritus of Economics, will receive an honorary Doctor of Business degree for his extensive service and unwavering dedication to USI.
  • Bridget Muldoon McDaniel, accomplished flutist and inspirational leader in musical arts, will receive an honorary Doctor of Arts degree for her impact on the lives of millions of children around the world.

In other business, the Board heard updates on campus construction.

USI Summer Enrichment Camp to offer array of activities for summer 2024

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The University of Southern Indiana Summer Enrichment Camp (SEC) will return this summer and is open to children entering kindergarten through grade six (based on the grade they will enter in Fall 2024). SEC will begin on June 3 and will run through July 26. Camp will open daily at 7 a.m. and conclude at 5:30 p.m.

SEC offers an environment encouraging children to develop their capabilities and interests at their own pace based on individual needs. The program recognizes the uniqueness of children and provides positive encouragement for their continued growth while having fun.

2024 SEC will feature a diverse range of activities, including crafts, swimming, games and on-site opportunities that make use of the entire campus. Participants can expect enriching experiences in art, science, fitness, technology and other areas of interest that dedicated staff bring to the camp. Each activity will align with a weekly theme communicated to the families enrolled in SEC. In addition, the University will organize engaging events on campus and conduct four exciting field trips over the summer.

Full-time and part-time spaces are available, but priority will be given to families requiring full-time, full-summer care. Early enrollment was offered to 2024 campers last fall so several spots have already been filled.

Total SEC fees for all USI employees and students are:

  • Full-time (Monday through Friday): $1,482.33
  • Part-time (three days per week): $1,116.04
  • Part-time (two days per week): $815.04

Total SEC fees for community members (non-USI employees) are:

  • Full-time (Monday through Friday): $1,584.56
  • Part-time (three days per week): $1,167.80
  • Part-time (two days per week): $866.38

Fees include all costs except lunches (parents send) and the cost of a life jacket for swimming (if needed).

New bill defining Child Advocacy Centers in Indiana law heads to Governor’s desk for signature

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INDIANAPOLIS — House Enrolled Act 1123, authored by Rep. Dale Devon (R-Granger) and sponsored in part by Sen. Mark Messmer (R-Jasper) has passed through the Indiana Legislature with unanimous approval and bipartisan support in both the House and Senate. H.E.A. 1123 aligns Indiana with 41 other states and defines what a child advocacy center (CAC) is, what CACs do, and encourages the use of CACs when responding to reports of crimes against children. The Bill is expected to be signed by Governor Holcomb soon and, upon his signature, be effective July 1, 2024.

“This legislation writes into state law what communities across Indiana were already doing and continue to do during investigations of crimes against children,” says Jan Lutz, Director of the Indiana Chapter of National Children’s Alliance. “Representative Devon and Senator Messmer’s work on this Bill with our partners at the Department of Child Services clarifies the role of CACs, encourages the use of a multidisciplinary team, and ensures that critical information is shared between all parties — including CACs, the Department of Child Services, law enforcement, prosecutors, and healthcare professionals.”

Carolyn Hahn Kremer, Indiana Chapter Treasurer and Executive Director of The CASIE Center in South Bend said, “This Bill will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our work helping protect children involved in the most difficult circumstances.”

Senator Messmer, who sponsored the legislation in the Senate remarked, “This is a huge step in the ability to protect abused children in our state. I am honored to be part of making this happen!”

Emily Perry, Board President of the Indiana Chapter and Executive Director of Susie’s Place Child Advocacy Centers added, “H.E.A. 1123 protects our staff with the same civil immunity law enforcement, prosecutors, and medical professionals have and it allows CACs and MDTs to respond more effectively than ever before to reports of crimes against children. This Bill adds provisions for information sharing among professionals that have historically created hurdles in ensuring child safety.”

“Limited communication is the root cause of continued abuse, endangerment, and child fatalities. House Enrolled Act 1123 addresses communication barriers, addresses systematic failure, and fights for better outcomes for child victims of maltreatment,” said Tammy Lampert, Executive Director of the Southwestern Indiana Child Advocacy Center Coalition.

“In addition to CACs, the Indiana Chapter is also recognized in state statute now,” says Lutz. “This legislation formally recognizes our method for determining what defines a CAC, their standards for operation, and the breadth and depth of services CACs provide beyond forensic interviews.”

Indiana currently has 26 CACs operating statewide along with five satellite CACs providing coverage for virtually every child in the state. Twelve CACs are accredited by the National Children’s Alliance, meaning they provide minimum best practice service supported by research and study and have been independently peer-reviewed. Regardless of going through the formal National Children’s Alliance accreditation process, all CACs in Indiana have been developed according to national standards.

 

 

AIR SUPPLY: THE LOST IN LOVE EXPERIENCE PLAYS OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA THIS FALL

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TICKETS GO ON SALE FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2024, AT 10 AM

Evansville, IN – March 4, 2024 SureFun Entertainment and Old National Events Plaza announce, Air Supply: The Lost in Love Experience, is set to hit the Aiken Theatre stage on September 14, 2024! Fans can pick up tickets early starting March 6th at 10 AM during the venue presale by visiting social media.

Soft rock duo, Air Supply, was formed in Melbourne, Australia, in 1975 by Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock. The pair made their break into the music industry shortly after, touring as an opening act for Rod Stewart. After returning home from the Stewart tour, ‘Lost in Love’ was released in 1978 and soared to the top of the charts. It found its way to Clive Davis, founder of Arista Records, who offered Air Supply a record deal.

The band had a succession of worldwide hits including eight top-five hits on the US Billboard Hot 100. Songs like ‘Lost in Love,’ ‘All Out of Love,’ ‘Every Woman in the World,’ ‘The One That You Love,’ ‘Here I am,’ and ‘Even the Nights Are Better,’ became best-sellers, and melodies recognized across the globe.

Their albums Lost in Love, The One that You Love, Now and Forever and The Greatest Hits sold more than 20 million copies. ‘Lost in Love’ was named song of the year in 1980 and along with the other singles, sold more than 10 million copies. The group relocated to Los Angeles in the 1970’s, has included many members, and flourished with Hitchcock and Russell remaining at the core. Air Supply was inducted into the Australian Recording Industry Association’s Hall of Fame in December of 2013.

Now, the group is celebrating 49 years of touring the world with The Lost in Love Experience making stops in the same number of cities on their 2024 tour. For more information about Air Supply visit www.airsupplymusic.com.

Ticket Information:

What:                   Air Supply: The Lost in Love Experience

When:                  Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 7:30 PM

Where:                Old National Events Plaza | 715 Locust Street | Evansville, IN 47708

Tickets:                Tickets start at $55.00 plus applicable fees and tax.

 

With Patience and Sincerity, Indiana Artist Pursues a 6,000-Year-Old Art Form

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Excerpt from an article by Mary Lee Pappas for Arts Midwest

“Urushi is most close to who I am,” says Indianapolis-based artist Nhat Tran, who has been creating abstract sculptural and 2D pieces with lacquer over the past two decades.

Nhat Tran guesses there are fewer than 10 artists in the United States making works in Urushi, a 6,000-year-old traditional Japanese art form of using lacquer. Born in Vietnam and living in Indianapolis, Indiana, she is among that celebrated few. “It’s not well-known especially in the US. It’s really rare, so it’s an important mission for me to introduce it to people,” she says.

Urushi is named after the Asian tree species, where the sap for the lacquer is derived. For millennia in Japan, it’s been used on an array of utilitarian and decorative objects like furniture, food bowls, Buddhist sculptures, and more because it’s water-tight, lightweight, insulates, and is durable lasting hundreds of years. Tran explains of the dark, translucent material, “the Japanese (historically) will put it on wood to make it shiny, protect it, make it more beautiful.”

An artist her whole life, Tran’s curiosity with Urushi became her calling about 25 years ago when she received grants from the Indianapolis Arts Council to study in Japan with master artists. “I have tried many things. Urushi is most close to who I am,” she explains of her immersion into the art form.

USI holding pep rally to celebrate Women’s Basketball OVC Champions

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The University of Southern Indiana Women’s Basketball team is the 2024 Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) Champion, marking the first team conference championship in USI’s Division I era. USI defeated the University of Tennessee at Martin, 81-53, Saturday at the Ford Center to earn the OVC crown.

To celebrate the team and this momentous achievement, the University will host a pep rally at 9 a.m. Monday (March 11) in Screaming Eagles Arena. The students, faculty, staff and the public are invited to attend at no charge to help celebrate our 2024 OVC Conference champions.

Doors will open at 8:30 a.m. and the pep rally will begin promptly at 9 a.m., featuring remarks from Stephanie Terry, Evansville Mayor; Dr. Ronald S. Rochon, USI President; Jon Mark Hall, Director of Athletics; and USI Women’s Basketball coaches and players. The USI Cheer and Dance teams and Archie Eagle mascot will also be in attendance. The pep rally is scheduled to conclude at 9:45 a.m.

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