VINCENNES, Ind., November 6, 2023 – The Vincennes University College of Social Science, Performing Arts, and Communication recently played host to an inspiring and collaborative summit that brought together educators from all levels aimed at ensuring equitable, effective, and modern learning environments for all students.

The annual Phillip M. Summers Innovative Teaching Summit serves as a platform for passionate teachers, administrators, and VU Education majors from diverse educational levels and backgrounds to connect, share, and explore innovative ideas related to education.

More than 150 individuals from throughout the region participated in the one-day event on the Vincennes Campus. Participants from preschool, primary, and secondary schools, as well as higher education institutions, gathered to exchange insights, strategies, and best practices related to supporting underserved populations, STEM, technology tools, virtual and blended learning, and more. It also serves as an outstanding chance for VU students to realize the importance and value of ongoing professional growth as they navigate their journeys as educators.

Clark Middle School Assistant Principal Tricia Hall said, “We are fortunate to have this opportunity right here in our backyard. ITS brings together all educators to learn about topics and strategies that are applicable to all students and to help each of us improve in our craft. Whether it be reading, Universal Design for Learning, STEM, and critical thinking or processing skills, ITS has sessions each educator can relate to and grow from. We all strive to do what is best for our students each day. We each want them to be successful at the next level. ITS is bringing us all together to help us learn from each other and see how topics intersect at each level of education.”

The summit fostered a dynamic atmosphere of intellectual exchange, where educators engaged in lively discussions, presentations, and experiences, all aimed at advancing excellence in education. Sessions offered included Robot Dogs in Education, The Role of Reading Comprehension in the Science of Reading, Artificial Intelligence in Education, Emotional Regulation through Breath, Adverse Childhood Experiences Training, Foreign Language Panel, Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis, and more. There was also a Technology Playground filled with vendors exhibiting innovative ideas and products.

VU English Professor and Summit Organizer Jamie Singleton said, “At Vincennes University, our mission is to develop people and enhance communities through accessible, high-quality educational programs. The Innovative Teaching Summit embodies this mission. This event aligns seamlessly with VU’s vision of being a premier learning institution known for innovation and the delivery of successful educational experiences.”

The keynote speaker was Southwest School Corporation STEM Coach Dr. Chad LeDune. A 20-year veteran classroom educator, LeDune believes that the right mindset enables life’s ups and downs to mold us into the best version of ourselves. He is passionate about empowering individuals to step outside their comfort zones and into personal and professional growth.

LeDune’s presentation featured his book, “Discomfort by Design.” The book promotes an instructional model that fosters academic, life, and social skills in all students.

“Sharing research-based and practical, innovative teaching methods positively impacts educational experiences for students,” LeDune said. “Having a conference such as ITS is so exciting because these impacts will be led by educators right here in our communities. A conference such as ITS, with its reach, also gives these messages an opportunity to impact students beyond our community.”

VU extends a great appreciation to the summit’s generous sponsors, including the Duke Energy Foundation, Purdue InMac, Five Star Technology Solutions, Moss Educational and Industrial Training Solutions, and Amplify, for their invaluable support in keeping the event affordable.

“The significance of providing affordable professional development opportunities to educators in southwestern Indiana cannot be emphasized enough,” Singleton said. “This event directly addresses a critical need in our region, providing an invaluable platform for educators to enhance their skills and remain current with the latest teaching techniques and technologies. By ensuring that professional development is accessible and affordable, we actively contribute to the growth and prosperity of our communities, creating a more inclusive and dynamic educational landscape for everyone in southwestern Indiana.”

The Innovative Teaching Summit was established in 2017 in memory of Dr. Phillip M. Summers, a former VU President and an innovative educator. This event is a testament to the College of Social Science, Performing Arts, and Communication’s commitment to continuous learning, professional development, and the collective pursuit of excellence in education. It provided a valuable opportunity for educators to connect, inspire one another, and contribute to the ongoing improvement of the educational landscape.

LeDune said, “It’s important for our local institutions of higher education to be at the forefront of educational change. This conference emphasizes the value that Vincennes University places on educational practices that prepare students to be positive contributors to our society.”

Jeanette Maier-Lytle ’88 M’95, Instructor in Accounting, has been named the recipient of the 2023 USI Romain College of Business Distinguished Accountant Award. The award was announced by 2021 recipient, Michael B. Carroll ’88, Chief Financial Officer at Heritage Federal Credit Union.

Maier-Lytle is the first USI faculty member to receive the Distinguished Accountant Award. The Accounting Circle member who nominated her wrote that, “Her former students are now accounting leaders in the Evansville community and beyond, and she has helped put the USI Accounting Program on the map.”

Maier-Lytle has been an instructor at USI since 1997. She started coaching student business case teams in 2001, competing at the local, national and international levels. Some of the most significant achievements include winning the Indiana CPA Society (INCPAS) competition five times in a row and being only the second university to place first in the annual Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) competition five times.

She devotes countless hours visiting area high schools, promoting USI to potential students. Maier-Lytle has been a member of the IMA for more than 30 years and served as their Director of Community Service. She received the INCPAS Outstanding Educator Award in 2006 and the USI Outstanding Advisor Award in 2009 and is listed as one of the 2008 Indiana Super CPAs in Indiana Business Magazine.

A passionate advocate of helping others in the community, Maier-Lytle is a founding member of Hug Alliance, a local not-for-profit, and currently serves on the Board as Treasurer. She is a volunteer advocate for at-risk girls at the Youth Care Center juvenile detention center. She is currently working toward a certificate in mental health coaching from Light University.

Prior to joining USI, she worked in various accounting and consulting roles at Alcan Aluminum and American General Finance, during which time she discovered a passion for teaching.

Maier-Lytle earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting and Master of Business Administration degree from USI. She earned her CPA designation in 1995.

The Distinguished Accountant Award has been given annually since 2004 by the USI Romain College of Business in conjunction with the USI Accounting Circle and recognizes professional achievement, service to the region and/or University and service to the accounting profession. The selection criteria include leadership, professional achievement, stature in the accounting industry and involvement with USI and the community.

Get ready for a creative and festive experience this November at Willard Public Library! Join us for our upcoming Adult Crafternoon, where we’ll be making charming terra cotta gingerbread houses to kick off the holiday season.

Event Details:

Date: Thursday, November 9, 2023

Time: 4:00 PM

Location: Browning Gallery (lower level)

This Crafternoon promises to be a delightful and imaginative activity, allowing you to craft your very own terra cotta gingerbread house. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit and unleash your inner artist. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a beginner, this event is open to all skill levels.

What to Expect:

• Guided crafting sessions led by our talented instructors.
• All the necessary supplies will be provided, so you can focus on the fun!
• Connect with fellow community members who share your creative interests.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the company of fellow craft enthusiasts and add a unique touch to your holiday decor this year. We look forward to seeing you there and celebrating the joys of the season through creativity and community.