Long-time Supporter Eckels Receives Nicholson Award

Rolland M. Eckels, a 25-year member of the USI Foundation Board of Directors, received the Suzanne A. Nicholson Leadership Award at the May 2008 meeting of the USI Foundation Board of Directors. The award, presented annually, recognizes strong leadership by a board member. The award honors Eckels for his zeal for expanding public higher education opportunities in southwestern Indiana and his volunteerism for USI over four decades.

It is intentional to honor a veteran director during the 40th anniversary year of the establishment of the USI Foundation. Eckels’ efforts in support of the University continue today.

As a member of the Board of Directors of Southern Indiana Higher Education, Inc. (SIHE), Eckels assisted with the first fund-raising effort to purchase land for public higher education needs in 1966. Close to $1 million was raised by SIHE in that effort and provided land for the construction of buildings that would become the University of Southern Indiana.

Appointed by Governor Robert D. Orr, Eckels served in 1984 on the Board of Incorporators for a Separate State University, giving leadership to studying issues for separation. He, along with USI alumni, students, faculty and other USI supporters, had the satisfaction of seeing legislation to create the University of Southern Indiana pass and be signed by Orr on April 16, 1985.

The award is named for Suzanne A. Nicholson, who retired as president of the USI Foundation, and is given to a person who embodies her dedication and spirit in meeting the needs of the University of Southern Indiana.