The rich history of the University of Southern Indiana extends from its early founding at Centennial School to its growth and current 1,400-acre campus on Evansville’s west side; from the nationally-recognized education programs to the multiple athletic national championships.
The University was established in 1965 in response to a need for public higher education in southwestern Indiana. From its earliest stage of planning in the early 1960s, community leaders have supported the University by providing a solid base for its present success and future growth.
The University of Southern Indiana began as a regional campus of Indiana State University, opening on September 15, 1965. In 1967, Southern Indiana Higher Education, Inc., (SIHE) raised nearly $1 million to acquire 1,400 acres for the Mid-America University Center. Groundbreaking was held June 22, 1968. Since September 1969, the University has occupied 330 acres, mostly donated by SIHE. On April 16, 1985, legislation was signed which made USI a separate state university. All legal matters were effective July 1, 1985. On June 30, 2008, SIHE transferred ownership of over 900 acres of land and remaining assets to the USI Foundation.
Former Presidents
Constant, Faithful and True
USI Alma Mater
On October 12, 2018, during USI's Faculty Convocation, the award-winning USI Chamber Choir, under the direction of Daniel R. Craig, associate professor of music, premiered "Constant, Faithful and True".
USI's alma mater was composed by Mr. Daniel R. Craig with lyrics by Dr. David G. O'Neil
Where the North meets the South,
And the East meets the West,
Where roads cross tall fields of grain,
Where Evansville stands on the Ohio's rough sands,
May we evermore hear that refrain.
USI... USI...
Constant, faithful, and true.
We'll remember our home, wherever we roam.
In our hearts, we'll be loyal to you.
On these grounds by the people,
For the people endowed,
We honor the red, blue, and white
And that name we'll hold dear
To the end of our years
As we lift up our voices on high.
USI... USI...
Constant, faithful, and true.
We'll remember our home, wherever we roam.
In our hearts, we'll be loyal to you.
In our hearts, we'll be loyal to you.