The President's Report

THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN INDIANA has named one of its own as its fifth President—Steven J. Bridges '89 M'95, a two-time USI graduate whose 36-year career on campus has shaped nearly every corner of the institution.

President Bridges began his journey at USI in 1989 as a Staff Accountant and steadily rose through the ranks, eventually overseeing the University's entire Finance and Administration operation. "The extraordinary education I received at USI has prepared me well and will continue to take center stage for our students," he said. "As a Screaming Eagle, and one of more than 54,000 alumni, I am determined to continue to share the care and concern I received as a student and am proof of the transformative nature of higher education." As Vice President for Finance and Administration, Bridges led the largest bond issuance in school history and secured a record-low rate for another. He implemented the campus-wide Banner system on time and on budget, chaired key committees to strengthen fiscal stewardship and helped USI avoid layoffs during the COVID-19 pandemic—a major accomplishment in higher education at that time.

Known for getting things done, he's just as committed to serving others. A longtime Girl Scouts supporter and community volunteer, Bridges lives in Henderson, Kentucky, with his wife Rosemary. They have three adult children, four grandchildren and a fifth on the way. The Bridges plan to move into the University Home once renovations are complete.

"Steve has the full confidence of the USI Board of Trustees and the skills, integrity and vision to lead USI well into the future."

              Christine Keck, Chair of the USI Board of Trustees