USI celebrates Inauguration of fifth President
October 16, 2025
The University of Southern Indiana celebrated the Inauguration of Steven J. Bridges as the fifth President of the University and the first alumnus to hold the role on Thursday, October 16 in Liberty Arena, Home of the Screaming Eagles.
The theme, “Built on Purpose,” reflected both the University’s 60-year mission of delivering exceptional, transformative education and the personal journey of President Bridges, an alumnus whose 36-year career at USI has been defined by service, family and determination. The ceremony highlighted the University’s proud past while embracing a future built with vision, intention and purpose.
“To be named President of my alma mater is one of the greatest honors of my life. As a first-generation college student, I began my path unsure of the ending destination. Yet the decision has been reaffirmed day after day, year after year, opportunity after opportunity,” says Bridges. “This day belongs to those who founded this institution, to the business community that had the vision to create it, to the alumni who have carried our name into the world, to our donors and supporters and to the State of Indiana. We are stronger together, and I have the distinct honor to help lead this extraordinary collective.”
As part of the formal ceremony, presidents and delegates from colleges and universities across the country participated, along with USI students, faculty, alumni, members of the Board of Trustees, past USI Presidents, elected officials—including Evansville Mayor Stephanie Terry and a video salutation from Indiana Governor Mike Braun—and other special guests. Processional participants wore traditional academic regalia, many displaying the colors of the institutions they represented or graduated from. Choral music throughout the ceremony included pieces by the University of Southern Indiana Chamber Choir, Evansville Brass Quintet, Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation Honors Choir and the Evansville Philharmonic.
Investiture was conducted by Christina Ryan, Chair of the USI Board of Trustees and assisted by former USI President’s Dr. H. Ray Hoops, Dr. Linda L. M. Bennett and Dr. Ronald S. Rochon. Investiture included official recognition and charge, presentation of the University Mace, presentation of the Presidential Medallion and official presentation as President.
The Inauguration was generously underwritten by the James A. Sanders Trust.
For more information, a full bio of President Bridges and a link to the recorded Inauguration, visit USI.edu/inauguration.
*All photos published should be credited to USI Photography and Multimedia.