USI Founders’ Day information

USI Founders’ Day celebrates the formation of the University of Southern Indiana and the visionary leaders who worked diligently to establish our institution of higher education on September 15, 1965.  

September 15 is an opportunity to reflect on the foresight of USI’s founders—those industry leaders, local legislators and community members whose dream of a public university became a reality. Thanks to those who had the determination and courage to bring about change in our region, USI was created in response to the great need for access to post-secondary education in southern Indiana. What started as an idea has grown into an engaged learning community committed to exceptional education.  

“On this Founders’ Day, it’s important to recognize how far we’ve come,” says Steven J. Bridges ’89 M’95, USI Interim President. “USI is a highly regarded public University, one that continues to make a positive impact on our region, state and beyond. The journey from an aging school building to a thriving college campus is a testament to the vision, tenacity and dedication of those who came before us. That visionary spirit is carried on today in our faculty, staff, students, retirees, alumni and community members. USI has grown to over 51,000 living alumni residing in all 50 states and 57 countries.” 

For several years, Alumni Engagement and Volunteer USI celebrated Founders’ Day with a luncheon where the USI Alumni Council presented the Alumni Service Award, Honorary Alumni Award and Faculty Recognition Award. The event and awards are currently being evaluated to consider the most meaningful way to celebrate Founders’ Day with the USI community.  

To learn more about the founders of USI and its first 50 years, check out Shaping the future: University of Southern Indiana 1965-2015 at David L. Rice Library.