October 24, 2025
The University Web and Digital Content team has been busy working on a visual refresh for the USI Homepage, College, and Department websites with a planned launch on Friday, October 24.
This refresh introduces a modern look, enhanced navigation and improved performance across all devices while laying the groundwork for future innovations in web technology. The redesign seamlessly integrates elements from USI's new marketing campaign as well, recently rolled out on campus banners and bus stops, as well as billboards around Evansville, creating a cohesive brand experience across both physical and digital touchpoints.
Gradient imagery woven throughout the backgrounds reinforces this visual connection, ensuring visitors encounter a consistent, recognizable USI identity whether they're driving through campus or browsing the website. The new templates mark an important step in creating a more accessible, engaging and dynamic online experience for the USI community and visitors alike.
The redesign also reflects the Web Team’s ongoing commitment to maintaining an accessible, user-friendly and future-ready digital presence. Beyond updating the overall look and feel, the new templates are built to improve accessibility and search engine performance while preparing the University's site for emerging web strategies such as Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) used in AI-driven searches. This update also establishes the foundation for delivering personalized, audience-specific content—beginning with the homepage and expanding to other areas of the site in the future.
The USI Homepage and College Homepages will feature a vertical video of students that can be updated throughout the year as new content is captured. This vertical orientation is a strategic departure from traditional university websites and mirrors how users consume content on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, creating a more familiar and engaging experience that keeps the homepage feeling current and vibrant.
Beyond the visual refresh, the redesign introduces several enhancements to make USI websites more engaging and easier to use. A reengineered site-wide and local menu system delivers intuitive, consistent navigation across all devices. Editors gain greater flexibility with new layout options, widget styles and subtle animations, while customizable header options eliminate the struggle of finding the perfect "hero" image.
For content editors with access to Umbraco, there is no manual migration like what was experienced in 2021. This "Editor-Controlled Rollout" gives editors the flexibility to switch to the new design when the timing is right for their office. To make the switch, editors simply choose the new template in the site settings and then publish the page. The Web Team will be available to help support departments with the transition.
The Web and Digital Content team is excited to see the new look come to life across USI's digital presence. For questions or assistance, contact the University Web and Digital Content team at webserv@usi.edu.