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Faculty Resources

NEW FACULTY - BEFORE CLASSES BEGIN...

  1. Sign formal hiring documents and submit your official transcripts - See Dean
  2. Go through the items in the Getting Started button below.
  3. Obtain the following from your Division Dean, mentor, or Department Chair:
    1. Office and classroom key(s) - Dean or Division Secretary
    2. Textbook - Department Chair
    3. Course outline and syllabus template - Mentor or Department Chair
    4. Email (Lotus Notes) access and phone number - Dean or Division Secretary
    5. Photo ID - Learning Resources Center (LRC)
    6. Mailbox location - Division Secretary
    7. Fax Machine instructions - Division Secretary or Mentor
    8. Copy Machine instructions - Division Secretary or Mentor
    9. Parking Permit - Campus Police (more information under Getting Started)
    10. MyVU password - Dean or Division Secretary (more information under Getting Started)

Getting Started


  • Campus and Building Maps
    The Architectural Services link above will provide access to campus maps, including a map showing designated parking areas and building floor plans with classroom and office locations.

  • Computer
    Computer access is arranged by the Management Information Center (MIC). It is important to 'password protect' your computer even if you are in a single office environment. If you have computer problems or concerns, you may contact MIC at Ext. 4332.

  • Email
    This link will take you to the CTL web site Lotus Notes handout and tutorials.

    You will receive your email account from the Management Information Center (MIC) after the paperwork has been submitted from your division office. Please check with your Dean or Division Secretary if you do not have access to Lotus Notes.

  • Faculty Schedule

    Download Faculty Schedule Template

    Faculty Office Hours (From the University Manual)
    "Faculty members will hold at least seven office hours per week, and the schedule must be on file each semester in the Office of the Vice President for Instructional Services and Provost."

    Submitting the Schedule
    Use the attached form to enter your course schedule and office hours. You may choose your own office hours in accordance with the University policy.

    Schedule changes
    If a situation arises that requires a change in your schedule, you must get approval from your Division Dean.

  • MyVU Access
    MyVU is the internal campus web site with access to student transcripts, personal information, and registration; faculty and staff employment information; and general announcements for students, faculty, and staff. You will need to obtain a MyVU Username and Password by completing the forms provided through your Division Office.

  • Office Key
    A key request must be submitted by the division office. You will then be notified when the key is ready for you to pick up from the Physical Plant Office. You must sign for the key when you pick it up. When you leave the University, your must return your key to the Physical Plant Office.

  • E-Text Alert System

    E-Text_Alert_System

    In the event of a campus emergency, employees and students can receive important notifications through the E-Text Alert System. Text messages are only sent in the event of an emergency, such as campus threats or severe weather. You must sign up to receive the alerts. You may sign up through MyVU. See the attached document to locate this service on MyVU.

  • Parking
    Faculty may obtain a parking permit free from the Campus Police Station on second street. Faculty must have a parking permit to park on campus. Faculty may park in any lot on campus. Parking spaces reserved only for faculty and other employees are marked with Blue lines.The link above will take you to the VU Campus Police web site where you will find information on parking permits, parking regulations and other police/security information. Permits are free to faculty but you must fill out the Faculty Permit Application located under "Forms" on the Campus Police web site. Take the completed Faculty Permit Application to the Campus Police station to obtain your permit. Permit applications are also available at the Campus Police station.

  • Phone System
    Here are some basics about your new voicemail system.

    1. To access your personal voicemail from your new phone, press the button with the envelope symbol on it.
    2. Your initial password will be " 1 2 3 4 5 ". The system will prompt you to enter in a new password. If you ever find that you've been locked out of your voicemail, you can contact the Telecomm department at 4332.
    3. To access your personal voicemail from off-campus or from another phone on campus, you will need to dial 888-2000or 2000 respectively. This is the new extension for retrieving your voicemail. Listen carefully to the prompts as the process for your new voicemail box is slightly different than the previous system.
    4. For more options/extra information, you can review the voicemail manual named the Unity Connection Phone Interface at the link provided above. You will need the model number that is located at the top right on the front of your phone.

    As always, if you have any questions you can contact the Telecomm department at 4332.

  • Places to Eat on Campus
    Sodexo provides dining services for VU. Please visit the Sodexo web site for information about the Tecumseh Dining Center (TDC) and the Food Court in the Beckes Student Union.

  • University Policies

    Locating_the_University_Manual

    The University Manual is located in your Lotus Notes "Home" tab. Log in to Lotus Notes, then follow the instructions on the attached picture.

About VU


  • Vincennes University Vision
    Vincennes University is a premier learning institution, widely recognized for leadership in innovation and delivery of successful educational experiences. A breadth of program offerings and a commitment to quality service ensure the University’s role as an important link in Indiana’s economic and cultural vitality. VU is a diverse community whose members all share responsibility for supporting the University mission and are respected for their contributions.

  • Vincennes University Mission
    Vincennes University, Indiana’s first college, is the State’s premier transfer institution and leader in innovative career programming. The VU community ensures educational access, delivers proven associate and baccalaureate programs, and offers cultural opportunities and community services in a diverse, student-centered, collegiate environment.

    VU Mission Statement Explained

  • Frequently Asked Questions
    1. How does VU compare to other universities in the state? Vincennes University is Indiana's first college. VU puts families first by remaining the most affordable residential college in the state. As with Purdue and Indiana Universities and Ivy Tech Community College, Vincennes University operates multiple campuses including Vincennes, Jasper, the Aviation Technology Center in Indianapolis, the VU Gibson County Center for Advance Manufacturing and Logistics, and the newest addition, a logistics training center in Plainfield.

    2. How many programs does the university offer? Vincennes University has seven baccalaureate degrees, 70 programs offering AS/AAS degrees, 95 transfer degree programs, and professional certificates. In addition, Vincennes University has extensive non-credit training under its Business and Industry sector.

    3. I’ve heard about distance education. How big is it here? The Vincennes University Distance Education Program serves a variety of student educational needs throughout the State of Indiana, the United States and to internationally located students. A variety of associate degree programs, general education and special interest courses are available. Courses are delivered widely through the Internet. Internet courses are offered with three different term options:

      1. A regular semester basis (16 weeks in the fall and spring; 10 weeks in the summer);
      2. An 8-week term schedule, beginning six times each year;
      3. A 6-month term schedule, open enrollment beginning at any time.

      Distance Education offers the following:

      1. 1 Bachelor of Science Program; 27 Associate in Arts, Associate of Science, and/or Associate of Applied Science programs; and 7 Degree Completion and/or Certificate of Program Completion programs
      2. Almost 400 online course sections are available each semester. We normally add 5-10 new courses each year and 1-2 degree every other year.

    4. Does VU have an Honors Program? Yes, qualified students of diverse majors participate in the Honors Program. The VU Honors Program is a unique learning community at VU. Students submit a separate application for the Honors Program and must be registered to take an Honors Program course each semester for two to four semesters. These courses are designed to fulfill general education and liberal studies requirements in Humanities (HUMH 221 and HUMH 222) and in the Social Sciences (SOCH 211); an independent study project for Honors credit is also offered.
      The Honors Program courses generally can substitute for comparable VU courses so that students are not adding extra hours to their major; the courses are reading, writing, and speaking intensive and fulfill intensive requirements for graduation. Students' official transcript reflect Honors course completion. At VU, Honors Program students are eligible for the program participation scholarship, about $250.00 each semester, and housing grants for Honors Program students who live in VU dorms are also available.

      NOTE: VU Honors Program courses not only transfer to four year schools but they also transfer to Honors Colleges or Honors Programs at four year institutions. Also, both the Vincennes and Jasper campuses have active chapters of Phi Theta Kappa.

Advising


  • Advising Center Web Page
    Use this link for access to the detailed Advising Manual and other resource information.

  • Course Placement
    Download Course Placement Chart

    The attached placement chart is used to determine appropriate course placement for incoming students that do not have transfer or dual credit for courses in English or Mathematics. Students must also take a placement test to determine placement in Reading.

    VU uses the Accuplacer as our standard placement tests. All students without college math credits must take the Accuplacer to determine math placement. For reading and English placement, the University will place students by using the Accuplacer, SAT, or ACT scores. If a student has taken more than one of these tests, the best score will be used to determine course placement.

  • University Catalog, Schedule Books, and General Education Handbook
    These advising resources are available from the VU Home page under the Current Students tab. Beginning in the 2011-12 academic year, the VU catalog is in a new online format.

Human Resources


  • Faculty Evaluations
    The link above contains the faculty evaluation forms and Professional Growth Plans, as well as faculty evaluation policies. These documents are also available from the Lotus Notes home page in the VU Databases tab. The faculty evaluation forms, along with the University Manual and VU documents are located here.

  • Human Resources Web Site
    This link will take you to the VU Human Resources web page. Here you will find information on benefits, including insurance forms.

  • Human Resources Issues
    Contact the Human Resources for the following:
    1. If you think you might be unable to work for 10 days or longer due to a serious Illness or Injury of you or an immediate family member (HR Director - 5848)
    2. Possibility of needing to be off work for your own or immediate family member's military duty (HR Director - 5848)
    3. Change of personal information (name, address) - (HR Coordinator - 5848)
    4. Change of beneficiary (Benefit Coordinator - 5847)
    5. Injury of employee or visitor to campus (Benefits Coordinator for Worker's Compensation - 5847)

  • Information for Supervisors
    Chairs or Deans may call Human Resources for information concerning hiring or employee discipline.

  • Payroll Information

    Payroll_Information 3

    To find payroll information, including pay stubs, benefit deductions, tax forms and other information, go to the MyVU login and follow the attached instructions.

Campus Contacts


  • Campus Security
    The Campus Police are available for security at any time. Simply dial 5555 from any campus phone or contact them at 888-5555 from any outside line or cell. The Campus Police web site also has security information for the campus.

  • Center for Teaching and Learning
    The Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) is an instructional resource for all faculty. You are at the CTL web site. Notice the many resources available at the left and the resources located at the bottom of this site. If you need assistance with instruction equipment, software, classroom tips, or any other information related to instruction, check with the CTL for assistance at ext 5611.

  • Student Support Offices and Extensions
    General Phone Use Information:
    1. To call within the same campus, dial only the last 4 digits of the phone number.
    2. When calling off campus, dial '9' for an outside line followed by the number.
    3. To call between campuses, you must use an outside line and dial the full phone number, including area code.

    Vincennes Campus

      Office Location Extension
      Admissions Governors Hall 812-888-4313
      Audio Visual Shake Library 812-888-4423
      Assessment Center Shake Library 812-888-4172
      Blackboard Support Shake Library 812-888-5611
      Bookstore Beckes Student Union 812-888-4334
      Bursar Administration Building 812-888-4244
      Counseling Administration Building 812-888-4374
      Career Center Vigo Hall 812-888-4501
      Dean of Students Beckes Student Union 812-888-4301
      Financial Aid Administration Building 812-888-4361
      Housing Vanderburgh Hall 812-888-4225
      Kirkwood Study Skills Humanities Building 812-888-4209
      Math Learning Center McCormick Science Center 812-888-5774
      Office of Disabilities Vigo Hall 812-888-4501
      Teaching & Learning Center Shake Library 812-888-5815
      Registrar Administration Building 812-888-4220
      Police (Campus) Second Street 812-888-5555

    Jasper Campus

      Main Number 812-482-3030
      Dean Office 812-481-5907
      Maintenance Director Cell 812-630-3582
      Dean’s Administrative Assistant Office 812-481-5903
      Director Student Services 812-481-5905
      Humanities-Social Science-Science Assistant 812-481-5904
      Nursing-Business Assistant 812-481-5921
      Fiscal Officer 812-481-5908
      Security (after 6:00pm Mon-Thurs) Cell 812-630-5582

Instruction


  • Basic Faculty Responsibilities
    Assigning Grades, Tracking Attendance, TAPS, Managing Behavioral Issues, FERPA, and other basic faculty duties.

  • Supplies
    Office supplies, textbooks, classroom supplies

  • Library Services
    Click here to access the Shake Library web page.
    You can also access the site by going to the VU home page at http://www.vinu.edu and click on the Library icon, lower right of page.

  • Creating a Blackboard Site for your course
    In addition to using Blackboard for distance education instruction, many faculty use Blackboard as a support for on-campus instruction.

    To create a Bb site and request the roster to be loaded into Bb, you must complete the forms that are available under "Blackboard for Faculty" at the left. Additional assistance with Bb can be obtained through the “Blackboard Tutorials for Faculty” or by calling the CTL at ext. 5611.

  • Faculty Support Resources
    Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL)
    Assistance with teaching technology (Personal Response Systems (Clickers), Smart Classroom Equipment, and other technology used for teaching;
    Information on professional development offerings; and Blackboard assistance.
    Library
    Research assistance and library orientation sessions for classes
    Note: Librarians will provide an orientation session for your class that includes information on library facilities and online database use. These sessions must be scheduled in advance.
    Mentor
    You will be assigned a mentor that will assist you throughout your first year at VU. You will be able to meet your mentor at the New Faculty Orientation session. You should arrange a regular meeting time with your mentor, but feel free to ask questions as needed.

  • Illness or Emergency
    If a faculty member has an emergency or illness and is unable to teach the assigned class(es), he/she should contact the Division Office and/or the Department Chair. For evening classes, check with your Division Dean on the procedure for your area.

  • Student Conduct
    Vincennes Student Conduct Policy: "Students must conduct themselves so other students are not distracted from learning. Faculty members are to be treated with courtesy and respect. Students have to refrain from any conduct that constitutes a hazard to the health, safety, or well being of fellow students, University representatives or the representatives of the military facility in which the class is held. Students may be disciplined for such conduct in the form of probation, suspension or dismissal."

    If a student is not adhering to the above standards, you should send a notice using the TAPS system (see instructions for TAPS under Basic Faculty Responsibilities). If the student is creating a major disturbance in class and refuses to leave, contact Campus Police at extension 5555 (or 888-5555 from an outside line or cell phone).

  • Student Feedback
    Students have the opportunity to provide feedback to faculty through the "SurveyDig" system. Shortly before the end of the course, students have access to a survey link for anonymous feedback. Faculty can view student feedback summaries on MyVU. Simply go to MyVU and select the "Detailed Class List" then click on the evaluation link.

  • Using the "Smart Classroom" equipment
    Talk to your mentor for assistance with classroom equipment or contact the CTL at 5611.

    Complete “SMART” classroom contains a multimedia podium/cabinet, high-end multimedia computer with a DVD drive, videocassette player, speakers, amplifiers, Internet access, visual presenter (graphics camera), and a remote or portable mouse/pointing device. Recent installations also include an interactive monitor/panel attached to the computer, wireless projector control, interactive graphics tablet, and a switching control box and administrative software.

Professional Development


  • Professional Development Opportunities
    The CTL (Center for Teaching and Learning) provides a number of faculty resources and professional development opportunities. CTL staff send emails announcing professional development offerings. You may also check the CTL web site for resources.

    VU Professional Development programs are open to both full time and adjunct faculty.

    VU generally offers 2 designated Professional Development Weeks: January, prior to the start of the Spring Semester, and May, following the end of the Spring Semester.

Student Activities


  • Student Center
    The Student Center is located on the second floor of the Beckes Student Union in Room 201. It houses the Dean of Students and Office of Judicial Affairs, Student Activities, Multicultural and International Student Affairs and the Office of Student Development.

    This link will connect you to the information on student activities on campus. VU has many student organizations and other activities to provide a full college experience.

  • Multicultural and International Student Affairs

    Facts About International Students

    Multicultural and International Student Affairs assists students through a variety of activities. See the attached document and the web site for more information.

  • Athletics
    VU has several NJCAA teams, including many with national championships. To learn more, click on the link above.

Student Support


  • Academic Support
    Tutoring services are free for all VU students. Several opportunities for acadmic help are available across campus.

  • Career and Employer Relations
    Career and Employer Relations offers career counseling, an extensive resource of career guidance tools and career support services to help facilitate the career planning process.

  • COPE Student Services
    COPE provides a variety of services. Below are some quick facts. More information is available through the link above.

    MYTH: COPE is for disabled students only.
    FACT: COPE helps students with learning or physical disabilities, as well as students who meet income guidelines and are first generation college students. We are also a great support for single-mothers, dislocated workers, and other non-traditional students.

    MYTH: If students are learning disabled, they are automatically accepted into the COPE Program.
    FACT: Students have to complete an application, qualify for services, and have the potential for success in college.

    MYTH: If students are failing all their classes, they should be sent directly to the COPE office for assistance.
    FACT: We do not have magic wands, but can assist a student who is struggling in one or two classes.

    MYTH: COPE can only help students who are enrolled in Occupational Majors.
    FACT: COPE can help all students in pursuit of a degree, and offers a variety of transfer assistance.

    MYTH: COPE is only a tutoring service.
    FACT: COPE provides tutoring and much more…. including academic counseling, career counseling, personal financial management training, financial aid counseling, workshops, mentoring, and Vocational Rehabilitation referrals.

    COPE is located on 3rd floor, Vigo Hall, in Room 396, or call 4515.

    COPE Student Support Services is a federally funded TRiO program designed to assist capable, first generation/low income students graduate with associate and/or bachelor degrees.

  • Counseling Services
    The Counseling Center provides services for faculty and students free of charge. A variety of services are available.

  • Disability Services
    Disability Services provides resources for students with all types of disabilities. It is important to remember that students are not eligible for special testing conditions or other special classroom support unless they provide the faculty with documentation from the Disability Services Office.

  • Health Office
    Visit the Health Services web page

  • STEP
    STEP (Student Transition into Educational Programs) provides a number of support services for students with learning disabilities and AD/HD. Vincennes University is offering an academic support program providing comprehensive services for learning disabled students in the university mainstream. STEP is designed to help students be more successful in their college courses.

  • Writing Center
    The Writing Center provides resources for both faculty and students.

Special Topics


  • AQIP
    AQIP stands for Academic Quality Improvement Program. It is an accreditation process offered by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association. The HLC accredits over 1000 institutions of higher education in 19 states, including Indiana.

    AQIP is modeled on the principles of continuous quality improvement. Schools electing to maintain accreditation via AQIP participation are involved in a continuous cycle of Action Project development and Systems Portfolio submission. Action Projects address problem areas or opportunities for quality improvement and are typically designed for completion within three years of their development. Annual reports to the HLC monitor progress on each project.

    VU’s Action Projects:

    1. Curiculum and Faculty Development (2005 – 2008)
    2. Implement Selected Baccalaureate Degrees (2005 – 2007)
    3. Increase Retention of the First-Year, Full-Time Student (2005 – current)
    4. Development of Strategies to Implement Supplemental Instruction (SI) for Gateway Courses (2008 – 2009)
    5. Education for the 21st-Century Graduate (2008 – current)
    6. Foundations of Excellence (2009 – current)

    The AQIP Systems Portfolio documents evidence that the university meets standards defined by the nine AQIP Categories and the five HLC Criteria for Accreditation. Portfolios are submitted to the HLC every four years. VU submitted its first AQIP Portfolio to the HLC in 2008.

    Every seven years, the HLC sends a visiting team to the University, reviews evidence of positive participation in all AQIP activities, and awards schools reaffirmation of accreditation. Vincennes University's received reaffirmation of accreditation in June of 2011.

    For further information, click on the link above.

  • EFTF (Educational Futures Task Force)
    If you have questions about EFTF, contact your division representatives. A listing of EFTF committee members is located on the EFTF web page or contact your Division Office.

  • Dual Credit and Early College
    For information about Project EXCEL, Project LINK, Early College, and X-mester, please click on the link above.

  • FoE (Foundations of Excellence)
    The following is a list of frequently asked questions about FoE:

    What is it? An assessment of the first year of college.

    How long does it take? 9 -12 months.

    Who is involved? Everyone! A group of 71 faculty, staff and students collected data on first-year students and services and evaluated the data from nine different dimensions.

    What does the process look like?
    1. Using the Current Practices Inventory (supplied by FoE) VU collected and recorded information and data about our new students.
    2. All VU employees completed a survey known as the FoE Faculty/Staff Survey. This survey revealed faculty and staff perceptions related to the first year.
    3. All first-year students completed the FoE New Student Survey. This survey gave students the opportunity to comment on the institutional environment.
    4. Over the course of the year, the 9 Dimension Teams looked at 9 different aspects (Dimensions) of the first year.

    What is the end product? A report on the 9 Dimensions that includes an implementation plan for improvement of the first year. The final report is attached above.

  • Strategic Plan
    This link will take you to the VU Strategic Planning web site. VU has recently updated the Strategic Plan, which will be posted soon.

Technology


  • Computer Issues
    General Questions - Check with Division Office
    Technical Problems with computer or software - Management Information Center (MIC) (4332)
    Access issues for Banner or MyVU - MIC (4332)
    Questions about Banner registration - Registrar's Office (4220)
    Blackboard questions - Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) (5611)

  • Technology in the Classroom
    For assistance with Smart Classroom equipment or other instructional technology - Call the Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) at 5611. Your mentor may also be able to assist you with the classroom equipment.

  • Connecting to the Wireless Network
    There are two types of wireless connections on VU campuses. First, an open connection is available for faculty, staff, and students. Please contact the MIC Department for the password for this connection (4332). This is a less secure connection.

    For a more secure wireless connection, faculty and staff can bring their laptops to the MIC. The staff at MIC will then configure the laptop for the connection.






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Johnson appointed VU Provost and Vice President of Instructional Services/Dean of Faculty

May 14, 2012

VINCENNES, Ind. - Charles R. Johnson has been appointed as Vincennes
University Provost and Vice President of Instructional Services/Dean of
Faculty, according to an announcement by VU President Dick Helton.

Johnson’s appointment follows a six-month national search following the
resignation of Dr. Ronald Davis to become vice president and chief academic
officer at John Wood Community College in Quincy, Ill., last October.
Johnson will replace Robert A. Slayton, former dean of the Learning
Resources Center, who has served as interim provost.

Johnson comes to VU from Purdue University, West Lafayette, where he most
recently served as director of three specialty master’s degree programs,
including Weekend MBA, Master of Science in Finance, and the new Master of
Science in Accounting that will be introduced this fall.  He has taught
courses at both the undergraduate and graduate level.

Since 2007 he has served as a consultant to American University of the
Middle East, Kuwait, where he has provided support in the launch of an
evening MBA program, undergraduate business programs, and admissions,
student services, administrative functions, and faculty recruitment.  Since
2010 he has served on the University’s Board of Trustees.

Johnson previously served as director of the Purdue Krannert School of
Management’s Executive Education Program, director of its Master’s and
Executive Programs, and director of its Professional Master’s Programs.

Prior to joining Purdue in 1998, Johnson served as manager of Training and
Development for National City Corporation and National City Bank, a Fortune
500 financial services company based in Cleveland, Ohio.

While completing his master’s degree in Business Administration at Bowling
Green State University (1987), Johnson served as a manager and later as the
director of two residence halls and conference housing.  In his nearly 11
years at Bowling Green, he also served as director of Undergraduate
Studies/Program Advisement and director of Graduate Studies in Business in
the College of Business Administration.

In addition to his master’s degree, Johnson holds a bachelor’s degree in
Economics from Indiana State University (1984) and is pursuing his
doctorate in Higher Education Administration from Purdue University.

“I am delighted to be joining Vincennes University.  As a native of
Southwestern Indiana, I have had many connections with VU in the past,
including dozens of family and friends who are VU alumni, and I have always
had a favorable impression,” Johnson said.  “Yet the more I learn about VU,
the more impressive it is.  President Helton, along with the faculty,
staff, and students I have met, give me great confidence that VU is
well-positioned to build on its traditions of innovation, academic
excellence, and engagement.  It is an interesting time for all of us in
higher education and I look forward to working with the entire VU community
to address the challenges we will face as we strive to continue meeting the
evolving needs of the people of this region and the state of Indiana.”

VU President Dick Helton said that he believes that Johnson has an
excellent background for his new position.  “I am delighted that Chuck has
such a wide range of both academic and business experience, including
teaching, curriculum development, and student services.  His international
education leadership and his record of achievement at one of the most
respected management schools in the nation make him ideally qualified to
serve in this important position at Vincennes University.  I look forward
to working with him,” Helton said.

VINCENNES UNIVERSITY - Indiana’s First College

VU is state-supported with campuses in Vincennes and Jasper and additional
sites such as Indianapolis and the Gibson County Center for Advanced
Manufacturing and Logistics.  VU also offers instruction at military sites
throughout the nation.

In addition to offering 200 associate degree and certificate programs, VU
also offers bachelor’s degree programs in technology, homeland security,
nursing, secondary education programs in mathematics and, science, and
special education/elementary education.

VU enrolls students from throughout Indiana, 28 other states, and 30
countries.  Tuition and fees are the lowest among Indiana campuses with
residence halls.  VU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the
North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Founded in 1801, VU is Indiana’s first college and is the only college in
the nation founded by an individual who would later become President of the
United States.  William Henry Harrison, the ninth U.S. President, founded
VU while serving as governor of the Indiana Territory.  More information is
available at www.vinu.edu.

Top

VU moves forward with $15.6 million in campus projects

May 11, 2012

VINCENNES, Ind. - A campus already cited for its beauty and accessibility
will soon be enhanced as the result of six new projects valued at $15.6
million.

Vincennes University hosted the Indiana Commission for Higher Education
Thursday and Friday.  The visit included tours, meetings, and a
presentation by VU President Dick Helton that highlighted VU’s initiatives
on campus and throughout the state.  Today the Commission approved $3.8
million for a new VU Art Center, $4.25 million for renovating Morris
Residence Hall, and almost $3.1 million for renovating Vanderburgh
Residence Hall.  In addition, the Commission also approved three other
projects that are underway, or are soon to be underway at VU.  They include
a $2 million renovation project for the five-story section of the
Technology Center, a $1.6 million renovation project for the Welsh
Administration Building, and a $900,000 project to relocate the Jerry
Blemker Baseball Field to a site near the intersection of Old Terre Haute
Road and Niblack Blvd.

“Members of the Commission for Higher Education were very complimentary
about our campus and facilities.  With these additional investments, I am
confident that VU will continue its leadership in offering students some of
the best higher education assets in Indiana.  I appreciate the Commission’s
continued support for Vincennes University,” said Helton.

Phil Rath, vice president of Financial Services and Government Relations,
said he was pleased with the Commission’s visit to VU and that that members
spoke highly of VU during their visit to campus.  “One of the new
commission members, Eileen O’Neil Odum, told me that she thought that VU
was one of the best-maintained campuses she has visited.  Another new
member, Chris LaMothe, told me he was very impressed with the technology
offered to our students,” Rath said.

The $3.8 million Art Center will be located on College Avenue between Third
and Fourth streets, across the street from the Dayson Foundation and Alumni
Center.  The new 15,224 square-foot facility will include new equipment and
technology for art instruction as well as a small gallery for exhibiting
student works.  It will replace the current Art Annex Building at the
corner of Third and Scott streets.

The renovations to both Morris and Vanderburgh Halls total just over $7
million.  Both projects include energy efficiency and electrical system
upgrades as well as complete upgrades of HVAC systems to improve air
quality, control, and comfort.  Vanderburgh Hall will have all exterior
windows replaced and Morris Hall will have an upgrade to the exterior skin
of the building.  Both projects are funded by revenue bonds supported by
housing operation revenue.

Vanderburgh Hall currently houses 432 students in 216 rooms and Morris Hall
houses 378 students in 189 rooms.

The $1.6 million Welsh Administration Building renovation will include a
new entry and a canopy that will connect the building to Governor’s Hall.
An elevator will also be added to the three-story section of the building.

The $2 million renovation of the five-story section of the Technology
Building will include upgrading restrooms, fire sprinkler system, and the
internal structure.  It is the first phase of modernizing the building that
originally was an industrial facility.

“Taken together, these projects are a major step forward for the campus.
In addition to changing the face of the campus, these projects will improve
quality of instruction and residence life, enhancing the total student
experience.  They will make VU more attractive to prospective students and
that is important in this competitive market,” Rath said.

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Student creations are a real “glass” act

April 27, 2012

Vincennes University students demonstrated glass working techniques and
exhibited their creations during an open house on April 27 at the McCormick
Science Center.

Janesa Henry, Wheatland, is one of about 20 students enrolled in the
Scientific and Decorative Glass Working class.  She is a Physical Therapist
Assistant major at VU and said that she chose to take the science class
because it sounded like fun and didn’t require any previous experience.  “I
thought it would be a nice diversion from my health studies.”  The daughter
of J.R. and Tracy Henry, Henry is a 2009 graduate of South Knox High
School.

Chemistry Professor Jay Bardole has taught the course for more than 40
years and his impending retirement was another reason that Henry cited for
taking the class.  “I’ve always heard such good things about Professor
Bardole and I knew that this would be my last opportunity to take one of
his classes,” she said.

The Scientific and Decorative Glass Working class focuses on the
fundamentals of working with glass tubing and rods.  The techniques covered
in the class introduce students to the “feel” of handling glass; shaping
glass tubing, and crocheting glass rods.  Throughout the class, students
produce a scientific project, an art project, and a project of their
choice.

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Community leader honored with VU award for service

April 27, 2012

VINCENNES, Ind. - Rowe D. Sargent was cited as a “servant leader” as he
received Vincennes University’s 2012 Walter A. Davis Memorial Citation for
Service at a banquet on April 26 at the Green Activities Center.  The
Citation was presented by the VU Alumni Association.

Rob McLin, CEO and president of Good Samaritan Hospital, said he grew up
near the Sargent farm.  “His devotion to being a really good human being
and helping others, through all his mission trips throughout the world, is
a testament to his values as a person,” McLin said.  Citing his service on
the boards of the North Knox School Corporation and Good Samaritan
Hospital, McLin said that Sargent’s “insight and common sense approach to
leadership has really been helpful and appreciated.”

Rowe’s daughter Susan Brocksmith, professor of business management at VU,
said her father “is a shining example of how to make a difference in both
our community and our country - he is a true example of what it means to be
a servant leader.”  She concluded her remarks by noting that “our community
would not be the place it is today without you.”

In presenting the citation, VU President Dick Helton said that Sargent is
an example of a leader who “has a passion for what he does and a compassion
for those he serves.”

The Walter A. Davis Memorial Citation for Service is awarded annually to a
VU alumnus or to a resident of the greater VU community and recognizes not
only the recipient’s professional achievements, but also civic leadership
and contributions.  Recipients are selected from nominees submitted by
alumni and the public.

In offering his gratitude for the Davis Citation, Sargent said he has been
blessed to live in Knox County with his family, neighbors, and friends.
“My father-in-law taught me a lot.  One of the things he always said was
that public service is the price we pay for occupying space on Earth.  We
do have a responsibility to try to make our surroundings better for the
next generation,” Sargent said.

ROWE D. SARGENT

Sargent’s Christian faith is demonstrated in his mission trips to Albania,
Romania, Jamaica, Honduras, Nicaragua, Russia, and Mexico.  On a trip to
China, he and his wife Maridell delivered Bibles from Beijing to Urumji,
and inland cities.  Sargent has been active on the Mission Committee at
Bethel Church in Freelandville and currently serves as deacon.  He loans
cargo trailers for church groups and individuals who are going on mission
trips, or hauling food and supplies for North Knox Social Ministries.  He
also has participated in the Emmaus Walk.

Sargent has served 15 years on the North Knox School Board.  His interest
and concern for young people and the 4-H program has led him to continue
his service on the Knox County Fair Board.  He also has been active in the
Bicknell Kiwanis and helps with the annual Labor Day Parade.  Sargent has
been affiliated with the Knox County Chamber of Commerce for numerous years
and has spent several years on the VU Community Services Committee.  This
past year he ran for County Commissioner with the aim to help make Knox
County a stronger and better place in which to live and work.  As a result
of being a Commissioner, he serves on the Good Samaritan Hospital Board of
Governors, the Knox County Development Commission, and the Knox County
Drainage Board.

Sargent started farming near Bicknell - hogs and cattle, plus corn, and
later soybeans.  He is a former president of the Knox County Swine
Committee and he assisted in establishing the Knox County Corn Growers
organization, of which he was president for two years.  Sargent also has
served on the National Growers Board for nine years where he has served as
vice president of the National Corn Growers Field Services Committee as
well as chairing the National Corn Growers Yield Contest.  He also made
yearly trips to Washington, D.C., to lobby for the National Corn Growers.

Sargent has served on the Sheriff’s Merit Board as well as the Knox County
Health Board.  He has sold Pioneer seed corn and soybeans to local farmers,
winning some awards for his sales volume.  He currently works with Craig
Williams of Oaktown as a Pioneer Seed representative.

Sargent just completed his term as the national president of the Fellowship
of Christian Farmers International which is based in Lexington, Illinois.
This organization sponsors many mission trips and organizes humanitarian
projects to help farmers in the United States who have sustained damage and
loss due to tornadoes, floods, and hurricanes.  The group builds fences,
distributes hay, repairs buildings, rounds up livestock, and performs other
acts of assistance.  FCFI also was active in Haiti after the earthquake.
This organization has projects in Albania, Mexico, Greece, Russia, and
Jamaica, as well as special outreach assignments at various agricultural
fairs, machinery shows, and the Future Farmers of America Annual
Convention.

Sargent is a graduate of Sandborn High School.  He enlisted in the Navy,
spent time in an electronics school, and served two years aboard the
aircraft carrier USS Lexington.  He traveled to the Far East, making stops
in Hawaii, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Guam, Okinawa, and Japan.  He was
also stationed in Iwakuni, Japan, for two years as a radar technician in a
flight crew that flew missions along the Chinese and Russian coasts.  He
married Maridell (Miller) Sargent in 1958 between deployments.  Mrs.
Sargent was named the recipient of the Walter A. Davis Memorial Citation
for Service in 2000.

Rowe and his wife, Maridell, are the parents of two children, Mark Sargent
(Deanna), and Susan Brocksmith (Mike).  They have four grandchildren,
Patrick and Chris Sargent, and Victoria and Casandra Brocksmith.

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Vincennes University Commencement features New York Times best-selling author Ira Wagler

April 23, 2012

VINCENNES, Ind.—New York Times best-selling author Ira Wagler will return
home to receive an Honorary Doctorate of Letters during Vincennes
University’s 206th Commencement on April 28. Both Wagler and VU President
Dick Helton will address the Class of 2012.

The author of the book “Growing Up Amish: A Memoir” (Tyndale House
Publishers, 2011), Wagler is a 1991 VU alumnus who holds a bachelor’s
degree in English from Bob Jones University (1993) and a law degree from
Dickinson School of Law (1997).

Wagler practiced law with the firm of Clymer & Musser, Lancaster, PA from
1997 to 2001 before beginning a career as general manager of Graber Supply,
LLC, Pole Building Supplier and Builder, Atglen, PA. Speaking of his
co-career as a writer, Wagler says on his website, “This I will do or die
trying. Actually, it’s just now all coming down, unfolding as you read
this. It’s been a wild, wild ride, far beyond anything I could have
imagined.“

Wagler describes his memoir as a “journey at its core no different than
many coming of age journeys.” Inspired by his favorite writer, Thomas
Wolfe, Wagler’s book is a true story of self-discovery and seeking where he
belongs. The epilogue to his book concludes, “I have no regrets for the
road I chose. And I rarely wonder how life would have been on the road not
taken.”


Born in 1961 in the small Old Order Amish community of Aylmer, Ontario,
Wagler’s book creates a vivid portrait of Amish life from childhood to his
decision to leave the Amish community for good at age 26. In between,
beginning at age 17, Ira left and then returned to the community numerous
times over five years, torn between his heritage and the freedom and
possibilities of the outside world. The book describes a difficult path
with “years of turmoil, rage, and anguish.” The 9th child out of 11
children, Wagler dedicated his book to his mother, Ida Mae, who “never
wavered in her deep love for all her children, even—and maybe
especially—for her wayward sons.”


Prior to enrolling at VU, Wagler received his GED from Washington High
School in 1989, having only completed the 8th grade in an Amish one-room
school in Aylmer, Ontario.

An avid hiker along the Tacquon Trail, completing as much as 12 miles in a
day, Wagler is also a big fan of football, especially the New York Jets
since 1981, as well as Nascar and baseball.  Wagler also enjoys reading,
writing and describes himself as a “charcoal grill purist.“ Wagler
continues to work in “tidbits on the Great American Novel.“

VU’s Commencement will be televised live on WVUT-TV beginning at 2 p.m. EDT
on April 28.

VINCENNES UNIVERSITY - Indiana’s First College

VU is state-supported with campuses in Vincennes and Jasper and additional
sites such as Indianapolis and the Gibson County Center for Advanced
Manufacturing and Logistics.  VU also offers instruction at military sites
throughout the nation.

In addition to offering 200 associate degree and certificate programs, VU
also offers bachelor’s degree programs in technology, homeland security,
nursing, secondary education programs in mathematics and, science, and
special education/elementary education.

VU enrolls students from throughout Indiana, 28 other states, and 30
countries.  Tuition and fees are the lowest among Indiana campuses with
residence halls.  VU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the
North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Founded in 1801, VU is Indiana’s first college and is the only college in
the nation founded by an individual who would later become President of the
United States.  William Henry Harrison, the ninth U.S. President, founded
VU while serving as governor of the Indiana Territory.  More information is
available at www.vinu.edu.

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