November 03, 2025

Vincennes University Launches SPARK Awards to Recognize Trailblazers Who Inspire and Uplift

VINCENNES, Ind. – Vincennes University reinforced its commitment to its dedicated faculty and staff by highlighting the ongoing success and strategic significance of the critical daily efforts that often go unnoticed but are essential to supporting student success in a rapidly evolving higher education landscape.

Vincennes University, as an employer, is known for investing in employee well-being, professional growth, and recognition that keep the spirit of service and innovation alive. From professional development programs and milestone service awards to employee appreciation initiatives, VU continues to foster a culture of encouragement and gratitude.
Now, the University is taking that commitment one step further with the launch of the
SPARK Awards, a new recognition program that celebrates individuals whose “spark” shines brightly.  

“The SPARK Awards honor the people who make Vincennes University extraordinary,” says Jaci Lederman, Interim Provost of Vincennes University. “They represent the heart of who we are, a community driven by service, passion, and resilience. By celebrating these values, we’re recognizing excellence and also reinforcing a culture that helps foster momentum of creativity, dedication, and strengthens connections across all our campus locations.” 

SPARK: The Meaning Behind the Name

The awards’ name doubles as an acronym that reflects the University’s Trailblazer identity:

Service • Passion • Achievement • Resilience • Kindness

Each category honors members of the VU community who embody these values in distinct ways:

Spark of Service: Recognizing those who exemplify servant leadership, volunteerism, and a spirit of giving back.

Spark of Passion: Celebrating individuals who bring extraordinary energy, enthusiasm, and inspiration to their work or studies.

Spark of Achievement: Honoring those who reach outstanding academic, professional, or personal milestones that uplift the VU community.

Spark of Resilience: Highlighting those who overcome challenges, demonstrate perseverance, and inspire others to move forward.

Spark of Kindness: Commending members of the VU community who model compassion, inclusion, and everyday heroism.

Nomination Process: Employees can nominate themselves or their peers by simply submitting a nomination through the University’s VU-x system.  They’ll share a brief story or example of how the nominee embodies one of the SPARK values. Winners will be recognized publicly, and their stories will be shared across internal and external platforms to inspire others. 

By launching the SPARK Awards, Vincennes University continues to strengthen its culture of belonging, gratitude, and purpose, ensuring that no matter the pressures facing higher education, every Trailblazer feels seen, valued, and supported.

In today's fast-paced environment, where everyone can seem disconnected or perpetually too busy, it's profoundly refreshing to pause and reflect on the amazing way our faculty and staff continue to carry out the Trailblazer mission.VU is choosing to celebrate resilience and that extra umph,” Lederman said. “That’s what keeps the spark alive.”