Vincennes University trustees received updates on campus improvements, finances, workforce development programs and academic offerings during the Board of Trustees meeting Wednesday.
One of the major projects discussed was a planned addition t0 Beckes Park on the Vincennes campus.
Director of Architectural Services and Facilities Andrew Young outlined plans for the park, which is located near the Welsh Administration Building and Governor’s Hall and across from the recently opened $33.9 million Center for Health Sciences and Learning Innovation.
The centerpiece of the project will be a 20-foot sculpture featuring the university’s V-U logo with a flame in the center.
Plans call for the park to include brick and concrete pavers, planters designed to maintain natural elements within the space, improvements to pedestrian crosswalks and additional walkways to improve access to nearby parking areas.
VU President Dr. Chuck Johnson said the redesign will enhance a prominent area of campus.
Construction is expected to be completed in September 2026.
Trustees also received a mid-cycle budget update from Vice President for Financial Services Conya Wampler and Associate Vice President of Budget and Finance Travis Linneweber as the university approaches the midpoint of the current biennium.
University officials reported that VU has remained financially stable through management of hiring, ongoing reviews of processes and expenses, and efforts to secure external funding opportunities.
The board also heard an update on workforce development efforts in Jackson County.
Vice President of Workforce Development and Community Services David Tucker and Director of Industrial Maintenance Training Jerry Ruble discussed the university’s partnership with the Jackson County Learning Center. They were joined by Jackson County Industrial Development Corporation Executive Director Jim Plump, Community Foundation of Jackson County President and CEO Dan Davis, and VU Site Director and Instructor Brian Sawyers.
University officials said VU has provided training for 14 Jackson County employer partners through the learning center. Training programs focus on Basic Mechanical, Basic Electrical, Intermediate Mechanical and Intermediate Electrical instruction.
Since November 2023, 100 individuals have participated in training programs. A total of 199 certificates have been awarded, and 20 individuals have completed all four classes currently offered through the program.
In other business, trustees approved suspending 12 degrees or certificates and deleting four degrees that university officials said are no longer active or relevant. University leaders said the action is intended to help ensure academic programs remain aligned with workforce demand and student interest.
Board Chairman Mike Sievers also congratulated Jaci Lederman on her appointment as Provost, Vice President of Instructional Services and Dean of Faculty.
Sievers thanked Adam Watkins, who is stepping down as Assistant Vice President and Dean, for his service to the university. He also recognized Assistant Dean of Academic and Student Services Alli Tempel, who will begin serving as interim dean on June 26.
