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University of Evansville Expanding Online Learning with $1 Million Grant

Indiana's University of Evansville is developing its online education and learning efforts thanks to a $1 million grant from Lilly Endowment. The university will use the funds to "implement major initiatives that will enhance the campus as well as the online learning environment," according to a news announcement.

UE's plans include:

  • Creating an Office of Strategic Technology and Online Learning with the Office of Academic Affairs, which will "lead the University's efforts in developing online education that ensures the same high-quality experience offered through the in-person experience," as well as provide training opportunities and support for faculty;
  • Renovating classrooms on campus so that courses can be broadcast to regional businesses, adult learners working remotely and international locations;
  • Investing in software solutions for the online learning environment, such as exam security, video capture and synchronous course delivery;
  • Increasing efforts toward program and curricular development for online learning; and
  • Developing programs to offer undergraduate and graduate certificates, badges, non-credit professional development programs and new degree programs for adult learners.

"This generous gift we have received from Lilly Endowment will help us transform the educational experience of our students at the University of Evansville," said UE president Christopher M. Pietruszkiewicz, in a statement. "As the world of technology continues to evolve and shape education, we are committed to investing and developing our technological capabilities as a growing sector for the future."

"The worldwide pandemic has changed higher education profoundly, and many of these changes will be permanent," commented Michael Austin, executive vice president for academic affairs and provost at UE. "This generous grant from Lilly Endowment will help prepare us for the world that will exist long after COVID-19 has faded into the background."

About the Author

Rhea Kelly is editor in chief for Campus Technology, THE Journal, and Spaces4Learning. She can be reached at [email protected].

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