Indianapolis, Indiana – Faculty and staff at the University of Indianapolis continued their commitment to public service throughout the month of July, offering expert insights on a wide range of issues to both local and national media. From rising back-to-school costs to groundbreaking academic research, UIndy scholars and professionals demonstrated how academic institutions can play a vital role in informing the public and shaping conversations around current events.
Rooted in the university’s mission of “education for service,” these efforts reflect a broader initiative to connect classroom knowledge with real-world impact. Whether through live TV interviews, print features, or published studies, UIndy experts have contributed timely perspectives that help the public better understand the world around them.
Connecting Employers with Tomorrow’s Talent
Jessica Sremanak, director of employer engagement at UIndy, appeared on both WISH-TV and WTHR to talk about the upcoming Meet UIndy event. Her segment focused on how the event creates direct connections between employers and students, offering companies a chance to meet the next generation of job seekers and helping students explore potential career paths.
Tackling the High Cost of Back-to-School Season
As families across the country brace for another expensive back-to-school season, Dr. Matt Will, associate professor of finance, lent his financial expertise to WXIN and additional stations across Indiana, including WEHT. In his interview, Dr. Will offered practical tips for parents trying to manage rising costs. He also took part in multiple live interviews with Tony Katz on WIBC, where he discussed broader financial issues affecting Indiana households.
Advancing Physical Therapy Research
Three UIndy faculty and former faculty members were recognized for their published research in the National Library of Medicine. Dr. Jill Henderzahs-Mason and Dr. Paul Salamh, both faculty in UIndy’s School of Physical Therapy, along with former associate professor Dr. Heidi Ewen, collaborated on a study exploring how physical therapists’ beliefs and knowledge impact their approach to health promotion, wellness, and disease prevention. Their work adds valuable insight to how outpatient physical therapy can contribute to preventative care strategies in clinical settings.
Studying Ancient Volcanoes with Modern Tools
In the field of geoscience, Dr. Leah Courtland, associate professor and chair of the Physics & Earth-Space Science Department, had research published in the Journal of Applied Volcanology. Her study examines how ground-penetrating radar can help scientists document volcanic cones that erupted over 100,000 years ago. The findings contribute to our understanding of ancient volcanic activity and the tools used to study Earth’s geological history.
Recognition Among Indiana’s Most Influential
University President Dr. Tanuja Singh received statewide recognition when she was named to the Indiana 250 list by the Indianapolis Business Journal. The list honors the 250 most influential leaders in business, government, nonprofit work, and higher education. Her inclusion underscores the growing impact of UIndy’s leadership both within the academic community and throughout the state of Indiana.
Political Insight on Immigration Legislation
In the realm of politics and public policy, Dr. Gregory Shufeldt, associate professor of political science, offered expert commentary to the Indianapolis Star regarding the political backlash faced by U.S. Rep. Marlin Stutzman. The congressman had voiced support for legislation that would allow undocumented farm workers to obtain legal status—a move that sparked debate within his party. Dr. Shufeldt’s analysis helped readers understand the broader implications of immigration policy and partisan dynamics in Indiana.
Encouraging a Culture of Public Engagement
These media contributions reflect just a sample of the ongoing work UIndy faculty and staff are doing behind the scenes. By participating in public discussions and sharing their work with broader audiences, they are helping to close the gap between academia and everyday life.
The Office of Communications and Marketing encourages other faculty and staff to share their media appearances by emailing [email protected]. Their stories may be featured in future updates and serve as further proof that expert voices from higher education can make a difference far beyond campus.
As July’s highlights show, the University of Indianapolis continues to be a place where knowledge meets action—one expert at a time.
