Indianapolis, Indiana – As part of its ongoing commitment to “education for service,” the University of Indianapolis (UIndy) has once again demonstrated its significant role in fostering public discourse by contributing expert analysis and perspectives to local and national news outlets. Throughout May 2025, UIndy faculty and staff were featured in a wide range of stories that covered diverse topics, from political analysis to financial trends and everything in between. Their contributions reflect the university’s commitment to keeping the community informed while offering valuable insights on current issues.
One of the notable contributions came from Dr. Brett Leonard, associate professor and director of music technology programs at UIndy, who shared his expertise during a live interview on WISH-TV. Dr. Leonard was on hand to discuss the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus, which had made a stop on the UIndy campus. The bus, a mobile studio that provides hands-on experiences for young musicians, is part of a national effort to inspire and educate students through music. Dr. Leonard invited the audience to experience the bus and learn more about how it offers young artists the tools to create music and foster creativity.
Another prominent UIndy figure to share their knowledge was Vince Bertram, assistant professor of business. Bertram provided an insightful definition of a startup business in the 2025 Innovation Issue of the Indianapolis Business Journal. His contribution highlighted the entrepreneurial spirit of startups and offered advice to aspiring business owners, emphasizing the importance of innovation in the business world. His words were part of a larger conversation about the future of Indiana’s business landscape.
Dr. Lacey Davidson, assistant professor of philosophy, and Dr. Gregory Shufeldt, associate professor of political science, worked together to pen a thought-provoking op-ed for the Indiana Capital Chronicle. Their article addressed the applied political philosophy course they co-taught and examined the limitations of the legislative session, which they argued often shuts out most Hoosiers from the policymaking process. The commentary, which was also republished in local outlets like the Dubois County Herald, was well-received for its insightful critique of Indiana’s political system. Additionally, Dr. Shufeldt provided expert analysis for the Indianapolis Star, where he commented on state lawmakers’ efforts to address non-bid contracts, offering a critical perspective on the transparency of government dealings.
UIndy’s influence extended beyond political analysis and business discussions. Janet Boyle, the director of the Rural Early College Network (RECN) for the Center of Excellence in Leadership of Learning (CELL), was quoted extensively throughout May as new high schools joined RECN. Boyle’s insights were shared in numerous publications, including WTWO, the Paper of Montgomery County, the Greensburg Daily News, the Terre Haute Tribune Star, and the Marion Chronicle-Tribune. Her coverage was part of a larger story on CELL’s efforts to expand access to early college programs and foster higher education opportunities for students in rural Indiana.
In the world of jazz, Dr. Mark O’Connor, associate professor and director of jazz studies, was celebrated for his remarkable performance during a Monday Night Jazz Jam session at The Jazz Kitchen. His performance earned him recognition from V13 Media Group, praising his ability to engage the audience with his talent and expertise. O’Connor’s musical contributions highlight the intersection of academia and the arts, offering students and community members a chance to experience live performances that exemplify the excellence fostered within UIndy’s jazz program.
UIndy faculty also provided valuable commentary on current political developments. Dr. Laura Merrifield Wilson, associate professor of political science, was featured multiple times as a guest on WXIN’s politically focused show, IN Focus. Wilson’s analysis delved into key issues surrounding the Indiana state legislature, including Gov. Mike Braun’s last-minute decisions to sign numerous bills before the legislative deadline. Her discussions also covered the tense town hall meeting featuring Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith, which was dissected for its political implications. Abdul-Hakim Shabazz, adjunct faculty member at UIndy, also contributed to IN Focus, bringing his political expertise to the forefront of state politics.
Further demonstrating UIndy’s community impact, head baseball coach Al Ready and his team made headlines for their ongoing support of pitcher Dawson Gabe’s fight against cancer. A story on WRTV highlighted the strength and resilience of Gabe and his teammates as they rallied together in support of their fellow Greyhound. This emotional story drew attention to the importance of community and solidarity, qualities that UIndy strives to instill in its students.
Dr. Milind Thakar, professor of international relations, contributed to the national conversation with an op-ed for American Kahani discussing India’s response to the recent Pahalgam massacre. His analysis provided an informed look at the diplomatic and political ramifications of the incident, offering readers a nuanced perspective on international relations.
Additionally, UIndy’s influence was felt in the music community as adjunct music faculty member Shawn McGowan was highlighted for his participation in the Music of Series by Do317. McGowan’s involvement in the series underscores UIndy’s dedication to cultivating talent and offering opportunities for its faculty to engage with the broader arts community.
In the realm of finance, Dr. Matt Will, associate professor of finance, provided analysis on important financial topics during multiple live interviews on WIBC. Will discussed the current state of the jobs market, the potential impact of a proposed cap on prescription drug prices, and the effects of Moody’s decision to downgrade the U.S. credit rating. His contributions to these discussions helped to clarify complex economic issues for listeners.
Finally, Emily Tisdale, executive director of the Center for Aging & Community, penned a timely op-ed on the importance of fall prevention as a public health priority. Her article, which was featured in multiple outlets such as the Hamilton County Reporter, the Jeffersonville News and Tribune, and the New Castle Courier-Times, highlighted the growing concern about the safety and well-being of aging populations and stressed the need for greater attention to this pressing issue.
Through these contributions, UIndy faculty and staff continue to play a pivotal role in public discourse, offering valuable insights and expertise to both local and national media. Their work exemplifies the university’s mission to provide education that serves not only its students but the broader community as well.
If you are a UIndy faculty or staff member who was recently featured in the media, the Office of Communications and Marketing invites you to share your achievements for inclusion in future updates.
