University of Evansville.

This past December, the University of Evansville was awarded not one but two grants from the Lilly Endowment Inc., totaling more than $15 million. Making a world of difference is exactly what the university intends to do with these generous grants, a difference that starts right here in Indiana.

The university is using this money to establish two innovative programs, both of which will strengthen Indiana's workforce and position the state as an integral component in the global economy.

The University of Evansville's Institute for Global Enterprise in Indiana is being established within the School of Business Administration so that its students will develop a strong understanding of the interconnected nature of the world's economy and an even stronger understanding of the role the state of Indiana must play in it. Through the institute, Evansville business students will participate in an action-based curriculum steeped in pertinent experiences, embracing four paramount tenets:

* Investigating the American corporation

* Initiating an entrepreneurial business

* Interning for real-world experience

* Integrating business principles in a capstone consultancy

The result will be competent, prepared students who understand what it takes to achieve success and who are excellent resources for Indiana businesses--talk about a win-win situation.

University of Evansville students will receive a progressive, relevant, experience-based education that makes sound business sense as they prepare to be leaders in commerce and trade. Likewise, Indiana's business community will prosper as these competent, prepared graduates enter the workforce with a real understanding of how the state must be connected to the rest of the world's economy. The Institute for Global Enterprise in Indiana will also serve as a resource center for businesses, helping them to successfully compete and thrive statewide and worldwide through increased expertise and knowledge.

University of Evansville President Stephen Jennings was joined on campus by Sara B. Cobb, Lilly Endowment Inc. vice president for education, when this monumental announcement was made. Said Jennings, "The institute will accentuate the University of Evansville's strengths in international studies...