THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN INDIANA has named one of its own as its fifth President—Steven J. Bridges '89 M'95, a two-time USI graduate whose 36-year career on campus has shaped nearly every corner of the institution.
President Bridges began his journey at USI in 1989 as a Staff Accountant and steadily rose through the ranks, eventually overseeing the University's entire Finance and Administration operation. "The extraordinary education I received at USI has prepared me well and will continue to take center stage for our students," he said. "As a Screaming Eagle, and one of more than 54,000 alumni, I am determined to continue to share the care and concern I received as a student and am proof of the transformative nature of higher education." As Vice President for Finance and Administration, Bridges led the largest bond issuance in school history and secured a record-low rate for another. He implemented the campus-wide Banner system on time and on budget, chaired key committees to strengthen fiscal stewardship and helped USI avoid layoffs during the COVID-19 pandemic—a major accomplishment in higher education at that time.
Known for getting things done, he's just as committed to serving others. A longtime Girl Scouts supporter and community volunteer, Bridges lives in Henderson, Kentucky, with his wife Rosemary. They have three adult children, four grandchildren and a fifth on the way. The Bridges plan to move into the University Home once renovations are complete.
