For more than 30 years, the Senior Academy has supported the campus and community, started scholarships for students, and created funds to keep these scholarships going.

On IU Day, April 22 , Senior Academy members are invited to continue that tradition by helping IU Indianapolis students cross the finish line toward their academic goals. Every gift, large or small, can make a meaningful difference. 

This year, the Senior Academy is joining the IU Day crowdfunding campaign* to increase support for the Senior Academy General Scholarship Fund. The campaign runs April 1-22, 2026, and contributions can be made online.

Although it is the Academy’s smallest endowed fund, the General Scholarship has awarded 20 scholarships totaling $52,500 since its creation. Among the Academy’s three scholarship funds—the IPS Scholarship, the Returning Student Scholarship, and the General Scholarship—this fund faces the highest demand and offers the most flexible eligibility criteria.

The General Scholarship focuses on helping students complete their final year, a stage when financial barriers can derail academic progress. Last year, nearly 50 qualified students applied. Responding to evolving needs, the Academy recently expanded eligibility to include graduate-level support for students in accelerated bachelor’s and master’s programs, where funding options are especially limited.

Despite this demand, the fund currently generates only enough income to award one $3,000 scholarship each year. Additional contributions are essential to expanding its reach, while returning students and IPS scholars continue to be supported through the Academy’s other funds.

Now in its 10th year, IU Day offers a unique opportunity to multiply generosity. All first‑time gifts to IU of $25–$500 will be matched , effectively doubling the impact.

The Senior Academy’s goal for IU Day is $5,000 , and early momentum is strong: the Board of Directors has already committed $3,000 toward that goal.

Participation is always appreciated and never expected. By supporting this year’s IU Day campaign, Senior Academy members can help ensure that IU Indianapolis remains a place where opportunity, persistence, and excellence thrive.

Those who prefer to give by U.S. mail may request a printable gift form from Christine Fitzpatrick at ude[dot]ui[at]tapztifc.

*The IU Day campaign is supported by the IU Foundation that solicits tax-deductible private contributions for the benefit of Indiana University and is registered to solicit charitable contributions in all states requiring registration. For their full disclosure statement, see go.iu.edu/89n.

**Until $70,000 matching funds run out.

Aina Puce (Photo: Shanti Knight)

Wednesday, April 8, 2 – 3:30 p.m.  In this hybrid program, offered both in-person on the Bloomington campus and online on Zoom, Dr. Aina Puce will discuss the research for her pending book with co-author Riitta Hari, Art & Brain: Experiencing the Visual Arts (London: Oxford University Press), in preparation for a June 2026 deadline. Dr. Puce is Eleanor Cox Riggs Professor, Psychological and Brain Sciences Department at IU Bloomington. She will briefly discuss how we: (1) evolved to become modern humans, (2) developed unique cultures and styles of art based on our geographical locales, and (3) use our brain's existing perceptual, cognitive, motor and emotional brain systems to not only appreciate the cultural and artistic offerings of others, but also to produce creative visual arts ourselves. The program is organized by the Indiana University Retirees Association (IURA) on the Bloomington campus and is co-sponsored by IURA and the Senior Academy at IU Indianapolis.

Join in the way that works best for you: 

Online:  Registration is a two-step process. Follow this link to register on the Senior Academy website. You then will be directed to a link to also register on the IURA website. A Zoom link will be emailed to all registered participants ahead of the program. 

In person: Gather on the Bloomington campus in the Peterson Room at the IU Foundation, 1500 IN‑46, Bloomington, IN 47408.

Founded in 1975, the Indiana University Retirees Association (IURA) was created to connect retired faculty and staff with meaningful social, educational and community opportunities. Today, the IURA continues to serve as a vital link to Indiana University, helping members stay informed about issues that affect them while offering a collective voice in conversations with the university. Just as importantly, it provides a welcoming way to maintain friendships and connections with former colleagues.

At its heart, the IURA is a social organization that brings people together through engaging programs and shared experiences. At the same time, it advocates for retiree benefits and fosters communication between members, active faculty and staff and university leadership. Membership includes retired IU faculty and staff, IU Foundation retirees and their spouses or partners.

Members receive eight newsletters annually, a directory and can stay connected online through the IURA website .

Joseph N. Hingtgen, a distinguished psychologist and educator, passed away on March 9, 2026, at age 89. Over more than four decades at the Indiana University School of Medicine, he shaped generations of students and colleagues, ultimately earning the title of Professor Emeritus. A founding member of Marian University’s Department of Psychology, he devoted his life to advancing scholarship and nurturing future professionals. Joe was also a cherished lifetime member of the Senior Academy — a former Board member, a loyal presence at our gatherings and a gracious host who welcomed us to Robin Run, where he and his wife, Eleanor, made their home. He leaves behind a legacy of intellect, kindness and steadfast commitment to community. (With appreciation to Mark Grove)

Rebecca “Becky” Van Voorhis, Associate Professor Emerita in the School of Social Work at Indiana University Indianapolis, passed away on March 8, 2026. She is remembered for her dedicated service to the university and community. A passionate and engaged faculty member, she contributed to academic leadership and supported diverse faculty initiatives. During a sabbatical in Kenya with the AMPATH Program — followed by several return trips — she shared her expertise to improve the lives of persons with HIV/AIDS. Her scholarship addressed key issues in social work, including the experiences of incarcerated mothers, LGBTQ+ individuals and effective teaching practices. A lifetime member of the Senior Academy and delightful contrarian, Becky initiated our collaboration with Spirit & Place and will be remembered for her commitment and contributions. (With appreciation to Michael Patchner and Mark Grove)