Managing IP Honors James Hayne and Nick Stewart on 2026 “Rising Stars” List

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James Hayne
Nick Stewart

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Aug. 13, 2026)—Managing Intellectual Property (Managing IP) magazine has named Stites & Harbison, PLLC attorneys James Hayne and Nick Stewart to its 2026 “Rising Stars” list. This is Hayne’s fifth time and Stewart’s fourth time being honored.

Managing IP recognizes the most highly regarded intellectual property attorneys in the U.S. and abroad in its annual “IP Stars” list. The “Rising Stars” list, based upon IP Stars submissions and research, is a separate publication that originated in 2018. Its purpose is to showcase up-and-coming IP practitioners who have made a significant contribution to the success of their firms and clients in more than 50 jurisdictions in the world, including the U.S.

Hayne is Counsel to Stites & Harbison and a Registered Patent Attorney based in the Louisville, Ky., office. His practice focuses on patent preparation and prosecution, both foreign and domestic. Hayne has extensive experience prosecuting utility patent applications covering a wide range of subject matter including electronic hardware and software, consumer goods, manufacturing equipment and products in the gaming industry. He also has experience prosecuting design patent applications for ornamental products such as home goods, toys and soft goods such as bags and clothing.

Stewart is a Member of the firm based in the Louisville, Ky., office. As a Registered Patent Attorney, his practice focuses heavily in patent preparation and prosecution. With a diverse technical background rooted in the fields of biotechnology, physics and computer science, Stewart routinely helps navigate clients with technologies across a broad array of technical fields towards patent protection. He also assists clients with preparing patentability analyses and freedom to operate opinions, licensing agreements, and trademark and copyright procurement.

About Stites & Harbison

Stites & Harbison, PLLC is a nationally recognized, full-service law firm. With 12 offices in eight states — Alabama, Connecticut, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee and Virginia — the firm represents clients across the United States and internationally. Tracing its origins to 1832, Stites & Harbison is known as a preeminent firm managing sophisticated transactions, challenging litigation and complex regulatory matters on a daily basis. For more information, visit www.stites.com.

Media Contact:

Kimberly G. Schmittel

Phone: 502-681-0463

Email: kschmittel@stites.com

United Airlines to Add Fourth Daily Nonstop Flight to Newark/New York

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New service expands Louisville departures, strengthening a critical link to New York and dozens of European destinations

Louisville, KY (August 27, 2026) – The Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) today announced that United Airlines will boost its Louisville schedule to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) with an additional nonstop flight seasonally during peak periods, growing from three to four total daily departures to Newark/New York starting Tuesday, September 8. The fourth daily flight will operate through November 30, 2026, and is scheduled to resume on March 4, 2027.

The additional frequency reflects sustained demand for travel between Louisville and the New York City region, which ranks as the second-largest market for Louisville travelers, with approximately 640 passengers flying between the two cities each day.

“This fourth daily flight to Newark continues to reflect the positive growth for our region’s travelers,” said Dan Mann, Executive Director of the Louisville Regional Airport Authority, which owns and operates Louisville’s airport. “Newark is one of United’s premier international gateways, and this additional flight means shorter, more convenient connections to dozens of destinations across Europe, in addition to serving one of our largest markets in New York City.”

Through Newark, United offers connections to more than 40 international destinations – providing travelers with even more options with this expanded schedule. United’s flights between Louisville and Newark/New York offer both United First and United Economy Plus seating, providing added comfort for travelers. This additional frequency marks United’s continued growth in Louisville – the airline now offers 18 peak-day departures to Chicago, Denver, Houston, Washington, D.C. as well as Newark/New York.

“United’s continued investment in Louisville is a vote of confidence in our community and our growing business and leisure travel demand,” added Mann. “Since 2019, United has grown its capacity at SDF by 42%, and we appreciate their dedication to expanding service that connects Louisville travelers to the world.”

Tickets for the new fourth daily Newark/New York flight, along with United’s full network of destinations, are available now at United.com or via United’s mobile app.

 

About Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF)
Owned and operated by the Louisville Regional Airport Authority, the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) is the state’s premier airport, serving more Kentuckians annually than any other airport in the Commonwealth. Seven commercial passenger airlines offer nonstop service to more than 40 nonstop destinations from Louisville. SDF is home to UPS Worldport, moving millions of tons of products each year, making it the no. 1 busiest cargo airport in North America and Top 5 in the world. Aviation is an economic powerhouse for the region that generates $12.8 billion in economic impact every year. One in 8 jobs is generated by SDF and Bowman Field and their aviation partners. Visit www.FlyLouisville.com to learn more.

 

Media Contact:

Natalie Chaudoin
Phone: (502) 363-8507
Email: Natalie.Chaudoin@FlyLouisville.com

Sanders Speaker Series featuring four-time Indy 500 champion Helio Castroneves

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(New Albany, Ind.) — Indiana University Southeast is proud to welcome legendary race car driver, Helio Castroneves, as the featured speaker for the 2026 Sanders Speaker Series at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, September 9th in the Stem Concert Hall located in the Paul W. Ogle Cultural and Community Center. One of the most recognizable personalities in motorsports, Castroneves will share his inspiring journey of perseverance, determination, and success both on and off the racetrack.

Castroneves has driven and danced his way into the hearts and minds of people around the world. As the only active driver to have earned the distinction of being a four-time Indy 500 winner and the only race car driver ever to become a “Dancing with the Stars” Champion, Castroneves in many ways is in a league of his own.

Castroneves, who became the first driver to win back-to-back Indy 500s in his first two starts at the Brickyard in 2001 and 2002 and won again in 2009 and 2021, is known for his signature victory celebration of climbing the fence after taking the checkered flag. His great attitude, signature smile and his outbursts of unbridled enthusiasm make him one of the true stars of motorsports. These attributes have helped land him on the pages of some of the top publications in the world including People, Newsweek, TV Guide, Esquire and Maxim.

In 2007, Castroneves brought his incredible passion for life to a much wider audience when he competed on ABC’s hit television show, “Dancing with the Stars.” The combination of his charismatic personality, dedicated training and his dancing skills won him the hearts of millions of new fans and the coveted Mirror Ball trophy. He has since parlayed his foray in the entertainment world into working as an occasional correspondent for “Entertainment Tonight.”

In May of 2010, Castroneves also released a popular book about his life and how he met its challenges titled “Victory Road – The Ride of My Life”. Due to its great success, the book was translated and was released in Brazil in November of 2011.

This event is free to attend, but a ticket will be required for entry. Limited tickets are available in the main and viewing areas.

 

 

Indiana University Southeast

Contact:  Nancy Jo Trafton

812-941-2676

ntrafton@iu.edu

 

Republic Bancorp Named to American Banker’s 2026 Top-Performing Banks List

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National recognition highlights Republic's strong financial performance, disciplined growth, and client-focused approach.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (August 20, 2026) – Republic Bancorp, Inc., parent company of Republic Bank & Trust Company (“Republic” or the “Bank”), has been recognized by American Banker as one of its Top-Performing Banks with $2 billion to $10 billion in assets.


The annual ranking, developed in partnership with Capital Performance Group, evaluates banks nationwide using key performance metrics including profitability, return on equity, net interest margin, and growth.


Banks recognized on this year’s list benefited from improved efficiency, strong lending performance, deposit growth, and expanded net interest margins. Capital Performance Group noted that top-performing institutions demonstrated broad-based financial strength and the ability to distinguish themselves in increasingly competitive markets.


“Being acknowledged among the nation’s top-performing banks is a testament to the dedication of our associates and the trust our clients place in us every day,” said Republic Bancorp Executive Chair Steve Trager. “This honor reflects our commitment to delivering strong financial performance while investing in our people, technology, and communities to help our clients thrive.”


The recognition underscores Republic’s continued financial strength and disciplined approach to growth, as well as its commitment to delivering innovative banking solutions and exceptional service across its markets.


“Recognition like this reinforces that we’re moving in the right direction, but our focus remains on what’s next,” said Logan Pichel, President and Chief Executive Officer of Republic Bank. “We’re not content with standing still. Every day, we’re looking for new ways to enhance the client experience, strengthen our markets, and position Republic Bank for continued success.”


In addition to this honor, Republic is proud to be recognized by numerous local and national organizations for its impact as a leading financial institution, committed community partner, and preferred employer. Recent noteworthy financial and banking accolades include S&P Global Market Intelligence Top 50 Community Bank (2026, 2025, 2024), Raymond James Community Banker’s Cup (2026,2025), Newsweek Best Regional Bank (2026, 2025, 2024), Forbes’ World’s Best Bank (2026), and more.



About Republic Bank
Republic Bancorp, Inc. (the “Company”) is the parent company of Republic Bank & Trust Company (the “Bank”). The Bank currently operates 47 banking centers within five metropolitan statistical areas (“MSAs”) across five states: 22 banking centers in the Louisville MSA, serving Louisville, Prospect, Shelbyville, and Shepherdsville, Kentucky, and Floyds Knobs, Jeffersonville, and New Albany, Indiana; six banking centers in the Lexington MSA, serving Georgetown and Lexington, Kentucky; eight banking centers in the Cincinnati MSA, serving Cincinnati and West Chester, Ohio, and Bellevue, Covington, Crestview Hills, and Florence, Kentucky; seven banking centers in the Tampa MSA, serving Largo, New Port Richey, St. Petersburg, Seminole, and Tampa, Florida; and four banking centers in the Nashville MSA, serving Franklin, Murfreesboro, Nashville, and Spring Hill, Tennessee. The Bank also offers online banking at www.republicbank.com. The Company is headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky and, as of June 30, 2026, had approximately $7.06 billion in total assets. The Company’s Class A Common Stock is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “RBCAA.”

Bass Group Commercial Facilitates Lease for Holy Burger’s New Jeffersonville Location

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JEFFERSONVILLE, Ind. — Bass Group Commercial is pleased to announce the successful lease of a new restaurant location for Holy Burger at 1487 E. 10th Street, Jeffersonville, Indiana.


The transaction was brokered by Rod Juarez of Bass Group Commercial, who represented Holy Burger in securing its newest location in this region. Matt Hill of Legacy Commercial Properties represented the property ownership in the lease transaction.


Holy Burger’s expansion to Jeffersonville brings another exciting dining option to one of the area’s up and coming commercial corridors. The new location will provide residents and visitors with convenient access to the restaurant’s popular menu while contributing to the continued growth and vibrancy of the East 10th Street business district.


“We’re excited to help Holy Burger establish its presence in Jeffersonville,” said Rod Juarez, Commercial Real Estate Broker with Bass Group Commercial. “This location offers excellent visibility and accessibility, making it a great fit for the restaurant’s continued growth. We appreciate the opportunity to work with Matt Hill and Legacy Commercial Properties to bring this transaction to a successful close.”


Bass Group Commercial continues to connect businesses with strategic locations throughout Southern Indiana and the Louisville metropolitan area, helping clients achieve their expansion and investment goals.


For more information about this project or other commercial real estate opportunities, please contact Bass Group Commercial at 502-552-1296.

First Merchants CEO Mark Hardwick Named to IBJ Media’s Indiana 250

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First Merchants Bank CEO Mark Hardwick was recently named to IBJ Media’s Indiana 250.

Each year, IBJ Media’s Indiana 250 recognizes the most influential leaders across the state in business, government, education, healthcare, nonprofit organizations, arts and entertainment, and more. Hardwick was recognized in the financial & business services category.

Hardwick joined First Merchants Corp. in November 1997 as corporate controller and worked his way up from chief financial officer (2002); leadership responsibilities related to operations, technology and risk management for the corporation (2007); chief operating officer (2016); and, finally, CEO (2021).

First Merchants has been headquartered in Indiana for more than 130 years and serves the Midwest across communities in Indiana, Ohio and Michigan. First Merchants serves the Southern Indiana community businesses and residents, as well as expanding its investment through a new Floyds Knobs branch.

Indiana University Southeast Appoints Dr. Patricia Spurr as Nursing Program Director

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NEW ALBANY, Ind. — Indiana University Southeast has announced the appointment of Dr. Patricia Spurr, Ed.D., MSN, CNE, FRE, RN as the new Nursing Program Director, bringing to the university an accomplished leader in nursing education, accreditation, curriculum development, and student success.

Spurr joins IU Southeast following a distinguished career spanning nursing practice, higher education leadership, and regulatory service. Most recently, she served as Chair of Health Sciences at Spalding University, a position she held from 2017 to 2025. Her experience also includes leadership roles as Chair of a School of Nursing, BSN Program Director, Associate Dean, and RN-to-BSN Program Director. She has served as a Nursing Education Consultant for the Kentucky Board of Nursing and as both a Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and a Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC) accreditation site visitor. Spurr will begin her new position at IU Southeast on Aug. 1.

“Dr. Spurr brings an exceptional combination of leadership, academic expertise, and deep knowledge of nursing accreditation and regulatory compliance,” said Dr. Michelle Williams, Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at IU Southeast. “Her extensive experience supporting curriculum innovation, student achievement, faculty development, and program quality makes her uniquely qualified to lead our nursing program into its next chapter.”

As Nursing Program Director, Spurr will provide leadership for curriculum development and assessment, accreditation and state board compliance, faculty coordination, student support initiatives, clinical partnerships, strategic planning, and continuous program improvement. Her role will help ensure that IU Southeast’s nursing graduates are prepared to meet the evolving healthcare needs of Southern Indiana and the broader region.

Throughout her career, Spurr has been recognized as a champion for student success and nursing excellence. She has presented nationally on student retention, National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) preparation, nursing regulation, academic integrity, and innovative approaches to nursing education. Her work has focused on creating learning environments that support student persistence, achievement, and professional readiness.

“Dr. Spurr’s steadfast commitment and dedication to student success reinforces the Nursing Program’s record of excellence in preparing highly qualified graduates,” noted Dr. Quinn Dauer, Interim Dean of the College of Health, Nursing, and Sciences. “Through her leadership, the Nursing Program will continue to equip nurses with the knowledge, skills, and compassion needed to strengthen the region’s healthcare workforce and enhance the well-being of our communities.”

A Certified Nurse Educator and Fellow in the National Council of State Boards of Nursing’s Institute of Regulatory Excellence, Spurr has contributed to nursing education and accreditation efforts at institutions across the country. Her experience evaluating nursing programs and guiding continuous improvement initiatives has established her as a respected voice in the profession.

“I am honored to join Indiana University Southeast and to work alongside the talented nursing faculty, staff, students, and healthcare partners who contribute to the program’s success,” said Dr. Spurr. “Nursing education is at a pivotal moment, and I look forward to supporting student success, maintaining excellence in accreditation and regulatory compliance, and preparing graduates to meet the healthcare needs of our communities.”

IU Southeast’s Nursing Program has a long history of preparing highly skilled and compassionate healthcare professionals who serve the region’s hospitals, clinics, and healthcare organizations. The addition of Spurr reflects the university’s continued investment in academic quality, student achievement, and workforce development.

 

About IU Southeast: Indiana University Southeast is a regional campus of Indiana University located in New Albany, Indiana, just six miles from downtown Louisville, Kentucky. With more than 3,750 students, IU Southeast offers high-quality, nationally accredited, academic programs in business, communication and technology; health, nursing and sciences; education; arts and human services; and other fields aligned with regional workforce needs. Through partnerships with employers and community organizations, IU Southeast prepares graduates with the knowledge, skills and experiences to succeed in a changing workforce and contribute to the economic vitality of the Kentuckiana region. Students from 10 Kentucky counties are eligible for in-state tuition through an Indiana-Kentucky reciprocity agreement, while other Kentucky residents may qualify for reduced tuition through the Indiana Partner Program. For more information, visit southeast.iu.edu.

Governor Braun Visits IU Southeast, Praises Workforce-Focused Partnerships

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New Albany, Ind. — Indiana Governor Mike Braun visited Indiana University Southeast on Monday, July 27, to recognize the university’s growing partnerships with regional employers and healthcare providers that are preparing students for high-demand careers while strengthening Indiana’s workforce.

Braun met with university leaders and toured the new facilities for IU Southeast’s Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) program. Launched in January 2025 through a partnership with Norton Healthcare, Baptist Health Floyd, and UofL Health, the program is helping address the growing demand for medical laboratory professionals who perform the diagnostic testing critical to detecting, diagnosing, and treating disease.

Interim College of Health, Nursing, and Science Dean Dr. Quinn Dauer introduced Dr. Karen Golemboski, director of the MLS program, who shared the value the program offers the community.

“Partnerships between education and the workforce make good sense,” said Golemboski. “Our students benefit from learning alongside healthcare partners and graduate prepared to work in every area of the clinical laboratory.”

The facility features modern instructional classrooms and teaching laboratories, including collaborative microscope and specimen preparation areas where students gain hands-on experience before completing clinical rotations. Nearly every IU Southeast MLS student is expected to graduate with at least one job offer, with starting salaries around $70,000.

Bailey Beck, an IU Southeast graduate who returned to campus to pursue the MLS program, said the opportunities in Southern Indiana made the decision an easy one.

“The opportunities happening here [in southern Indiana] in healthcare mean this is exactly where I want to be,” said Beck.

Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Michelle Williams also highlighted IU Southeast’s transition from six schools to three colleges, a reorganization designed to create stronger academic pathways and better align programs with regional workforce needs.

“In this day and age, for our students, the expectation is not just that we graduate them with a degree, but that we graduate them with meaningful experiences and the competencies they need to succeed in the workforce,” said Williams.

Braun said IU Southeast’s emphasis on employer partnerships reflects Indiana’s focus on connecting higher education to workforce needs.

“IU Southeast is working directly with employers to give Hoosier students the experience they need to move into in-demand careers with great wages,” Braun said. “These partnerships help employers fill valuable jobs and give graduates a strong reason to build their careers and lives here in Indiana.”

Chancellor Debbie Ford noted that 97% of IU Southeast graduates surveyed were employed or continuing their education within one year of graduation, and 95% of employed graduates were working in their chosen field.

“Those outcomes demonstrate the strength of our partnerships with employers and the opportunities available to our graduates throughout the region,” Ford said.

Ford also noted that IU Southeast remains one of the region’s most affordable universities, with 59% of graduates earning their degree without student loan debt.

IU Vice President for Regional Campuses and Online Education Ken Iwama, Vice President for Government and Community Relations Shannon Kiely Heider, and District 3 Floyd County Commissioner Jason Sharp were also on hand to share the impact partnerships between IU Southeast and area employers have on the regional workforce.

The Medical Laboratory Science facility will welcome students for classes in August, with a ribbon-cutting celebration planned for September. The program represents one of several initiatives through which IU Southeast is expanding partnerships with employers to prepare graduates for the region’s fastest-growing industries while helping meet critical workforce needs across Southern Indiana.

 

About IU Southeast: IU Southeast is one of nine campuses of Indiana University. Offering top-quality and nationally accredited programs in education, nursing, business, social sciences, natural sciences, arts and humanities, the scenic 180-acre campus is located less than 15 minutes from downtown Louisville, Kentucky. It currently has over 3,750 students and employs over 360 faculty members. About 400 students live on campus in five fully furnished, lodge-style residence halls. Through an agreement with the Commonwealth of Kentucky, Indiana University Southeast offers in-state tuition to students enrolled from ten counties in the Louisville region, including Bullitt, Hardin, Henry, Jefferson, Meade, Nelson, Oldham, Shelby, Trimble, and Spencer counties and discounted tuition for remaining Kentucky residents through the Indiana Partner Program. For more information, visit https://southeast.iu.edu. IU Southeast is a tobacco-free campus.

First Merchants Bank Expanding Investment in Southern Indiana

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MUNCIE, Ind. — July 29, 2026 — First Merchants Bank (NASDAQ: FRME) is expanding its investment in the Southern Indiana market with a new Floyds Knobs banking branch and expanded local leadership, reinforcing its commitment to helping local businesses, families and communities prosper.

New Floyds Knobs Branch Grand Opening August 13

First Merchants recently opened a new branch in Floyds Knobs, Indiana, located at 4909 Old Vincennes Road. This new banking center is committed to customer convenience through a team that values relationships and understanding the customer’s needs in the Southern Indiana market. The branch will host a grand opening event Thursday, August 13 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. to celebrate with Southern Indiana residents, businesses and community leaders.

“We are excited to become part of the Southern Indiana community and build on the relationships our team has established throughout the region,” said Mike Stewart, President of First Merchants Bank. “As a community-focused bank, First Merchants is committed to providing the convenience of neighborhood banking, local expertise and comprehensive financial solutions. This new banking center strengthens our ability to support homeownership, economic development and the long-term financial success of the communities we serve.”

The opening of the Floyds Knobs branch is part of First Merchants’ broader $6 million investment in Southern Indiana. Built by Floyds Knobs-based AML Construction and designed by Indianapolis architecture firm Schmidt Associates, the new branch reflects First Merchants’ ongoing commitment to strengthening its presence in the region while providing modern, welcoming spaces for clients and the communities it serves.

In addition to the new $2.5 million, 2,500-square-foot Floyds Knobs location, the bank has invested $3.5 million to refresh its 14 Southern Indiana branches with updated interiors, new furniture, signage, paint and other facility enhancements.

Expanded Southern Indiana Leadership

As part of First Merchants’ commitment to growth in southern Indiana, the bank recently appointed Paul Fultz, retired Audit and Business Unit Professional Practice Partner for KPMG LLP, to its Boards of Directors. Fultz brings more than 30 years of experience working at KPMG’s Louisville office, advising public company boards through complex financial and regulatory matters – expertise that aligns with First Merchants’ focus on supporting sustainable growth in the region.

Fultz joins First Merchants’ Southern Indiana leaders Eric Howard, Market President; Jamie Matthews, Managing Director, Corporate Banking; Tony Schoen, CPA, President of Specialty Lending; Derrick Jackson, Executive Vice President & Chief Credit Officer and Larry Myers, Board Member.

Together, these leaders combined have 140 years of experience in the industry, were raised in the Kentuckiana community and are passionate about serving local businesses and residents. Beyond being active with several national and local banking trade associations, they also serve their local communities in leadership positions with Junior Achievement of Kentuckiana, Boy Scouts of America, Fund for the Arts – Louisville, One Southern Indiana and the Community Foundation of Southern Indiana.

“Southern Indiana isn’t just a market we serve — it’s our home,” said Eric Howard, Market President, First Merchants Bank. “Our leadership team has spent decades building relationships with local businesses, families and community organizations, and we’re committed to helping this region continue to grow and thrive. By combining deep local knowledge with the resources of a strong Indiana-based bank, we’re able to deliver thoughtful financial solutions while remaining actively invested in the community where we live and work.”

For more information on First Merchants and to find a local Southern Indiana branch, visit https://www.firstmerchants.com/.

About First Merchants Corporation

With approximately $21 billion in assets1, First Merchants Corporation (NASDAQ: FRME) is a registered bank holding company offering a full line of commercial and consumer banking services and wealth management services through First Merchants Bank and First Merchants Private Wealth Advisors in Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio. With more than 130 years of enhancing the financial wellness of the diverse communities it serves, First Merchants makes meaningful contributions through employee empowerment, philanthropy, charitable giving, financial wellness, and community home and business lending. The company has been honored for its attentive and knowledgeable service and culture by Forbes, Time Magazine, American Banker, and S&P Global Intelligence “Best Banks” awards. First Merchants attributes this recognition to a mission-driven team that is passionate about “helping you prosper” through attentiveness as its genuine and unique approach to customer service. To see how First Merchants is making a difference, go to https://www.firstmerchants.com/.

1 Includes the assets from the acquisition of First Saving Financial Group on February 1, 2026.

National Merit Scholar Corinne Ramsey values service as new IU Southeast student

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(New Albany, Ind.) – Service is an important part of incoming freshman Corinne Ramsey’s life and has strongly affected her decision to study at IU Southeast. A Charlestown High School graduate and National Merit Scholar, Ramsey will be entering IU Southeast in the Fall 2026 semester, majoring in Environmental Chemistry, under the new bachelor’s degree in Physical Science.

“IU Southeast appeals to me because of its strong science program, engaging faculty, and open invitation to make a lasting difference while still in school,” said Ramsey.

Ramsey was also heavily influenced by her participation in her youth group and on her school Relay for Life Team to choose a career where her mind could best serve others.

“This pathway will challenge me to learn in both an analytical and innovative sense, ultimately preparing me to be an adaptable scientist who serves others by solving problems specific to the local environment.

She was also inspired by her grandfather, who served as an environmental analyst.

“He traveled to various countries and advised their governments on how to institute sustainable habits. I hope to be like him in that my work helps others to reach their full potential by providing a healthy physical environment.”

Ramsey says her family prepared her for college by providing constant encouragement, and that their support is a huge part of her success story. She’s uncertain what job best suits her goal of solving environment-based human problems, but knows she wants to serve others through her career.

Ramsey will be a part of the Honors Program and will be living on campus this fall. She is excited for the opportunity to form strong connections.

“I look forward to college classes for their peer collaboration and professor involvement. I believe that these two things will give academic challenges more meaning and lead to learning that is applicable beyond the course itself. I also plan to spend a lot of time learning about career pathways and life after college by hearing from faculty who have already walked that road.”

Ramsey plans to take part in the vibrant campus culture at IU Southeast, including Christian Student Fellowship.

“To make the most of college, I want to be deeply involved in the organizations I take part in with the intention of leaving a lasting positive impact on the community at IUS.”

The best advice Ramsey has gotten on her student journey so far is to not be afraid of making mistakes.

“I’ve learned a lot from trying things I wasn’t sure I was cut out for. And boy, did I make a lot of mistakes, but now I am more courageous and a better learner.”

About IU Southeast: IU Southeast is one of nine campuses of Indiana University. Offering top-quality and nationally accredited programs in education, nursing, business, social sciences, natural sciences, arts and humanities, the scenic 180-acre campus is located less than 15 minutes from downtown Louisville, Kentucky. It currently has over 3,750 students and employs over 360 faculty members. About 400 students live on campus in five fully furnished, lodge-style residence halls. Through an agreement with the Commonwealth of Kentucky, Indiana University Southeast offers in-state tuition to students enrolled from ten counties in the Louisville region, including Bullitt, Hardin, Henry, Jefferson, Meade, Nelson, Oldham, Shelby, Trimble, and Spencer counties and discounted tuition for remaining Kentucky residents through the Indiana Partner Program. For more information, visit https://southeast.iu.edu. IU Southeast is a tobacco-free campus.