University of Evansville receives $500,000 gift to support student scholarships

The University of Evansville has received a planned estate gift of $500,000 from Emeritus Trustee M. Stephen (Steve) Harkness, a long time financial supporter of the university and a member of the Board of Trustees. The gift will endow five separate scholarships that were previously established by Harkness.

According to an article on the University of Evansville’s website, Abigail L. Werling, the university’s Vice President for University Advancement, was quoted as saying of the gift, "Steve Harkness' generosity has already made an immeasurable impact on the University of Evansville. His friendship to us has been invaluable as he has provided graciously through his philanthropy, volunteerism, and as an active alumnus. This gift ensures that his dedication to student success will continue in perpetuity, creating significant opportunities for generations of Aces. We are truly grateful for Steve's commitment to UE and for his life-changing investment in our students."

Harkness graduated from the University of Evansville in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science in Finance. He went on to earn a Master of Business Administration from Indiana University. Until his retirement, he was serving as the President of Duke Energy Generation Services. Following retiring from his career, Harkness has remained an active supporter of the university and a member of its community. He received the university’s Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2011 and joined the Board of Trustees in 2006. In 2024, he was named Emeritus Trustee in recognition of all of the support he has provided to the university. So far, Harkness’ lifetime total of financial support to the University of Evansville totals almost $1.2 million.

Speaking of his decision to continue supporting the university, Harkness said, "I am proud to support the University of Evansville and its students. UE played a pivotal role in shaping my career and values, and I want to ensure that future students have the same opportunities for success."

For more information about the University of Evansville, visit the school’s website.