The theatre inside the USI Performance Center has been named after a longtime friend of the university. WNIN’s John Gibson has more:
The theatre has been named the Neal Franklin Theatre.
The university says Franklin has supported USI and the cultural landscape of the region for nearly 40 years.
She was the 2013 recipient of the Mayor’s Art Award and has led the USI Society for Arts and Humanities and the Evansville Philharmonic Guild.
She currently serves on the University’s Art Collection Committee and on the USI Foundation Board of Directors.
Two years ago, Franklin received an honorary degree from USI in recognition of her “profound dedication to advancing higher education.”
The university says Franklin has made plans for a leadership gift to the College of Liberal Arts through her estate.