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First USI President Dies

USI

The first president of the University of Southern Indiana has died. 

University spokesman Ben Luttrell confirmed that Dr. David Rice is dead.

Rice was named dean of the university in 1967, when it was known as Indiana State University Evansville. He was named president in 1971.

Rice served 27 years before retiring in 1994.

USI says during Rice’s tenure, enrollment at the West Side campus grew to more than 7,400.

Under his leadership, the university gained independence from Indiana State in 1985.

Dr. David Rice died at his home in York, Pennsylvania. He was 90 years old.

Additonal: Dr. Rice also chaired the WNIN Board of Trustees from July 1984 to January 1987.