Posted: Saturday, May 11, 2019

Three honorary degrees were bestowed during the University of Evansville's 161st commencement ceremony on May 11. 

Alan W. Braun: Doctor of Humane Letters
The University of Evansville celebrates Alan W. Braun's many contributions to the life of UE's campus and the Evansville community. Braun enjoyed an esteemed career at Industrial Contractors, Inc., growing his family-owned business into a nationally recognized contracting business that, through the years, has contributed to the development of Evansville and the Tri-State region by constructing buildings that define the Evansville landscape.

A member of the UE Board of Trustees since 1989, Braun served as the Chairman of the Board, Vice Chairman of the Board, and Chair of the Audit Committee.

A true philanthropist, Braun and his wife, Sharon, established the Alan W. and Sharon A. Braun Family Foundation. In addition, Braun chaired the University’s National Steering Committee for the UEnvision Capital Campaign which exceeded its fundraising goals. Braun has also been instrumental in assisting Habitat for Humanity reach its goal to build 500 houses in Evansville.

Larry E. Dunigan: Doctor of Humane Letters
The University of Evansville pays tribute  Larry E. Dunigan's many contributions and accomplishments in the life of the UE campus and the Evansville community.

Dunigan served as president and chief executive officer of Holiday Management and Development, providing health services to meet the needs of the elderly in the Evansville community. For 34 years, Dunigan was a director at Old National Bank.

A member of the UE Board of Trustees since 1986, Dunigan has served as a member of the Executive Committee, Chair of the Finance and Audit Committees as well as Secretary of the Board.

Dunigan exemplifies a servant leader, always putting the needs of his employees and customers first, thereby strengthening his organization and building a positive and welcoming environment. Dunigan is steady, thoughtful, and balanced; and when he speaks, people listen, because they realize the wisdom of his council. He is trustworthy, honest, and generously assists colleagues with professional and personal challenges all while offering encouragement along the way.

Most notably, Dunigan acts with humility and sets an example of service.

Sister Jane Michele McClure: Doctor of Human Letters
The University of Evansville acknowledges Sister Jane Michele McClure's many accomplishments to the Evansville Community and at the University of Evansville.

A lifelong resident of southern Indiana, McClure is the major gifts officer for Habitat for Humanity. In this role, she has established relationships with community members who share a common mission of helping the poor.  McClure partnered with the University of Evansville to secure funds to send 15 students to Guatemala for nine days to build smokeless stoves, sanitary latrines, and an earthquake-resistant house. McClure was instrumental in Habitat’s effort to build 500 homes in Evansville – only 25 other cities in the country have reached this milestone – and through her leadership, their goal was achieved.

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