UE Opera Receives $35,000 Grant from the William E. Schmidt FoundationRead full article…

Posted: Monday, December 8, 2025
By: University Communications

The University of Evansville (UE) is pleased to announce that it has received a $35,000 grant from the William E. Schmidt Foundation, continuing a longstanding partnership that has strengthened the University's music and opera programs for more than two decades.

The William E. Schmidt Foundation has supported UE and its music programs since 1998 and has provided dedicated support for the University's opera program since 2006. This latest grant will fund UE opera productions, community outreach efforts centered on music and opera, and scholarships within the UE Music Conservatory.

"The Schmidt Foundation has played a transformational role in advancing vocal performance and opera at the University of Evansville," said Dr. Alanna Keenan, Associate Professor of Music at UE. "Their generosity helps our students develop as artists while bringing high-quality performance experiences to the broader community."

Under the artistic direction of Dr. Keenan, with additional guidance from Dr. Dennis Malfatti and Dr. Gregory Rike, UE Opera has flourished as a dynamic force in the field of opera, enriching the lives of students and fostering a deep appreciation for the arts within the community. The Schmidt Foundation's grant will empower the program to continue its legacy of excellence and expand its community reach.

UE's opera program offers performance opportunities, professional-level training, and community engagement experiences that help students develop their artistic craft. The continued support of the Schmidt Foundation ensures that UE can remain a regional leader in developing the next generation of vocal artists.

The William E. Schmidt Foundation provided grant funding to UE Opera in 2023 and 2024 respectively.

For more information about the UE Opera and upcoming performances or to contact the Music Conservatory, please click here.