Dr. Helen Ruth Sands

She received her B.S. in speech education from the University of Vermont, along with her M.S. and Ph.D. in communications from Southern Illinois University. After coming to the University of Southern Indiana (USI) in 1969 to teach communications, she served as chair of the Communications Department from 1970 -1973 and 1976 -1979 and was a member of the Faculty Senate for two two-year terms, chairing it in 1981-1982. In the 1970s, she served on the Advisory Board of The Indiana Governor’s Commission on the Status of Women. After 31 years of faithful service to USI, Dr. Sands retired in 2000 and was awarded the title Professor Emerita of Communications by the University’s Board of Trustees. In her own words she noted, “I’ve been blessed with wonderful students, great friends and colleagues, and a family that has supported me every step of the way. I’ve had 31 years doing what I love most. Teaching is without doubt a rewarding profession.”

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Edith and Floyd Harris; and her son, Bill.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, William; children, Kathy Clark (William) and Paula Koch (George); and grandchildren, Caroline Clark, William Clark, Michael Koch and Lauren Koch.

Helen had the incredible gift of being able to find the good in any person or situation. Her exemplary life was filled with love and devotion to her family and many wonderful friends, who will miss her dearly. The family would like to recognize especially her closest friend and colleague of nearly 50 years, Mary Schroeder.

Mass will be held 10:00 AM Monday, February 12, 2018, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, officiated by Fr. Bernie Etienne, with burial in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held Sunday, February 11, 2018, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, at Alexander Newburgh Chapel, followed by a memorial service at 6:00 PM, and Monday, February 12, 2018, from 9:00 AM until service time, at the church.

Helen was an ardent supporter of USI, having been a generous benefactor to the USI Foundation for more than 40 years. The family welcomes memorial gifts to the second scholarship supported by Helen and her husband, the Bill and Helen Sands Business Communication Award Scholarship c/o USI Foundation, 8600 University Blvd. Evansville, IN 47712. www.usi.edu/onlinegiving. Condolences may be made online at www.AlexanderWestChapel.com.