Indiana State University Newsroom

Retired state Rep. Vern Tincher of Riley has received the Indiana State University President's Award for Distinguished Public Service and Outstanding Achievement.

University President Dan Bradley presented the award Tuesday during a dinner in Tincher's honor at the university's Heritage Lounge in Tirey Hall.

First presented in 1973, the award is one of Indiana State's most prestigious honors. Tincher, who retired from the Indiana General Assembly in November, is only the 11th recipient of the award in its 37-year history.

"During his 24 years in the legislature, Vern was a strong advocate for Indiana State University. He played a key role in gaining legislative approval for many projects that have helped our campus become a much better environment for living, learning and working," Bradley said. "Vern's efforts have touched almost every aspect of our campus."

Bradley noted that Tincher was especially instrumental in gaining state approval for the university's new Student Recreation Center and supported such other projects as Root Hall, the construction of Parsons Hall, renovations to Rankin, Tirey, Stalker and University halls, construction of the university's steam generating plant and satellite chiller plant and science lab renovations.

"Indiana State, the Wabash Valley and the entire state owe you a debt of gratitude for your commitment to public service and the outstanding leadership you have provided," Bradley told Tincher.

"It was a great honor to receive the President's Medal from President Bradley and quite a surprise. I know that I joined a great cast of recipients," Tincher said. "Indiana State has been a major player in higher education for the state, especially for the Wabash Valley, and I know that it will continue to offer a quality education."

A U.S. Air Force veteran, Tincher holds bachelor's and master's degrees in criminology from Indiana State. He was first elected to the state House of Representatives in 1982 following a 21-year career with the Indiana State Police and went on to represent the 46th house district for 24 of the past 28 years. Originally a bricklayer, Tincher served as field representative for Local 4 of the Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Union from 1996-2002.

Photo: http://isuphoto.smugmug.com/Events/Vern-Tincher-honored-with/121410verntincher-6509/1127229595_xduhN-L.jpg - Former state Rep. Vern Tincher receives the Indiana State University President's Award for Distinguished Public Service and Outstanding Achievement from university President Dan Bradley during a dinner in Tincher's honor Dec. 14 in the Heritage Lounge of ISU's Tirey Hall. (ISU/Tony Campbell)

Media contact and writer: Dave Taylor, media relations director, Office of Communications and Marketing, Indiana State University, 812-237-3743 or dave.taylor@indstatee.edu