USI Foundation Spotlight: Hard work took Trudy Stock '86 to the top

Trudy Stock has never been afraid of hard work. Growing up in Posey County, Indiana, she regularly helped on the family farm. She learned many lessons working side-by-side with her parents and grandparents, especially from her late father. "He expected excellence and always said if there's something worth doing, it's worth doing right. He also taught me to treat others well and follow through on your commitments," she said. Stock adopted this mindset quickly and it remains with her today.

After graduating from North Posey High School, she was awarded scholarships to attend the University of Southern Indiana. Upon enrollment, she was immediately employed as a student worker for Byron Wright, Vice President for Business Affairs. Serving and learning from University administration, Stock discovered her interest in accounting and witnessed many impactful moments. She recalls when the University became independent from Indiana State University in 1985. "Looking back, I realize the visionary leadership that made this happen," she said.

When Stock graduated in 1986 with a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting, she was already employed with Harding, Shymanski & Company. She credits the Romain College of Business faculty with helping prepare her for the workforce, recognizing Wanda Hibbitts and Nancy Bizal as motivators and inspirations. As a young professional, she remained close to USI, recruiting and interviewing students on campus. As she grew in her career, her connection to the University grew stronger. "I realized what an asset USI is for the community-in addition to an education, it promotes economic development, providing jobs for employees and vendors," she said.

Over the years, Stock's family grew and became a part of USI as well. She and her husband Brett have three children-William, Tyler and Anna. Her son Tyler graduated from USI in 2018 and obtained his Master of Public Administration degree in 2020. "USI was the perfect size for Tyler where he could discover his potential," Stock said.

The couple also provide generous financial support for USI students through gifts to the USI Foundation. "As a scholarship recipient, I wanted to give back to the University that played a role in helping me get to where I am today," she said.

Presently Stock is the Evansville Region President of Harding, Shymanski & Company, previously leading the firm as CEO and president from 2011 through 2019. Stock also currently serves as chair of the USI Foundation Board of Directors. Although her first year as chair was different than she imagined due to COVID-19, she said it was exciting to witness how the USI Foundation was able to serve as a financial resource during the unique challenges the pandemic presented. She's enjoyed learning about new programs, like the Financial Care Team and Student Financial Success Center, and hearing first-hand experiences from current students. "USI brings education to life and builds great future leaders," Stock said.

Looking forward, Stock is excited to watch USI's ongoing growth and relevancy. She is confident it will continue to prosper and is enthused to serve in whatever role she can. "I hope to be involved with USI for the rest of my life, it brings so much value to our community," she said.