University of Evansville Library Receives Historic Newspaper Archive

Evansville, Ind. (02/04/2025) — The Our Times newspaper archive has been added to the University of Evansville (UE) Libraries' collection, preserving an important piece of local history. The donation comes from Sondra Matthews, founder of Our Times and a distinguished UE alumna, following her retirement after nearly 40 years of leading the Tri-State's only Black-owned newspaper.

Under Matthews' visionary leadership, Our Times became a vital voice for the Black community in the Evansville region, championing issues of culture, equity, and justice. In recognition of her lasting contributions, the archive will be preserved at UE as a resource for students, scholars, and the community to explore the history and stories of the region's Black community.

Matthews, a lifelong Evansville resident, began her journalism career in Milwaukee before returning to Indiana, where she founded the Inner City Reporter. Over time, she transformed the publication into Our Times, a monthly newspaper that became a cornerstone of Black culture and advocacy in the region.

"Sondra Matthews' dedication to amplifying Black voices has had a profound impact on our community," said Kristen Strandberg, PhD, Director of University Libraries. "We are honored to house this important archive, ensuring that future generations can study and reflect on the groundbreaking work of Sondra Matthews and the Our Times newspaper."