Purdue University earns effective and innovative award for transformative light level meter

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Purdue University has been recognized by APPA Leadership in Educational Facilities for a device designed to collect light levels more efficiently across the West Lafayette campus.

Purdue has received the 2020 APPA Effective and Innovative Practices Award for the light level meter. The portable light level meter has changed the way campus light levels are collected and analyzed. Jay Knepp, a former intern with Physical Facilities, created the device, which has been transformative for project planning within the department.

“The Effective and Innovative Practices Award recognizes new programs or significant restructuring to existing programs that have demonstrated improvement at the educational institution and could be readily adapted to other campuses,” said Anthony Guerrero, vice president of member and community engagement for APPA.

Knepp, a computer engineering major, used his technology skills to construct a light level meter that collects both light levels and GPS coordinates as it is pulled along. The device can collect 1,600 light readings in just one hour, compared to 30-40 readings with the older, hand-held method. The light meter identifies outdoor areas where lighting can be improved, which helps prioritize lighting projects.

“The physical facilities staff was really open to hearing about my idea for the project. They were very supportive in helping drive some of that innovation,” Knepp said. “It’s exciting to think about the long-lasting impact this will have on my fellow Boilermakers.”

Brad Bowen, director of asset management and university engineer, said, “We are beyond grateful for Jay’s creative thinking. The light level meter is something we continue to utilize on a regular basis. The increase in efficiency, the increase in data and the development of a light level map will improve campus safety for many years to come.”

Submissions for the award are based on criteria measuring institutional benefit; innovativeness, creativity and originality; portability and sustainability; management commitment and employee involvement; and documentation, analysis, customer input, and benchmarking. 

Purdue previously received the APPA Effective and Innovative Practices Award. In 2012, the university was recognized for the Warehouse and Surplus Sustainability programs.