From left: Alicia, Victoria, Arna, and Andrew Vitatoe

by Molly Walker

When Arna Vitatoe joined the Purduettes in 1968, she had no idea the impact that PMO would make on her family. It had never dawned on her that her future son, daughter-in-law, and her granddaughter would all be part of PMO in the not-so-distant future.

In the fall of 1995, Arna’s son, Andrew Vitatoe, arrived on Purdue’s campus with no intentions of joining an ensemble. However, his friend from the marching band, who happened to be a drummer for the Purduettes, had other plans. Andrew attended a Purduettes rehearsal and was soon playing bass in the band. A couple years later, Andrew auditioned for and was accepted into the Purdue Varsity Glee Club. Meanwhile, Alicia Caldwell, who would later become Alicia Vitatoe, became a member of the Purduettes in 1996.

While Andrew and Alicia started as friends, they were married before their senior year. Coincidentally, both were managers of their respective ensembles.

After graduation, music continued to play a central part in the family’s life. Victoria Vitatoe, their eldest daughter, was active in music growing up, but she knew she did not want to major in music. When it came time to choose a college, Purdue was at the top of her list and she knew she wanted to be involved with the Purduettes.

“When I came to Purdue, knowing about [my parents’] experiences and continuing [my own] involvement with music all while having a home away from home, I knew I wanted to audition for the Purduettes,” Victoria said.

A little more than fifty years after her grandma joined the ensemble, Victoria was able to be a part of what has seemingly become a Vitatoe family tradition. Like countless other PMO students, Victoria quickly found her place within the community.

“It’s an awesome experience to watch her grow and become more confident and enjoy something that meant so much to all of us,” Alicia said.

It is safe to say that PMO has grown since Arna was in the Purduettes, but some things never change. From the Annual Purdue Christmas Show to memorable performances to lifelong friendships, the Vitatoe family has plenty of shared experience to bond over.

Their commitment to carrying on the legacy of connection, growth, and excellence while facilitating growth and positive change are what allow our organization to carry on year after year, generation after generation.
Special thanks to the Vitatoe family for their snapshots, songs, and stories in this article.