Perspectives Publication

A Word from Our Vice Provost:

Impacting students beyond the classroom. That’s our Giant Leap. No matter what challenges we may face, we adapt to continue to provide the essential out-of-classroom opportunities that help define the Boilermaker experience. In this issue of Perspectives, you will find stories of impact from across Student Life.

The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged us to think of new ways to provide impactful experiences to Boilermakers beyond their online classwork. Student Life is adapting to meet this challenge by providing resources that focus on well-being. Departments within Student Life continue to provide opportunities for connection through online events, workshops and more. A link to the virtual home of Student Life can be found on the back cover.

Every giant leap starts with a small step and we can see these small steps begin to manifest in students like Austin Lawrence and Katherine Petts. Serving as a mentor and receiving mentorship due to a key connection he forged as part of a leadership experience have figured prominently in Austin’s journey thus far. Networks built through a student organization have allowed Katherine to gain hands-on experience in the music industry. These two students represent numerous similar stories across Student Life.

Programs such as Executive-in-Residence also help students realize how their small steps at Purdue prepare them for giant leaps in their next endeavors. Whether it’s in a one-on-one interaction over coffee with an aspiring entrepreneur, time spent with a student ambassador or in a panel discussion, visiting executives continue to lend their time to impacting Boilermakers.

In this issue, we also celebrate some of the exceptional people who support Student Life and help foster an out-of-classroom experience that encourages students to pursue excellence. The generosity of Marc and Sharon Hagle will help transform the experience of members of Purdue Bands & Orchestras with the construction of a new practice and rehearsal facility. We also recognize five exceptional individuals with our inaugural Student Life Impact awards, which highlight accomplished alumni and friends of Student Life.

Every Boilermaker strives to leave their footprint. Though our circumstances may change, that ideal remains at the root of what it means to be a Boilermaker. We in Student Life are proud to continue to pursue innovative opportunities for students to realize their ability to make an impact on their experiences at Purdue and beyond.

Thanks for reading and Hail Purdue!