Purdue University

Purdue University: A Legacy of Innovation and Excellence

Imagine a place where dreams take flight, where groundbreaking research meets practical application, and where the spirit of innovation thrives. That’s Purdue University, a public land-grant research university in West Lafayette, Indiana. Founded in 1869 after John Purdue donated land and money to establish a college focused on science, technology, and agriculture, Purdue has grown into an institution that stands at the forefront of education and research.

The Early Years

Back in 1865, when the Indiana General Assembly voted to establish an institution focused on agriculture and engineering, little did they know what would unfold. The university was named after John Purdue, who donated $150,000 to support its establishment. Classes began in 1874 with six instructors and 39 students. Professor Emerson E. White served as president from 1876 to 1883 and implemented a strict interpretation of the Morrill Act, aiming to create an ‘industrial college’ focused on science, technology, and agriculture.

From Agriculture to Aviation

The history of Purdue University is a testament to its adaptability. By the end of the nineteenth century, the university was organized into schools of agriculture, engineering (mechanical, civil, and electrical), and pharmacy. Notable individuals like Amelia Earhart joined the faculty in 1935 as a consultant for flight courses and as a counselor on women’s careers. In 1936, the Purdue Research Foundation provided funds for Earhart’s Lockheed Electra 10-E aircraft. This early venture into aviation laid the groundwork for future advancements.

World War II and Beyond

During World War II, every school and department at the university was involved in military research or training. Purdue physicists discovered properties of germanium that led to the making of the first transistor. The Army and Navy conducted training programs at Purdue, and over 17,500 students, staff, and alumni served in the armed forces. Post-war, a decade-long construction program emphasized science and research, leading to the establishment of programs in veterinary medicine, industrial management, and nursing, as well as the first computer science department in the United States.

Global Reach and Innovation

In recent years, Purdue has expanded its global reach. The university added opportunities to study abroad in the 1990s and expanded its world languages and cultures offerings. Today, Purdue sponsors the National Merit Scholarship Program and has awarded numerous scholarships. With over 211 major areas of study, competitive engineering curricula, and aviation-specific programs, Purdue continues to be a leader in higher education.

Research and Development

The university’s commitment to research is evident through its Carnegie Classification of Institutions as having ‘very high research activity.’ Purdue has established the Discovery Park to bring innovation through multidisciplinary action and has a nanotechnology research program that ranks among the best in the nation. The Global Trade Analysis Project, coordinated by Purdue University, generated $438 million in sponsored research funding in 2009-10.

Student Life

Purdue’s campus life is vibrant and diverse. With over 50,000 students from around the world, the university offers a rich tapestry of experiences. The student body is highly selective, with approximately 49% of applicants admitted. Housing options are plentiful, with about one-third of single undergraduate students living in university-owned buildings. Purdue hosts one of the nation’s largest Greek communities and over 1000 student organizations covering a variety of interests.

Sports and Traditions

The Boilermaker football team represents Purdue University in the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) and plays its home games at Ross-Ade Stadium on campus. The Old Oaken Bucket is one of the oldest American football trophies, and Purdue leads the series against Indiana University Hoosiers 77-42-6. During football season, students participate in “Breakfast Club,” a tradition where they dress up in costumes and bar-hop before games.

Faculty and Alumni

Purdue’s faculty includes scholars such as Arden Bement Jr., R. Graham Cooks, and Samuel S. Wagstaff Jr. Two faculty members have been awarded Nobel Prizes while at Purdue. The university’s alumni pool collectively holds over 15,000 US patents, with one-third of all NASA crewed space missions having at least one Purdue graduate as a crew member.

Purdue University’s legacy is one of innovation, excellence, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. From its humble beginnings in 1869 to becoming a global leader in research and education today, Purdue continues to inspire generations with its commitment to progress and discovery.