A tradition of opportunity
How Purdue’s founding mission guided its evolution and lives on today
Purdue University was created to serve – to serve the people of Indiana and beyond through research, teaching and engagement. It also serves its students through access to a world-class education. This legacy dates back to the passage of the Morrill Act in 1862, and it lives on today.
This series of stories will outline how Purdue has evolved through the years in accordance with its founding as a land-grant university. Learn about some of the key people and events that shaped Purdue’s evolution, building an internationally renowned university that will continue meeting challenges and serving its state and nation well into the future.
Learn about Purdue’s inspirational founding mission:
Purdue Global, PPHS carry on tradition that dates back to Purdue’s founding
As a land-grant university, Purdue exists to provide educational opportunity Nearly 45 years after she attended her first class on Purdue University’s West Lafayette campus, Cynthia Walker Middleton finished what she started by completing an online degree in business administration …
What is a land-grant university?
What makes Purdue and its 111 land-grant peers different from other colleges and universities?
Why Purdue is unique among land-grant institutions
Purdue distinguishes itself through its focus on collaborative, multidisciplinary research that is increasingly important to solving society’s most pressing issues.
Purdue remains nimble and driven toward the future
Evolving alongside society is necessary for any land-grant institution that wishes to deliver upon its promise.
Land-grant legacy came full circle for two Purdue leaders
In Vic Lechtenberg’s view, leading Purdue’s outreach efforts was his way of repaying the land-grant system that benefited his family.
Early advocacy paved way for Purdue’s thriving Disability Resource Center
It’s a source of endless pride for early advocates that today’s Boilermakers with disabilities have ample opportunities to succeed.
Welcoming women engineers to Purdue
Only 47 Purdue women were enrolled in engineering in 1969. As of fall 2022, the number had increased to 4,193.
