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Keeping Purdue’s ‘pink mitten’ holiday tradition alive
For years, Ruth Krauch shared the pink mitten story during tours at Purdue Memorial Union.
Ask any Boilermaker where to find the perfect spot for studying, saying hey to friends or getting something to eat, and you’ll likely hear the same response again and again and again: the Purdue Memorial Union.
The PMU has seen a lot of change since it opened on Sept. 9, 1924 (when the university consisted of fewer than 4,000 faculty, staff and students!). An extensive ground floor renovation in 2022 signaled the building’s ability to always adapt for what the university needs next and ensured that the next 100 years will hold even more stories.
Take a look at some of the many memories made at the PMU. Throughout a century of change, these photos are evidence that a couple of things have remained the same: Familiar architectural features can be found there today, and there are still groups of Boilermakers taking the time to meet up and enjoy what campus has to offer.






article | Experience
For years, Ruth Krauch shared the pink mitten story during tours at Purdue Memorial Union.
article | Experience
Darrell Smith honored his late wife’s wish by donating this year’s Purdue Christmas tree.
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podcast | Education
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A Purdue couple whose love blossomed over half a century ago on Purdue’s campus shares their Boilermaker love story and what it takes to make a successful 60-year marriage.
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The Purdue Memorial Union Christmas tree is the centerpiece of one of the university’s most beloved traditions.
article | Education
The Purdue Campus Model has been around since 1957, but not much is known about its beginnings. Learn about this hidden icon and how it is part of Purdue’s spirit.
article | Education
With such a beautiful campus and architectural gems everywhere, Purdue University has multiple places to offer students no matter what they’re looking for.
article | Education
With the hard work our Boilermakers are putting in, it’s no surprise that popular campus coffee spots typically have a line out the door. If you’re on the look-out for a quick coffee, here’s your guide for some Boilermaker approved coffee shops.
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The Purdue Memorial Union’s renovated ground floor looks like an entirely different space to most visitors. But when they see the many nods to Purdue and PMU history embedded within the new layout, even staunch Purdue traditionalists can find elements to appreciate about the additions to the century-old building.
article | Education
After extensive testing, members of Purdue’s chapter of the Acoustical Society of America determined what causes the audible squeaking sound when someone claps while standing in the University’s famous clapping circle.
article | Education
Purdue offers many study locations and libraries where Boilermakers can achieve their goals. If you’re looking for the perfect place to concentrate, try one of these 10 popular study spaces.