In 1983, as head of Purdue’s Department of Political Science, David Caputo received special permission to surprise his wife, Alice (MS LA’83), by presenting her diploma during her master’s graduation. This may be at the top of Caputo’s highlights from Purdue, but he spent 26 years on the West Lafayette campus collecting memories.

Proud Boilermakers Jack (ChE’70, MS NE’76) and Kay (EDU’72) Hayes regularly make the trip from their home in Maryland to West Lafayette to attend Purdue men’s basketball and football games. Over the years, the couple has made financial gifts to the John Purdue Club and various athletics programs. They also have generously supported the Davidson School of Chemical Engineering, the School of Nuclear Engineering, the College of Education, and Purdue Musical Organizations.

As 2023 drew to a close, the Chiangs reflected on their first year leading the university. They shared some of their favorite memories, what they have learned, and what they most look forward to in the coming year at Purdue.

Judy Nixon, Purdue librarian of 34 years and passionate scholar and collector of “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” also known as “’Twas the Night Before Christmas”, embarked on a lifelong journey that began with a simple term paper.