Welcome to HHS Life 360, the magazine of Purdue’s College of Health and Human Sciences (HHS). I am exceptionally proud of the work our faculty, students and staff have invested in building our new college and addressing global challenges. I am equally pleased to be able to share our progress with you through this new publication.
By bringing together nine academic units, HHS is now one of the largest colleges on campus. But we are much more than our collective numbers. The college was formed to advance collaborative research, learning and engagement in health and human sciences. From students exploring studies in a variety of health care and human sciences fields, to faculty collaborations intent on discovering healthy outcomes, all of our programs are focused squarely on improving the lives of people.
We had a productive and an extraordinarily successful first year, and we are excited about our future. This inaugural issue of HHS Life 360 covers some of the events and milestones of that year. It highlights how HHS researchers are combating chronic diseases, delivering health care breakthroughs and focusing on disease-prevention strategies. And it showcases the academic experiences and professional careers of our students and alumni.
Three feature stories demonstrate how HHS is effectively addressing common human conditions. “Learning in Year One” highlights infant/toddler research — from prenatal care to child care. “Life After 9/11” examines that tragic day’s lingering effects, specifically on the hospitality industry, and how our School of Hospitality and Tourism Management is preparing students for leadership in a world quite different from Sept. 11, 2001. Finally, “65 and Holding” explores the challenges of an aging baby boomer population.
HHS Life 360 was written especially for HHS alumni and friends. Though it’s a large publication, it delivers just a small sampling of the dedicated efforts of faculty, staff, students and alumni who make up Purdue’s new College of Health and Human Sciences. Building this college has been an exhilarating ride! I hope you’ll share with me your thoughts on how we’re doing.
Hail Purdue!
Christine Ladisch
Inaugural Dean
