University launches flagship entity for global affairs

The University recently launched Purdue International Inc. (PII), a nonprofit organization that will serve as the flagship entity for Purdue's global affairs programs.

The creation of PII is the result of a recent reorganization of an existing affiliated foundation that has long supported the University's land-grant mission. PII will continue in this supporting role with a particular focus on facilitating the University's international education, research and exchange activities.

When the University conducts significant operations in another country, Purdue is often required to establish a legal status in that country through an entity or organization that can be recognized under local law.

Common indicators of a significant operation requiring legal status are:

* Opening a foreign business bank account.
* Hiring local citizens.
* Opening an office in the foreign country.
* Having employees who are present in the country for more than 183 days (even if the period is not contiguous).
* Leasing buildings or land.

Establishing legal status abroad can be challenging for the University because it is a governmental organization. Because PII is a nonprofit corporation, it can complete this process with fewer hurdles.

As a result, PII will establish legal status abroad when it is helpful or necessary to carry out education, research and exchange activities through a formal legal entity. 

Faculty members who seek to organize or sponsor an international program that would entail significant operations in or with another country should first discuss their vision with their department head and associate dean. Upon endorsement from the dean, the associate dean then will contact the comptroller's office to determine how PII may be able to support the proposed activity.