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Purdue Today
April 23, 2026
| TOP NEWS
NASA associate administrator visits Purdue, tours research facilities
NASA Associate Administrator Amit Kshatriya visited Purdue on Tuesday (April 21) to learn more about the university’s aerospace and planetary science ecosystem and tour key state-of-the-art research facilities. Showcased research spanned hypersonics, in-space propulsion, mission design, planetary exploration, low-gravity systems and deep-space habitats. Kshatriya also attended the inaugural Neil Armstrong Space Prize announcement, highlighting Purdue’s legacy as the Cradle of Astronauts.
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| SCHOLARLY EXCELLENCE
Research growth forums for faculty scheduled for early May
Join Dan DeLaurentis, executive vice president for research, on May 1 or May 7 for the Purdue Research Growth Faculty Forums. These interactive, faculty-driven, in-person sessions will build a road map for Purdue’s research enterprise, including how it can adapt, innovate and thrive within an evolving national research funding landscape. Preregistration is required. Staff sessions will be hosted this summer; more information to come.
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In Print: ‘Political Meritocracy in the 21st Century’
“Political Meritocracy in the 21st Century” examines the renewed philosophical debate over whether political power should be distributed based on competence and virtue rather than strict political equality. Written by Brian Kogelmann, associate professor of philosophy and political science, the book surveys three contemporary approaches to this idea: epistocracy (giving more political influence to knowledgeable voters), Confucian meritocracy (elite selection based on virtue and ability) and democratic meritocracy (the belief that elections can identify capable leaders). 
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  • As overtourism grows, Purdue Hospitality and Tourism Management researchers offer a path forward through Travel with Care
  • Researchers in various studies looking for participants
  • Reminder: Visit Federal Funding Updates website for latest information
| EVENTS
Tickets available for PMO spring shows
Join Purdue Musical Organizations for three shows this spring. The Purduettes will present its Spring Spectacular on April 25, PMO will present its Spring Show on April 26, and the Varsity Glee Club will present End of Season on May 1. Each concert showcases the talent, energy and tradition that make PMO special, from powerful choral moments to joyful, crowd-favorite performances.
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  • Purdue University Events Calendar
| THINGS TO KNOW
Meet the Boilermakers behind Purdue Pete’s cutting-edge look
Purdue Pete’s head isn’t just a part of the Boilermaker sports mascot’s look. It’s aerospace-grade innovation. Built on campus using lightweight, durable carbon fiber, the head showcases cutting-edge composites research, providing students with hands-on experience in advanced manufacturing. Pete’s head, once made using chicken wire and papier-mâché, now spotlights Purdue’s unique blend of tradition, technology and Boilermaker spirit. 
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FACULTY AND STAFF
  • This week’s ‘Thumbs Up’ recipients
SPORTS
  • Purdue volleyball presents ‘Laying the Tracks’ documentary
PURDUE IN THE NEWS
  • Yahoo News: Purdue awards SpaceX team for first Neil Armstrong Space Prize
  • New York Times (subscription required): Blue Origin's failure may hamstring NASA’s moon plans
  • Inside INdiana Business (subscription required): SpaceX team to receive inaugural Neil Armstrong Space Prize
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