Advisory Board Member
Samantha Howard
Class of 1992, 2003
Samantha earned a Bachelor of Science in Forestry from Purdue University in 1992 and a Master of Business Administration from Indiana-Purdue Fort Wayne in 2003. During her time at Purdue, she participated in Purdue Bands & Orchestras for three semesters, performing in the concert bands as a mallet percussionist after originally auditioning on flute and baritone. Her experience as a student musician established a lifelong connection to Purdue Bands & Orchestras and its mission.
Samantha joined the Purdue Bands & Orchestras Advisory Board in 2015 following the graduation of her son, a four-year member of the “All-American” Marching Band Big Bass Drum Crew. Early in her board service, she became involved in a successful crowdfunding campaign supporting the Big Bass Drum. The initiative quickly exceeded its initial fundraising goal, and with additional support from Samantha and her family, reached the level needed to establish a permanent endowment for one of Purdue’s most iconic traditions.
Professionally, Samantha has spent more than three decades with Pike Lumber Company, beginning her career as a Forestry Technician and advancing to her current role as Vice President of Administration and Corporate Secretary. She also serves as an Advisory Director on the company’s board. Through her work, she was pleased to see Pike Brand Hard Maple selected as the flooring material for the concert practice rooms in Hagle Hall.
Music continues to be an important part of Samantha’s life. Since 2008, she has been a member of the Manchester Civic Band, performing on flute, piccolo, and percussion, and she became the band’s director in 2020. She also serves on a praise team that provides music leadership for several churches and enjoys performing as a soloist at community events. Samantha remains a dedicated supporter of Purdue Bands & Orchestras and the opportunities it creates for students.