Honoring 250 years of discovery and innovation
This year, we come together to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary — and our own legacy of persistently pursuing the next giant leap.
As a land-grant university, our mission has always been to serve all. We take pride in the many American heroes who began as Boilermakers.
And we look ahead to a year of special moments of celebration, from Purdue’s Day of Giving this spring to featured Presidential Lecture Series events and the treasured tradition of the annual Indy 500 — featuring our own All-American Marching Band.
Mark Your Calendar: Upcoming Events
Be a part of our celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. You are invited to attend these festive events.
Purdue proudly celebrates the 250th birthday of the United States of America, the most crucial experiment in the history of human civilization. This university remains the first vista of intellectual competitions and a long-lasting bastion of individual freedoms. Boilermakers continue to live out the meanings of America the beautiful, America the exceptional, America the hopeful.
Mung Chiang
President, Purdue University
Three Years Running QS World University Rankings, 2026
Celebrating Together
Photo Gallery: Boilermakers Celebrate America at Ross-Ade Stadium Event
A dazzling fireworks show, inspirational speakers, prizes, games, and treats, and $10,000 scholarships for two lucky Purdue students were all part of our celebration leading up to America’s 250th anniversary.
Purdue alum’s work helps share the American story
With American tourists expected to flood into Washington, D.C., this summer, Purdue alum Caroline Shanley will have a unique vantage point for the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration.
Purdue celebrates its contributions to the American dream as nation turns 250
Boilermakers have helped power America’s progress for generations, lending their courage, curiosity and conviction to discover, disseminate and deploy knowledge. Purdue will honor the nation’s semiquincentennial throughout 2026 and spotlight innovative pursuits by Boilermakers past and present.