A Message from the President - December 2011

The newly rededicated Mackey Arena welcomed a sellout crowd.

Winter is right around the corner, and while our students and faculty are busy with the details of the semester’s end, I am happy to reflect on another year filled with celebration and success for Purdue.

Purdue Athletics took center stage last month during the exciting Mackey Arena rededication weekend. Nearly four and a half years after plans for the Mackey Complex Project were formally announced, Purdue celebrated its unveiling Nov. 11-13 with several ceremonies and five Boilermaker victories – football, men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball twice. Well done! You can view a gallery of photos from the weekend and a video from the dedication.

Amy Lohrman is a Music Maker

Our December "5 Students Who ..." Web feature highlights Purdue students with a gift for music. From members of our campus musical ensembles, to students who play in bands and build their own instruments, these students share a passion for music. I hope you enjoy reading about these talented students who help keep the music alive on campus and beyond.

This month, the Purdue Musical Organizations’ annual Christmas Show will bring the holiday spirit to campus. This magical event, now in its 78th year, showcases the musical and vocal talents of our students and draws visitors old and new to Elliott Hall of Music. This is a sure sign that the holiday season has arrived and I hope you will be able to catch one of the performances.

Purdue celebrates winter commencement this month.

I am looking forward also to celebrating with nearly 2,600 students this month during winter commencement exercises on December 18. Our students have many reasons to be proud, and watching them cross the stage at Elliott Hall helps drive home the reason we work so hard to ensure their success. As they receive their diplomas, they join a legion of alumni who make up our Boilermaker family around the world. Congratulations, graduates!

I send warm holiday greetings and best wishes for a safe and prosperous new year.

Hail Purdue!

France A. Córdova
President