Building the Future of Hospitality: A Transformational Gift Fuels Purdue’s Expansion to Indianapolis

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — On Purdue’s Day of Giving, stories of impact often center on the ripple effect of generosity – how one act can shape countless futures. This year, few gifts embody that spirit more powerfully than the $10.2 million investment from the Dean and Barbara White Family Foundation, a cornerstone contribution advancing Purdue’s bold expansion of hospitality education into Indianapolis.

Announced by Purdue University President Mung Chiang as part of a larger $25 million commitment to the university’s Victories & Heroes campaign, the gift is both a tribute to legacy and a catalyst for what comes next. For the White Lodging–J.W. Marriott, Jr. School of Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM), it marks a defining moment – one that expands opportunity, deepens industry connection, and reaffirms Purdue’s place among the world’s leading hospitality programs.

A Vision Takes Shape in Indianapolis

When Purdue HTM launches in Indianapolis in fall 2026, it will do so with purpose and momentum. The city, already a thriving hub for conventions, tourism, and major sporting events, offers an unmatched living laboratory for students. With this expansion, Purdue is not simply adding a location; it is embedding its students directly into the heartbeat of the industry.

“This foundational investment in HTM in Indianapolis certainly sets us up for success,” said Ceridwyn King, associate dean for Indianapolis and strategic initiatives and the White Lodging Services Head of Purdue HTM. “It allows us to build a program that is competitive, innovative, and deeply connected to industry from day one.”

The White Family Foundation’s gift ensures that the program launches with strength – supporting faculty, programming, and, most importantly, students.

Investing in People: The Hospitalitarian Scholars Award

At the heart of this gift is a commitment to the next generation.

The Hospitalitarian Scholars Award, created through this funding, will recognize and support students who demonstrate academic excellence, a passion for hospitality, and a commitment to serving others. It is more than a scholarship, it is a statement about what leadership in hospitality should look like.

These scholars will represent the very best of Purdue: driven, service-minded, and ready to shape an industry built on human connection.

Funded by the Dean and Barbara White Family Foundation, this prestigious award ensures that talented students, regardless of financial background, can access a world-class education and fully engage in the experiential learning that defines Purdue HTM.

A Legacy That Continues to Give

The impact of this moment is rooted in a legacy years in the making.

The White family’s connection to Purdue runs deep, led by the late Bruce White, founder and chairman of White Lodging and a proud Boilermaker. His influence helped shape not only the hospitality industry but also Purdue’s trajectory as a leader in hospitality education. Today, that vision lives on through continued philanthropic partnership, championed by the White Family Foundation.

From naming the White Lodging–J.W. Marriott, Jr. School of Hospitality and Tourism Management to transforming the Union Club Hotel into a hands-on learning environment, their investments have consistently elevated the student experience. This latest gift builds on that foundation – extending opportunity to Indianapolis and beyond.

Momentum Meets Opportunity

The timing could not be more significant.

Purdue HTM recently rose to No. 3 nationally and No. 7 globally in the ShanghaiRanking Global Ranking of Academic Subjects, reflecting its growing reputation for excellence. At the same time, student demand continues to climb, with increasing interest in both West Lafayette and the upcoming Indianapolis program.

By expanding into the state’s capital, Purdue is meeting that demand while strengthening its role as a talent pipeline for Indiana’s rapidly growing hospitality and tourism sectors.

Victories & Heroes in Action

On a day dedicated to collective impact, this story stands as a powerful reminder: transformative change happens when vision meets generosity.

The White Family Foundation’s investment is not just about buildings or programs—it is about people. It is about the student who will become the first in their family to attend college. The future hotel leader who will redefine guest experience. The innovator who will shape the next era of hospitality.

These are Purdue’s victories. These are Purdue’s heroes.

And on this Day of Giving, their stories are just beginning.