Golden Hammer Awards recognize student impact in Indianapolis

Inside America’s first Union Station — a crossroads once traveled by presidents and pioneers — a new generation of leaders took the spotlight April 23. Purdue University honored 27 undergraduates at the second annual Golden Hammer Awards dinner, celebrating students in Indianapolis whose influence extends well beyond the classroom. 

Purdue alumnus Bob Burlas, founder and CEO of Guide Leadership Consulting, urged students to trust their judgment as they chart new paths. “Don’t ask permission; ask if it is needed and is it right,” Burlas said.  

Established in 2025, the Golden Hammer Awards recognize students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, innovation and meaningful engagement within the Indianapolis community. This year, 20 students received the Golden Hammer Award for Excellence, which honors students who have built strong professional and personal networks through genuine connection and active involvement as Purdue students in Indianapolis. Seven students were recognized with the Golden Hammer Trailblazer Award, celebrating those who, during their time at Purdue, have created new opportunities, challenged the status quo and paved new paths for others.  

David Umulis, Purdue’s senior vice provost and chief academic officer for Indianapolis, spoke of Union Station as a gateway to history, a place where leaders who shaped our nation — such as Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson and Harry Truman — passed through and left their mark.  

“Innovation, leadership and courage have always moved through this space — and tonight that legacy continues with you,” Umulis said. “You are not only receiving an award; you are setting the standard for what comes next.”  

In addition to individual honors, two student organizations were recognized for their impact on student life in Indianapolis. Sara Dickey, associate dean in the Office of the Dean of Students, presented the CS Club officers with the award for Best New Program in Indianapolis for their work on Hack Indy 2026, a three-day hackathon that provided students across disciplines with an inclusive platform to build technology and connect with industry professionals. The Outstanding Student Organization Award went to the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers for implementing initiatives to strengthen student-industry connections and promote long-term participation and collaboration. 

The Golden Hammer Awards are presented annually each spring and celebrate students alongside their families and the broader Purdue community.