John Martinson Honors College celebrates student achievement at inaugural Level Up pinning celebration

A group of people posing with a certificate in front of a Purdue University backdrop.

Purdue student Nate Albin stands with his parents, sister and Felisa Higgins, dean of the John Martinson Honors College, in honor of his Outstanding Senior Award. (Purdue University photo)

April 30, 2026 Purdue Today

The John Martinson Honors College hosted its first Level Up pinning celebration in West Lafayette on April 12 and in Indianapolis on April 24. The college welcomed students, faculty and staff in recognizing academic progress and achievement among 2,764 honors students from both locations.

The event highlighted the college’s Level Up program, an initiative developed by Dean Felisa Higgins to celebrate students’ continued growth on their path toward earning the honors laureate distinction. This event marks a new tradition for the Honors College, reinforcing its commitment to recognizing student excellence at every stage of the undergraduate experience.

During the celebration, students received pins marking key stages of achievement, including Pathfinder, Rising Scholar and Honors Scholar levels. Those who complete all three levels will be awarded the honors medallion at a ceremony May 13.

More information about the Level Up program is available on the Honors C ollege website.