In business, the concept of lean efficiency emphasizes minimizing waste and maximizing value in a sustainable and environmentally conscious way. Chad Laux, associate professor of computer and information technology at the Purdue Polytechnic Institute and co-lead of sustainable communities within the university’s Institute for a Sustainable Future, co-authored the award-winning “Lean Sustainability: A Pathway to a Circular Economy.” The book, which illustrates an integrated lean and sustainability approach applicable to manufacturing, health care, service and other industries, received the International Lean Six Sigma Institute’s Book of the Year Award and the Walter E. Masing Book Prize.
Purdue is once again receiving national recognition for campuswide sustainability efforts while improving its global ranking. In the QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2025, Purdue remained No. 12 in the U.S., unchanged from last year. But Purdue jumped 19 spots globally to No. 74 for sustainability in higher education. Additionally, Purdue ranked No. 5 among its 18 Big Ten peers.
For more than 35 years, Renee Thomas, Purdue’s associate vice provost for student access and community engagement, has increased educational opportunities for thousands of Boilermakers. In the latest episode of “This Is Purdue,” Thomas explains how her role is expanding in Indianapolis and the three pillars her team uses to ensure students feel a sense of belonging.
