Heading into 2024, I find myself — once again — in a reflective state as I write this message.

This past year has been one of many incredible achievements and efforts made by our alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends. From responding to natural disasters around the world to innovating on structure design in our labs at Hampton Hall, the past 12 months have seen many giant leaps forward into shaping the future of the world for the better.

We also have seen more than 250 students earn a degree from the Lyles School of Civil Engineering and have read about and watched countless news stories featuring the amazing work done by our alumni and friends. Purdue civil engineering continually is seen as a world-leader in innovation and dedication — and it is because of each and every one of you that our reputation grew even further in 2023.

I, personally, witnessed just how far-reaching both our reputation and impact truly was over the past year. For the first six months of 2023, I was on sabbatical where I was able to meet researchers and school heads and spoke at a number of universities around the world.

It was almost overwhelming to hear the stories of inspiration they drew from our work and research as well as their eagerness to seek further collaboration due to how globally respected and proven Purdue civil engineers are. It was clear that when it came to seeking excellence in civil engineering, Purdue civil engineers were at the top of everyone’s lists.

This recognition has also extended into a number of awards and accolades our school, alumni and friends have amassed over the year. From national and international research and achievement awards to community honors, it was rare for a week to go by where I did not read about someone connected the Lyles School of Civil Engineering being recognized.

And in this edition of “Transitions” magazine, we have shared a few of those stories of excellence and achievements. The stories in this edition, of course, are just a small fraction of the incredible work being done —  and I encourage you all to reach out and share your stories with me.

Thank you to everyone who made 2023 such a wonderful year — and I eagerly look forward to what we will achieve together in 2024.

All the best,

Rao S. Govindaraju
Bowen Engineering Head of Civil Engineering
and Christopher B. and Susan S. Burke Professor of Civil Engineering