"To make each one think, to make him self-reliant, to feel the responsibility of his own effort is a constant aim and endeavor," wrote educator David Robert Lewis.

The statement reveals the character of the man who was Purdue University's first black graduate. Lewis earned his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in 1894.

Lewis's Purdue thesis, "Highway Road Construction," reviewed European road-building practices. He later went on to become an educator and businessman.

Since Lewis's graduation over 120 years ago, Purdue’s Lyles School of Civil Engineering has been home to thousands of students, faculty and staff of color. We are proud that Lewis chose Purdue, and we work every day to honor his memory, his courage and the significance of his accomplishments.

To help celebrate Lewis's legacy, the Lyles School of Civil Engineering will host Mamon M. Powers Jr. (BSCE '70, HDR '14) for a lecture and luncheon on Tuesday, Feb. 26. Powers is chairman and CEO of Powers & Sons Construction Co., a 50-year-old firm serving Indiana and Illinois.

Please watch the Lyles School website for details.