Happy 120th Anniversary

As we press forth through these unprecedented times, it is more important than ever that we have leaders and institutions that can act as pillars of stability in the face of an increasingly uncertain landscape. Thankfully, for 120 years now, Purdue University has had the College of Engineering to rely upon.

Like the College, the Lyles School of Civil Engineering has also served as a pillar for the University. Since 1887, our school has proudly been — and will continue to be — at the forefront of both research and education.

We have played essential roles in the creation of historic landmarks, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Panama Canal and Hoover Dam. We have also been part of the creation of many of the world’s modern marvels, such as the Jeddah Tower, Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, and Riyadh Metro system. And we are focused on the future with research on connected cities, climate change, and establishing civilizations on other planets.

We work tirelessly to ensure that these noble, innovative pursuits continue for many more years to come. In addition to receiving an education from our world-renowned faculty, students are involved in conducting practically all of our research. These students play vital roles and will be the ones to guide the next generation of civil engineers.

We also persistently strive to address emerging world concerns — and that includes the COVID-19 pandemic. As I write this letter, several of our faculty are leading various research efforts to aid the world in recovery and in preparation for when a new pandemic arises. Our ongoing pandemic research includes studying the effects on water systems, the use of ultraviolet rays for disinfecting PPE, and the effects of public transportation and urbanization on the spread of a virus.

Over the past few weeks, we have been working diligently, and transitioning to an all-online teaching mode using our Learning Management System. As we deliver online instruction the rest of the semester, we are sharing innovative approaches to teaching, as well as to conducting labs, quizzes and exams. While it was not our original intent, this emergency has highlighted the need for virtual labs - something that was part of our strategic plan. It has also provided us with valuable experience as we prepare to offer online graduate program courses in the spring of 2021.

So, while this year has certainly proven to be a difficult test for Purdue — and it is hardly how any of us expected to celebrate the College of Engineering’s 120th anniversary — in a way, this event has better showcased our ability to collectively rise to meet challenges. I look forward to when we can all get together again and properly celebrate.

“Sounds Like the Future”

All the best,

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