The College of Engineering is proud to celebrate “150 Years of Purdue Engineering.” The sesquicentennial will be marked with a yearlong celebration of Purdue’s global leadership in engineering education and innovation and an opportunity to come together and envision a future of consequence.

"Throughout this historic year, we will honor our engineering community’s remarkable journey, reflecting on the legacy of giant leaps and excellence that make us who we are,” said Arvind Raman, the John A. Edwardson Dean of the College of Engineering. "Simultaneously, these events will foster dialogue and innovative thinking, driving us toward novel achievements and societal impact that help us progress as the most consequential engineering college in the nation.”  

Initial curriculum in the College of Engineering.

Purdue Engineering traces its origin to September 1874 when university President Abraham C. Shortridge published four-year courses in civil and mechanical engineering and the first engineering student, William Eldridge, was enrolled in an engineering class taught by an engineering instructor, William Morgan. Since then, the college has taken on some of the world’s most challenging issues in healthcare, technology, energy and security, among many others.

On Sept. 13, the college will launch the celebration with events including thought-provoking lectures by distinguished speakers, awards ceremonies celebrating community excellence and student competitions that serve as a space for emerging talent to showcase their skills and innovation. Other milestone moments will include ribbon cuttings, anniversary celebrations and alumni events that provide a platform for graduates to reconnect, reminisce and forge new connections within the industry.

For more information about Purdue Engineering’s sesquicentennial celebration and upcoming events, visit: https://engineering.purdue.edu/150