Ravi Talwar graduated from Purdue with an MSIE in 1969. Over the course of his life, Ravi and his wife, Eleanor, showed unwavering dedication to the development of students. They would frequently say, “We don’t have any children of our own, so the Purdue IE students are our children.” This manifested in their establishment of the Talwar Women in Tech scholarships and the IE 200 peer mentoring program. It was through conversations with Ravi when he came back to campus to speak that the idea for the IE 200 peer mentoring program was established. This program is a semester-long, peer-to-peer group mentoring initiative focused on helping sophomores through their transition into IE from First Year Engineering by connecting them with upperclassmen. This program helps students build skills, understand more about IE, and make connections within the School that expedites their academic and career development. Each year, Ravi would treat the mentors to a dinner at any restaurant in the area. He truly loved hearing about their lives. Sadly, Ravi and Eleanor have passed on, but the impact they have had on students will continue.

 

 

Andy Burke completed his BSIE in 1983 and has been an active mentor to students for over a decade. Known for his warmth, authenticity, and deep commitment to serving others, Andy has made a lasting impact on the Purdue IE community, particularly through the School’s Two-Way Mentoring Program. His mentees describe him as a generous and dedicated mentor who goes above and beyond to provide guidance and support long after formal obligations end. His mentorship has shaped the personal and professional paths of many students, exemplifying what it means to be a true Boilermaker. Andy was unable to make it tonight, but we celebrate his contributions all the same!

 

I’m proud to call Andy a mentor and, more importantly, a friend. I met him as a sophomore at a Purdue, and he has instilled confidence at every single decision point in my career since. He is incredibly warm and authentic, and it’s easy to tell that he cares deeply about serving others. Thank you Andy for the impact you’ve had on me and other boilermakers!

 

I first met Andy through the School of IE’s Two-Way Mentoring Program. Even though we only had obligation to meet once a month for a single semester, Andy would go above and beyond to continue our relationship and lend me and support I may need, regardless of what was asked of expected of him. It’s been a year now since I was connected to Andy, and we continue to schedule time to meet, though he is no longer under any obligation. He is a true embodiment of the word “mentor”, and has a true motivation of giving back.

 

Andy has greatly impacted me by sharing his advice regarding my future professional career and the incredible possibilities. He has always been there for me and is incredibly easy to communicate with no matter what the topic. Andy's heart and encouragement have truly shown me what it means to be a Purdue Boilermaker and Purdue IE alum! Congratulations Andy!

 

Andy has been an outstanding mentor, always ready to go the extra mile in supporting both my academic and professional endeavors. He's generous with his time, often meeting with his mentees outside of the program. This honor is well deserved. Congratulations!

 

 

Tom Benes graduated with his BSIE in 1975 and MSIE in 1976. Tom is an active supporter of Purdue IE, frequently speaking to classes and sitting on panels. He is also one of the founding mentors for the IE Two-Way Mentoring program which connects students and IE alumni for 1:1 semester-long mentoring. As part of his mentorship efforts, Tom has flown his mentees to Atlanta, Georgia to tour his business and even helped one secure an internship in France as part of her GEARE program experience. 

 

 

James M. Savage, a 1972 BSIE, has made a profound impact on countless students through his generosity and mentorship. In 1995, Jim established the Robert E. Savage Scholarship, and later the [Fellowship Name], providing over $600,000 in financial support to more than 100 students to date. Beyond his remarkable financial contributions, Jim has maintained a personal relationship with many of the recipients, staying connected with around 60% of them as they navigate their personal and professional lives.

 

Jim’s humility, kindness, and ongoing investment in his scholars have left an indelible mark. One former recipient shared, “What truly sets Jim apart is the way he has remained engaged in my life since receiving the scholarship eight years ago. His support, encouragement, and genuine interest in my personal and professional growth have been invaluable.” Jim’s unwavering commitment to Purdue IE and his scholars makes him a deserving recipient of this award. Congratulations, Jim!

 

 

"I met Jim during my junior year at Purdue, and I was immediately struck by his humility, generosity, and kindness. While his contributions to Industrial Engineering students like myself through his scholarship were remarkable, what truly sets Jim apart is the way he has remained engaged in my life since the award roughly eight years ago. Jim has continued to invest in me, encourage me in both my professional and personal pursuits, and provide invaluable mentorship. His support, intentionality, and genuine interest in my life have meant so much."