WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — The Purdue University School of Sustainability Engineering and Environmental Engineering (SEE) will celebrate its 20th anniversary on Oct. 15 with an afternoon of reflection, inspiration and connection, highlighting two decades of leadership in environmental engineering and sustainability.

The event is open to the public and will bring together alumni, students, faculty, industry partners and friends of the school to commemorate a program that has grown from an ambitious idea in the early 2000s into one of the nation’s leading environmental engineering programs.

"What started as an idea has become a movement," said John W. Sutherland, distinguished professor and Fehsenfeld Family Head of the School of Sustainability Engineering and Environmental Engineering. "For 20 years, SEE has advanced innovation, collaboration and real-world impact while preparing the next generation of engineers and sustainability professionals. This celebration is an opportunity to recognize the people who have shaped our success and look ahead to the future."

The anniversary event will feature opening remarks highlighting SEE's history and impact, followed by fast-paced student lightning talks showcasing innovative ideas and emerging perspectives on sustainability and environmental engineering.

The keynote address will be delivered by Joseph F. DeCarolis, former administrator of the U.S. Energy Information Administration and a nationally recognized scientist and academic. DeCarolis will share insights on the future of environmental and sustainability engineering, examining emerging opportunities, complex challenges and the field’s growing impact on society. The presentation will provide a broad, forward-looking perspective on how engineers and sustainability professionals can help shape a more resilient and sustainable future. A question-and-answer session will follow.

The celebration will conclude with a student poster session and networking reception featuring food and refreshments. Guests will have the opportunity to connect with members of the SEE community while learning about current student research and future directions for the field.

Event Schedule

3:30 p.m. — Welcome and opening remarks by John Sutherland

3:40 p.m. — Student lightning talks

4:10 p.m. — Keynote address by Joseph F. DeCarolis, former administrator of the U.S. Energy Information Administration

5:05 p.m. — Student poster session and networking reception

6:30 p.m. — Event concludes

The event is designed to celebrate SEE's accomplishments while fostering new connections among alumni, students, faculty and industry leaders. Attendees will gain insights into the school's past, present and future, while engaging with the people and ideas shaping a more sustainable world.

The event is open to the public; however, advance registration is required. Guests must RSVP by Oct. 7. To register, visit  https://luma.com/ouxrxmh6.

ABOUT THE SCHOOL OF SUSTAINABILITY ENGINEERING AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING
The Purdue University School of Sustainability Engineering and Environmental Engineering advances education, research and engagement at the intersection of engineering and sustainability. Through innovative teaching and interdisciplinary collaboration, SEE prepares leaders to address complex environmental challenges and create sustainable solutions that improve quality of life around the world.

MEDIA CONTACT
Sarah Anderson
Senior Communications and Marketing Specialist
School of Sustainability Engineering and Environmental Engineering
Purdue University
M: 812-374-7638 
andersons@purdue.edu