10 Years of Purdue University Northwest
Celebrating a Decade of Changing Students' Lives
In 2026, our campuses and communities will celebrate 10 years of Purdue University Northwest! We’ll mark this milestone with special events including a 10th Anniversary Gala to support scholarships for our deserving students.
Ten Years of Inspiration and Impact
Join us in celebrating a decade of Purdue University Northwest accomplishments—and to support PNW’s ongoing work to transform students’ lives.
PNW raised more than $450,000 through the 10th Anniversary Gala. Watch for additional exciting events for students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends throughout 2026!
See Chancellor Holford’s Reflection on PNW’s 10th Anniversary
Celebrating a Decade of Changing Students’ Lives
Narrated by our students, this video highlights the many ways PNW has grown over the past decade into the anchor institution of Northwest Indiana.
Event Highlights
Founders Day 2026
March 6, 2026
PNW kicked off its 10th anniversary celebration on Founders Day by recognizing outstanding faculty, staff and students.
10th Anniversary Gala
May 29, 2026
Guests enjoyed an elegant evening while supporting scholarships for PNW’s deserving students.
Special Student Events
Throughout 2026
Students, keep an eye on the calendar for can’t-miss events commemorating PNW’s anniversary year!
Steering Committee Co-Chairs
Lisa Goodnight
Vice Chancellor, Institutional Advancement
Catharine Olsen
Chief of Staff to the Chancellor
Committee Members
- Molly Bowler – SGA Representative
- Hector Cabrera – Admissions Recruiter and MaPSAC Representative
- Natalie Connors – Assistant Vice Chancellor for Alumni Engagement and Development
- Kris Falzone – Associate Vice Chancellor, Marketing and Communications
- Katie Holderby – Director, Alumni Engagement and Strategic Events
- Scott Iverson – Assistant Vice Chancellor, Housing and Student Life
- Natalie Jarrett – Assistant Athletic Director for Student Success and Senior Woman Administrator
- Brian Miller – Director of Public Safety
- Scott Parsons – Senior Director, Facilities and Grounds
- Diane Spoljoric – Associate Professor of Nursing, Faculty Senate Representative
- Katie Stompor – Executive Director, Digital Media and Brand Management
- Jon Swarts – Dean, Honors College and University College
- Kristy Tomaszewski – Administrative Assistant and CSSAC Representative
- Julie Wiejak – Executive Director, Undergraduate Admissions
- Mohammad Zahraee – Interim Dean, College of Technology
Celebrating PNW's Victories and Heroes
As PNW marks its 10th anniversary, we’re also revisiting some of the top triumphs that have transformed Purdue University Northwest.