Changing Students’ Lives Starts with Us: Sandy Steele

Sandy Steele, associate vice chancellor for Enrollment Management, is passionate about ensuring Purdue University Northwest (PNW) students have a sturdy foundation to Power Onward to their dreams. Steele in her role helps numerous students who are beginning their PNW careers. She sees firsthand how donors’ gifts, such as supporting a scholarship, prove consequential in helping students overcome the different hurdles they face.

Why do you choose to give in support of PNW students?

“I give because I believe in the potential of every Purdue University Northwest student and in the power of education to change lives. For over 25 years, I have had the privilege of working at PNW. In that time, I have seen firsthand how scholarships can open doors and transform students’ futures. These scholarships are not just financial aid—they are lifelines that give students the opportunity to overcome obstacles and keep moving forward toward their dreams.”

Are there any specific organizations, scholarships or funds you prefer to give to at PNW?

“My husband and I support PNW students in three key ways. First, we contribute to funds that directly impact students my husband works with, such as those supporting student organizations with strong retention initiatives focused on engagement, research and learning. Second, we donate to scholarship funds with broad selection criteria, ensuring our contributions assist students in need at any stage of their academic journey. Finally, we make additional contributions during special events like Day of Giving.

We recognize the importance of employee giving in demonstrating leadership and commitment to external stakeholders, and I believe that if we are asking others to give, we should also be willing to contribute. This approach allows us to support both targeted initiatives and the broader PNW community, keeping the big picture in mind as we work together to empower students.”

How do you feel making a gift to PNW students shows how we Power Onward?

“Giving to PNW helps our students propel past any roadblocks they face and ensures they have the resources to succeed. I am proud to be part of a community that supports one another and invests in the future of education.”

Learn more about how you can make a difference in PNW students’ lives by visiting pnw.edu/changing-lives.

Also, mark your calendars for April 30, 2025, to help support PNW students on PNW Day of Giving!