Victories & Heroes
Your Campaign for Purdue University Northwest
At Purdue University Northwest, we are transforming lives and the region we call home. We invite you to join us in celebrating PNW’s “Victories & Heroes” by making a gift to change students’ lives and further PNW’s positive impact on the community.
PNW Victory: 2023 Men's Soccer
Purdue Northwest 2023 men’s soccer team made history with a conference championship and national tournament berth. This exemplary triumph continues to inspire PNW student-athletes.
PNW Hero: Mitchell “Mason” Macenski
Mitchell “Mason” Macenski (B.A.,‘86) is at the forefront of bioengineering human organs for transplantation. As a proud PNW alumnus, he also is helping current students shape their own futures.
Exploring our Heroes’ Impact
Honoring distinguished graduates of the Purdue University Northwest campuses.
Celebrating outstanding athletes and individuals from throughout our history.
Starting Jan. 1, 2026, any Indiana resident can support PNW students by selecting a PNW plate option when you renew at the BMV.
Investing in a Brighter Future
At Purdue University Northwest, we’re passionate about helping students succeed.
Our contributions foster academic excellence, relieve financial burdens and enhance opportunities for students—creating a ripple effect of positive change that extends well beyond our campuses.
PNW Champions and Changemakers
An Enduring Legacy
PNW organic chemistry professor Nils K. Nelson’s impact includes scholarships for today’s students—and a state-of-the-art building named in his honor.
A Distinguished Researcher
Chenn Zhou is the NIPSCO Distinguished Professor of Engineering Simulation in the College of Engineering and Sciences—the first faculty member at Purdue Northwest to achieve the distinguished professor title.
Investing in Impact
Alumni Hall of Fame inductee David Roberts and wife Susan Roberts have generously supported the Roberts Impact Lab at PNW, a workspace for entrepreneurship, innovation and education collaboration.
Supporting Students in Need
PNW staff member Kara Griffin gives because she understands how faculty and staff members’ gifts spur students to keep working toward their lifelong goals.
A PNW Icon
Coach John Friend’s long and successful career as a football coach, basketball coach and athletic director at Purdue University Northwest transformed the lives of many.
A Generous Giver
A generous estate gift let Professor Emerita of Chemistry Maria Longas support PNW students long after leaving the classroom.
Finding Meaning in Mentorship
Associate Professor of Education David Pratt has poured his heart into mentoring students at all levels during his career, from K-12 settings to college students.
Strong Stewardship
In 2018, Damien (pictured) and Rita Gabis made the largest gift in PNW history with the donation of Taltree Arboretum and Gardens (now Gabis Arboretum at PNW).