WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) — There are now thousands of new Purdue graduates in the world. Sunday, students wrapped up their time at the university with winter commencement. And in true Boilermaker fashion, the students didn't leave without one last assignment.
Purdue leaders asked them with a call of action to move the world forward as they step into their careers.
Purdue graduate, Theresa Carter was this year's commencement speaker. From once sitting in those same seats as the graduates, to presenting on stage as a retired Major General in the U.S. Air Force, she spread a message for graduates to not only be a Boilermaker but a change-maker in their fields.
“We are Purdue, makers all. Class of 2018, it's now up to you. Move the world forward by leaving change and leaving your footprints,” said Carter.
Graduates and their professors are taking Carter's advice as they transition into the next chapter of their life.
“I got into public health because I think there's a necessity that if the population flourishes, so does the U.S.,” said a recent graduate who received a Ph.D. degree in Occupational Environmental Health Sciences.
“I want to go into the space side of airspace so hopefully we can make advancements in that field,” said a graduate who received an undergraduate degree from Purdue’s Aerospace Department.
“Excelling in research and learning as much as we can about our fields to help make the world a better place,” said a Purdue Chemistry Professor who’s attended eight Purdue graduations with her students receiving degrees.
The university held two ceremonies at 9:30 a.m and 2:00 p.m. for graduate and undergraduate students Sunday.
The ceremony marked Purdue's 236th commencement.
