NAADA 2025 Annual Conference hosted by Purdue University
In 2025, travel to Purdue University to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the NAADA conference, where the first conference was hosted. This will be a special black and golden anniversary event. National Agricultural Alumni Development Association (NAADA) is a national, non-profit, professional association created to support advancement professionals in development, alumni relations, student success, and communications within colleges and organizations of agricultural and related sciences. It is comprised of more than 480 members and 36 member institutions and agricultural organizations.
Purdue Fun Facts
October This year, we're thrilled to bring you some fun and fascinating facts about Purdue University in our NAADA newsletters. As we gear up for the 50th NAADA Conference next year, we hope these tidbits will spark your excitement to visit us. You’ll gain insights into Purdue’s rich history, vibrant community, and impressive achievements. Get ready for a year filled with Purdue pride!
Purdue University is famously known as the "Cradle of Astronauts" and the "Cradle of Quarterbacks." With 27 astronauts among its alumni, including Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the moon, and Eugene Cernan, the last person to do so, Purdue has a rich legacy in space exploration. Additionally, Purdue has produced an impressive lineup of NFL quarterbacks, such as Drew Brees and Bob Griese, who have made significant impacts on the field. This dual distinction highlights Purdue’s tradition of excellence in both engineering and athletics.
November Purdue University’s official colors, Old Gold and Black, were chosen in 1887 by the first Purdue football team to reflect the strength and spirit of the school. The Boilermaker nickname originated in 1891 after a football game against Wabash College. Purdue’s team, which had a significant number of burly engineering students, dominated the game so thoroughly that local newspapers began calling them the "Boilermakers," referring to the tough industrial workers in the region. The name stuck and became an enduring part of Purdue's identity. In 1940, Purdue introduced its official mascot, the Boilermaker Special, a locomotive-style vehicle that represents the university's engineering heritage and the train engineers who worked on the steam locomotives. The Boilermaker Special, which is updated periodically, is now a symbol of Purdue pride and can be seen leading parades, attending sporting events, and promoting school spirit across campus and beyond.
December Purdue University has a variety of December traditions that bring students, faculty, and the community together as the semester comes to an end and the holiday season approaches. One of the most cherished events is the Purdue Christmas Show, an annual performance by the Purdue Musical Organizations, featuring holiday music and festive performances that have been a part of the university's culture for decades. The show attracts thousands of attendees, showcasing the talents of students in a heartwarming display of seasonal spirit. In addition, the campus is often adorned with festive lights and decorations, including a large Christmas tree in our Student Union creating a cheerful atmosphere. Students also participate in events like holiday-themed study breaks, giving them a chance to relax before finals. Many enjoy the traditional winter break, spending time with family and reflecting on the semester's achievements. These traditions help foster a sense of community and joy as the year comes to a close.
January The Purdue Big Bass Drum is one of the university's most iconic symbols, often billed as the "World’s Largest Drum." Introduced in 1921, this massive percussion instrument has been a centerpiece of Purdue's All-American Marching Band for over a century. The drum is so large that it requires a dedicated crew, known as the "drum crew," to move and play it during football games, parades, and other university events. Its presence on the field is a powerful tradition, symbolizing the strength and unity of the Purdue community.
Another cherished tradition at Purdue is the school fight song, "Hail Purdue!" Written in 1912 by student James Morrison with lyrics by Edward Wotawa, the song reflects the pride and loyalty of Purdue students and alumni. "Hail Purdue!" is played at sporting events and ceremonies, and its rousing melody inspires Boilermakers to rally behind their teams and celebrate their university's heritage. Together, the Big Bass Drum and "Hail Purdue!" are enduring symbols of school spirit, contributing to the vibrant and enthusiastic atmosphere that defines Purdue University.
February The Purdue Ag Alumni Fish Fry is a long-standing tradition hosted by the Purdue Agricultural Alumni Association, bringing together alumni, students, faculty, and friends of the College of Agriculture. Held annually since 1920, the Fish Fry is much more than just a meal; it’s a major event for the agricultural community, celebrating Purdue’s leadership in agriculture and the achievements of its alumni. The gathering features a traditional fish lunch, but the highlight is the keynote speaker, often a prominent figure in agriculture, government, or business. The Fish Fry serves as a platform to discuss important issues facing the agricultural industry and provides an opportunity for networking and reconnecting. The event showcases Purdue’s strong ties to the farming community and its commitment to advancing agricultural education and innovation. For many, attending the Fish Fry is a chance to celebrate Purdue’s legacy while looking forward to the future of agriculture.
March Purdue basketball has a rich and storied history that reflects the university's enduring commitment to excellence on the court. Established in 1896, Purdue’s basketball program is one of the oldest in the country and has produced a tradition of success over the decades. They have had a passionate coaches over the years including Gene Keady, who built Purdue into a powerhouse during his 25-year tenure and current coach Matt Painter. head coach of Purdue basketball since 2005, Painter has been instrumental in continuing the program’s tradition of excellence, known for developing well-rounded players, emphasizing strong defense, and leading the Boilermakers to multiple Big Ten championships and deep NCAA Tournament runs. The university also takes pride in producing top-notch players like John Wooden, a basketball icon who later became one of the greatest coaches in NCAA history, and modern stars like Glenn Robinson and Zach Edey.
Playing in the historic Mackey Arena, which opened in 1967, Purdue enjoys one of the most passionate fan bases in college basketball, with fans filling the stands and creating a powerful home-court advantage. The "Purdue Pete" mascot, along with the thundering sounds of the Purdue Pep Band, adds to the electric atmosphere at games. As Purdue continues to build on its basketball legacy, the program stands as a symbol of tradition, hard work, and competitive spirit, making it a cornerstone of Boilermaker athletics.
April The Purdue Grand Prix, often called "The Greatest Spectacle in College Racing," is one of the university's most exciting and cherished traditions. First held in 1958, the annual go-kart race was created by a group of engineering students to raise funds for scholarships and to showcase Purdue’s deep ties to engineering and innovation. The race takes place on a dedicated track on campus, with teams of students designing, building, and driving their own karts in a test of speed, strategy, and skill. The Grand Prix is a weeklong celebration filled with events, culminating in race day, where thousands of students, alumni, and fans gather to watch the intense competition. Beyond the thrill of racing, the event serves as a reminder of Purdue’s collaborative spirit, combining engineering expertise, teamwork, and school pride in a way that has become a hallmark of the university’s culture.
May Purdue University has a strong connection to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS), highlighted by its involvement in various engineering and racing initiatives at the famed track. The partnership between Purdue and IMS emphasizes the university’s leadership in automotive and motorsports engineering, with students and faculty contributing to innovations that impact the racing industry. For instance, Purdue engineering students and researchers have collaborated with race teams and manufacturers to improve vehicle performance, safety, and efficiency in motorsports. Purdue’s presence at the Indianapolis 500, one of the world’s most prestigious auto races, is also marked by the participation of the Purdue All-American Marching Band, which has performed during the race’s opening ceremonies for decades. This blend of academic excellence, engineering prowess, and school spirit symbolizes Purdue’s role in advancing automotive technologies and its unique connection to Indiana’s motorsports heritage at the iconic Speedway.
