150th Anniversary Celebration

Purdue University opened its doors on September 16, 1874. That date marks the launch of an incredible journey of innovation and education by our chemistry faculty, staff, students, and alumni.

The James Tarpo Jr. and Margaret Tarpo Department of Chemistry is celebrating its sesquicentennial in April 2025.

Chemistry 150th Anniversary Celebration
April 11-12, 2025
West Lafayette campus

FRIDAY, APRIL 11
Awards Celebration
An afternoon to recognize and award our students, staff, and faculty members.

SATURDAY, APRIL 12
On-Campus Celebration
A day to honor our legacy and envision the future. 
Featured speaker: Richard Zare, Stanford University

We hope you'll save the dates and come back to West Lafayette and celebrate with us! More events are being added. We encourage all our alumni to join us and reconnect with the department.

In addition, we want your help in defining our history with your recollections and stories. How has Purdue impacted your journey and affected the discoveries along your career path? Please tell us and send us your photo: 150th Anniversary Alumni Survey

Follow our celebration on Instagram @PurdueChemistry