This Is Purdue

In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to Nick Sturgeon (MS cybersecurity and trusted systems ’15), Speedway Town Council member and former council president. 

As a proud Purdue alumnus and longtime Speedway, Indiana, resident, Nick is an Indianapolis 500 expert and has firsthand knowledge about how Boilermakers help shape “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” every year.  

This is also an extra special episode of “This Is Purdue” because host Kate Young is joined by a co-host: Trevor Peters, Purdue spokesperson and longtime Indy 500 fan and attendee. (If you’ve attended a Boilermaker football game in the past 10 years, you’ve probably heard Trevor emceeing!) 

In this episode, you will: 

Learn more about what it’s like living in Speedway and how the town prepares to host the world’s largest single-day sporting event each May before the green flag drops 

Discover more about Purdue’s Indy 500 legacy, from alumni serving as race-day organizers and working as engineers in the pits at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, to students playing in the “All-American” Marching Band 

Find out why Speedway is the perfect town to host the Indy 500, from a strong legacy of tradition to its energetic downtown, especially ahead of its centennial celebration 

Hear more about Nick’s time as town council president and how he played a vital role in revitalizing economic growth and tourism, including helping to recruit motorsports manufacturing giant Dallara 

Learn more about his background as an Indiana state trooper and his current PhD studies in cybersecurity and forensics at Purdue, including how it enhances his various roles in Speedway 

Gain insights into Nick’s favorite Indy 500 memories, his tips for first-time racegoers and race-day predictions — and his bright hopes for the future of Speedway  

You don’t want to miss this episode with a Purdue alum who’s helping to bring this popular spectacle to life for millions of fans worldwide! 
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to Lauren Bright (BS multidisciplinary engineering ’11), founder and principal consultant of Torus, an innovative textile consulting firm based in Portland, Oregon. 

As a Purdue alumna and leader at the intersection of science and art, Lauren has a demonstrated passion for driving change in the global textile industry. She’s diving into how her interdisciplinary background helps her advance sustainability in today’s fashion world.  

In this episode, you will: 

Learn more about the fast fashion industry, including what factors set it apart from traditional seasonal fashion, why it appeals to people, and its impact on the environment and our bodies.  

Discover how social media marketing influences our decision-making, especially when it comes to our fashion choices and the counter movement of “slow fashion.”  

Hear about Lauren’s work in the textile industry and how Torus is a powerful platform for systems-level change through research, policy advocacy and partnership-building with nonprofits, brands and more.  

Find out more about her journey in Purdue’s multidisciplinary engineering program and how she gained invaluable skills in STEM and art, which set her up for career success.  

Learn more about Lauren’s background working for elite brands such as Nike, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Columbia Sportswear Co. and Gap Inc. 

Explore Lauren’s practical tips for being a more sustainable consumer, like thrifting and creating a capsule wardrobe. 

Gain insights into her hopes for the future of fashion sustainability, including stronger industry regulation. 

You don’t want to miss this episode with a STEM and fashion innovator who’s changing what we wear — for the better.  
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to Krystal Hans, director of forensic science and assistant professor of forensic entomology at Purdue University.  

As the only board-certified forensic entomologist in the Midwest, Krystal is a well-known expert in her field. And she’s digging into how insects affect crime investigations and cold cases. 

In this episode, you will: 

Learn more about the truth behind true crime on TV (think “Law & Order”) versus reality and how the “CSI” effect can impact the outcomes of real-life cases  

Discover more about forensic entomology, from Krystal’s early love of insects to the crucial job experts like her have when collecting evidence at crime scenes 

Hear more about Krystal’s roles leading Hans Lab, where she collects and analyzes insect evidence and mentors students, and Hans Forensics, where she consults on current investigations 

Gain knowledge about student experiences with real Indiana cold cases in Krystal’s popular forensic investigation class — which has grown to over 200 students — and how their contributions can change the trajectory of investigations  

Understand more about society’s fascination with true crime and the importance of empathy and ethical advocacy for victims and their loved ones 

Learn more about the Cold Case Symposium, which provides a platform for families of victims to connect with law enforcement and the community 

You don’t want to miss this episode with a leading forensic entomologist who’s preparing the next generation of Boilermakers to be more empathetic and inquisitive professionals in their fields. 
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re coming to you live from Indianapolis – home to Purdue’s urban campus and this year’s host city of the NCAA Men’s Final Four! We’re talking to Ken Halpin, Purdue’s deputy athletics director and chief operating officer, and Julie Roe Lach, executive vice president of external relations and community engagement for Pacers Sports & Entertainment. 

These two sports experts join host Kate Young at the Indianapolis International Airport as Final Four weekend kicks off to discuss how major sporting events like this connect basketball fans and elevate the Indianapolis economy and community as well as the unique culture and record-breaking successes of Purdue’s basketball program this season.  

Join “This Is Purdue” as we celebrate the ninth time that the Circle City has hosted the Final Four. In 49 states, it’s just basketball, but this is Indiana.  

Don’t miss this live episode filled with energy and excitement!  
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to Mark Montieth, author and sports journalist.  

Mark is a renowned basketball historian with a decades-long career reporting for publications like the Indianapolis Star and Journal Gazette (Fort Wayne). As an Indiana native, he’s an expert on the state’s famous basketball culture and fandom, and how Purdue has played a key role in this rich legacy. Mark has a unique perspective because he’s covered basketball at all levels. He’ll share his inside observations on why Indiana is the state for basketball, ahead of the NCAA Tournament that will culminate with the Final Four in downtown Indianapolis on April 4 and 6. 

This is also another exciting episode for “This Is Purdue” because host Kate Young is joined by a special co-host: Derek Schultz, Purdue spokesman and Indy sports personality! 

In this episode, you will: 

 Explore more about Mark’s upbringing in Indiana, his early love of sports and writing, and his journey to becoming one of the most respected sports journalists in the state 

Dive into why Indiana is the state for basketball, from its historic dedication to high school teams to the enduring legacies of players like Rick Mount and Reggie Miller 

Learn about Mark’s time documenting legendary Purdue basketball coach Gene Keady and the 1988 basketball team’s epic journey, which became the basis for his book “Passion Play: A Season With the Purdue Boilermakers and Coach Gene Keady” 

Hear more about Purdue’s impact on basketball, from fan loyalty to famous rivalries 

Get Mark’s insights on the 2026 Final Four and why Indianapolis is the perfect place to host one of the country’s biggest sports events 

You don’t want to miss Mark’s career-defining stories about local basketball history and culture. In 49 other states, it’s just basketball, but this is Indiana! 
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices