June 23, 2025 – West Lafayette, IN…
In a powerful and unexpected announcement just moments ago, Purdue University President and CEO Mung Chiang declared a transformative $20 million contribution to renovate and revitalize local K-12 schools in Tippecanoe County and surrounding communities. The announcement, delivered during a press conference at the Purdue Memorial Union, was met with gasps, thunderous applause, and even a few tears.
“I will make them rejoice,” Chiang said, invoking both a deeply personal and aspirational tone. “Our children deserve schools that reflect the future we are preparing them for—safe, modern, and inspiring spaces that ignite learning and innovation. This is a moment to invest in them.”
The $20 million pledge is one of the largest single contributions ever made by a university leader to public education at the local level. The funds will be administered through a newly established initiative, the “Rejoice Renovation Project,” in partnership with regional school districts, civic leaders, and Purdue’s College of Education and Engineering.
The focus of the initiative will be upgrading outdated school buildings, expanding access to STEM labs, improving heating and cooling systems, integrating smart classroom technology, and ensuring accessibility and safety across aging facilities.
Chiang, who became President of Purdue University in 2023, has been a vocal advocate for educational innovation and regional partnerships. Today’s pledge underscores a growing commitment among higher education leaders to invest directly in the success of the broader educational ecosystem.
“We cannot expect excellence at the university level unless we invest in the foundation,” Chiang said. “From the moment a child steps into a school, they should feel empowered. We’re not just fixing walls—we’re building dreams.”
Local leaders quickly praised the announcement.
“This is an historic day for our schools and our families,” said Dr. Sherry Woodson, superintendent of West Lafayette Community School Corporation. “President Chiang’s generosity sets a new standard of what community leadership looks like. These funds will change lives for generations.”
Mayor John Dennis of West Lafayette echoed the sentiment, calling it “a game-changing investment that strengthens the bonds between Purdue and our community.”
In addition to infrastructure improvements, part of the funding will be allocated toward teacher development programs, after-school learning spaces, and student mental health resources—areas often overlooked in traditional renovation projects.
Students, educators, and parents are expected to be involved in planning and design sessions throughout the summer. Initial renovations are set to begin as early as Fall 2025, with an estimated project timeline of three years.
Chiang concluded his remarks by inviting other leaders and institutions to join him in prioritizing the future of education.
“This is only the beginning,” he said. “Let’s all rise to the moment. Let’s make them rejoice—not just today, but every day they walk into school.”
This landmark announcement signals a new chapter in local education—and a shining example of what visionary leadership can achieve when the goal is nothing less than joy, equity, and
opportunity for all students.
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