| The circle of life
By Victor L. Lechtenberg, Dean of Agriculture
Spring is often considered a time of rebirth after the harvest
of fall and the dormant winter. It’s a signal that we’ve come full
circle and another growing season is ahead of us.
I was reminded of this circle of life this spring when we sent
a graduating class out into the world and brought several of our
outstanding alumni back to campus to honor their achievements, all
within the span of just a few weeks.
The Distinguished
Alumni Award honors mid-career graduates of Purdue
Agriculture who have made significant contributions to their
profession and to society. They are excellent examples of alumni
who have used their education to benefit others, as well as role
models for current students.
Our students start down the path that leads to distinguished careers
long before they graduate, as illustrated by the presidents of Purdue’s
three agricultural-based Greek-letter
organizations, who have already established a record of leadership,
academic excellence and community service.
But this is just the beginning. Our graduates are obligated to
make the most of their higher education and the privileges it offers.
As they continue through life, we want to hear that they are creating
new economic opportunities, are making advancements in the scientific
arena, and are volunteering in civic organizations. In short, we
expect them to make a difference for their families, friends, communities
and professions. Purdue and the state of Indiana have given them
a world-class education; this is how we need them to pay it back.
Members of the Class of 2003 are stepping into a wide array of
careers, becoming scientists, managers, teachers, foresters, producers
and engineers, as well as public servants and community leaders.
We will interact with many of them on a daily basis as they take
their place in the agriculture, food and natural resources industry.
Like our nine newest Distinguished Ag Alumni Award recipients, we
will honor them for their achievements as they advance through their
careers. And, like those that came before them, they, too, will
come full circle.
Victor L. Lechtenberg
Dean of Agriculture
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