Purdue University plans to expand downtown Indianapolis campus

INDIANAPOLIS – Students at Purdue University Indianapolis will soon have their own space to study, socialize and shop. The university’s board of trustees approved the purchase of a building downtown that will serve as a student center for its students.

The building, which used to house the Indy Recorder and most recently a law firm, is expected to raise the bar on student living as it transforms into a student center. The two-story, 25,000-square-foot building is on Indiana Avenue right across from West Street. The building is expected to be used as a place for college students to work, study and socialize.

“I’ve heard for some time from our students that they’re looking for places to be, to study, to be in fellowship and community,” said Evan Hawkins, Purdue Indianapolis’s senior director of administrative operations. “We’re super excited for what this building will be.”

This student center is just one of the many projects a part of the University’s 50-year campus plan, which was introduced in June. The plan is designed to transform Purdue’s urban expansion of its main campus, which supports industry partnership, research and experiential learning for its 15,000 students.

Hawkins said the campus would eventually transform into a residential-like campus, as opposed to a commuter campus, by offering support to 15,000 residential students.

The first floor will offer students study areas, a mini market and social space. The second floor will include things like a library, writing lab and a disability resource center.

“It’s going to create a place where students can work together, can mingle, have a real sense of belonging while they’re pursuing their academic studies and degree programs,” said David Umulis, Purdue Indianapolis’s senior vice provost.

Since the split from IUPUI, university leaders say they have seen an exponential amount of growth. The new student center was needed to keep up with this growth and help maintain the student population for years to come.

“This provides room for growth but with a specific focus and attention on students, student belonging and studying,” said Umulis. “This creates a landing spot that provides a new way for students to mingle: 25,000 square feet of space devoted to students and student success.”