Three campus markers on the periphery of Purdue’s West Lafayette campus recognize the work of retired deans of students Beverley Stone (HDR LA’86), Barbara Cook (PhD EDU’67, HDR LA’96), and Betty Nelson. Each marker reads “Purdue University Founded 1869” and was installed on campus between 1982 and 1996.

The marker at Grant and State streets, near the Purdue Memorial Union, was built in honor of Stone, Purdue’s dean of women from 1968 to 1974 and the first dean of students from 1974 to 1980. She was known for her skills in listening, advocacy, and collaboration and sought to make sure students had a voice on faculty committees and at Board of Trustees meetings. The landmark acknowledges her dedication to campus sororities and was funded by the Panhellenic Association. Stone died in 2003. 

To celebrate Purdue’s 150th anniversary, the University plans to erect a gateway on the lawn of the Union in spring 2019. Intended to better connect campus to West Lafayette and create a stronger identity, this addition will replace the marker that honors Stone. University officials are evaluating opportunities to relocate the bronze plaque affixed to the brick and limestone memorial. 

Another marker on Northwestern Avenue near Stadium Avenue honors Cook, who was dean of students from 1980 to 1987. According to Nelson, “she had the spirit and mettle of a social worker.” Cook advised the Purdue chapter of Mortar Board for 30 years. To show their gratitude, Mortar Board, friends, and former students donated funds for the concrete marker. Cook passed away in 2013. 

The third marker, outside of Knoy Hall on Grant Street near Northwestern Avenue, is dedicated to Nelson, dean of students emerita, who was known on campus as an iron fist wearing a velvet glove. It was erected to honor her work as the third dean of students, a position she held from 1987 to 1995. The marker was built with donations from Mortar Board and Nelson’s friends. 

What are your favorite hidden gems on campus? Let us know in the comments.