Purdue Fort Wayne Class of 2025 Celebrates Long-Awaited Milestone

By Maddi Sims

For Purdue University Fort Wayne’s Class of 2025, this year’s commencement ceremony is more than the culmination of a college education—it is a long-awaited celebration of resilience. Today at 4 p.m., about 800 students are expected to graduate at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, many of whom never got the chance to walk the stage at their high school graduation due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This is very important to me,” said Bayley McDonald, a senior graduating with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a minor in communication studies. “It was really disappointing to miss out on my prom, musical, and graduation ceremony. I invited as many family and friends as possible.”

For students like McDonald, this commencement represents a sense of redemption—an opportunity to make meaningful memories before taking their next steps into the workforce or graduate school.

PFW currently serves a student body of 6,811, offering over 200 academic majors and a tight-knit community that many students say helped shape their futures. About 1,400 students are on track to receive a degree this academic year.

Sadie Fenstermacher, a senior majoring in communication and pursuing a Master of Fine Arts in film, says the university’s support has been invaluable.

“I think PFW has prepared me pretty well,” Fenstermacher said. “Not just academically, but through clubs and extracurriculars related to my major.” She plans to take a year off before beginning graduate school.

The support students receive goes beyond the classroom. Zoe Busse, a biology major with a minor in criminal justice who is expected to graduate in 2029, credits her academic advisor with helping her navigate coursework and internships.

“My advisor has been a great help when it comes to what courses to take and internships that would be great for me to partake in,” Busse said.

Internships are a graduation requirement for many programs at PFW, providing students with hands-on experience in their field—and often leading to job opportunities. McDonald is currently interning at Allen County Adult Probation and hopes to transition into a full-time role.

“I plan to stay here over the summer and hopefully become a PSI Writer,” she said.

Fenstermacher, meanwhile, will be interning at the Cinema Center, a local nonprofit cinema whose executive director is PFW professor Art Herbig. The venue has become a hub for film and production students.

PFW’s Career Development Center also plays a pivotal role in preparing students for life after graduation.

Jackie Stancil, the center’s executive director, encourages students to start career planning early, including resume building and interview practice using tools like “Big Interview,” a platform designed to simulate job interviews and give students feedback on their performance.

“Students who engage in the career office early and often are not only more likely to get the job they want—they make more money than those who didn’t use the Career Center,” Stancil said.

While the future may be uncertain for some graduates, the university’s resources, mentorship, and community have laid a strong foundation for what comes next. As McDonald and her classmates prepare to walk the stage, they do so with pride, hope, and a sense of fulfillment that was years in the making.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025—your journey is just beginning.

PFW Artists Shine at the Bradley: Student Work Featured in Downtown Boutique Hotel

By Rachel Steinbacher

Downtown Fort Wayne’s only boutique hotel, The Bradley, is doubling as a gallery space for Purdue Fort Wayne artists, thanks to an ongoing partnership that lets students and alumni showcase their work in one of the city’s most visible venues.

Over the past few years, downtown Fort Wayne has seen a wave of growth, with new restaurants, shops, and park renovations creating a vibrant atmosphere. Among the highlights is The Bradley, a boutique hotel that opened in July 2021 and quickly became a cultural touchstone—not just for its design, but for its commitment to supporting local art.

The Bradley was developed in partnership between West Coast-based Provenance Hotels and Barbara Baekgaard, co-founder of the Vera Bradley Foundation and a key figure in the hotel’s creation. Since its opening, the hotel has offered a unique opportunity for Purdue Fort Wayne (PFW) artists: ten curated art frames in one of its hallways, reserved exclusively for rotating displays of student and alumni artwork.

Rebecca Coffman, chair of PFW’s Department of Art and Design, says that it is a very cooperative partnership, but sometimes a laboring process. They put together a selection of works and send them to the Provenance Hotels team, who makes the final picks.

There are no strict guidelines for what type of art is selected. According to Mason Thomas, a sales manager at The Bradley, the hotel looks for pieces that simply “fit the mood.” The limited space—just ten frames—means not every submission can be displayed, but Coffman says the results have been rewarding.

“We’ve been able to show off some really beautiful photography, prints, and drawings in that limited space,” she said.

For PFW students and alumni, the exposure can be a career-boosting experience. Much like the university’s annual student exhibition, the partnership with The Bradley gives emerging artists the chance to have their work publicly viewed—and critiqued—in a high-profile setting.

“It’s just going to be an empty hallway,” Thomas said. “Might as well allow these students to promote their work, promote themselves, and promote their art. It’s great.”

The artwork on display rotates every few months, ensuring that new voices and visions are consistently featured. Whether you’re visiting Fort Wayne for the first time or planning a staycation, a stop by The Bradley offers more than just boutique accommodations—it’s also a window into the creative heart of the community.

“Everybody Say Love Dinner” Fosters Inclusivity at Purdue Fort Wayne

By Cincade Drudge

Purdue University Fort Wayne’s Q Center hosted its annual “Everybody Say Love Dinner” on Feb. 13, bringing together LGBTQ+ students, allies, and community members for an evening of food, music, and fun.

The event, which was held in the Walb Student Union, provided a space for attendees to celebrate Valentine’s Day with their friends and family while enjoying a free Mediterranean meal.

The dinner has been held annually at PFW since 2020, growing in size each year. The primary goal of the event is to create a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ students, especially for those who may feel isolated during the romantic season of Valentine’s Day.

“It’s an inclusive Valentine’s event where anyone can bring their chosen family, friends, or loved ones,” said Mitchell Fiandt, program assistant for the Q Center. “It’s all about sharing a meal and feeling a sense of belonging.”

This year’s event featured catering by Smile More Catering, a business run by a former PFW student, Terel Lynn, who the Q Center has worked with for previous events.

“We always try to partner with people we trust, and Terel knows the campus well,” Fiandt said.

The Mediterranean-themed menu included pitas, naan, chicken kebabs, and rice dishes, appealing to a diverse range of dietary preferences.

The event’s popularity has surged this year, with RSVP numbers reaching capacity.

“Last year, we ran out of food, so we implemented an RSVP system this time,” Fiandt explained. “We have about 60 people signed up, and we might still run out.”

The growing attendance numbers highlight the desire for community and support among LGBTQ+ students on campus.

Attendees expressed their appreciation for the event’s welcoming atmosphere. Alexander Egonoza, a community member and part of the LGBTQ+ community, emphasized the importance of such gatherings.

“This event is a great opportunity for LGBTQ+ individuals to enjoy themselves, especially given the current challenges our community faces,” he said. “Events like this show that PFW is a welcoming place.”

Korian Johnson, a PFW student and self-described ally, praised the event for bringing people together.

“It gives me an opportunity to talk with friends and have a good time,” he said. “It’s special because it provides a space for members of a marginalized community to share their experiences and bond over a meal.”

Beyond the meal itself, the Everybody Say Love Dinner aligns with Purdue Fort Wayne’s broader diversity and inclusion initiatives, with the event representing the melting pot of the PFW community coming together.

“We have international students, queer students of color, faculty, and even community members attending,” Fiandt said. “It’s great to see so many different backgrounds coming together in a safe and welcoming environment.”

With the backdrop of romantic music playing, attendees shared conversations, laughter, and a sense of community. As the event ended, it was clear that the Everybody Say Love Dinner was more than just a meal; it was a celebration of acceptance and togetherness.

A Window into Time – PFW Professor Dives Deep into Latin America

By Andrew Danielson

Revolution is breaking out on Purdue University Fort Wayne’s campus. Or, at least, the study of it.

Students taking Dr. Richard Weiner’s class on 20th Century Latin American Revolutions get to dive deep and analyze the complex world surrounding that region during the last century.

According to Dr. Weiner, a professor in the department of history, this course is offered only once every two years. Students in the class examine these revolutions from a global perspective as they seek to understand the big factors that influenced the context of the conflicts.

“During the Cold War,” Dr. Weiner said, “Latin America was much more on America’s radar.”

The poster taped to Dr. Weiner’s door describing his class on revolution in Latin America appears rather academic. A black text block at the top of the poster lists the web and social media info for the PFW history program. Slightly above the title on the poster is a listing of the semester and course number for the class, with a longer description of requirements the course satisfies.

But what really catches the eye of passers by is the stark photograph of a young Fidel Castro. Clad in military fatigues, a rifle slung over his shoulder, he is depicted in his jungle surroundings as he prepared to overthrow the Cuban government and establish what would become the communist dictatorship of Cuba.

“There’s always been someone coming from outside and trying to run the show in Cuba,” Dr. Weiner said as we discussed his class.

But Cuba isn’t the only focus for Dr. Weiner’s class. Countries throughout Latin America who have experienced revolution are also studied, including Mexico, Chile, and Nicaragua. Students taking the class dive deep into the circumstances of these revolutions and the varying results these countries experienced following the revolution.

The class takes the approach of analyzing these revolutions comparatively, seeking to understand what made each one unique and different from those in other Latin American countries.

Although the photograph on the poster helps promote the course to the random passerby, Dr. Weiner said he likes to use images while teaching his class, as they give students a sense of what was happening during those historic moments.

The poster on Dr. Weiner’s door may offer only a glimpse into one revolution of one country – a revolution that shook the geopolitical world for decades. But, thanks to opportunities like this class, Dr. Weiner’s students will take a wealth of knowledge and understanding with them to help form the foundations of tomorrow.

PFW Hosts Open House at the Mastodon Career Closet

By Hannah Arnold

The Career Development Center is hosting an open house today from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m at the Mastodon Career Closet, located in Neff Hall, room 361. 

All current students are welcome to attend, and no registration is required.

The Career Closet is full of professional clothes suited for the workforce, such as dress pants, button ups, blouses, suits, ties, belts, shoes, and other items needed for business attire.

Students can choose one free outfit per semester.

With racks full of donated and new items, students can find an outfit to wear to a job interview, the upcoming Mastodon Career Expo, or learn what is considered appropriate to wear in the professional world.

Melody Monday, the Career Closet coordinator, will be there to help students find the perfect outfit and answers questions about professional attire.

If you are not able to attend today’s open house, the Career Closet is also accessible by scheduling appointments through handshake.

Stop by and shop for items to add to your professional wardrobe.

PFW hosts opening reception for Annual Juried Student Art Exhibition

By Rachel Steinbacher

The department of Art and Design at Purdue University Fort Wayne is holding an opening reception today for their Annual Juried Student Art Exhibition. The opening will be from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. with free admission for all guests.

The event is taking place in the Visual Arts gallery, and presents the work of students from all levels – freshman to senior.

The guest juror for this year’s exhibition is Brian Ach, a professional photographer who offers students an insight on some of their work. He will be handing out awards for best in show, first, second, and third place.

The exhibition will be available at the Visual Arts gallery until Mar. 16 from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends.

Stop by and view some amazing local art from hardworking students this year.

PFW Softball Team Sweeps Doubleheader in Detroit

On Apr. 20 the Mastodons beat Detroit Mercy in a doubleheader. The final score for game one was 3-2 which finished in the sixth inning.

Detroit took a the lead with a score on a wild pitch in the first inning.

At the bottom of the sixth inning Brooke Wintlend hit a three run home run for a go-ahead run. Bailey Manos and Gwen McMenemy scored making the score 3-1.

In the bottom of the seventh, Detroit had the game tying run on second and the winning run on plate, but they struck out.

Game two of the double header final score was 13-5.

Grace Hollopeter led the game off with a home run, which was her third of the weekend. Detroit came back with two runs giving them the lead.

In the second inning the Mastodons had six runs. Brooke Lickey and Wintlend both homered in the second.

The fourth inning is when Detroit started to make a comeback with a three-run homer. The Mastodons answered with two runs in the fifth.

First at bat in the sixth Hollopeter homered again giving the Mastodons double-digits on the scoreboard.

Kayla Roberts struck out two in the game and got her second win of the season with a 4.2 IP.

PFW improves to 12-29 and Detroit Mercy falls to 3-33. The Mastodons resume play on Friday, Apr. 26 at noon in Green Bay.

PFW Softball Team Wins Against Detroit

On Apr. 19 the Mastodons beat the Detroit Mercy in the sixth inning. The final score was 9-0.

Grace Hollopeter started the game off with a home run in the first inning. In the fourth inning the Mastodons added three more runs. Two were from wild pitches.

In the fifth Brooke Wintlend gave the Mastodons their second home run of the night bringing the score to six to zero.

Alanah Jones had an amazing performance with 14 K’s. 12 of them were consecutive. Jones was also 2-for-2 from the batters box.

The two teams meet again for a Saturday doubleheader on Apr. 20.

PFW Hosts Flo Rida!

For the 2024 Spring Beats, Grammy-nominated artist Flo Rida is coming to PFW. The concert is on Friday, Apr. 26 at the Gates Sports Center. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show begins at 7 p.m.

The pre show party begins at 4 p.m. in Walb Union, International Ballroom with DJ Key Low. There will be food, nonalcoholic beverages, a photo booth, games, and a dance floor.

Concerts tickets went on sale Wednesday, Apr. 24 at 1:30 p.m. online, in person at the Schatzlein Box Office in the Music Center, and by phone at 260-481-6555. To purchase a ticket you must have a valid Mastodon Card or IUFW student ID number.

Tickets are available to purchase at https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2new/team.asp?SponsorID=17325&_ga=2.220002329.1070668715.1713758703-1630992252.1701996085

PFW Baseball Team Went 1-1 in Doubleheader at Oakland

The Mastodons faced Oakland on Apr. 13 for a doubleheader. The final score for game one was 11-6.

The Mastodons got on the board with a two-run home run at the top of the second inning from Ben Higgins.

At the top of the third inning the Mastodons took a seven zero lead over Oakland. Jacob Walker led off with scoring from second base. Grant Thoroman stole home and scored. After a reach on error, Nick Sutherlin scored on Cade Fitzpatrick triple, which Higgins also scored on.

Oakland scored at the bottom of the fourth, but Jackson Micheels hit a home run in the top of the fifth keeping the Mastodons in a big lead. PFW ends up scoring twice in the seventh and once more in the top of the ninth.

In game two the Mastodons fall short to Oakland. The final score was eight to three.

The Mastodons took a 1-0 lead in the top of the first after Walker score off of Thoroman’s single. Oakland scored three times at the bottom of the first.

Oakland had a four point lead, but at the top of seventh Higgins homered cutting the lead to two. Oakland expanded the lead with three more runs in the eighth.

After the doubleheader PFW is now 13-21. Oakland improves to 17-17.