Purdue Fort Wayne Summit Scholars

Doermer Scholar Mahlan Dircksen made the most of his scholarship by taking his education more than 4,000 miles from home!

During his first year, Mahlan studied at the International University of Rabat in Morocco, where he experienced a new culture, explored global business, and gained a broader perspective of the world.

He created an amazing video that offers a look into his daily life and experiences abroad. We are so proud of Mahlan for taking advantage of this opportunity and hope his story encourages other scholars to consider where their scholarship might take them!

Watch the video below and experience Morocco through Mahlan’s eyes.

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Congratulations to Purdue Fort Wayne Library on these wonderful new displays! They add such a welcoming touch to the space while highlighting the creativity and innovation happening across campus.

We were especially excited to spot Chapman Scholar alumnus Jeremiah Miller featured in the new graphic wall—look for the arrow! It is always meaningful to see our scholars represented as part of the Purdue Fort Wayne community.

Students, be sure to visit the Digital Arts + Humanities Lab on the fourth floor. Whether you are interested in 3D modeling, digitization, virtual or augmented reality, or simply exploring a new creative space, the lab offers so many opportunities to learn, create, and bring ideas to life.

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We are excited to share this year’s Summit Scholars newsletter, highlighting a wonderful year of learning, service, connection, and student success.

The 2025–2026 academic year gave our scholars so many opportunities to grow through Lunch & Learns with faculty and community partners, service projects, research and capstone work, campus involvement, travel experiences, and celebrations with our graduates and incoming students.

What stands out most is not just what our scholars accomplished, but how they showed up throughout the year—with curiosity, kindness, leadership, and a willingness to keep growing.

We are so proud of these students and grateful for the faculty, staff, alumni, advisory council members, families, and community partners who continue to support their experience.

We hope you will take a few minutes to read through the newsletter and celebrate a wonderful year with us.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gYGwsy21axZWLCnEIIODngGoQ6YGEvYo/view?usp=sharing

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2025-2026 PFW Summit Scholars Newsletter (1).pdf

A great reminder from Purdue Fort Wayne Wellbeing.

The Campus Kettler Pantry is open to both students and staff this summer and is located in the Center for Student Counseling. Please help spread the word so our campus community knows this resource is available.

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These photos capture one of my favorite moments from commencement: having the opportunity to medal our graduating Summit Scholars.

These students have spent the last four years growing as leaders, scholars, mentors, and community-minded individuals. It has been a privilege to watch them develop their voices, support one another, and leave their mark on the Chapman and Doermer Distinguished Scholars Programs.

And I cannot say this enough — congratulations. I am so proud of all you have accomplished, and I cannot wait to see where your next chapter takes you. Thank you for the way you have represented this program and for the example you have set for the scholars coming behind you.

Go Dons!

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Congratulations to Doermer Distinguished Scholar alumnus Steven Dellinger on being selected as a nominated candidate for the Springfield Township Board.

Steven’s continued commitment to civic engagement and public service is a wonderful reflection of the leadership we value in our Summit Scholars community. We are proud to see our alumni stepping forward to serve their communities, listen to their neighbors, and contribute in meaningful ways.

Congratulations, Steven! We wish you the very best as you continue this journey.

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Congratulations to Chapman Scholar alum Brandon Blumenherst on his recent nomination for Wayne Township Board!

Brandon’s commitment to civic engagement and community service reflects the values we hope to see in our scholars long after graduation. His dedication to listening, building relationships, and serving his community is something worth celebrating.

We are proud to recognize Brandon’s continued leadership and wish him the best as he continues serving and engaging with the Wayne Township community.

Congratulations, Brandon!

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