06/06/2026
Meet a Purdue Class of 2026 graduate!
Mackenzie Hamilton, B.S. Web Programming and Design
Minor: Film and Video, African American Studies, Computer Information Technology
Mackenzie is seeking a career in web design and development, providing her opportunities to leverage her technical expertise and artistic flair to contribute to a team and create exceptional online experiences. While at Purdue she served as Vice President, of Epsilon Rho Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and Vice President of the Black Student Union.
05/12/2026
Interested in giving back to Purdue and supporting the Black alumni community?
Consider applying to join the Purdue Black Alumni Organization (PBAO) Board.
As Purdue’s oldest affinity network, PBAO fosters connection, professional development, and philanthropy among Black alumni. Board members serve as ambassadors, helping advance the organization’s mission through leadership, engagement, and partnership development.
Board members commit to a three-year term (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2029), maintain Purdue for Life membership, and support PBAO initiatives and events.
Applications are open from May 1, 2026, until 11:59 p.m. on May 29, 2026.
Apply here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=7UBb4sj5uUSUIP4chmQYVDESGgiIM9lNiZWjp1mFLOFUMk1QSTJDUVNNOUk0RDk0QU5XSTY0MVk0Ui4u&route=shorturl
All alumni clubs and networks are independent, volunteer-led groups affiliated with but not managed or controlled by the Purdue for Life Foundation. Their mission is to bring alumni and friends together in support of Purdue University. These groups do not speak on behalf of Purdue or Purdue for Life, and the views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Purdue or Purdue for Life.
03/27/2026
Announcement: BSU/PBAO Networking Night Collaboration
The Black Student Union (BSU) and PBAO are collaborating to host Networking Night, an interactive event designed to provide participants with opportunities to engage with alumni and professionals. This joint event reflects a shared commitment to supporting professional development, career awareness, and meaningful connection.
Networking Night will include a short presentation, a panel discussion with alumni, and time for students to meet and connect with PBAO Alumni-Professionals. The program will also offer career, interview, and networking insights, along with LinkedIn and résumé guidance and an open Q&A session.
Date: March 27, 2026
Time: 6:00–7:30 PM
Participants are encouraged to attend to learn more about career pathways, gain practical guidance, and engage in dialogue with alumni and professionals through this BSU/PBAO collaborative initiative.
03/25/2026
Antoinette Rayburn, BA Communications
In celebration of Women’s History Month, we proudly recognize Antoinette Rayburn, a 1992 graduate of Purdue University with a B.A. in Communications and a dedicated leader in education.
Antoinette serves as an Administrator and Career Academy Leader at Rich Township High School, where she leads the outcomes and continuous improvement of the Health and Human Services Division at the STEM campus. With extensive experience as a district administrator, she is known for fostering collaborative cultures that drive educational excellence through innovative leadership, coaching, and strategic program development.
Antoinette is deeply committed to empowering educators through data-informed instructional practices and meaningful professional development, while championing equity, inclusiveness, and cultural responsiveness in education. Her passion for student success and organizational growth continues to make a meaningful impact in the communities she serves.
03/23/2026
Kathryn A. [Davis] Jordan, BS 1978
Sports & Entertainment Executive | President & CEO, KJordan Consulting, LLC
In celebration of Women’s History Month we are proud to salute Kathryn A. Jordan is a nationally respected sports and entertainment executive, entrepreneur, and certified professional coach, widely recognized as a pioneer in athlete development. Known as the “Godmother of Player Development,” she established the NBA’s first fully staffed department dedicated to supporting athletes beyond the court—focusing on life skills, career transitions, family support, education, and personal growth—long before such programs became standard. Her innovative work laid the foundation for the NBA’s league-wide player development model and influenced best practices across the entire professional sports industry.
During her 25-year tenure with Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Jordan broke barriers as one of the first women and people of color in senior management, leading multiple departments and playing a key role in shaping organizational strategy, community impact, and brand development.
Beyond sports, Jordan has credits in theatre, television, film, and documentary storytelling, including ESPN’s 30 for 30: Winning Time – Reggie Miller vs. The New York Knicks and Basketball: A Love Story. Selected by the Walt Disney Co. as a Sports Mentor for Disney’s Inaugural Dreamers’ Academy with Steve Harvey, Jordan has been featured on AOL, USA Today, New York Times and Yahoo Sports. Ms. Jordan is the recipient of numerous awards and recognitions and was honored by the NBA as its inaugural Top Team Player Development Executive.
Today, as President and CEO of KJordan Consulting, LLC, Jordan continues to advise athletes, executives, organizations, and creatives on leadership, branding, and holistic development. Her influence extends beyond sports into entertainment, education, nonprofit leadership, and the arts, with credits in major ESPN productions and national speaking engagements. A highly decorated leader, she has received numerous awards for excellence, leadership, and community impact, and has been recognized nationally for her groundbreaking contributions. Jordan’s legacy reflects a lifelong commitment to empowering individuals and organizations to thrive both professionally and personally. Katheryn holds a bachelor’s degree from Purdue University, a master’s degree from Indiana University, and multiple professional certifications.