
Wednesday, April 30, 2025
Parking at Shively Club – 850 Steven Beering Dr, West Lafayette, IN 47906
When you turn onto Cherry Lane you will then turn on to John R. Wooden Dr. and park in the navy-blue parking spot as shown and then walk to the stadium and you will stay to the right and you will see stairs to a main entrance between gates J and K. Shuttle services are available from the parking lot to Shively!

Agenda for Corporate Partner Mentors, Prospective Partners, and Purdue Leaders Program
8:30 AM – 9:00 AM | Coffee and Networking Location: Shively Club, 850 Steven Beering Dr, West Lafayette, IN 47906 |
9:00 AM – 9:05 AM | Welcome Remarks, Dr. Jenna Rickus, Vice Provost for Teaching and Learning, Professor of Agriculture and Biological Engineering |
9:05 AM – 9:10 AM | Reflection – College of Science, Dr. Lucy Flesch, Frederick L. Hovde Dean of the College of Science and Professor of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences |
9:10 AM – 9:15 AM | The Data Mine Updates, Dr. Mark Daniel Ward, Executive Director of The Data Mine |
9:15 AM – 10:00 AM | Panel: Data Mine Alum, Moderated by Virginia Vought, Executive Director of Central Indiana Engagement, Purdue Office of Engagement |
10:00 AM – 10:30 AM | Networking Break |
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM | Keynote: Navigating Gen Z’s Expectations in the Modern Workplace, Jennifer Merrell, Keynote Speaker, Higher Ed Consultant, and Professional Dot Connector Synopsis: Gen Z employees are often perceived as challenging. At the same time, they bring valuable perspectives and skills to the workforce. Emphasizing the elements of workplace culture, we will look at the gaps in expectations between employers and our newest generation in the workforce and dig into actionable insights for employers. By understanding and addressing these gaps, employers can create a positive work environment that benefits both Gen Z and the overall success of their organizations. |
11:30 AM – 12:45 PM | Networking Lunch |
12:45 PM – 1:30 PM | Panel: Mentor Best Practices |
1:30 PM – 2:00 PM | Student Awards |
Students Rejoin Symposium
4:00 – 6:00 PM | Poster Session Location: France A. Córdova Recreational Sports Center (Co-Rec), 355 N Martin Jischke Dr, West Lafayette, IN |
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM | Dinner with The Data Mine (Team dinner at various dining halls with students, seminar student dinner with Dr. Ward) Staged start times – sign up coming soon |
**Agenda subject to change
Accommodations
Hotels
Hilton Garden Inn 356 E State St, West Lafayette, IN 47906 | Click here for more info |
The Union Club Hotel at Purdue University 201 Grant St, West Lafayette, IN | Click here for more info |
Transportation
Airport Shuttle – Lafayette Limo | Click here for more information |
Taxi Service – Magic Cab Ride | 765-742-8400 |
Uber | Click here for more information |