CE Continuing Lectures

Dennis & Leslie Drag Distinguished Lecture Series

A lecture designed to bring to outstanding leaders in the field of civil engineering to campus, with a preference for presentations on structural engineering.  This lecture has been given since 2005 and was established by Dennis J. (BSCE 1966) and Leslie A. (BA 1967) Drag.

G.A. Leonards Lecture and PGS Workshop

A lecture in the geotechnical area, which is involved in the analysis, design and construction of foundations, slopes, retaining structures and other systems made of or are supported by soil or rock.  The lecture has been given each year since 2003 in honor of Professor G.A. Leonards, a Purdue faculty member from 1946 to the mid-1990s and a giant of the geotechnical engineering profession.  From his students' perspective, "GAL" was a dedicated professor and researcher, who never missed an opportunity to learn more about his chosen field and to share his views on new developments.  His influence continues to be felt through the impact he had on his students and colleagues.

C.W. Lovell Distinguished Lecture

A lecture in the geotechnical area, which relates to the analysis, design and construction of foundations, slopes, retaining structures and other systems made of or are supported by soil or rock.  Beginning in 2003, the C W Lovell Distinguished Lecture series was established through the generosity of Professor Lovell, who expressed an interest in creating a lecture series at Purdue that will have staying power – one in which a track record of scholarship is clearly established. Professor Emeritus C. William Lovell's career of teaching, research, consulting and practice extended over a period of 45 years. Professor Lovell was passionate about service Purdue and his community.  The lecture series creates an excellent opportunity for our graduate students to meet some of the most important names in Geotechnical engineering in person at Purdue.

Leonard E. Wood Lecture Series

A lecture in the materials area, typically focused on asphalt materials.  Materials engineers improve the infrastructure through study of asphalt, Portland cement and concrete materials, and develop new materials for use in construction.  This lecture has been given since 2010 in honor of Professor Leonard E. Wood, an alum (PhD, 1956) and Purdue faculty member from 1956 to 1993.  During his distinguished career at Purdue University, Dr. Wood served as more than an instructor. He was a mentor, a counselor, a teacher, and a friend who was truly dedicated to and for the students.  His influence continues to be felt through the impact he had on his students and colleagues and through his legendary work with the Co-op Program.