Leadership

Overseen by Chancellor Chris Holford, our leadership team drives PNW to be a student-centered university that transforms lives through innovative education, impactful research and community engagement.

PNW has shared governance with the University’s Faculty Senate.

Dr. Kenneth C. Holford

Chancellor Kenneth C. (Chris) Holford

Assuming the office in January 2024, Chancellor Chris Holford brings with him a legacy of accomplishment at Purdue University Northwest. His priorities include academic and research excellence, quality of the student experience, the importance of developing a highly trained workforce, and the enrichment and economic growth of the regional community.

Meet the Chancellor

Senior Leadership Team

Marie Mora

Marie Mora

Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

Lawshe Hall (LAWS) 346
Schwarz Hall (SWRZ) 150
Phone: 219-989-2446
Email:mora41@pnw.edu

Elizabeth Depew

Elizabeth Babcock Depew

Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs

Lawshe Hall (LAWS) 352
Schwarz Hall (SWRZ) 137
Phone: 219-989-2367
Email: ebabcock@pnw.edu

Stephen Turner

Stephen R. Turner

Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration

Lawshe Hall (LAWS) 336
Schwarz Hall (SWRZ) 145
Phone: 219-989-2232
Email: sturner@pnw.edu

Lisa Goodnight

Lisa Goodnight

Vice Chancellor for Institutional Advancement

Lawshe Hall (LAWS) 318
Phone: 219-989-2323
Email: Lisa.Goodnight@pnw.edu

Rick Costello

Rick Costello

Director of Athletics

Ex Officio

Fitness and Recreation Center (FNRC) 107
Dworkin Complex (DSAC)
Phone: 219-989-2540
Email: rick@pnw.edu

Catherine Olsen

Catharine Olsen

Chief of Staff to the Chancellor

Ex Officio

Lawshe Hall (LAWS) 346C
Phone: 219-989-2370
Email: catharine.olsen@pnw.edu

Matthew Wells

Matthew Wells

Chief Engagement Officer

Ex Officio

Lawshe Hall (LAWS) 356
Phone: 219-989-8090
Email: matthew.wells@pnw.edu

Our Mission

Purdue University Northwest transforms students’ lives and our metropolitan region through a diverse campus committed to innovative education, applied research, and community engagement.

See the Full Strategic Plan

Resources

Students walk in front of the Nils K, Nelson Bioscience Innovation Building

PNW’s Next Strategic Plan

Purdue University Northwest is in the process of developing our new strategic plan, “Excellence Evolving,” which will guide and focus PNW’s journey from 2025-2030.

A PNW student works with a robot

PNW Economic Impact

Purdue University Northwest helps power our region. Our impact includes $745.9 million of total income: 2 percent of gross regional product.

A student stands outdoors and smiles at the camera

Office of Institutional Equity

We are committed to promoting and enhancing a culture of inclusivity, ethical behavior, equitable treatment, equal access and equal opportunity for all community members.