Microbiology program at Purdue Northwest boosted by $50,000 gift

Abshire to fund state-of-the-art lab

Carol Abshire, a former Purdue University Northwest (PNW) student and lecturer from Michigan City, thinks the need for microbiologists is growing, which is why she donated $50,000 to fund a state-of-the-art microbiology laboratory in the new Nils K. Nelson Bioscience Innovation Building during PNW’s Day of Giving.

Having worked as a microbiologist in the medical field for 16 years, Abshire’s instincts are accurate. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the job outlook for microbiologists to increase by 8 percent from 2016 through 2026.

College of Engineering and Sciences dean Kenneth Holford said Abshire’s gift not only impacts students, but also elevates PNW’s science programs to the next level.

“Purdue Northwest has a strong reputation in the sciences. Microbiology will continue to be a key component of our academic programs in the future,” said Holford. “Carol is a longtime friend to the college. I am grateful for her continued support and honored to call her a friend.”

Abshire is humbled by the recognition, but says her support is motivated by her belief in the enduring value of science and discovery.

“Science is the heart and soul in this world. We have a better life because of science,” said Abshire.

Purdue Northwest Day of Giving

Purdue University Northwest (PNW) invites alumni, faculty, staff, parents, students and friends of the university to take part in the April 24 Purdue Northwest Day of Giving, a 24-hour opportunity to give to PNW and to support student scholarships, academic programs, athletics and more. Donations can be made online through 10:59 p.m. CDT (11:59 p.m. EDT) on April 24. Information about donations, how to give to a specific college or cause, and various giving challenges and matching funds is on the PNW Day of Giving website.