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Message The Susan Bulkeley Butler Centerfor Leadership Excellence presents:Untold StoriesOur hope is to inspire, celebrate, and connect through the power of untold stories of exceptional Purdue women.

I was finishing my undergraduate degree in mathematics, trying to figure out what was nextin life, and taking care of the 100 other things I wanted to do. I was simply struggling underthe weight of everything I had created. I was talking about my distress with some of myclassmates before the start of my 300-level geometry course. Our faculty instructor was adiminutive person in size only, and someone I had known for several years. She looked at mebut said to the entire class “I think if you stop complaining, and start working to resolve eachsolvable issue, you will find solutions. They may not always be perfect solutions, but things arerarely simple. Control the things you can one piece at a time, and the rest will follow. Nowstop wasting your time.” Sadly, she has since passed, but her wise words, and slight rebuke tomy self-pity have stayed with me whenever I am feeling overwhelmed, and they have neverlet me down.Brandon SorgePurdue StorytellerAnonymousImpactful Purdue Woman

I first met Dr. Jaiswal last spring when I signed up for her class, Storytelling with Data. Dr. Jaiswal was a phenomenal teacher,and I loved the class.What really stood out to me, however, was when I showed up to class ten minutes early, and I stood out in the hallway waitingto enter class. Dr. Jaiswal was there too, and after exchanging casual pleasantries, Dr. Jaiswal asked me why I was interested inher class, and I told her the truth: I don’t really know. All I really knew then was that I loved data and numbers and yet I alsoloved to write.And normally, when people hear about my two passions, I typically get a comment about how I have to “pick one” or how“funny” it is that I have interests so vastly different from one another. But, Dr. Jaiswal celebrated the dichotomy that I was. Sheshowed me that it was okay to love both and want to grow both passions. From there, I started working with Dr. Jaiswal and helping with some of her research projects, and I realized how two thingsthat I love can truly go hand in hand despite exercising different skills. From her, I learned not just more about research anddata journalism, a field I realized I want to pursue, but I also learned so much about who I am and how to nurture my skills andfit them together like puzzle pieces. Vidya MadanaPurdue StorytellerAparajita JaiswalImpactful Purdue Woman

As an international student, arriving in the U.S. was a mix of excitement and uncertainty.One of my biggest challenges was securing accommodation. Just when I was feelingoverwhelmed, a friend introduced me to Dr. Marquetta Strait, who became a beacon ofhope. Through her, I was connected to a generous family who hosted me for two weeks.She also provided supplies for me. It was an immense relief during a crucial transitionperiod.Dr. Strait has been more than a mentor; she has been a guiding light. Her journey hasinspired me, reinforcing my commitment to paying it forward. As a senior colleague, sheis someone I can always turn to for mentorship, and her willingness to listen withempathy and wisdom has been truly exceptional.Marquetta StraitImpactful Purdue WomanRoseline AdewuyiPurdue Storyteller

Early in my tenure as Director of Women in Engineering, the College was experiencing adecline in women in the incoming engineering class. My boss at the time was LeahJamieson, and I expressed to her that I was frustrated, stressed, and felt like maybe Iwasn’t the right person for the position. I remember that she looked me straight in theeyes and said, “Yes, you are.” I didn’t realize how much I needed to hear that until shesaid it. Her confidence in me was what I needed to take a fresh look at the situation andkeep working. I was completely and totally honored when years later, the directorship ofWomen in Engineering was named in her honor (after she stepped back from beingDean of Engineering).Beth HollowayPurdue StorytellerLeah JamiesonImpactful Purdue Woman

I started my professional career at Purdue after earning a PhD and was excited to begin this journeyto put my biological knowledge to use. Years later, I mentioned in a meeting with Dr. CarolynJohnson that I was interviewing for another job on campus and she asked me whether I hadcarefully researched the position to be able to negotiate a salary that was commensurate with myexperience, as she felt I had been low balled for my first position, according to the Exponent salaryguide. In my naivete, I did the research and learned of the pay discrepancy between my colleagueshired at the same time for similar positions. Dr. Johnson planted a seed that I now pass on to allrecent graduates as they start their professional careers. Over the years, Dr. Johnson continued tomentor me and so many others by challenging me to ensure that I learn as much as possible, dreamas broadly as I can, and above all be prepared to do the real work to be as successful as I can andwant to be. I am so glad that I thanked her and gave her flowers while she could smell them! Dr. Carolyn Johnson passed in November 2024.Her deeply positive and impactful legacy lives on.Zenephia EvansPurdue StorytellerCarolyn JohnsonImpactful Purdue Woman

Jen William (Head of SLC) is a good example of a strong, caring, and fairleader. In my case specifically, she has supported me in ways that let mesee my value for the institution, and in ways that show that she knowsexactly the kind of support I need. At times, this has been through datathat show my productivity at work or through a free pass to try a workoutclass at a new gym. This individualized approach to motivation and supportof her team members as whole people is one of the reasons why she is agreat leader. Lori CzerwionkaPurdue StorytellerJen WilliamImpactful Purdue Woman

As someone with daughters, I have a passion for women’s professional concerns. I’veoften also found myself struggling to meet professional demands and expectations.After being at Purdue for a while, I left to pursue another possible career opportunity. I came back to Purdue because of a role where I felt I could benefit the cause of liftingother women in their professional careers. In this position and during my many years atPurdue since then, there have been so many women at Purdue who have lifted me aswell! I can’t begin to note all of them, but there are two women who are true mentorsand advocates for me. These two women have been there for me over the span ofseveral years. One is a peer, and the other one is someone at a senior administrativelevel. Both have provided advice, insight, guidance, and needed nurturing and uplifting.De BushPurdue StorytellerAnonymousImpactful Purdue Woman

When I first transferred to the School of Industrial Engineering, I felt incredibly small and out of place. Drowning inanxiety and battling a deep sense of not being enough, I vividly remember my first meeting with Leza in her office. Shetold me, “You belong here. You’ve worked hard to be here.” Then she added, “I’m going to print a name tag for you. Everytime you walk by your cubicle and see your name, you’ll remember that this is your space.” In that moment, I broke downin tears. Leza gave me a warm hug and continued reassuring me.The next day, I found that Leza had placed a monitor there to make the space feel more like an office. For the first time, Ibegan to believe that I had what it takes to earn this doctorate degree and become a research scientist who makes ameaningful impact in the world.Over the past three years, Leza has continued to cheer me on, remind me of my strengths, and lift me up with herunwavering support. She is a source of light and encouragement for so many graduate students, listening with compassion,speaking with kindness, and empowering us with the courage to tackle challenges head-on. She has created a culture ofsafety, empathy, and genuine care within our department, where we are seen, supported, and celebrated. Leza is not onlymy most impactful Purdue woman, but also the most impactful Purdue woman for countless others in our department.Nuela Chidubem EnebechiPurdue StorytellerLeza R. DellingerImpactful Purdue Woman

Luanna DeMayImpactful Purdue WomanKatricia SanchezPurdue StorytellerWhen I began my professional journey at Purdue, I was hired by a woman named LuannaDeMay. I remember her emailing me even before my first day asking for my passportnumber. I asked her why she needed it, and she said, “For our trip to Argentina!” I waslike, “What?!” And she said, “Oh we didn’t tell you? You’re responsible for planning atrip for about 30 graduate students to Argentina in 3 months.” Wow! What a welcometo Purdue that was! Little did I know that this would open up several opportunities forme to travel and lead to some amazing experiences that would shape my professionaljourney. I am grateful for the door that Luanna opened for me. I am grateful for her timeand care in welcoming me to the Purdue community. I am thankful for her investment inmy future. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her.

Christa worked with me when I was a Resident Assistant over 20 years agoat Meredith Hall. What I found remarkable about Christa is how sheremembered me (seeing me for the first time in 20 years) and made mefeel included immediately. This included networking me to others oncampus. I feel like her continued ability to connect me to Purdue is awonderful gift that makes Christa a truly remarkable person.AnonymousPurdue StorytellerChrista PazeraImpactful Purdue Woman

At the end of any project, we often hear words like, "I hope we will collaborate again in the future." Often, these are justpolite gestures. But how often do we follow up? Rarely.However, in my first year, while I was still figuring out what it meant to work in a team, to be a mentee, and to be amentor in a cross-cultural setting, something different happened. I was fortunate to meet Aparajita during my summerundergraduate research at Purdue’s CILMAR. Interestingly, Aparajita had also just begun her position and was learninghow to be a mentor herself. I found myself in a similar position—mentoring undergraduate students while Aparajitamentored me.We both grew and learned together. Aparajita didn’t just exemplify what a supportive mentor looks like; she also activelytaught me how to be a mentor by guiding me in collaborating with undergraduates. Even after our project ended, shecontinued to reach out whenever there were research opportunities aligned with my interests.Now, in my third year, whenever I meet Aparajita, I feel comfortable sharing my updates, progress, and even my confusionabout graduate life. A month ago, she emailed me to catch up. I assumed it was about a new project, but to my surprise,she was simply checking in. That moment made me feel truly supported. Having a caring mentor like Aparajita throughoutmy graduate journey has been invaluable.Muna SapkotaPurdue StorytellerAparajita JaiswalImpactful Purdue Woman

When the pandemic hit, my career came to a sudden halt. I lost my job and had to moveback home, feeling lost and uncertain about the future. But then, I remembered advice Ihad received from a friend at Purdue years earlier at a conference—encouragement toconsider a career in academia. Seeking guidance, I reached out to a trusted mentor atPurdue who shared wisdom passed down from another amazing woman leader atPurdue: “If you work for a widget factory, you need to get yourself a widget.” In otherwords, if you want to work at a university, get a degree.That simple insight gave me the push I needed to apply to graduate school. With thesupport and encouragement of those who believed in me, I found my path. Today, I’m ina career I love, forever grateful for the mentors who helped me get here.AnonymousPurdue StorytellerAnonymousImpactful Purdue Woman

I had too much on my plate during my sophomore year. From being a student tobeing a leader on campus, teaching, and research; it was hard to find a safe place. Aplace where I could vent if I needed or get good advice; or sometimes just a quietplace to do work with someone there for emotional support. But my advisor heldspace for me. She would send an encouraging email, letting me know that I wassupported. We would schedule meetings just for us to talk through the difficulties ofmy classes or troubles I was having with life, she was always there when I neededher. My advisor held space for me to grow, to lead, and if I needed, to rest. She wasa constant support for me as I juggled a million things. Sometimes what you need isfor someone to hold space for you. Morgan MurffPurdue StorytellerDarcy AllenImpactful Purdue Woman

Growing up, I believed mistakes meant failure—that I wasn’t good enough. That fear followed me for years until it finally caught upwith me. In the most important leadership role I’d ever taken, I made a mistake. A big one. One that made me question everything—my ability, my leadership, even who I was.Desperate, I turned to Cara, a woman I deeply admire. My voice shook as I asked, “How do I fix this?” She listened—really listened—then said something that changed me: “True leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about having the courage to bevulnerable.”Vulnerable? That wasn’t what leaders were supposed to be. Leaders were supposed to be unshakable and always in control. Butlooking at Cara—a woman who led with grace, who commanded respect by being real, not perfect—I saw something different.Strength in honesty. Power in admitting when things go wrong.Cara didn’t just give me advice; she gave me permission to be human. To let go of the impossible standards I’d set for myself. Tounderstand that mistakes don’t define us—how we grow from them does. Because of her, I’ve learned that leadership isn’t aboutnever failing. It’s about owning our mistakes, learning, and becoming better.Filippa RodriguezPurdue StorytellerCara PutmanImpactful Purdue Woman

When I started working on a PhD, I needed to assemble an advisory committee. Ihad met Patrice Buzzanell through EPICS, as she was advising a team that hadsome connection to my staff role. I knew that she was faculty in the School ofCommunication and had a courtesy appointment in Engineering Education. Shewas always so encouraging and positive, and I thought she would be a good fit. Inpreparation for the big ask, I asked her to lunch. When we sat down, before I saidanything, she said, “Whatever you are going to ask me, the answer is yes.” Iresponded that she didn’t even know what it was. And she said it didn’t matter. Itwas such a wholeheartedly supportive response, and it was just what I needed at atime when I was unsure if working toward a PhD was feasible for me.Beth HollowayPurdue StorytellerPatrice BuzzanellImpactful Purdue Woman

Impactful Purdue WomanAnonymousAnonymousPurdue StorytellerI was drowning in stress, struggling to publish papers and meet thedemands of my tenure-track position. One day, the weight of it all feltunbearable. I shut my office door, wanting nothing more than to be aloneand cry. But a senior colleague noticed. She saw the exhaustion on my faceand, instead of walking past, she stopped. She sat with me, listened—really listened—with deep empathy. She asked thoughtful questions,shared practical advice, and reminded me that I wasn’t alone. As wewrapped up, she gave me a big hug and said, “I’m here for you.” Years havepassed, but I still carry that moment with me. That simple act of kindnessmade all the difference.

Reaching Through the Unknown: Leaving behind nearly two decades at an institution where I knew every hallway and every familiar face was daunting. I was notjust stepping into a new chapter of my academic career. I was navigating a rare and complicated mix of grief and anticipation. Mymother passed away just after I received the verbal offer to come to Purdue. The weight of my loss, entwined with the uncertaintyof such a monumental change, made those first weeks feel impossibly heavy.Then, along came Lin Nan and Zenephia Evans.Lin was one of the first to extend her hand in friendship, not out of obligation but out of genuine warmth. Zenephia made sure Iwas not just welcomed but embraced, ensuring I was connected to a community that would support and uplift me. They did notsimply introduce themselves. They made it clear, through words and actions, that I belonged. At my very first introduction in mynew role, they were both there. Their presence was a quiet but powerful reassurance. Even though I had just arrived, I was alreadypart of something larger than myself.In those early days, when the ground beneath me felt unsteady, their kindness gave me footing. Their support was not just amoment. It was a gift. A reminder that even in times of profound transition, we are never truly alone.Felisa Del Carmen HigginsPurdue StorytellerLin Nan & Zenephia Evans Impactful Purdue Women

Dr. Jackie McDermott was my first supervisor at Purdue, and her impact on my journey is something I carrywith me to this day. I vividly remember a moment after my first class in graduate school. As the only Blackstudent in the class, I began to feel isolated and unsure of whether I truly belonged. I confided in Dr.McDermott about my doubts. Without hesitation, she responded, “You got into graduate school. If youmade it into the program, you have everything it takes to succeed, and you absolutely belong here.” Herwords, simple yet powerful, transformed my mindset. At a time when I was struggling with impostersyndrome, she provided the reassurance and belief in me that I needed. Her unwavering support not onlystrengthened my confidence but also motivated me to pursue opportunities I would have otherwise shiedaway from. In an environment far from home, where I had no family, Dr. McDermott became my family,offering guidance and encouragement when I needed it most. This conversation, this specific moment, wasa turning point. It reminded me that I was worthy and capable, and it continues to guide me whenever self-doubt creeps in. Dr. McDermott didn’t just lead; she uplifted, and her impact on my journey as a graduatestudent and beyond is immeasurable.Lexy ArinzePurdue StorytellerJackie McDermottImpactful Purdue Woman

Dr. Stacey Connaughton has been an incredible mentor and source of support during my graduate studies. When I first arrived at Purdue, I hadjust lost a loved one and was struggling with imposter syndrome, which was amplified by some things I heard during my first year. I doubtedmyself and wasn't sure who to turn to without feeling like a failure. I had heard wonderful things about Dr. Connaughton but hadn’t met her—until a friend suggested I talk to her about an internship.That first meeting changed everything. Despite not being my advisor, she listened, encouraged me, and created space for me to thrive. Sincethen, she has been one of my biggest cheerleaders—checking in regularly, creating research opportunities, and offering unwavering support.During difficult times, like immigration challenges or the loss of a colleague, she was there, present, and compassionate. She called students,stayed with us for hours, and continued checking in.Dr. Connaughton has a warmth that makes you feel valued. Her kind words—“Prudence, you are wonderful. You did great!”— remind me that Ibelong. Even when offering adjustments, she frames them constructively, guiding me forward.Through her, I’ve learned the power of servant leadership and strong work ethics. She leads by example, going the extra mile and inspiring me todo the same. I often tell her she’s one of the blessings God placed in my path at Purdue, ensuring I had the support I needed.Prudence MbahPurdue StorytellerStacey ConnaughtonImpactful Purdue Woman

I hesitated when I was asked to take on a new role at the college, unsure if I wasready for the challenge. But one of my closest colleagues and one of my dearestfriends at Purdue saw something in me that I hadn’t fully recognized. They believedI was someone who brought people together rather than divided them andreminded me of my intelligence, thoughtfulness, and dedication. Theirencouragement stayed with me, giving me the confidence to step forward each day.Even now, I continue to find the courage to embrace new opportunities for growth—knowing that their support and belief in me remain unwavering. Sunnie Lee WatsonPurdue StorytellerAnonymousImpactful Purdue Woman

Higher education can feel very lonely at times, but I have found that when I reach out, people arevery willing to make time and space for me. A great example of this is Jenna Rickus. Jenna operatesat the highest levels at Purdue in the Provost’s office. A couple years ago, I was exploring whatopportunities might be available for someone like me in administrative roles. The then provostsuggested that I connect with Jenna. Jenna made time to meet with me and connect about mygoals and questions. It would have been very easy for her to say that she was too busy with a milliontasks to complete. Instead, she created time to share her experience and answer my questions,some that were artful and some that were as ambiguous as my lack of direction. She was kind andhonest. It was helpful and exactly what I needed. I felt seen and heard. No door magically openedfor me, but that wasn’t what I expected or wanted. What I longed for at that stage in my career wasknowledge and information, and that was what Jenna so graciously shared with me. I’m grateful tothis day.Cara PutmanPurdue StorytellerJenna RickusImpactful Purdue Woman

When I joined Purdue’s faculty in 1998, I had the privilege of knowing Professor Dorothy Mennen, a trailblazer in theDepartment of Theatre and Dance. Though our fields differed, we crossed paths through the music committee at church.After one meeting, Dorothy pulled me aside."You are a leader!" she said with conviction. "This will serve you well at Purdue."At the time, I was a young assistant professor, focused on building my academic career. Leadership wasn’t on my radar.But Dorothy’s words planted a seed. She knew leadership well—breaking barriers as the first woman to chair the Purdue University Senate and shaping voice and speech training nationwide. But beyond her achievements, she had a gift forseeing potential in others. She saw something in me that I hadn’t yet recognized.As years passed, I often recalled her words. They made me more willing to step forward, more open to leadership opportunities. Her encouragement shaped my path, influencing my decision to take on new challenges at the university. Dorothy’s legacy wasn’t just in the students she taught but in the quiet, powerful ways she inspired those around her. With just a few words, she lifted me up—and set my leadership journey in motion.Eric BarkerPurdue StorytellerDorothy MennenImpactful Purdue Woman

About twelve years ago, my department head and mentor, Dr. Mady Henry, was reviewingmy draft of a cover letter as part of my application to serve as a provost fellow. As she read,she said: “The voice of this letter writer doesn’t match up with the person I see here at workevery day…in the letter, you portray yourself as competent and experienced, but your passionand enthusiasm for what you do doesn’t shine through enough. I have seen how you love tomentor people – show them some of that excitement!” I realized she wasn’t telling me thecover letter equivalent of “you should smile more.” Instead, she was encouraging me to find away to convey in the letter, through tone and content, not only what I’ve done, but why I doit. Today, I still think about Mady’s advice to foreground my motivational “spark” and this issomething that I pass along to others who ask me for advice on their cover letters, or who arepreparing for interviews. (By the way, I got the provost fellowship!)Jen WilliamPurdue StorytellerMady HenryImpactful Purdue Woman

There are times in my life where the weight of professional and personal lives become heavy, and early this year wasthe case. My family informed me that my mom was unwell, and I wanted to travel abroad to care for her, even briefly.When I shared this with my colleague and mentor, Felica Ahasteen-Bryant, Director of the Native AmericanEducational and Cultural Center, she immediately encouraged me. She reassured me that time spent with loved ones isnever a regret and offered to oversee AAARCC as needed. Her kindness and support made me even more grateful tohave her as a mentor.While I was abroad, Felica continued to check in, sending messages of encouragement, updating me on work, and even meeting with AAARCC staff to support the team. More than anything, she reminded me to focus on what matteredmost—my time with my mom. Her words touched my heart, reinforcing the importance of holistic support in bothpersonal and professional spaces.Though my mom’s health remains a lingering cloud of sadness, I returned with a renewed appreciation for my work andthe power of teamwork. Felica’s example showed me how genuine care can uplift both individuals and the community.Her unwavering support reminded me that leadership isn’t just about responsibilities—it’s also about compassion andlifting others up when they need it most.Pamela K. SariPurdue StorytellerFelica Ahasteen-Bryant (Diné)Impactful Purdue Woman

As an African American woman on a predominantly white campus, I hit a rough patch. It was acombination of stress, invisibility, loneliness, feeling underappreciated and undervalued. At this momentof despair, I knew that I needed my “sister-friend circle.” My sister-friend circle consists of multiplesources of support including a select group of Purdue staff, church family members, and colleagues insimilar roles at other institutions. I reached out to them individually. My sister-friends always listenempathically, each affirming my work in their own unique way. Individually, their warmth and positiveenergy bolstered my own confidence as each reminded me to be my authentic self and that I havesomething important to contribute. One told me to find joy outside of work, another reminded me that itis okay to be transparent and vulnerable. A third sister-friend came to my office, took both of my hands inher own hands, and prayed for me. As she quietly departed my office, she told me to read Numbers 6:24-26. It was because of my sister- friend’s circle that I was able to put this difficult work season behind meand know that I can be unapologetically Black, beautifully Black, smart, and fierce. These conversationsbolstered my own confidence, and as a result, I will continue my work with grace and humility.AnonymousImpactful Purdue WomenRenee ThomasPurdue Storyteller

Early in my career at Purdue University as an Assistant Professor, I was often asked by seniorcolleagues/administrators to serve on multiple committees and take on new assignments. I was thrilled tobe asked to be part of these opportunities and was often tempted to accept these assignments. However,they took a significant toll on me, distracted me, and stripped me of my energy…Around my third year at Purdue, I shared this frustration with other women colleagues (very few in thosedays from my college). A senior woman colleague offered me the following piece of advice – “Whenanyone asks you to take on another assignment, show them your current plate of assignments, and ask theperson which current assignment will be replaced by the new ‘ask.’” An excellent piece of advice… that I use myself and share with others – to this day! I was also blessed to have additional support from an Administrative Assistant from my department, whoprovided advance warning of such requests, and gave me time to prepare a calm/cogent response whensuch requests were presented!Dulcy AbrahamPurdue StorytellerAnonymousImpactful Purdue Woman