The Honors College at Purdue University Northwest empowers motivated, high-achieving students through enriched academics, experiential learning, impactful research, and close collaboration with dedicated faculty.
Through these opportunities, students cultivate academic excellence, develop strong leadership skills, and prepare to be thoughtful innovators and engaged global citizens.
Dear Honors College Friends, Families, and Supporters,
Welcome to the spring 2025 edition of the Purdue Northwest Honors College newsletter!
As we transition from spring to summer, I am thrilled to share some of the achievements and events that have taken place in our Honors College over the past few months. This newsletter is full of highlights from our spring events, as well as celebrating the accomplishments of our spring 2025 graduates and award recipients.
We are incredibly proud of our students who have excelled in their academic and extracurricular endeavors, and we extend our congratulations to each of them as they take their next steps!
In this newsletter, you will also hear about the Costa Rica study abroad trip, where students immersed themselves in a new culture and broadened their global perspectives, and read about the Days of Discovery research presentations that highlighted the innovative projects our students have been working on.
A special congratulations to Debbie Bachmann for receiving the PNW Campus Pride Alumni Award, a testament to her dedication and impact on the Honors College, PNW, and the community!
As we look forward to the summer, I want to thank everyone for your support in making the Honors College the very special place that it is.
I hope everyone has a fun, restful, and safe summer!
Best regards,
Jonathan Swarts
Dean
Honors College and University College teamed up to show off some serious Lion Pride as we cheered on our PNW Basketball Teams!
From free food to unforgettable moments with friends, the stands were roaring with energy and school spirit. 💛🖤 Whether you came for the game, the good eats, or just to hang out—we made it a night to remember.
Shoutout to everyone who came through and helped make the atmosphere electric!🦁🔥
Following an incredible ninth annual PNW Founders Day Celebration, we’re proud to give a special shoutout to Mya Bell, who was honored with the Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award!
Mya’s leadership, dedication, and academic excellence truly embody the spirit of Purdue University Northwest. This recognition is a testament to her hard work and the bright future ahead of her.
Congratulations to all of our award recipients, nominees, and years of service honorees—and thank you to everyone who made the celebration so memorable!
Leo Winders
My internship with the Griffith Police Department’s Social Services division was very rewarding. I was given the opportunity to attend a multitude of different meetings, such as Supporting Addiction Free Environments (SAFE) lunch and learns and general meetings, an Opioid Fatalities Review meeting, and a High-Risk Gun Violence prevention for Juveniles meeting.
I also attended classes, such as Too Good for Drugs. I was also given the opportunity to participate in a few ride-alongs with Officers and observe evidence handling and review old cases. Lastly, I was able to shadow at Northwest Psychological Services and observe and aid in psychological assessments and IQ testing for Juveniles.
Since I did not have any specific duties, every day was different and new opportunities arose constantly.
Chloe Belford
During my internship at the Lake County Juvenile Complex, I had the opportunity to observe and engage with all eight departments within the facility. This comprehensive exposure allowed me to gain a well-rounded understanding of how the juvenile justice system operates from intake to rehabilitation.
I observed court proceedings, intake procedures, probation meetings, and detention operations, which helped me understand the unique roles each department plays in supporting and guiding youth through the justice process. Each day offered new insights into how legal, administrative, and therapeutic services are coordinated to address the needs of both the juveniles and their families.
One of the most valuable aspects of my experience was witnessing the collaboration among departments, especially between probation officers, counselors, and educational staff. I observed how these professionals worked together to develop individualized treatment and rehabilitation plans focused on positive outcomes.
I also learned about the challenges faced by youth in the system and the importance of early intervention, consistent mentorship, and community support. Overall, this internship not only deepened my interest in juvenile justice but also strengthened my commitment to pursuing a career in public service and youth advocacy.”
Debbie Bachmann was recently honored with the PNW Campus Pride Alumni Award—and it couldn’t be more well-deserved.
For over 20 years, Debbie has been a tireless advocate for students, always going the extra mile to support, mentor, and uplift those around her. In her current role as Administrator of Honors Student Leadership and Programming, she continues to pour her heart into creating meaningful opportunities and experiences for students every single day.
PNW isn’t just where Debbie built her career—it’s where she met her husband, found lifelong friendships, and built a deep, personal connection to the university. As she often shares, PNW has played a huge role in shaping who she is.
We’re incredibly fortunate to have her compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to student success as a guiding force in our community. Congratulations, Debbie! 💛🖤
We’re thrilled to share that the PNW Honors College had an incredible showing on this year’s Day of Giving—and it’s all thanks to YOU!
The Honors College came in at #3 among all PNW units in the number of donations - 332 - and ahead of all the other academic colleges. We also ranked #6 for the total amount raised - an amazing $40,900!
A special thank you to our amazing alumni, Honors Advisory Board, students, families, and friends. Your support made all the difference!💛🦁🖤
We are pleased to announce the officers of the HSAB for the upcoming academic year.
Congratulations to these outstanding student leaders!
President: Cassie Vickers
Vice President: Jezelyn Torres
Peer Mentor Chair: Sylvia Rotole
Peer Mentor Vice Chair: Zane Winders
Community Service Chair: Francesca Campisi
Community Service Vice Chairs: Olivia Davis & Brooklyn Winchell
Events Chair: Ivana Risteska
Events Co-Chair(s) Josephine Mittelberger & Zoe Zic