On August 24, 2023, the Nu Theta chapter of IEEE-Eta Kappa Nu (IEEE-HKN) at Purdue University Northwest was officially approved by the IEEE-Eta Kappa Nu Board of Governors. This approval paved the way for a new chapter dedicated to recognizing excellence in electrical and computer engineering. The formal establishment of the chapter was celebrated with an installation and induction ceremony on October 19, 2023, where the founding members were welcomed. This event not only marked a pivotal moment for Purdue University Northwest but also reinforced the university’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and leadership in engineering disciplines.
The founding members of the Nu Theta chapter are:
• Anhviet Le (President)
• Kimani Jackson (Vice-President)
• Daniel Cornejo (Treasurer)
• Marc Serna (Corresponding Secretary)
• David Stevenson (Recording Secretary)
• Oona Kintscher (News Correspondent)
• Nathaniel Davila
• Jack Brenner
• Rebecca Johnson
• Kevin Castaneda
• Jacob Harvey
• Ryan Wierzgac
• Jesus Gonzalez
In the Spring of 2024, Purdue University Northwest hosted its second induction ceremony on April 4th and welcomed five more students to the chapter:
Donn Lobres
Marcel McCormick
Karthik Banakar
Vishva Gor
Jayanth Chillarige
During the past year, the Nu Theta chapter has hosted numerous events ranging from technical workshops such as 3D printing, soldering, and PCB fabrication to hosting speakers from the industry. Notable speakers included engineers from Fermilab and Argonne National Lab. The chapter also organized field trips and provided students with their own study space and lab to collaborate on coursework and projects.
In 2025, the Nu Theta chapter continued to build on this strong foundation through its participation in the IEEE-HKN Student Leadership Conference (SLC). At the conference, the chapter was recognized with both the Key Chapter Award and the Outstanding Chapter Award. These honors reflected Nu Theta’s growing impact, consistent chapter activity, leadership development, and commitment to serving electrical and computer engineering students at Purdue University Northwest. Receiving these awards marked a major milestone for the chapter and demonstrated how quickly Nu Theta had grown from a newly established chapter into an active and recognized part of the larger IEEE-HKN community.
Purdue University Northwest’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering is part of its College of Engineering and Sciences. The program offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and 4+1 degree options, preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century. The program is designed to offer equal focus and depth in both electrical engineering and computer engineering disciplines. Students can choose to specialize in areas such as mechatronics and power and energy systems. The program’s mission is to provide high-quality education and to advance fundamental knowledge in electrical and computer engineering, with a focus on ethical and professional engagement that positively impacts society, the economy, and the environment. The vision of the ECE Department at Purdue University Northwest is to improve the quality of life, economy, and environment of the region and the world by educating a competitive, innovative, and ethical engineering workforce.
Hammond, Indiana
Hammond, Indiana, an integral part of the Chicago metropolitan area, is unique as the only Indiana city bordering Chicago. Founded in the mid-19th century, it stands as one of the oldest cities in northern Lake County, boasting a rich industrial heritage. Its past as an industrial hub is now complemented by diverse cultural and recreational offerings, including parks and events that celebrate its ethnic variety. Geographically well-positioned between Chicago and Gary along the Grand Calumet River near Lake Michigan, Hammond offers access to a variety of outdoor activities. Its closeness to the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore enhances its allure, providing scenic views and leisure opportunities along the lake, in marshes, prairies, and forests. The city’s well-developed infrastructure, encompassing railroads and expressways, along with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, make Hammond a significant and vibrant city in the region.
Chapter Photos
