DePauw Stories

Dozens of local leaders, public servants and community partners gathered in DePauw’s Hoover Hall on August 7 for the 2026 State of the University breakfast. The event provided an opportunity for DePauw president Lori S. White to share updates about the university’s progress while celebrating the strong local connections that continue to make this progress possible.

“When I look at the relationship between DePauw and our surrounding community, I do not see separate entities that simply share an environment,” said White. “I see an integrated ecosystem. When DePauw thrives, our local businesses, schools, healthcare systems and cultural vibrancy also thrive alongside us. And when our region is strong and dynamic, it enables DePauw to attract top-tier faculty, staff and students from across the nation and around the world.”

White shared several updates about recent university initiatives, including the implementation of the three-school academic framework, the recent launch of The DePauw Promise and the exciting developments throughout the community as part of the Growing Green and Gold Together initiative. They also received updates about several capital projects transforming the campus, from the initial phase of a housing renewal project to the construction of a new Blackstock Stadium and Performance Center.

Additionally, attendees learned about the complex challenges facing higher education and how DePauw is striving to remain faithful to its mission of serving students and developing leaders for many years to come. 

White thanked the attendees for the many ways they contribute to the flourishing of DePauw, Greencastle and the entire region. 

“None of this vision is possible without your partnership, your wise counsel, and your shared investment in this special place,” she said.

At the conclusion of the event, guests were invited to visit the new spaces that make up the Creative School footprint on a tour led by the school’s dean Marcus Hayes.