Purdue Libraries and School of Information Studies News

“100 Years of Mortar Board, 1926–2026” on display now at Purdue University Archives and Special Collections

June 17th, 2026

Purdue University Archives and Special Collections is pleased to present “100 Years of Mortar Board,” an exhibition highlighting key moments in the history of Mortar Board at Purdue University through letters, photographs, speeches, drawings, and ephemera from the Mortar Board records and from individuals closely associated with the organization.

The Mortar Board chapter at Purdue began with the founding of the SLS (Service, Leadership, and Scholarship) honor society in fall 1924. In spring 1926, SLS members submitted a proposal for admission to the National Mortar Board society. After their petition was approved in fall 1926, the organization adopted the name Mortar Board honor society. The passage of Title IX legislation in 1975 later marked a shift to a coeducational membership, opening the organization to male students as well.

Mortar Board’s mission is to promote equal opportunities in education, scholarship, and leadership, and to serve both the Purdue campus and the local community. In 2026, Mortar Board members continue to support scholarship funds and sponsor a variety of initiatives at Purdue University.

The exhibition was developed by Sara Pettinger, processing archivist for distinctive collections, with research support from Katey Watson, clinical assistant professor and France A. Córdova archivist, and Vineeta Chen, student assistant. The exhibition is currently on view and will remain open throughout the fall 2026 semester at Purdue University Archives and Special Collections, located on the fourth floor of the HSSE Library in Stewart Center.

Curator’s statement: “100 Years of Mortar Board” aims to showcase key elements of the history of Mortar Board at Purdue University using letters, photographs, speeches, and ephemera from the Mortar Board papers and individuals associated with Mortar Board.

About the Barbara Cook Chapter of Mortar Board at Purdue University

The Barbara Cook Chapter of Mortar Board at Purdue University is part of the nation’s premier senior honor society, recognizing students who demonstrate exceptional scholarship, leadership, and service. Chartered at Purdue in 1926, the chapter has become one of the most distinguished among Mortar Board’s nationwide network. 

Through leadership initiatives, campus service, and philanthropic efforts, members work to strengthen the Purdue community while supporting students, staff, and organizations through fellowships and awards. Funded largely by the annual sale of the iconic Mortar Board calendar, the chapter has contributed more than $1 million to the Purdue community over its history.