Take part in the biggest campus event of the summer!

Grandparents University (GPU) is a two-day program designed for grandparents and their grandchildren, ages 7–14. GPU participants are able to pick a major that interests them, attend classes, and even graduate!

This event is an opportunity for the young and young at heart to learn from top Boilermaker faculty and staff; laugh together during hands-on activities, classes, free time, and field trips; and create lasting memories on Purdue’s beautiful West Lafayette campus.

2024 Sessions:
July 18–19 // July 25–26

If you are someone who can relate to both the young and young at heart, Grandparents University needs you! You will have the opportunity to showcase your department and current projects and highlight new facilities and technology. In addition, lead instructors will receive a $400 stipend per session to be used at their discretion to offset program expenses.

Our GPU 2023 event program features details about last year’s majors, schedule, and events—hopefully it fills you with excitement and inspiration!

submit an application

When submitting your application, please be sure to include your availability (Session 1, Session 2, or both) and a tentative course description and examples of activities that could be offered. The GPU planning committee makes every effort to limit class size to 25 participants and will work to accommodate class size based on classroom space and activities. If you need ideas or assistance, please refer to the GPU 2023 event program or use the contact information at the bottom of this webpage.

Two grandparents and their grandchild at a GPU activity

A child smiling up at his grandpa at a GPU event

Two girls with their hands wrapped around each other in front of Purdue's "World's Largest Drum"

A group of kids posing in front of Purdue's "Boilermaker Extra Special"

A crowd of people waiting to receive their GPU diploma

A boy smiling while sticking his hand into a cow at a GPU event

QUESTIONS? CONTACT US!

If you are a Purdue faculty or staff member interested in being an instructor for Grandparents University 2024, please email Leslie Fernung, director of lifelong learning, at lafernung@purdueforlife.org.

Office of Special Events Phone: 765-494-0900 Email: specialevents@purdueforlife.org

QUESTIONS?

Office of Special Events
If you are a Purdue faculty or staff member interested in being an instructor for Grandparents University 2024, please email Leslie Fernung, director of lifelong learning, at lafernung@purdueforlife.org.