Boilermaker fans can agree—there is just something special about Purdue football on game day. For some, it is the fun of gathering with friends to tailgate. For others, it is the sound of the “All-American” Marching Band. For many, it is the rush of seeing the Boilermakers take the field just before kickoff. Whatever it may be that stirs up the excitement and adrenaline, alums Jeff Hagerman (BSCEM ’93) and Bill Kriesel (BS ’87) have been experiencing it for quite some time.
These loyal Boilermakers come from Purdue families, so gold and black runs in their blood.
“Purdue’s been near and dear to my heart for a long time. It’s just a special place,” said Hagerman, chairman of The Hagerman Group.
That is why they decided to donate their resources and time to improve the interior look of Ross-Ade Stadium. Before the start of last football season, they installed new brick work down around the field. Hagerman and his construction company did the brick work, while Kriesel and his company, Precast Specialties, helped with precast concrete panels. They wanted to incorporate similar brick work found throughout campus and outside of Ross-Ade Stadium.
“It just looks better,” explains Hagerman. “It definitely softens it.”
“We wanted to pretty it up a bit, so we decided to put our heads together” says Kriesel.
The two say they not only wanted to help with the aesthetics and fan experience, they also wanted to help with the recruiting process.
“We wanted to make it look more appealing to possible recruits who are taking tours and picturing themselves playing at Ross-Ade,” said Hagerman.
“I see this work as a commitment by Purdue Athletics,” said Kriesel. “It demonstrates their commitment to constantly improve the football facilities and program.”
When Purdue takes the field for the first home game on September 7, fans are sure to be delighted by the brick work Hagerman and Kriesel made possible. They’ll be even more excited when the Boilermakers come away victorious. Boiler Up!
