Evansville, IN – Mark Lundstrom, Purdue University’s Chief Semiconductor Officer, was awarded the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash by Indiana Governor Eric J. Holcomb on October 2. The award, one of the state’s highest honors, recognizes Lundstrom’s significant contributions to the semiconductor industry and his instrumental role in advancing Purdue’s position as a leader in semiconductor education and research.
Lundstrom, who is also the Don and Carol Scifres Distinguished Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Purdue, has had a profound impact on both the state of Indiana and the broader national semiconductor landscape. His work has helped bridge the gap between academia and industry, fostering economic growth and innovation in Indiana’s high-tech sectors.
In his nomination for the award, Purdue President Mung Chiang praised Lundstrom’s leadership and vision in connecting the university’s semiconductor research with Indiana’s economic development initiatives. Chiang highlighted Lundstrom’s work in establishing Purdue as a key player in the semiconductor field, making significant strides toward ensuring the future success of Indiana’s workforce in this critical industry.
Lundstrom’s career at Purdue has spanned multiple roles, including serving as principal advisor on microelectronics to the executive vice president for strategic initiatives from 2021 to 2022. In 2023, he was appointed as Purdue’s Chief Semiconductor Officer, a newly established role in which he has continued to play a vital part in shaping the university’s semiconductor-related education and research programs. Lundstrom has also served as acting dean of the College of Engineering in 2020 and interim dean during the 2022-2023 academic year, further demonstrating his leadership within the university.
The Sagamore of the Wabash, created during the term of Governor Ralph Gates (1945-1949), is an honorary title given to individuals who have made distinguished contributions to the state or to the governor. The term “sagamore” refers to a title used by northeastern Native American tribes to designate a wise or respected leader. Recipients of the award include astronauts, presidents, ambassadors, artists, and community leaders who have left a lasting impact on Indiana.
Lundstrom’s award underscores his exceptional dedication to advancing Purdue’s role in the semiconductor industry, helping shape Indiana’s future workforce and strengthening the state’s economic position in the global technology sector.
