Student demand for on-campus housing at Purdue University Northwest has been answered with the completion of Calumet Hall.
University, community and campus leaders gathered Aug. 4 for a ribbon cutting to officially celebrate the opening of the $29 million, three-story, 42,000-square-foot residence hall.
“For many of our students, living on campus is a transformational part of their college experiences,” said PNW Chancellor Kenneth Holford, in a press release. “As our institution continues to evolve and adapt, we remain focused on creating spaces that support students’ success and innovation, as well as strengthening our role as an anchor institution in Northwest Indiana.”
PNW’s department of housing and residential education reported in fall 2025 that both student housing facilities, Griffin and Peregrine halls, were full and had waitlists four years in a row. Calumet Hall adds 150 beds to campus housing.
City of Hammond Mayor Thomas McDermott Jr., who is a PNW alumnus, has watched the university grow.
“This new residence hall is another step in the transformation that’s taking place at PNW,” McDermott said. “This is the third residence hall to open during my time as mayor, and that’s not just a sign of growth for PNW, but for the City of Hammond as well.”
The building is designed to build a sense of community and shared experience among students. Adam Napravnik, a third-year mechanical engineering student, is a senior resident assistant who will help welcome students next semeseter to Calumet Hall.
“The housing and residential team has made my time at Purdue University Northwest truly incredible, and I have come to regard PNW student housing as my second home,” he said. “At PNW, we support each other’s ambitions and create a welcoming culture. It shows our commitment to Powering Onward and contributing proudly to the PNW alumni legacy. I cannot wait to watch the friendships, late-night study sessions and shared victories that will define life in Calumet Hall.”
Calumet Hall is at the northeast corner of 173rd Street and Woodmar Avenue. Berglund Construction broke groud on the self-financed project in spring 2025.
