From introducing new programs to PNW to making his classes a fun learning environment for students, Daniel Padberg has made many contributions to the Westville campus throughout the years.

Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, Padberg now lives in Merrillville with his wife, Anna. The two celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary in June with their four children, three of whom are Purdue graduates, Kathryn, John, Daniel Jr. and Cheryl.

Although Padberg has been with the university for years, his journey started at Southeast Missouri State University, where Padberg graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English, speech-theatre and a minor in history. He then went on to receive his master’s degree in arts, theater and speech from Northern Illinois University, and not long after earned his doctorate degree from Southern Illinois University in speech-theatre.

Padberg’s first job was in Arlington Heights, Illinois teaching high school English and speech. Eventually, he taught theatre and speech at then PUC and soon after taught theatre at Drury College in Springfield, Missouri in 1985. In 1988, Padberg began teaching at the Westville campus. In 1989 he introduced the class Introduction to Oral Interpretation to the Westville campus. Scott Smithson, associate professor of Communication, said Padberg shows dedication.

“Every spring he mentors Intro to Oral Interpretation, COM 24000, students as they develop a program for presentation to our campus community. I believe this effort is especially important and praiseworthy. He is a gifted teacher who truly cares about his students,” Smithson said.

From 1991 to 2004, Padberg directed the theatrical productions on campus. After five years of being part time, Padberg was hired as a full-time assistant professor and director of theatre in 1993. He has been at the university ever since.

Padberg said he chose this profession because of his passion for the job.

“I love working with students and love to teach subjects I love, like theatre and communication. So here I am after all of these years,” Padberg said.

Olivia Forrester, senior communication major, said she was fortunate to have him as her professor.

“You could see his passion with the material. That class has carried throughout my studies and the wise words I have learned from Dr. Padberg as well,” Forrester said.

Padberg’s free time is taken up by his love for genealogy. Genealogy has been a hobby of Padberg’s since he was 14 years old, and since then he has visited family throughout Europe.

Padberg advises students to remember the importance of speaking the truth.

“We have to be very careful in life not to leap to judgments; however, after all facts are verified, do not be afraid to speak the truth,” Padberg said.