Bill Abston

Taylor Hall was the library. It also served as a gathering place for students as there were pool tables on the same floor as book racks. Blake Street was a through street from Indiana Avenue all the way to Washington Street. Lockefield Gardens was empty and fenced off. Many of the parking lots were family homes.

I have seen IUPUI transform from what I described to an urban university that has hosted Olympic Trials, Clay Court Tennis Championships with world-ranked players, and the event that stands out the most, the 1987 Pan Am Games. IUPUI had many of the venues with tennis, swimming, track and field, and softball.

One of the most positive changes has been the addition of more campus housing. When I started, campus housing consisted of Warthin Apartments, Graduate Townhomes and Ball Residence. The addition of campus housing has helped IUPUI transition to more of a traditional campus. Another great addition was the Campus Center. The Campus Center is an amazing building at the perfect location to make lasting impression on thousands of people.

IUPUI has been more than just a place of employment. One of the reasons I have stayed at IUPUI is the people who have taught me the importance of relationships. It is amazing the IUPUI “ownership” you see within the university community that binds us together.

My best memory was earning my degree after going part-time while working full-time and raising a family. My biggest achievement was starting as a student cadet in 1977, attending the IU Police Academy, and moving up the ranks to Interim Police Chief in 2017. I am currently the Deputy Chief.