Giving Back to Purdue is a Schorr Family Tradition

Tom Schorr ’93

For Tom Schorr ’93 and his family, contributing their time to Purdue is something different members have been doing for years.  Tom’s father was on Purdue’s Board of Trustees, John Purdue Club, President’s Council and ChE Advisory Board.  In addition, Tom has had eight family members attend Purdue and most have stayed engaged at some level with the university.

PASE Seminar on Hot Careers

This family tradition of giving back to his alma mater led Tom to recently volunteer his time to Purdue’s Alumni Student Experience (PASE).  This organization seeks to connect Purdue students with alumni and provide opportunities for undergraduates to learn and experience the role alumni play in supporting Purdue following graduation.

Tom held a webinar for a group of students and young alumni that discussed today’s “hot careers” and next generation technology developments. He presented his perspective and the lessons he had learned from his time in the software industry.  Tom manages the global technology alliances/partnerships for Dassault Systemes (a French company) that develops engineering design and manufacturing software.

Got His Start in the Food Business

Tom graduated from Purdue in 1993 with his degree in Food Science and Technology.  His first job was in Denver with a food company where for the next five years he worked and took classes at the University of Colorado, where he received his MBA.

The Schorr family (L-R) Kara, Jill, Tom and Blake

With his goal of getting into a tech company Tom landed a position doing software consulting at RSM McGladrey.  He eventually departed to Dassault Systemes and has spent the past 20 years at their US office in Charlotte, NC.  He resides there with his wife, Jill ‘93, and two children, one of which is a sophomore at Purdue.

Time at Delta Delta

Tom reflected on his time at Delta Delta and stated that it was “legitimately the best experience of his life”.  The comradery and learning to deal with people of all temperaments, talents and convictions has been a key factor in his business dealings. Tom served the chapter for four semesters as House Manager and has a deep sense of pride and connection to 202 Littleton.

We look forward to Tom’s next volunteer endeavor and the chance to have him return to Purdue and hold a fireside chat with the men of Delta Delta.