Chancellor Tribute

Working closely with faculty, staff, and students, Paydar has steadily advanced IUPUI’s three strategic priorities focused on student success, research, and engagement. He has paid particularly close attention to reinforcing IUPUI’s deep and long-standing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The chancellor is the first to acknowledge that his success reflects the partnership of hundreds, if not thousands, of others who have supported him and the campus over the course of many years.

47,736Number of degrees awarded during Paydar's tenure

44New academic degrees established since 2015

#21Ranking in service learning by U.S. News & World Report

4xincrease in graduation rates among African-American students

600%increase in need-based aid

40%of beginner students in Indianapolis are students of Color

2016established the LGBTQ+ Center

Ten-Timewinner of the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award from Insight into Diversity

#4best employer for diversity in Indiana by Forbes Magazine

Nasser H. Paydar Chancellor’s Inclusive Excellence Scholarship

The Nasser H. Paydar Chancellor’s Inclusive Excellence Scholarship, which will exist in perpetuity, has been established to honor Chancellor Paydar's leadership, especially in the area of diversity, equity, and inclusion at IUPUI. As part of its mission, IUPUI is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment. Reflecting this commitment, special consideration for this scholarship will be given to students from underrepresented populations, including those with financial challenges and diverse cultural experiences.

A new citizen is handed an American flag.

Naturalization ceremony

IUPUI was the first university in Indianapolis to host a naturalization ceremony, welcoming America’s newest citizens.

See photos from the event
A view of the Wat Arun Buddhist temple in Bangkok from across the Chao Phraya River.

International delegations

Paydar has strengthened IUPUI’s international ties, leading delegations around the world.

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Flowers in the foreground with Indianapolis skyline in the background

IUPUI ranks among most sustainable campuses

IUPUI near top of rankings for United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

Take a look at the press release
IUPUI Shreve Gateway
Natatorium at IUPUI interior
Innovation Hall

IUPUI undertook $218.5 million worth of construction and renovation projects during Chancellor Paydar’s tenure, including the massive renovation of the Natatorium and the construction of Innovation Hall as well as IUPUI’s gateways, marking the entry points to campus.