Meghan Holden

Journal & Courier

Two wooden doors are bolted shut in a tucked-away, solemn corner in the basement of the Purdue Electrical Engineering Building.

While the rest of the building is newly barren due to the beginning of summer vacation, it's apparent Room 67 has been abandoned for much longer than a couple weeks.

To the right of the doors, a small piece of paper with "In memory of Andrew Boldt" written in black marker is taped over the room number plaque. A black and white photo of Boldt posing with a slight grin is posted next to it.

To the left, a large glass case containing dedications to the 21-year-old hangs on the wall.

Behind the doors, a lab has remained unused since Jan. 21, 2014, when Boldt was murdered there by a fellow student.

The room will soon see students again, though. Purdue is starting renovations on a large area of the basement, including Room 67, this summer as part of the Engineering Master Facilities Plan.

The space where the lab is located will be part of a larger senior design project laboratory, according to Robert Smith, director of construction. It'll be open in fall 2017.

Purdue students, staff remember Andrew Boldt

While the current area is marked by off-white walls and dim lighting, the renovated area will be vibrant and modern, said Robert Frosch, civil engineering professor and associate dean for resource planning and management.

"You won’t recognize the space after it's done," he said.

Despite all the changes, Boldt won't be forgotten

Though the location and details are still being decided, Frosch said the school will create a memorial for Boldt in the building.

"There will be something that will be done special for Andrew," he said.

Boldt was a senior engineering student and teaching assistant when he was fatally shot and stabbed by Cody Cousins.

The two were teaching assistants in separate courses taught by the same professor, but it's unclear why Cousins targeted Boldt that day. Cousins, 24, killed himself in prison nine months later while serving a 65-year sentence.

The memorial, though, will focus on who Boldt was — not the tragedy.

"It’s meant to celebrate his life," Frosch said.

In letter, professor shares fond memories of Andrew Boldt