Photos: Big 10 Network
WEST LAFAYETTE—Tyler Trent would have enjoyed Saturday at Ross-Ade Stadium on the Purdue campus in West Lafayette.
On a beautiful afternoon, Trent's beloved Boilermakers scored a big win over Vanderbilt. Two-hours before the game, family members, friends, school administrators, cheerleaders and the Purdue band were on hand for the dedication of the Tyler Trent Student Gate, which replaces Gate E on the east side of Ross-Ade.
"Tyler showed the character and resiliency to which we all should aspire," said Purdue President Mitch Daniels. "His message of hope and positivity resonated far beyond our campus; it truly touched the entire nation."
The gate features gold lettering and the moniker "T2," which was Trent's signature mark. Also at the entrance are two plaques displaying Trent's image and telling his story.
There was no bigger Purdue fan then Trent, who was diagnosed with bone cancer at age 15 and died Jan. 1 of this year at the age of 20. At Purdue, Trent founded "Teens with a Cause," which recruits young people to perform service projects for families affected by by cancer.
Trent also joined the Dance Marathon Club, a student group that raises funds and awareness for Riley Hospital for Children, where he received treatment. Additionally, Trent worked as a sports writer for the Purdue student newspaper and earned an associate degree in computer information technology.
During his battle with cancer, Trent remained a Boilermaker fan and was named an honorary football team captain. He predicted Purdue's upset 49-20 victory over number-two Ohio State in 2018.
Saturday's dedication took place on what would have been Trent's 21st birthday.
