In 1999, the beauty, elegance, and grandeur of the Black Tie Dinner legacy originated. From its humble beginnings, only twenty seven years ago, the first Black Tie Dinner was served in the John Purdue Room and hosted a mere thirty guests. Now, as Purdue’s Hospitality and Tourism Management program continues to grow, develop, and prosper, as does the experience of the Black Tie Dinner. Today the event is held in the stunning North and South Ballrooms of the historic Purdue Memorial Union and welcomes over two hundred guests. The distinct event is planned and executed entirely by studentvolunteers in diverse areas of study. Through synchronized service, gourmet cooking, signature pairings, and other industry arts, students of Black Tie Dinner strive to create a unique and unforgettable evening that showcases the passion, creativity, and talent of the future leaders in the hospitality industry. The organization is held beneath Purdue’s esteemed Hospitality and Tourism Management major, as well as the Purdue HTM Society, which is an association of students who plan to enter the hospitality industry as professionals.