The tradition of topping out a new construction with its last-and often highest-beam was observed May 8 at the site of the Surack-Sweetwater Music Industry Building on the campus of Purdue University Fort Wayne.

Leading up to this milestone, students, faculty, and staff were invited to help leave their mark on the project by signing the freshly painted piece of steel. The beam was adorned with an American flag before being hoisted into place.

Several representatives of the university, its College of Visual and Performing Arts, and Weigand Construction were on hand to observe the topping out.

A ceremonial groundbreaking for the university's $25 million, 26,000-square-foot facility that's scheduled to open in time for the fall 2026 semester took place in September. Its name recognizes and honors the crucial support Chuck and Lisa Surack have provided to the project, and to acknowledge their essential role in the PFW School of Music's growth since it welcomed its first students nearly seven years ago.