Barbara Beckham is the Assistant Day-Manager at Tarkington Market, better known as Tark Mart. She has worked for Purdue Dining & Catering for fifteen years! She’s originally from Knoxville in East Tennessee. She enjoys getting to know all the students who come to Purdue and being a mentor to them. Not only does she love being around the students here at Purdue, she loves spending time with her four kids.
Looking back, what opportunities has PD&C given you?
“I’ve been able to make a lot of connections with companies and organizations outside of Purdue as well as attending educational and leadership seminars throughout my time here. Additionally, because of my employment with PD&C, my kids were able to attend Purdue at a reduced tuition rate.”
What are the top five things to know about you?
- I love being a mother (even though I’m an empty nester, my job never stops!)
- Nurturer
- Collecter of anything and everything to deal with Christmas
- I love antiques
- Animal Lover
What is your proudest moment in life?
“Watching my kids grow up and seeing them become successful adults.”
What is your favorite holiday?
“Christmas! I have so many wonderful memories of Christmas’.”
What is your favorite dish to cook?
“Beef Stroganoff!”
If you were stranded on an island and could only choose three things from Tark Mart to take with you, what would you bring?
“The Coke Machine, a blanket, and one of my student workers to help me get off the island!”
Purdue Dining & Culinary 