David Edward Ross

David Edward Ross (August 25, 1871 – June 28, 1943) was a Purdue University graduate who helped advance the university through his generous donations and years of service on the board of trustees.

Early life David E. Ross was the second child of George Ross and Susanna Booth. This decision was made possible thanks to another uncle, Will, who offered to house Ross during his time in college and pay for books and tuition. His life at college was “quiet”. Despite his inventive mind, he received only a passing grade in most of his classes, including machine design, mathematics, and physics. Ross was quoted as saying "I'm hoping the time may never come when I'm not identified with Purdue".

Most of Ross's estate was left to the Purdue Research Foundation. The sum total of money, stocks, and land that Ross donated to the university amounted to nearly $3,000,000.