I, too, have enjoyed many professors at Purdue.

For what it is worth (which might not be much), I heard from a friend that at Cordova’s previous institution she was met with student and faculty petitions — they didn’t want her to leave. I haven’t been able to find any news articles, or any other articles, on this, though. Still, I great rumor to have circulating!

I agree, totally. I didn’t intend for it to be a political statement, and indeed, I didn’t think of it at all until someone else pointed out how weird it was, but all three professors on my thesis committee were women. Even the fourth professor, who I considered but decided not to ask to join, was also a woman. Three of them are tenured.

It’s really interesting that, just going off-hand, I’d estimate about 40% and no more than 50% of my courses were taught by men, through both my BA and MA program. Not saying there’s not a larger systemic problem, but I think you can find cases where, in fact, there’s quite a bit of parity, and hopefully, France will continue this push. I’m really humbled by and proud of the professors I’ve been able to work with. I get a sense that Purdue has some very good years ahead, and in that respect, I hope I can continue to look back on the institution with pride.