Purdue University's faculty union is calling for Provost Patrick Wolfe's resignation, citing more than a dozen grievances that have eroded trust across campus. The American Association of University Professors chapter alleges Wolfe's unilateral decision-making since 2023 has harmed students and staff.

Faculty accuse Wolfe of pressuring graduate admissions committees to effectively ban students from China and other countries, a practice they say violates Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. The administration allegedly implemented this policy quietly through private meetings after inquiries from Congress. The faculty also criticize Wolfe's handling of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives, which they say led to the firing of 60 student staff members and many full-time employees.

Additional complaints include hiring freezes that have caused teaching shortages, a non-transparent restructuring of the Honors College that eliminated 17 positions, and an unfilled dean role in the College of Education for three years. Faculty allege Wolfe pressured them into self-censorship and made tenure virtually unattainable through new requirements. The group also faults Wolfe for insufficient pushback when the U.S. Department of Education canceled a $34.9 million grant to the university. Faculty leaders say Wolfe's conduct has damaged campus governance and student learning, demanding his resignation to restore transparency and fairness.