Joe Bohling is an exceptional educator at Portland State University and an internationally-recognized scholar who currently serves as the president of the Society for French Historical Studies. His contributions to the academic community and particularly to our university are invaluable. As the leader of our graduate department, Prof. Bohling has continuously inspired and guided master's candidates through the complex and demanding trials of research. His passion, leadership, and unwavering integrity make him a treasured member of the History department.

The potential loss of Prof. Bohling is not just a personal loss to those of us who have been lucky enough to learn from him, but a grave threat to the integrity of the entire History department. Eliminating such a key figure can severely undermine the quality of education offered at PSU, especially in humanities which are the cornerstone of a liberal arts education. The decision to remove a scholar of such high caliber and unmatched dedication not only affects current students but also damages the university's reputation and future prospects of attracting talented students and educators.

History as a discipline fosters critical thinking, cultural understanding, and informed citizenship, which are essential skills in today's world. By jeopardizing the History department's integrity, we risk depriving future students of the opportunity to engage with important historical narratives and thought leadership. Prof. Bohling has not only enriched the academic dialogue at PSU but has also cultivated a supportive and dynamic academic environment that encourages intellectual growth.

We urge the administration of Portland State University to recognize the vast contributions of Prof. Bohling to the academic community and to reconsider any decisions that threaten his role within the university. Keeping Prof. Bohling is crucial not only for the History department but for maintaining the standard of excellence in the humanities at PSU.

Support us in our effort to preserve the integrity and future of the History department by adding your signature to this petition. Together, we can ensure that educators like Prof. Bohling continue to inspire and educate generations to come. Sign the petition now to make your voice heard!