I am a concerned individual motivated to act for the safety and well-being of students at Purdue University. Recent revelations about the behavior of Professor Thomas J. Rickert from the Department of English have compelled me to initiate this petition. I have taken this action because I believe every student deserves to learn in a safe and respectful environment.

For a significant period, Professor Rickert has been involved in activities that compromise the integrity and safety of Purdue’s educational environment. These activities include inappropriate relationships with students and other highly concerning behaviors that the university is well aware of. Despite the clear evidence and the damaging impact such conduct has on students, Purdue University has opted to remain silent. This negligence must end.

One of the most troubling aspects of this case is that Professor Rickert has admitted to an amorous relationship with his biological mother, alongside his past of dating students and displaying abusive behavior. These actions are not only ethically indefensible but pose a direct threat to the safety and mental well-being of students he might interact with. Each day the university fails to address this matter, it tacitly endorses such conduct, further endangering its students.

My objective is not to harm Purdue University as an institution. Instead, I aim to facilitate a change that ensures students have the opportunity to thrive in a harassment-free and supportive academic environment. Silence and inaction are no longer acceptable responses. I urge Purdue University to take this seriously and remove Professor Rickert from his position to protect the students.

By signing this petition, you are supporting a movement demanding accountability and the removal of Professor Thomas J. Rickert. Your signatures can press upon the administrative powers to act decisively for the welfare of their students. Help Purdue University stand as a beacon of comprehensive and safe education by rectifying this pressing issue.

Please sign this petition and be part of the much-needed change to maintain the integrity of Purdue University and guarantee the safety of its student community.