FOIA Request to Purdue University regarding recent course syllabi on August 6, 2025.
A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to Purdue University – Purdue Polytechnic South Bend by a representative from the South Bend Times. The request, dated August 6, 2025, seeks access to a comprehensive list of course syllabi for all undergraduate and graduate courses offered during the Spring 2025 academic semester. This includes syllabi for courses across all departments, schools, and colleges at the university, regardless of whether they were conducted in-person, online, or in hybrid formats.
The request specifically asks for relevant metadata accompanying each syllabus. This includes details such as the course title and number, instructor name, department or academic unit, and the course delivery format. The requester emphasized the importance of accessing these public records to fulfill their role in providing transparency and holding public institutions accountable.
Additionally, as a member of the media involved in news gathering and reporting, the requester has asked for a fee waiver under the Indiana Access to Public Records Act § 5-14-3-1 et seq., citing their professional responsibilities and role in disseminating information to the public.
The requestor is affiliated with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization that aids media companies and advocacy groups in investigating governmental agencies through Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws. More information about this organization can be found on their website here.
Our team will continue to keep you updated as we gather and report news related to this request and other matters of public interest. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further clarification regarding this matter.
