ACF Welcomes Mitch Daniels’ Return as Purdue Interim President

Alums for Campus Fairness (ACF) welcomes the appointment of Mitch Daniels as interim president of Purdue University, effective July 1, 2026.

Daniels previously served as Purdue’s president from 2013 to 2022 and currently chairs the Purdue Research Foundation. His return follows the announcement that President Mung Chiang will depart for Northwestern University later this summer. Daniels will lead the university while a national search is conducted for a permanent successor.

Since concluding his presidency at Purdue, Daniels has become a vocal critic of how many American universities have handled antisemitism and disruptive campus protests following the October 7, 2023 attacks. He has publicly emphasized that university leaders must respond more swiftly and decisively when confronted with blatant antisemitic incidents, intimidation, or disruptions that undermine campus order and academic life.

ACF recognizes Daniels’ leadership and his willingness to speak directly about the responsibilities universities have in maintaining safe and respectful campus environments.

About ACF: Alums for Campus Fairness (ACF) leverages the unique power of alumni to combat antisemitism on college campuses. ACF helps organize and cultivate alumni chapters for colleges and universities across the country, equipping members with tools, tactics, and training to proactively engage with administrators. Learn more at www.campusfairness.org.