Comedian Andy Gross Stirs Outrage At Purdue University

Associated Press

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (AP) — Comedian Andy Gross stirred outrage at Indiana's Purdue University, which says the Los Angeles-based performer's act during a student orientation was inappropriate.

The Indianapolis Star reports that some students walked out of Saturday's performance and accused the comedian of harassing a female student who was called on stage to assist with part of his routine. They say he made a crude reference to his own genitalia and requested that the student touch his leg, among other comments they found distasteful.

A representative for Gross, a ventriloquist who also does magic tricks, did not immediately respond to a request for comment from The Associated Press.

School officials said in a statement accounts differ as to exactly what happened, but that parts of the performance were "clearly inappropriate and contrary to the university's values."

Tags:Purdue University

Support independent journalism today. You rely on WFYI to stay informed, and we depend on you to make our work possible. Donate to power our nonprofit reporting today. Give now.

Universities in Indiana have thoughts on new high school diplomas. Here's what they said.

In a series of letters sent last month to top Indiana education leaders, presidents and administrators of the public institutions called for a reconsideration of the proposed graduation requirements.

Education / August 1, 2024

Advocacy group says flexibility needed for students with disabilities in new diplomas

Residents across Indiana have raised concerns about the Indiana Department of Education’s proposal for new high school graduation requirements. The Arc of Indiana, a group that helps Hoosiers with developmental disabilities, said many of the new requirements are limiting to students who have disabilities.

Education / July 31, 2024

Indiana's new high school diplomas spark concerns among university leaders

Indiana’s universities are raising the alarm of the state’s overhaul of high school diplomas, with some warning students won't be prepared for higher education or other post-graduate options.