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Born on April 5, 1940, Paul W. Purdom came to Indiana University in 1971 as a professor and member of the faculty of the Department of Computer Science. A graduate of California Institute of Technology, he discusses the development of the field of computer science and the creation and development of the Department of Computer Science at Indiana University. Purdom speaks of departmental enrollment trends, funding issues, and the fight for the establishment of a Ph.D. program in computer science at Indiana University. In addition, Purdom mentions recent departmental issues including tenure and tensions.

Leon Rand, born in 1930, served as chancellor of Indiana University Southeast beginning in 1986. He speaks of other experiences in his career, including his years at the University of Detroit. Rand discusses the history of Indiana University Southeast, its campus, and its service to a student population consisting of a majority of nontraditional students. In addition, he speaks of problems associated with decreased funding, the opportunities and advantages of distance education, and the Indiana University regional campuses in general. Finally, he speaks of the Indiana Commission on Higher Education and its role and impact in the state of Indiana.