IPFW needs structural change, not freedom, legislators told

Instead, several current and former university officials talked of structural changes within the current governance that could give IPFW more independence while maintaining the value of diplomas from the state's two flagship universities.

"There is recognition that quality matters," said Vic Lechtenberg, acting provost at Purdue University. "Not all institutions are perceived in equal value. It's very important to earn a degree, but it's also important to recognize that Purdue and IU have franchise value."