Hey dudeinspace,
I'd think that a professor recommending you would have some bearing on your application. I got notified of my acceptance to CIPA a couple of weeks back, but I didn't really have a professor send out an email. If I were you, I'd still keep my fingers crossed and take this as good news.
Delphine0329,
I'm an international student and finished my application about the same time as you. CIPA was awesome about getting back to me within the 3 week timeline they prescribe. However, I haven't received any notification about funding yet, though they've told me that I am being considered for funding - so just waiting for news on that front.