We value our international students

Dean Doug Shackelford (BSBA ’80) sent this message to students about the new ICE visa restrictions.

Dear Kenan-Flagler Students,

I was furious after reading the new Immigration and Customs Enforcement visa restrictions for international students in the U.S. who are solely enrolled in online courses this fall. I am so sorry that amid the disruptive forces already affecting your lives that this new threat has emerged.

I’ve been on lengthy Zoom meetings with the Chancellor, Provost and fellow Deans trying to learn more about the implications for our students. The rules are complex and the situation is fluid.  As you may have heard, Harvard and MIT filed suit against the regulations today.  My understanding is the ISSS is reaching out to our international students and starting the work needed to ensure that we meet this new standard. I know that our staff are already hard at working on it, too. We will continue to passionately advocate for our international students and support them.

We know your journey as an international student is not an easy one even before a pandemic turns your world upside down. You leave behind your family and country, navigate a different culture, and learn in a second language in a different educational system. Our community welcomes you. We learn from you – your perspectives and experiences – and now from your resilience.

You are valued members of our community, and we are better because you are here. We will work especially hard to support you during this remarkably difficult period.

Sincerely,

Doug