Some university leaders from across the state are reacting to President Donald Trump’s immigration order that includes temporarily barring citizens of seven majority Muslim nations from entering the United States. Grand Valley State University President, Thomas Haas and University of Michigan President, Mark Schlissel, are assuring international students their campuses are welcoming and supportive.
At GVSU, a letter penned by President Haas reads, in part, “Engagement with the world is a hallmark of Grand Valley and it has my absolute support; maintaining it is one of my most important duties as your president.” It goes on, “Toward that end, I have directed staff from the Padnos International Center to be in touch with students who may be impacted by the orders and to provide regular updates as circumstances may require. I have also asked the Department of Human Resources to communicate with faculty and staff whose visas or work permits may be affected. As further detail and guidance comes from federal agencies we will be sure to share it with those impacted.”
At U of M, officials have told international students the school won't share their immigration status unless required by law.
Schlissel says the Ann Arbor school doesn't "share sensitive information" and campus police officers don't seek the immigration status of people when performing their duties.
Patrick Center, WGVU News.