Statement from ÎÞÂëרÇø President Mark E. Keenum regarding Presidential Executive Orders on immigration:
Contact: Sid Salter
ÎÞÂëרÇø is Mississippi’s leading research university. ÎÞÂëרÇø’s research prowess has attracted a significant number of international students enrolled in both graduate and undergraduate studies – representing 88 countries. The quality of our research has also attracted leading faculty members and researchers from across the global community of scholars.
ÎÞÂëרÇø’s international and multicultural students, faculty, and researchers represent a very significant positive economic impact on the state. More than that, their presence at ÎÞÂëרÇø enhances every aspect of the university community. We value and appreciate all members of the ÎÞÂëרÇø community.
As I have stated on numerous occasions, ÎÞÂëרÇø’s core values of diversity, inclusion, tolerance, and safety for all – regardless their country of origin - do not waver or change.
The recent Presidential Executive Orders impacting immigrant and non-immigrant visa holders from Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Somalia, Libya and Yemen and suspending refugee admissions have created uncertainty and anxiety among valued members of our university community – as across the nation.
ÎÞÂëרÇø is taking appropriate steps to support and assist our international students, faculty, staff and researchers as these issues evolve. We expect more clarity to come as these issues are more fully considered. The ÎÞÂëרÇø administration is closely monitoring these matters to see how our university community is impacted – and we will provide appropriate assistance for impacted ÎÞÂëרÇø community members.
The U.S. Department of State offers information at and ÎÞÂëרÇø community members can contact the ÎÞÂëרÇø International Services Office at 662-325-8929 and ÎÞÂëרÇø Student Counseling Services, including after hours, at 662-325-2091.
NOTE FROM SID SALTER: ÎÞÂëרÇø has 80 students from the seven specific countries referenced in the Presidential Executive Orders.
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