LOGAN, Utah, Jan. 31, 2017 (Gephardt Daily) — On Monday, Utah State University President Noelle Cockett posted a statement on USU’s website, making clear the university’s position regarding President Trump’s executive order barring travelers from seven predominantly Muslim countries from entry into the U.S.
USU is one of many academic institutions having to deal with the possible ramifications of Trump’s order.
Mark Schlissel, president of the University of Michigan-Flint posted a statement on the UM website, and Anthony Frank, president of Colorado State University, addressed the issue on his school’s Facebook page. Frank also reported that CSU was doing everything possible to get three of its students back into the U.S. after they were prevented from entering. He said Colorado State is tracking statements from schools across the country.
Cockett, in her statement, emphasized USU’s commitment to diversity and the ways in which it enhances the academic experience. She also addressed the need for up-to-date information for foreign nationals who are involved with the university in any number of capacities.
Her message, addressed to students, faculty and staff:
“We at Utah State University care deeply about our international students, faculty, and staff. We are committed to promoting diversity and inclusiveness on our campuses. The talent, perspective, and culture of our international students, faculty, and staff strengthen and enrich our teaching, research, and outreach programs. We will not tolerate discrimination and harassment in the USU academic environment and workplace.
“We are deeply concerned about the members of our university community who may be impacted by the recent executive order suspending the issuance of visas and other immigration benefits to nationals of seven countries for 90 days.
“We recommend foreign nationals from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Syria, Sudan, and Yemen not travel outside of the United States. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates to our community. Students, visiting scholars, faculty, and staff with visa and international travel questions should schedule an appointment with an immigration advisor in the Office of Global Engagement by calling or emailing … Counselors, advisors, and staff in the Division of Student Affairs and across the USU system are available to assist students.
“Sincerely, Noelle E. Cockett”
