This morning, the University’s Federal Updates Steering Group released a Massmail with updates on recent federal policy changes. The email was prefaced by a letter from Chancellor Robert Jones and Provost John Coleman addressing the federal government revoking student visas for some international students at the University.
In the letter, Jones and Coleman addressed the revocations and affirmed the University’s commitment to its students. They said the University is working directly with the affected students to help them understand the situation and connect them with the appropriate resources.
“Complacency is not a solution,” Jones and Coleman wrote.
The Massmail indicated that if a student’s visa is revoked, it doesn’t automatically terminate their enrollment at the University. Students whose visas are revoked may be able to finish their degree online.
“Impacted students are being advised to work closely with their department and college,” Jones and Coleman wrote. “We are asking colleges/departments/professors to explore potential options that may allow students to continue their programs remotely.”
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The University is notifying and supporting the affected students’ respective colleges, as well as building coalitions with other higher education institutions to explore legal avenues, according to the email.
Linked within the Massmail’s FAQ section is the FAQ page for International Student and Scholar Services, addressing how recent federal immigration changes may affect various members of the University community. This includes non-citizen students, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival and Temporary Protected Status recipients, asylum seekers and international students and scholars.
“Avoid speculation and refer to trusted resources,” the FAQ within the Massmail said. “Encourage individuals to meet with ISSS for more information and to confirm any details if they are uncertain of what their next steps should be.”
The FAQ also addressed United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, encouraging those who encounter ICE agents seeking information from University personnel to notify UIPD.
Illinois law enforcement, including UIPD, is largely prohibited from assisting in the enforcement of federal immigration law. Additional information is available from Open Illinois and a separate FAQ.
“We know hearing this news is alarming, and we understand that many people across our university community will have questions,” Jones and Coleman wrote. “While we recognize the concern, at this time, we are only sharing additional information with individuals directly supporting the students. We sincerely appreciate your understanding as we continue to protect their privacy.”
People with questions pertaining to federal updates are encouraged to contact federalupdates@illinois.edu.
