On Monday, January 30, University of Lynchburg President Dr. Kenneth R. Garren sent the following letter to students, faculty, and staff in response to an executive order recently signed by the United States President.
To Members of the University of Lynchburg Community,
As you may know, on Friday President Trump signed an executive order suspending admission into the United States for 90 days by immigrants, non-immigrants and refugees from the following majority-Muslim countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. In addition, those from Syria are prohibited from entry indefinitely.
On Saturday night, a federal judge issued a nationwide stay of part of that executive order, ruling that those already in transit or already present in U.S airports be permitted to continue their travels to U.S. destinations and not be forced to return to their home countries.
While University of Lynchburg reviews the executive order and its impact on our students, faculty, and staff, I recommend that members of our community who may be affected avoid traveling outside of the U.S.
Consistent with state and federal laws and regulations, the College will continue to protect the privacy of student and personnel records. In that regard, faculty and staff are not to divulge any student information to others except as stated within College policies. Campus officials are hereby instructed to join with outside agencies in the enforcement of immigration laws only as required by law. Please be assured that the College will not divulge information on any individual’s immigration status unless required by law.
Students, faculty, and staff from around the world are an important part of the fabric of University of Lynchburg and we will continue to welcome them to learn with us in an open and inclusive environment.
If you are a member of our community impacted by the executive order and have questions or concerns, please contact Human Resources (faculty and staff) or Chisato Tada, International and Study Abroad Advisor.
Best wishes,
Kenneth R. Garren
President
