Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff,
In the wake of recent decisions to wind down the federal Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, I feel it’s important to reiterate Illinois State University’s commitment to being an open, welcoming, and inclusive campus for all students and scholars, regardless of immigration or citizenship status.
All students, faculty and staff are protected by University policy against discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, order of protection, gender identity and expression, ancestry, age, marital status, disability, genetic information, unfavorable military discharge, or status as a veteran in employment.
Last year I, along with many other university presidents nationwide, signed the Statement in Support of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Program and Undocumented Immigrant Students. Illinois State will continue to admit, serve, and support undocumented students as authorized by law. Staff in the Office of Admissions will work with undocumented students and help them navigate the application process and the transition to life on campus. All students, regardless of citizenship status, are admitted based on academic credentials.
The campus organization, CAUSA, continues to inform educators and others on campus and in the local community about the issues and challenges faced by undocumented students. The group is dedicated to enhancing the academic and support services available to those students.
Illinois State is committed – to every extent legally possible – to protecting the freedoms of all of our students and scholars. Student records are subject to Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protection. Immigration status and citizenship status are not released without a student’s permission. The Illinois State University Police Department protects and serves all members of the community, regardless of immigration or citizenship status.
Illinois State will continue to monitor decisions surrounding the DACA program and other immigration-related issues that may impact the University community. We will continue to update information and resources as more information becomes available.
Respectfully,
Larry H. Dietz
President