Standing with our international students
On Monday, Jan. 30, WSU North Puget Sound at Everett Chancellor Paul Pitre sent the following message to students, faculty and staff:
Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:
In light of the recent executive order temporarily restricting travel to the U.S. from a number of countries, it is important that Washington State University North Puget Sound at Everett reaffirms its commitment to our international scholars, students, researchers, faculty and staff.
The federal ban has cast a cloud of uncertainty over members of these groups who are traveling internationally. According to figures cited by the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities, more than 17,000 students from the seven countries that the federal ban targets studied at U.S. universities last year.
I want to validate and repeat the statement made this morning by WSU President Kirk Schulz. In it, he wrote:
“We welcome and support all members of the Washington State community—regardless of the country they call home. We remain unflinchingly committed to respecting the dignity of each individual—regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, national origin, gender identity or expression, religion, or sexual orientation. We will continue to foster a diverse and inclusive community, embrace civil discourse, and strive to ensure a welcoming and safe environment for all.”
For international students who are part of the Cougar community or aspire to be one day, please know that you are welcomed at our university.
The WSU system – which includes WSU Everett and five other campuses around the state – has been enriched and strengthened by the scholarship and talent brought by international students, scholars, faculty, researchers and staff.
Students with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact me directly or WSU’s International Programs Global Services staff.
Paul Pitre, Chancellor
WSU North Puget Sound at Everett