Message from President Katherine A. Rowe - ICE Restrictions
William & Mary President Katherine A. Rowe sent the following message to the university's international students July 8, 2020 regarding recent changes to ICE restrictions - Ed.
Dear International Students,
On Monday, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced new restrictions that prevent international students from returning to or remaining in the U.S. for remote-only instruction. These regulations replace the existing flexibilities granted to students and universities under the COVID-19 pandemic. Yesterday, William & Mary joined universities throughout the U.S. in urging the administration to change this new rule.
These regulations are unfair, unfeasible, and threaten William & Mary’s teaching and research mission as a global university. They compound the uncertainty and concern brought on by pandemic and go against every value we hold as an institution.
This week, I have heard from students fearful about their immigration status. Let me state clearly: William & Mary will do our utmost to ensure your study at the university can continue in the U.S. uninterrupted this fall, should you decide this path works best for you. William & Mary’s Path Forward for the fall includes options for in-person and online courses. For international students who plan to study or conduct research in the United States this fall, we will do everything we can to ensure that you have some in-person educational experience for the entire semester.
The Reves Center will share more information as it becomes available. Should you have specific questions or concerns, I encourage you to reach out to Reves Center staff.
International students are vital and honored members of our learning community. You make William & Mary a stronger, more vibrant university. We stand ready to support you in every way we can.
Stay well,
Katherine
Katherine A. RowePresident