Chancellor Steinmetz Sends Message on Executive Order Regarding Immigration

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Chancellor Joseph Steinmetz

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – In response to President Donald J. Trump’s executive order regarding immigration, Chancellor Joseph Steinmetz sent the following message to the campus community:

“On Friday, an executive order was signed by President Trump that restricts individuals from seven countries from entering the United States. This order has broad implications for many, including those in the University of Arkansas community.

“Here on our campus, well over 100 people from these affected countries currently hold visas to study, visit and work in the U.S. We’re seeking clarity on the scope and impact of the executive order and related processes also encouraging speedy resolution. We will be reaching out to government officials to inquire on the status of our affected community members and to encourage an expedited process.

“Over the weekend, we heard from many who are concerned – as well as those who have been directly impacted by the order. The international students and scholars who choose Arkansas as their academic home away from home are a valuable part of our community. These individuals make important contributions to our campus, and impacts to this population most certainly have ripple effects on the rest of campus. We share these concerns and while there are still many questions that we cannot answer, we are focused on supporting all of our students and finding a way forward.

“We will continue to seek clarity and keep our community informed. If you are impacted by the executive order and have questions or concerns, you are encouraged to reach out to the Office of International Students and Scholars at 1-479-575-5003 or iss@uark.edu.

“We are committed to making the University of Arkansas campus and the Northwest Arkansas community a place where all of our students and scholars can call home.”

About the University of Arkansas: The University of Arkansas provides an internationally competitive education for undergraduate and graduate students in more than 200 academic programs. The university contributes new knowledge, economic development, basic and applied research, and creative activity while also providing service to academic and professional disciplines. The Carnegie Foundation classifies the University of Arkansas among only 2 percent of universities in America that have the highest level of research activity. U.S. News & World Report ranks the University of Arkansas among its top American public research universities. Founded in 1871, the University of Arkansas comprises 10 colleges and schools and maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio that promotes personal attention and close mentoring.