This statement was issued by President Gloria Larson on January 30, 2017. Bentley continues to stand behind its international community.
All of us have been watching the news over the weekend regarding the Executive Order on Immigration signed by President Trump late Friday afternoon, temporarily suspending entry into the United States by individuals from seven countries. While the courts have since halted some of the immediate repercussions of the executive order late on Saturday night, today we are still searching to understand the long term ripple effects of its underlying message.
Over the weekend, members of the Bentley community sprang into action to assist those in our community who may be concerned about what this order means for their travel to and from home, their families, and their place on campus. Since Friday, I have been in close communication with Vice President for Student Affairs Andrew Shepardson and others, monitoring the situation. Student Affairs and the Center for International Students and Scholars (CISS) contacted all international undergraduate and graduate students on our campus offering assistance and support, and cabinet members, deans and department chairs have been in touch with many members of our faculty and staff who hail from regions around the globe. We are committed to providing whatever support may be necessary to ensure all members of our community feel safe and are able to engage fully in campus activities.
Even in this moment of uncertainty, I know that the students, faculty and staff of this university are members of a tight-knit, loving community—one that cares for each other, no matter our ethnicity, gender, race or religion. The turmoil of the world beyond our campus may at times lie beyond our control, but our community has consistently shown the power to engage with each other, learn about each other, and stand together in the face of uncertainty. I know that today, this week, and in the months ahead, we will stand stronger than ever before.
As we watch the courts and federal agencies determine the right way to implement this order, including understanding the temporary stay issued by the courts, the uncertainty can be chilling and upsetting. I will be carefully tracking all updates regarding the situation and I encourage all of you to spend time supporting your roommates, friends, and colleagues this week. Make a commitment to be a positive force on this campus.
If you would like to speak with someone on campus about your questions or concerns regarding this executive action, there are people and resources ready and available.I would encourage everyone to attend the Valente Center’s panel discussion of Public Policy in the Trump Administration, being held Tuesday, January 31 from 2:00 - 3:20 pm in Koumantzelis Auditorium.
By standing strong as a community, we will overcome the uncertainty of today and together build a better day tomorrow.
All my best,
Gloria