YPSILANTI, Mich., June 26,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Eastern
Michigan University announced its participation in the
Welcome Corps on Campus program at the June
20 Board of Regents meeting, making EMU the first university
in the nation, and one of just 18 universities this year, to host
students as part of the initiative. Launched by the U.S. State
Department in partnership with six nationwide NGOs, including the
Presidents' Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, the
program aims to support refugee students whose studies have been
interrupted.
EMU announced on June 20, World
Refugee Day, serving as a reminder of the strength and resilience
of those forced to flee their homeland. University President
James Smith and General Counsel
Lauren London led the University's
involvement in the program.
"The Welcome Corps on Campus program offers students a path to
citizenship while enabling them to complete their studies at
American universities," said President Smith. "We are committed to
providing refugee students with life-changing educational
opportunities. Our efforts reflect the University's All Are Welcome
Here campaign, which celebrates the inclusivity of the EMU
community."
The program is unique in its approach, matching universities
with refugee students who have undergone a multi-part screening
process and a rigorous application. Students must meet EMU's
admission requirements before progressing through the program.
"Both President Smith and I have attended numerous Presidents'
Alliance meetings and webinars, and have always found the group to
be exceedingly valuable as we attempt to broaden our global
footprint and be a welcoming space to students from around the
world," said London.
"We are thrilled to report that EMU is one of just 18
universities nationwide to participate in the Welcome Corps on
Campus program during its inaugural year, and we are the very first
university to host students as part of this program," said London.
"We have been matched with three students this year who have been
in communication with the Office of Admissions and academic
advisors as they register for classes."
The Welcome Corps on Campus program at EMU depends primarily on
charitable support. For more information, or to contribute,
interested parties can give to the "New Future Fund" on the EMU
Foundation website.
About Eastern Michigan
University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university
in Michigan. It currently serves
more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate,
specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences
and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and
concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of
Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology;
Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National
publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity,
and commitment to applied education. Visit the University's
rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For
more information about Eastern Michigan
University, visit the University's website. To stay up to
date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU
Today.
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SOURCE Eastern Michigan
University