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Message from President Elizabeth Davis on DACA


Last updated September 1, 2017

By News administrator

Dear Furman Community,

The Trump administration announced today its decision to phase out the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. I share the deep disappointment of hundreds of university presidents around the country who joined me in signing letters before and after the inauguration calling for President Trump to uphold and continue DACA.

We are now imploring Congress to find a permanent solution to help the 800,000 “Dreamers” who were brought here as children through no choice of their own. They are now fellow students and co-workers who call this country their home.

The quality of a Furman education is determined in part by the richness and diversity of the experiences and perspectives represented in the interactions that we have with one another. We will continue to celebrate and develop the talents and passions of our students, faculty, and staff members of all backgrounds, beliefs, religions, identities, and countries of origin.

Each person who enters our community, whether as a student, faculty or staff member, parent or guest, belongs here and deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.

As we have stated previously, we are committed to vigorously protecting the privacy of student information, which includes immigration status. Barring a lawfully issued subpoena or judicial order, protected student information is shared with parties outside of Furman only when the student has provided written authorization.

Please also remember that we have a number of resources on campus ready to help:

  • Counseling Center: 864-294-3031
  • Chaplain’s Office: 864-294-2133
  • Student Success Coordinators/Student Life: 864-294-2202
  • Student Diversity Programming: 864-294-3094

This decision has caused special concern among our students and colleagues who are directly affected. Others have family and friends whose status may be in jeopardy. I ask that you be especially kind, supportive, and patient with all of our students and colleagues.

Thank you.

Warmly,

Elizabeth Davis

President

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