University Statement regarding the White House Executive Order on Immigration

On Friday, an executive order was issued by the White House preventing travel to the United States for at least 90 days by citizens of seven countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.  Additionally, the order suspends the United States’ refugee program for 120 days while the departments of Homeland Security and State review the application and screening process.  Federal judges from several jurisdictions have intervened to allow some of those affected by the order and in transit to the U.S. over the weekend to be allowed into the country, and to temporarily stay certain portions of the order. Additional lawsuits and court orders are expected. Many individuals around the country and in the James Madison University community have expressed concern and confusion.

It is unclear at this time how the executive order will affect those students and faculty who are attending and working at JMU from the countries named in the executive order.  The JMU Office of International Programs reached out immediately to each one to provide information and let them know that they are valued members of the James Madison University community.  The university will continue to support them during this time.

As the details of the executive order unfold over the next few weeks and months, we will continue to be in contact with our students and faculty who may be affected by the new policy.  As an institution, we will continue to work with other institutions and organizations so that we can provide the most up-to-date information and resources to those affected.  For more information about the executive order contact Delores Blough, Associate Executive Director, Office of International Programs at (540) 568-6336 or at bloughda@jmu.edu. Also, as this fluid situation continues to evolve, please visit the Office of International Program website.

James Madison’s work on the U.S. Constitution was based largely on his conviction that our republican democracy would survive only if a wide variety of differing ideas counterbalanced one another.  Madison’s namesake university celebrates his legacy every day by cultivating a welcoming environment in which international students and faculty contribute vitally to our community.  Diversity of thought, opinion, experience and culture adds tremendous value to the university because our differences enlighten us and bind us together.  Regardless of one’s country of origin, all are welcome at James Madison University.

We are a stronger and better university because of our global outreach and our commitment to access, inclusion and diversity. This commitment serves as one of our core qualities at JMU.

Jonathan R. Alger
President