Good news! Last week, the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of State issued a new joint statement of principles in support of international education at the EducationUSA 2021 Forum. This statement shows that the Biden administration, like the University of Minnesota, is committed to supporting international students seeking to pursue their academic and personal goals in the United States. It states, in part:
The robust exchange of students, researchers, scholars, and educators, along with broader international education efforts between the United States and other countries, strengthens relationships between current and future leaders.... (T)he presence of international students, researchers, and scholars on U.S. campuses enhances diversity, contributes to academic vibrancy, and fosters creativity and innovation in the sciences and the arts.
It's fantastic to see this show of support and the explicit focus on the importance of international students and scholars. As stated by Meredith McQuaid, associate vice president and dean of international programs for the University of Minnesota system:
The re-emergence of the U.S. on the world stage should inspire all of us who understand the power of international education. There is so much to gain through more interaction, more debate, more dialogue, and more partnerships with people and institutions around the world. Let us look to the future with hope!
ISSS joins with Dean McQuaid in being hopeful that this statement of support can be a strong launching pad for much needed work to enhance policies and programs in support of students and scholars. The staff of ISSS will continue to advocate for international students with our congressional representatives and federal/state agencies.
