Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University is set to participate in a virtual discussion to unveil its plans for welcoming the first cohort of refugee students through the Welcome Corps on Campus initiative. The event, hosted by the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, is scheduled for Wednesday, July 24, at 1 p.m.

EMU is 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 non-governmental organizations, including the Presidents' Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, Welcome Corps on Campus aims to support refugee students whose studies have been interrupted.

Attendees will hear from Lauren London, general counsel for Eastern Michigan University, along with other representatives from public and private institutions, on how they will welcome, enroll, and support refugee students through their academic journeys in the U.S.

Among the group of distinguished speakers are:

- Kinga Atamer, Global Initiatives Coordinator, University of Connecticut

- Danna Harman, Dean of Displaced Students, Bard College

- Roze Hentschell, Chief Academic Officer, Colorado State University System

- Lauren London, General Counsel, Eastern Michigan University

- Danielle Macdonald, Senior Associate Dean and Professor of Anthropology, University of Tulsa

- Laura Wagner, Director of Refugee Student Initiatives, Presidents' Alliance on Higher Education & Immigration

Universities and colleges are encouraged to participate and learn how to join this U.S. government’s private sponsorship program. To register for the event or contribute to EMU's efforts through charitable support like the “New Future Fund” on the EMU Foundation website.

Welcome Corps on Campus links higher education to U.S. resettlement and a pathway to citizenship. It supports refugee students who were forced to flee their homes and now face barriers to continuing their education. Campus private sponsor groups help newly arriving refugee students enroll in classes, provide academic support, and help them acclimate to campus life and American society.

Founded in 1849 as Michigan's second oldest public university Eastern Michigan University serves over 13 thousand students across various degree programs within its multiple colleges. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence diversity and commitment to applied education.

For more information about Eastern Michigan University visit its website or stay updated via EMU Today.

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