Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University (EMU) has welcomed three refugee students through the Welcome Corps on Campus program. Announced initially on June 20, EMU became the first university in the U.S. to participate in this initiative, which was launched by the U.S. State Department in partnership with six national non-governmental organizations, including the Presidents' Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration.

This fall, students Sarah Sulaiman from Syria, Nimo Abdiweli Shire from Somalia, and a student from the Democratic Republic of Congo who wishes to remain anonymous arrived on campus as part of the program. The initiative supports students from refugee camps around the world whose studies have been interrupted, allowing them to continue their education in the U.S.

“We are proud to lead the way in this national effort and welcome these students to our campus,” said EMU President James Smith. “Providing refugee students with the resources and support they need to succeed in their academic journeys is not only a humanitarian effort but also a valuable addition to the diversity and richness of the Eastern Michigan University community. In turn, it exemplifies our 'All Are Welcome Here' theme that reflects the University’s commitment to inclusion and that is visible on signage throughout the community.”

Since their arrival at the start of the semester, these students have begun adjusting to life at EMU with support from the university community.

Sarah Sulaiman is studying interior design and recently reconnected with family members in Dearborn, Michigan. “The kindness and support from everyone, especially the sponsor group, made my transition smoother. I’m excited to make the most of this opportunity,” she said.

The student who wishes to remain anonymous is pursuing a degree in information systems. Known for their outgoing personality, they joined a volleyball club two weeks after arriving on campus. “Being part of Welcome Corps has been a game changer. The team’s support has made this journey less overwhelming, and I’m excited to fully embrace university life,” they said.

Nimo Abdiweli Shire, a nursing major, quickly formed connections with other students. “I’ve made wonderful friends here, and I’m committed to making a difference in women’s and children’s lives, especially refugee women through compassionate care,” she said.

EMU's involvement in Welcome Corps on Campus is part of a larger national initiative aimed at increasing refugee access to U.S. universities. Since its announcement in June, this program has gained national attention. Lauren London, EMU's general counsel who played an instrumental role in guiding Eastern's participation believes that it can change lives.

“This program is a transformative initiative not just for refugee students but for our entire university community,” said London. “By offering these students a safe and supportive environment we empower them to pursue their academic dreams while enriching our campus with diverse perspectives and experiences.”

Looking ahead, EMU remains committed to expanding its participation in Welcome Corps on Campus program planning future admissions for additional refugee students hoping current participants will mentor new arrivals.

Welcome Corps links higher education institutions like EMU with U.S resettlement efforts providing pathways toward citizenship supporting newly arrived refugees helping them acclimate academically socially culturally enhancing mutual growth within host communities primarily relying upon charitable donations coordinated via platforms like New Future Fund facilitated through EMU Foundation website channels ensuring sustained operational efficacy furthering organizational mission objectives long term

Founded 1849 second oldest public institution Michigan serving over 13000 undergraduate graduate doctoral candidates across varied disciplines regularly acknowledged national publications highlighting institutional excellence diversity applied educational methodologies explore more visit official digital portals comprehensive informational access updates activities announcements follow newsworthy developments via EMU Today

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