News & Messages

Message from Chancellor Folt: Response to Executive Order

Dear Carolina Community:

The Executive Order issued by President Trump on Friday, January 27, 2017, limits immigrant and non-immigrant visa holders from Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Somalia, Libya and Yemen from entering the U.S. for 90 days, among other actions. In the last 24 hours, we have been hearing from many people at Carolina who are confused, frightened and unsure of what to do. Those same sentiments are being expressed at universities all over the country.

This is a very fluid situation – with two federal courts issuing temporary stays against the order just yesterday, and no one is really certain how this will resolve in the coming days. Nevertheless, while the full impact of this order remains unclear, we are determined to help people who are directly or indirectly impacted in every way that we can.

To our more than 3,000 international students, scholars, staff and families – representing more than 100 countries: you are essential to our vibrant Carolina community. We remain fully committed to a diverse and inclusive campus and want all who work and study here to feel welcomed and valued. Those who come from the listed countries and anyone else can reach out to UNC Global with questions and concerns. They and many others across campus stand ready to help.

The University is advising students, faculty, and staff who may be affected by this Executive Order to consult an immigration attorney prior to travel outside of the United States. At present, universities across the country are advising people from the seven countries listed in the Executive Order to not travel outside of the United States.

In the coming weeks and months, we encourage everyone to do your best to stay focused on your work, and fully engaged in the dreams that brought you here. The UNC system will continue to monitor the situation and will keep all of us apprised of new information as it becomes available.

Sincerely,

Carol L. Folt
Chancellor