SOCORRO, N.M. -- New Mexico Tech President Dr.. Stephen Wells issued a statement on Wednesday, July 8, in response to the latest ruling by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency.

In his statement, Dr. Wells pledge that New Mexico Tech will support all international students and help them fulfill their educational aspirations.

Here is Dr. Wells' full statement:

 

New Mexico Tech Students, Staff, and Faculty,

On Monday, July 6, a division of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced that it will not permit international students on F-1 visas to take a full online course load this fall while studying in the United States. At this time, ICE’s mandate leaves us with more questions than answers. This ruling has potentially serious implications for New Mexico Tech’s international students and those enrolled at institutions across the country.

I understand that the path forward is unclear and very concerning for international students trying to determine what the future holds. Our international students now have many questions – about their visas, their health, their families, and their ability to continue working toward a New Mexico Tech degree.

At a time when our nation’s institutions of higher education are doing everything possible to help safely reopen amidst the pandemic and economic recession - we need flexibility, not obstructive regulations from our federal government. During this pandemic, when the health and safety of our students is of the utmost concern, it would be irresponsible to deny any university or its students the option of going entirely to remote instruction in the interest of public health and safety.

New Mexico Tech’s strength rests with its people – no matter where they come from. Welcoming the world’s brightest, most talented, and motivated students is a long standing American tradition and an essential strength of our university and our nation. New Mexico Tech is committed to doing everything possible to stand by its international students. I am committed to doing everything possible to make sure that our international students fulfill their educational aspirations and graduate.

Stephen G. Wells

President, New Mexico Tech

----

 

For all the COVID-19 related news and updates from NMT, click here. 

-- NMT --