Haverford’s Commitment Amid Federal Actions

Dear Haverford Community,

Recent changes coming from the federal government have created uncertainty about several facets of higher education ranging from research funding to immigration to diversity and inclusion departments and programs. With uncertainty can come fear and apprehension. We want every Ford to know that we are closely monitoring these proposed changes and considering the impact they could have on the College. Most importantly, we will stand by every community member as we navigate these challenges.

Haverford has an unwavering commitment to developing and nurturing a diverse, inclusive community—as a place of open inquiry and learning where each and every one of us belongs, has the ability to express oneself freely, and acts in accordance with our values. Many of our community members, including those who are international, undocu+, and/or LGBTQIA+, have rightfully expressed deep concerns about the potential impact of these federal actions on Haverford’s learning community. To all of our students, faculty, and staff, we want to reaffirm: you belong here and we support you.

As in any time of unpredictability, Fords stand together – the College’s mission and values call for this mutual support. We encourage you to be supportive of one another, and to seek assistance should you need it. We'd like to share some additional details and resources that we hope you will find useful. If you need help at any time, don’t hesitate to contact any of the offices or individuals listed below.

Confidentiality and Campus Safety

• Individual privacy is of the utmost importance; the College will continue to take all necessary measures to vigilantly protect personal information from unlawful or unauthorized intrusion.
• We are required to comply with lawfully issued subpoenas and warrants. Law enforcement officials seeking to come on campus are expected to work through the Campus Safety office and present a subpoena or warrant. If you are approached by law enforcement on campus, please contact Campus Safety at 610-896-1111 for assistance.

International and Undocu+

• We remain committed to supporting our international and undocu+ students, staff, and faculty and ensuring they have the information and guidance needed to navigate their legal status in the U.S.
• If you have concerns about your ability to travel domestically or abroad, please contact nweisz [at] haverford.edu (Natasha Weisz), director of the international student support office; lcastrejon [at] haverford.edu (Leslie Castrejon), associate director of the Chesick Launch program; or ravery [at] haverford.edu (Rebecca Avery), director of study abroad.
• Natasha and Leslie will lead a Friday Learning Session for faculty and staff on Supporting Undocumented and International Students Amid Immigration Changes on Friday, Jan. 31 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the Faculty Dining Room. Although you don’t have to RSVP, you can let us know you’re coming.
• Haverford meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all current and admitted students, regardless of citizenship status. This commitment will not change.

Gender

• At this time, there are no regulations prohibiting the College from continuing to recognize an individual’s preferred pronouns or affirming their gender identity. We remain committed to upholding each person’s sense of self, identity, and expression at Haverford.
• Since 2018, the College has expanded the availability of all-gender bathrooms in academic and administrative buildings, which will continue to be accessible to all community members.

Diversity, Equity, and Access

• The College is committed to cultivating a culture of connection and engagement that promotes equitable, inclusive, and accessible experiences of those who live, learn, work, and teach at Haverford College.
• The purpose of our Diversity, Equity, and Access division (IDEA) is to affirm and support Haverford’s commitment to “the co-creation of a more inclusive, equitable, and just community for all of its members.” This work toward equity and access is the shared and collective responsibility of staff, faculty, and students, and is supported and guided by all levels of College leadership.

Additional Resources

• Office of International Student Support (ISSO) provides resources and support to Haverford’s international student community, including information about preparing for visas and international travel.
• Undocu+ student resources webpage provides guidance on a variety of topics.
• Center for Gender Resources and Sexuality Equity (GRASE) helps to connect students with both on- and off-campus resources.
• Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) offers in-person and virtual counseling appointments, as well as drop-in sessions, M-F from 11-12 or 2-3 in Stokes 203, no appointment needed.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers confidential counseling for faculty and staff.
• Campus Safety helps to provide a safe and secure campus environment 24/7.
• There are several funding opportunities available to assist students, including the Liftfar Emergency Fund to help with unanticipated expenditures.

Federal directives are coming at a rapid pace, and we anticipate that there will be even more changes on the horizon. Whatever the future holds, we will face it together.

Sincerely,

Wendy Raymond

President

Linda Strong-Leek

Provost and Professor of African and Africana Studies and Gender and Sexuality Studies

John McKnight

Vice President and Dean of the College

Nikki Young
Vice President for Institutional Equity and Access