Supporting community members in uncertain times

The below message was sent to faculty, staff, and students on January 29, 2025. 

Dear members of the Bryn Mawr community:

The new Federal Administration is increasing national immigration enforcement, changing guidance for some international visitors, proposing policies that would impact people who are transgender and non-binary, and issuing executive orders reducing federal support for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. As a result, we understand that this may be a period of concern and insecurity for members of our campus community and/or their loved ones.

We are continually monitoring the situation and offering direct support. We aim to foster a campus that is welcoming and inclusive for all students, faculty, and staff.  We write now to reaffirm our values and to share some information that may be helpful at this time, particularly as it relates to our support of BMC community members regardless of citizenship or immigration status. 

Admissions and Financial Aid   

• The College will continue to welcome applicants and support students of all national origins and citizenship. 

• Where eligibility rules allow, our academic programs will continue to consider applicants regardless of immigration status and will not discriminate based on that status. 

• We will continue to meet full, demonstrated financial need for all students enrolled at Bryn Mawr. 

Confidentiality and Law Enforcement 

• The College will not release information about students’ citizenship or immigration status (including information regarding students’ visas and Green Cards) unless presented with a court-issued subpoena or similar legal requirement.  

• Campus Safety will not be involved with enforcing federal immigration laws, including Green Card and visa issues, nor will it inquire about or record a student’s immigration status when interacting with students. Law enforcement officials seeking to come on campus are expected to check in first with Campus Safety and present a warrant or other enforceable legal instrument. Students or employees who are approached by law enforcement should contact Campus Safety at x7911 for further assistance.  

• The College does not use E-Verify to verify a student’s (or staff member’s) eligibility to work at the College. 

Resources 

• Online Resources: The Impact Center has a variety of relevant support opportunities listed online. Additionally, here is a directory of resources from one of Bryn Mawr’s partner organizations. 

• International Students resources: International students can access support through our International Student and Scholar Advising office.

• Mental Health Services: Remote counseling support is available for all students 24/7. See our resources page for further details. Contact the Counseling Center or The Impact Center for additional resources.

• Emergency Assistance: The Student Assistance Fund can support eligible undergraduate students who are experiencing financial hardship due to an unanticipated event or emergency. The Graduate Emergency Fund can assist graduate students who are in need.   

Students, staff, or faculty who seek further guidance or support are encouraged to contact The Impact Center for Community, Equity, and Understanding.

The goal of inclusion is to ensure everyone in our community feels a sense of belonging and that their experiences are recognized and valued. Please seek resources as you need them and practice kindness and understanding with those around you who may be struggling in ways that you might not recognize.  

Sincerely, 

Wendy Cadge 
President and Professor of Sociology 

Tim Harte
Provost and Professor of Russian 

Tomiko Jenkins 
Acting Co-Dean 
Undergraduate College Division 

Katie Krimmel
Acting Co-Dean 
Undergraduate College Division 

Tijana Stefanovic
Interim Chief Financial Officer/Chief Administrative Officer