Published: July 9, 2020

Dear CU Engineering community,
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Like many of you, we are surprised and dismayed by the recentÌýÌýthis fall. We recognize the uncertainty and fear this statement brings to many of you as you plan for fall semester.

We support theÌý, of which CU Â鶹ӰԺ is a member, on this matter. The decision could jeopardize the personal and professional success of more than 1,200 international students in our college, and it creates an untenable situation for universities balancing public health and open access.

Simply put, international students are imperative to our college. If you’re here from outside the United States to study, know that we value your contributions and admire your initiative and sacrifice. You attend and teach classes, conduct research, develop new innovations and serve others. You enrich our community and our lives, and we will support and defend your ability to study without interruption however we can.

It’s important to note that dissertation and thesis hours, research courses and independent studies are all considered in-person instruction, and international students in the U.S. exclusively enrolled in such courses should still be in compliance with the new guidance as long as they maintain full-time status.
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If you’re a domestic student, know that our college can’t thrive without your international peers. They contribute educationally, socially and financially to the success of our college and the Â鶹ӰԺ community, and all of us are edified by the inclusion of diverse perspectives in our classrooms and residence halls.

If you are impacted by this decision, we urge you to review theÌýÌýand stay in touch with that office, as well as your academic advisors and professors, as questions arise. TheÌýÌýwill also provide information and resources to graduate students across campus.

You can also reach out toÌýCharles Musgrave, associate dean for graduate education, andÌýMeredith Canode, director of graduate programs, or toÌýMary Steiner, associate dean for students, if you have additional questions or concerns.

We will be closely monitoring the changing landscape and will carefully consider actions we can take to further support our international students. Wishing you good health in this difficult time.
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Sincerely,

Keith Molenaar
Interim Dean

Mary Steiner
Associate Dean for Students

Charles Musgrave
Associate Dean for Graduate Education