Message from Interim President Stellar
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Date
2016-12-05 18:34:11+00:00
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Subject
Message from Interim President Stellar
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December 5, 2016
Dear UAlbany Community:
Campuses across the nation, including UAlbany, are engaged in discussions about
possible changes to federal protections for undocumented immigrants, focused on
concerns about what these changes would mean for undocumented students. These
conversations include calls to declare UAlbany a “sanctuary campus.”
SUNY Chancellor Nancy Zimpher recently issued an important memorandum on this
topic to campus presidents, advising us that presidents do not have the legal authority
to declare our campuses sanctuaries in relation to undocumented students, staff, and
faculty.
However, Chancellor Zimpher encouraged us to use this opportunity to “reinforce
SUNY’s strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.” I wholeheartedly
endorse the invitation to do so on our campus, as it helps us build on our significant
ongoing efforts with our students to create an educational environment in which all can
grow and develop their hearts and minds. We have taken many positive steps and we
need to continue with that vital work . A full commitment to diversity and inclusion is a
necessary condition for the excellence to which UAlbany aspires.
In terms of supporting existing law protecting undocumented students, I have joined the
Chancellor and more than 400 college and university presidents in signing the
“Statement in Support of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Program
and our Undocumented Immigrant Students .”
At the same time, the value of inclusivity requires us to protect freedom of speech and
to encourage the expression of the wide range of opinions and perspectives held by
members of our community. The dialogue must take place in an environment of mutual
respect that protects the safety and rights of every individual.
I look forward to continuing to work closely with each of you to deepen our positive
impact as a diverse and inclusive campus .
Sincerely,
James R. Stellar
Interim President
