Hanover College President Lambert's Statement On U.S. Student Exchange Visitor Program

Please know that we support our international students and we will be closely monitoring the developments of this situation as it pertains to Hanover College.

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(Hanover, Ind.) - The following is a statement from Hanover College President Lake Lambert in regard to the new Student Exchange Visitor Program made by the U.S. government:

Many are aware of the recent announced changes to the Student Exchange Visitor Program by the U.S. government regarding the status of nonimmigrant students this Fall. In summary, the new rule – which is being challenged in court – states that nonimmigrant students attending colleges that are fully online in the Fall may not enter or stay in the U.S.

Hanover College stands in opposition to this decision. We believe strongly that it is overly punitive to international students and adds more stress and uncertainly for them during the pandemic. On behalf of the College, I have contacted members of our congressional delegation to express our concerns and ask for their intervention. Concerned employees are encouraged to contact their representatives as well. In addition, we are working closely with the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities – of which we are a member – on their advocacy efforts for international students.

This rule only applies to international students attending colleges that are fully online in the Fall. As we are planning a largely face-to-face semester, our international students should not be affected. We have already reached out directly to our international students to reinforce our commitment to them, and to see if they have any specific concerns related to their individual situation.

Please know that we support our international students and we will be closely monitoring the developments of this situation as it pertains to Hanover College.