Dear Graduate Students,
I am writing in regards to the recent executive order banning certain international citizens from entering the United States. We the faculty and staff in the School of Computing realize that the new restrictions for some of you will impact travel, re-entry, visa extensions, visits from family, job searches, etc. We also realize this situation creates a great deal of stress and uncertainty about your future studies here in the U.S.
I want you to know that the School of Computing values bright, hard-working people of all backgrounds and origins, and we feel all of you are valuable members in our field and within our community. We will be doing what we can to make your studies and your stay in Utah productive and satisfying.
In the meantime, we are encouraging foreign nationals, especially those from countries that have been identified by this unfortunate executive order, to consider and plan carefully before you travel abroad. We recommend that you talk with your advisor before making plans to travel, and consult with the International Center at the University of Utah to make sure your status will allow you to smoothly re-enter the country. Please let us know if we can help in any way. For our part, we will continue to advocate for your needs within the university and with our elected representatives.
Regards,
Ross Whitaker
Director, School of Computing
Professor, SCI Institute
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT 84112-9205