Director and Professor Stephanie Robert’s Statement on New ICE Rule

UW-Madison is a world-class university – and it takes students and scholars from around the world to make it so.  As the Director of the Sandra Rosenbaum School of Social Work at UW-Madison, I want to let our international students know that we want you here – we need you here – you are welcome here. The vexing social justice problems facing our communities, nations, and the world can only be addressed by bringing together people with different talents, perspectives, and experiences. That’s our only hope for coming up with solutions to bring about social justice, peace, and unity around the world.

 The recent ICE rules affecting international students are challenging their ability to achieve their educational goals and contribute to a more just global future.  Chancellor Blank and other campus leaders are working to stay or amend these new rules (see Chancellor Blank’s statement). The faculty and staff of the Sandra Rosenbaum School of Social Work support these efforts and we will stay abreast of emerging options and opportunities as this situation unfolds. We stand ready to help our international students meet requirements. We are dually committed to understanding and addressing the needs of our students, and safeguarding public health. 

To our international students – the announced ICE rules add to a time of great stress and uncertainty, and you may be feeling confused, frightened, hurt, angry. Please know that faculty and staff at the Sandra Rosenbaum School of Social Work stand with you. Your presence and contributions strengthen our community and we are eager to help you meet your goals. If you have specific questions or concerns at this time, please contact your advisors or the International Student Services office.