Brittany Nelson-Cheeseman, an assistant professor in the School of Engineering, leaves a note supporting refugees. The Office of International Student Services invited students to write supportive message midday on Monday. (Kaylee Druk/TommieMedia).
In response to President Donald Trump’s travel ban, St. Thomas President Julie Sullivan sent an email on Jan. 30 to the St. Thomas community declaring the school’s support for “those who are most vulnerable and in need.”
The travel ban, an executive order Trump implemented on Friday, prevents entry into the U.S. from seven primarily Muslim countries. In the same action, Trump suspended the U.S. refugee program for 120 days.
The letter from Sullivan stated that to the university’s knowledge, there are no students, faculty or staff who are currently having trouble returning to the U.S., but Sullivan would be supportive if an issue arose, citing St. Thomas’ commitment to Catholic principles and advancing the common good.
“We will take every lawful opportunity to advocate for, protect, and care for those who are most vulnerable and in need,” Sullivan said in her email.
Sullivan wrote that if anyone is aware of St. Thomas community members who are impacted by the travel ban they should contact Lori Friedman, director of the Office of International Students and Scholars.
Sullivan quoted Pope Francis’ mission to serve the poor and needy and called for solidarity in the university.
