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Emory responds to Supreme Court ruling, reaffirms support for DACA students

The following message was sent to the Emory community June 18, 2020, by President Claire E. Sterk and President-elect Gregory L. Fenves.

We are pleased today’s Supreme Court ruling allows the federal Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program to continue.

DACA students and staff are valued members of our community and part of what makes Emory special. They have overcome barriers with resilience and courage, and we all can learn from their desire to create a better future for themselves and others.

We know there is still much uncertainty for DACA and undocumented students. For those in need of support, please contact Campus Life’s Office of Student Success Programs and Services for assistance, including mental and physical health services, referrals to legal advisors, and other resources to support student well-being. 

While the Court’s decision is a positive step, immigration issues are far from resolved. Emory will continue its efforts to encourage Congress to pass bipartisan legislation to protect Dreamers. We remain committed and unwavering in our resolve and support for all members of our university.  

Please remember the entire Emory community stands with you and for you.

Sincerely,

Claire E. Sterk, President
Gregory L. Fenves, President-elect

Campus Resources

Emory offers a variety of support resources that are available to faculty, staff and students who would like help responding to a variety of issues:

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) provides individual, group and couples counseling; stress management classes; and community outreach to provide support for students and assist them in negotiating emotional and interpersonal difficulties as they matriculate through Emory University. 404-727-7450.

Student Intervention Services (SIS) assists students in times of crisis. It also offers impartial, judgment-free counsel for students seeking guidance and assistance through life's ongoing challenges. 404-430-1120.

Student Health Services (SHS) offers free psychiatric services for all enrolled Emory students. Services include diagnostic psychiatric evaluations, medication evaluations, long-term management of psychiatric medications and community referrals. Learn more information about reaching SHS for after-hours emergencies or call 404-727-7551.

Office of Spiritual and Religious Life is located in the Alumni Memorial University Center (AMUC 125) and Cannon Chapel (Suite 316). Services are available for students, faculty and staff. 404-727-6226. 

Faculty Staff Assistance Program (FSAP) provides support for employees, including daytime emergency appointments and on-call after-hours services. Visit the emergency services webpage or call 404-727-9355 (WELL). 

 


Frequently Asked Questions

What is DACA?

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program was established in 2012 and allows individuals who entered the country as undocumented immigrants before the age of 16 to request deferred action from removal proceedings. Individuals must apply to the program, which is renewable for two-year periods.

The Supreme Court issued a ruling on June 18 that allows the DACA program to continue.

Does Emory admit undocumented students?

Emory admits undocumented students and all applicants are held to the same rigorous and selective admission standards based on academic record and the potential we see in them for long-term success. 

Why does Emory admit undocumented students?

Emory welcomes all students regardless of race, gender, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation or immigration status. We believe our community benefits from this intellectual and social diversity.

In keeping with our values to embrace students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds, Emory accepts undocumented students for admission and financial aid. Emory follows all federal laws and policies and will continue to do so.

Is financial aid available for undocumented students?

Emory meets 100 percent of demonstrated need for every admitted domestic undergraduate student. Emory provides institutional, university financial aid to undergraduate undocumented students with demonstrated financial need. These are private funds and no state or federal resources are used.

How does Emory protect the privacy of students?

Emory adheres to all applicable state and federal laws regarding students’ privacy. We do not release confidential information without a subpoena or warrant.


Emory Actions and Messages Regarding DACA

Emory, other universities file brief with Supreme Court in support of DACA (Oct. 3, 2019)

Emory, other universities call on court to back DACA students (July 25, 2018)

Emory, other leading universities urge appeals court to support DACA students (April 24, 2018)

Emory joins court brief supporting DACA students (Nov. 2, 2017)

Emory reaffirms support for DACA students (Includes a Sept. 7 letter from Emory and other universities urging Congress to act on DACA and two messages from President Sterk dated Sept. 6, 2017, and Aug. 31, 2017)

Emory affirms support for undocumented students (Two letters to the Emory community dated Jan. 18, 2017, and Nov. 21, 2016)


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