CSU Chancellor White's Statement Regarding Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals
To: The California State University Community
From: Timothy P. White, Chancellor
I was deeply disappointed by this morning’s decision to rescind the Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. This program enabled thousands of academically qualified Californians to pursue their dreams at California State University campuses, and was widely acknowledged as a strategic benefit to our state and, indeed, our nation. I am joining with colleagues throughout the United States to urge Congress to pursue legislation that will restore the heart of this forward-thinking program in a timely manner.
The university’s enrollment and tuition policies are not based on DACA status so enrollment, tuition and financial aid for students is not impacted by the ending of the program. Additionally, state funding under the California Dream Act is not based on DACA status and will not change.
Our mission to provide excellent educational opportunities to all Californians shall not waver. We will continue to vigorously pursue the CSU’s commitment to advance and extend knowledge, learning and culture; to provide opportunities for individuals to develop intellectually, personally and professionally; and to prepare educated and responsible alumni who are ready and able to contribute to California’s culture and economy. To that end, I will continue to advocate for our current and future students and employees who are affected by this unfortunate development.
I encourage our DACA students to explore information recently posted here to learn more about your rights, the potential effect of the DACA repeal, and the steps we are taking to assist with the completion of your educational pursuits. This website, which also has information about legal support services, will be updated with any new information as soon as it is available.
To our wonderful CSU employees impacted by this revocation, I am troubled and dismayed that without any new federal action the CSU will be required to end the employment of some of its DACA recipients as early as March 6, 2018. While our hope is that members of Congress will pass legislation restoring the protections afforded by DACA, if they fail to act timely, regretfully, there are no options to allow CSU to continue to employ you. I am troubled by this uncertainty and the potential loss of your contributions, creativity, energy and expertise, but I am optimistic that Congress will act to address the issue. Campus Human Resource Officers and AVPs/Deans of Faculty are available to assist faculty and staff, Student Affairs will provide support to students, and Systemwide Human Resources and the Office of General Counsel will continue to provide information and additional resources. Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to utilize the Employee Assistance Programs programs and counseling centers on their respective campuses.
Again, let me express my personal disappointment toward this action that will have such a profoundly negative impact on our nation, our state, our university, and so many of our colleagues, students and friends. I hope you’ll join me in urging members of Congress to work towards a long-term solution.