Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Brandi Hephner LaBanc released a statement to all university emails Thursday morning in response to President Donald Trump’s recent decision to rescind the Deferred Action Childhood Arrivals Act. In the statement, Hephner LaBanc said the university will “do as we always have done: support all of our students.”
DACA, a program enacted under former President Barack Obama, allowed undocumented immigrants brought to the United States as children to work without fear of deportation. It does not grant citizenship. This decision will affect more than 2,800 young Mississippi residents.
Here is the full statement:
I recognize that we have students in our community who may be affected by the decision to rescind the DACA executive order and that there may be significant feelings of anxiety and uncertainty while Congress considers a more permanent solution. We want to assure members of the UM community that we will continue to do as we always have done: support all of our students. It is important to note that this announcement has had no impact on our campus policies or procedures.
As we closely monitor the long-term impact of the repeal of the DACA program, the university continues to offer academic guidance and other support to those affected to help them best navigate their options. For confidential support, please contact the University Counseling Center at (662) 915-3784. Students should request a walk-in appointment and indicate if you are interested in group support.
Additional offices that can lend direction or advice include:
- Office of Global Engagement, (662) 915-7404
- Office of the Vice Chancellor for Diversity & Community Engagement, (662) 915-2934
- Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, (662) 915-7705
I ask all members of the Ole Miss family to please lend support to those you know who are affected by this federal decision. The University of Mississippi is focused upon education and the success of our students, and we benefit immensely from our diverse student body.
Sincerely,
Dr. Brandi Hephner LaBanc
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs
