TWU Update: From Washington D.C. to Austin

January 30, 2017

Dear Colleagues,

I’d like to update you on a couple of activities from last week that affect our university, starting with the White House executive order that temporarily bans seven countries’ citizens from entering the U.S. for at least the next 90 days.

Temporary International Travel Ban

This action directly affects about a half dozen students, faculty, or staff who are citizens from the countries listed in the White House executive order. It is my understanding that these Texas Woman’s community members are currently in the United States, and until the order is further clarified, we are advising them to refrain from international travel.

Many in our community have expressed concerns regarding the implications of this executive order for these individuals and their families. Our community’s commitment to diversity and respect for all individuals is at the core of who we are and what we do. It is part of our mission, and we have been recognized as one of the nation’s most diverse universities. So, I urge the members of our community to continue being supportive and respectful of all our colleagues.

Texas Woman’s University is closely monitoring any developments that could affect our community. For anyone needing additional support, we encourage you to visit the TWU Counseling Center. In addition, our Office of International Education and Office of Education Abroad Programs stand ready to listen to, and support our faculty, students, and staff.

Testimony in front of the Senate Finance Committee

On Wednesday, I testified before the Senate Finance Committee (archive of my portion starts at 31 min and 30 sec). You might also like to read the written testimony I submitted, if you're interested in learning more about what is at stake for our university.

It is clear that our state is facing significant financial challenges, and we all must continue to be good stewards of taxpayer funds. In my remarks, I wanted to make it clear that the state can be proud of the vital role Texas Woman’s has played and the value our institution continues to add. I am pleased we had so much good news to share with the Senate Finance Committee, which is thanks to the efforts each of you has made over the years.

For more than a century we have helped the state achieve its higher education goals-and now we all must continue to stay focused on the many ways we can contribute to the state’s ambitious “60×30” goal of raising the advanced educational levels of Texas citizens by 2030.

I will continue to keep you apprised of legislative matters affecting TWU throughout this session.

Best regards,

Carine M. Feyten, Ph.D.
Chancellor and President