A Letter from President Suzy Ames
Since its founding 64 years ago, Peninsula College has been proud to welcome students from all backgrounds and held firmly to the belief that higher education should be open, inclusive, and accessible to all those seeking to better their lives through learning. In light of recent federal announcements regarding immigration, we want to share some important information that might be helpful for you.
- Our commitment to diversity and inclusivity: We remain steadfast in our values of diversity, inclusiveness, and the right of all students to pursue their educational goals free from unlawful interference. Peninsula College does not have a legal obligation to enforce federal immigration laws. We are not, and will not become, a law enforcement agency.
- Admissions and immigration status: As an open-access institution, we do not base admissions decisions on immigration or citizenship status. Furthermore, our campus security team will never question or attempt to detain individuals based on their immigration status.
- Privacy protections: As required by federal law, we do not disclose protected information from student education records, except as required in response to a lawfully issued subpoena or court order. Higher education institutions do, however, share certain information called “directory information,” but students can choose to not allow even directory information to be shared. For more information about directory information and the opt-out process, please see our college webpage on the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
- Access to campus: As a public institution of higher education, our college has public spaces, however, many of our spaces are reserved for use by students and employees so our college can fulfill its mission of delivering education to students. Our employees will not grant permission to these limited access, nonpublic areas (such as offices, and classrooms) without a judicial order or warrant.
- Financial aid information: We understand that students and their families may be hesitant to apply for state aid through the WASFA (Washington Application for State Financial Aid) or the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) due to their immigration status. Completing a WASFA or FAFSA helps colleges determine student eligibility for resident tuition and financial aid. Our Financial Aid team can help students complete the WASFA or FAFSA. As we are committed to protecting the confidentiality of the information and privacy of students and their families, we do not share personal information listed on the WASFA and FAFSA for immigration enforcement purposes without a legal requirement, such as a valid court order or judicial warrant.
We know that recent federal announcements may be causing fear and anxiety for some of our students at Peninsula College. Please know that you are not alone – we are here for you. Below are some resources that may be helpful:
- PC Cares!
- Northwest Immigrant Rights Project
- Washington State Office of the Attorney General – Immigration Services
- National Immigration Law Center
- Washington Law Help: Resources for Immigrants
- Jefferson County Immigrant Rights Advocates
Also, please know you can visit Pirate Central at any time if you need immediate assistance or would like to speak with a college staff member.
We remain deeply committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for every student who seeks to grow and create a brighter future. You are an important part of our campus community, and you are always welcome here.
Sincerely,
Suzy
