Inclusive Campus Policies for Diverse Immigrant Communities in Mississippi

1. What are the current campus policies in place to support and include immigrant students, regardless of their legal status?


The specific policies and practices regarding support and inclusion for immigrant students may vary from campus to campus, but most universities in the United States have some form of support system in place to assist immigrant students. Some common policies and programs that may be in place include:

1. Non-Discrimination Policies: Most universities have non-discrimination policies in place that protect students from discrimination based on their immigration status.

2. Student Support Services: Many universities have offices or departments specifically dedicated to supporting international and immigrant students. These offices can provide resources, advice, and guidance to help immigrant students navigate the challenges they may face.

3. Financial Aid: Some universities offer financial aid and scholarships specifically for undocumented or DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) students.

4. Campus Organizations: Many campuses have student organizations that focus on providing support for immigrants and promoting awareness about issues affecting the immigrant community.

5. Mental Health Support: Universities may also have counseling services available for students who are facing emotional, mental, or psychological stress related to their immigration status.

6. Legal Assistance: Some universities may offer legal aid or connect students with pro bono attorneys who can provide assistance with immigration-related matters.

7. Educational Resources: Universities often have resources available such as workshops, seminars, and informational sessions that address the specific needs and concerns of immigrant students.

8. Safe Spaces: Many universities designate certain areas on campus as safe spaces for marginalized communities, including immigrant students, where they can seek support and feel included.

9. Inclusion Training: Some campuses offer diversity and inclusion training for faculty, staff, and student leaders to better understand the experiences of immigrant students and create a welcoming environment.

10. Awareness Campaigns: Universities may actively engage in campaigns to promote awareness about issues affecting the immigrant community and advocate for policies that support their inclusion.

2. How does our state’s public university system handle accommodations for undocumented immigrants at each individual campus?


The approach to handling accommodations for undocumented immigrants varies among the different campuses within our state’s public university system. Generally, each campus has policies and procedures in place to support and assist undocumented students in their pursuit of higher education.

1. In-State Tuition: Many public universities offer in-state tuition rates to undocumented students who move to the state for purposes other than attending college, such as family relocation or employment opportunities. This allows these students to pay the same tuition rates as other residents of the state.

2. Financial Aid: Some campuses may have scholarships or grants specifically designated for undocumented students, while others may allow these students to apply for need-based financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) with special codes provided by the campus.

3. Support Services: Various support services may be available on campus, such as a Diversity Resource Center or Undocumented Student Center, which provide resources and advocacy for undocumented students. These centers may offer academic advising, mentoring programs, legal support, and cultural events.

4. Access to Academic Programs: Undocumented students are generally able to access all degree programs at public universities, however some professional programs that require specific licensure may have restrictions due to immigration laws.

5. Protection of Privacy: Campuses are committed to protecting the privacy of undocumented students in accordance with federal laws such as FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act). Student records will not be shared with any external entities without explicit written consent from the student.

6. Inclusive Admissions Policies: Many public universities have inclusive admissions policies that do not take into consideration an individual’s immigration status when making admission decisions. This allows undocumented students equal opportunity for educating themselves at these institutions.

Overall, while approaches may differ slightly among campuses within our state’s public university system, there is a general commitment across all institutions to create an inclusive environment that supports and empowers undocumented students in their pursuit of higher education.

3. Are there any programming or resources specifically tailored towards supporting immigrant students on our state’s college campuses?


Yes, there are resources and programming specifically designed to support immigrant students on college campuses in every state. Here are some examples:

1. Academic Support Services: Many colleges and universities have established programs specifically aimed at supporting the academic success of immigrant students. These services may include tutoring, mentoring programs, study groups, and academic counseling.

2. Multicultural Centers: Some schools have created cultural centers dedicated to providing a supportive environment for marginalized student populations, including immigrants. These centers often offer resources such as language classes, cultural events, and networking opportunities.

3. Scholarships and Financial Aid: Various organizations and institutions offer scholarships and financial aid specifically targeting immigrant students to help them afford the costs of higher education.

4. Immigration Legal Services: Some colleges provide immigration legal services to help students navigate the complex process of obtaining or renewing their visas or seeking other forms of legal status.

5. Student Organizations: Many colleges have student-run organizations focused on supporting immigrants on campus. These groups provide a community for immigrant students, organize events, and advocate for their needs.

6. Counseling and Mental Health Services: Colleges typically offer mental health services that can provide support to immigrant students who may be experiencing stress related to their immigration status or adjusting to a new culture.

7. Campus-wide Workshops and Events: Some colleges hold workshops and events aimed at helping immigrant students adjust to campus life and build relationships with other students from similar backgrounds.

8. English Language Programs: For non-native English speakers, some colleges offer intensive English language programs to help them improve their language skills before entering degree programs.

Overall, it is essential for incoming international and immigrant students to research the specific resources available at their chosen college or university in order to take advantage of all the support systems in place for them on campus.

4. What steps does our state take to ensure that immigrant students have equal access to financial aid and scholarships?


There are a few steps that our state takes to ensure that immigrant students have equal access to financial aid and scholarships:

1. In-State Tuition: Many states offer in-state tuition rates for immigrant students who meet certain criteria, such as having attended high school in the state for a certain number of years or graduating from a high school in the state.

2. State Financial Aid: Some states have their own financial aid programs that are available to all eligible students, regardless of immigration status. This can include grants, loans, and scholarships.

3. State DREAM Acts: Several states have passed laws known as DREAM Acts, which provide state-funded financial aid specifically for undocumented students who meet certain criteria, such as attending and graduating from a high school in the state.

4. Private Scholarships: Many private organizations and institutions offer scholarships specifically for immigrant students or for students with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

5. Non-Discrimination Policies: Some states have non-discrimination policies in place that prohibit discrimination against students based on their immigration status when it comes to accessing financial aid and scholarships.

6. Outreach and Information: States may also provide information and outreach efforts targeted towards immigrant communities to inform them about available financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

7. Partnerships with Community Organizations: The state may also partner with community-based organizations that work directly with immigrant communities to help disseminate information about available resources and assist with the application process for financial aid and scholarships.

8. Professional Development for College Advisors: Some states provide professional development opportunities for college advisors to ensure they are equipped with knowledge about resources available to undocumented and immigrant students when assisting them with their college applications.

5. How does our state address issues of discrimination and harassment against immigrant students on college campuses?


In general, our state has laws and policies in place to protect against discrimination and harassment in higher education, regardless of immigration status. Some specific ways that our state addresses these issues for immigrant students include:

1. State Civil Rights Laws: Our state has laws that prohibit discrimination based on characteristics such as race, ethnicity, national origin, and citizenship status in all areas of public life, including education.

2. Educational Opportunity Programs: Many colleges and universities in our state have programs specifically designed to support the success of underrepresented students, including immigrant students. These programs may provide resources such as academic support, mentorship, and financial assistance.

3. Office of Diversity and Inclusion: Many colleges and universities have an office or department dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion on campus. These offices can provide resources and support for immigrant students facing discrimination or harassment.

4. Immigration Resources: Some colleges and universities may offer resources specifically for immigrant students, such as legal aid clinics or access to immigration attorneys.

5. Reporting Protocols: Colleges and universities typically have procedures in place for reporting instances of discrimination or harassment on campus. This may include designated staff members who handle these issues or a system for anonymous reporting.

6. Awareness and Education Campaigns: Some colleges may conduct awareness campaigns to educate their student body about the experiences of immigrant students and promote a culture of inclusivity on campus.

It is important for immigrant students to familiarize themselves with their institution’s specific policies and resources available to them in order to address any issues they may face on campus related to discrimination or harassment.

6. Are language barriers taken into account when providing academic and student life services at our state’s universities?

It depends on the individual university’s policies and resources. Many universities have support services for non-native English speakers, such as language centers or ESL programs, to help students overcome language barriers. Additionally, some universities have staff or faculty who speak multiple languages and can assist students who do not speak English fluently.

However, there may still be limitations in terms of language accessibility in certain academic and student life services. This can be due to a lack of funding or resources, as well as a lack of diversity among faculty and staff who are able to provide these services in different languages.

Overall, while efforts are made to accommodate language barriers at universities, there is always room for improvement in ensuring equal access and support for all students.

7. Do our state’s universities offer culturally sensitive counseling services for immigrant students facing mental health challenges?


The answer to this question may vary depending on the specific state and university in question. However, many universities prioritize providing culturally sensitive counseling services for immigrant students facing mental health challenges.

For example, some universities have counseling centers that specifically cater to immigrant students or offer specialized programs and resources for this population. These centers may have counselors who are trained to address the unique challenges and experiences of immigrant students and may offer services in multiple languages.

Additionally, many universities have diversity and inclusion initiatives that aim to promote a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students, including immigrants. Part of these initiatives may include providing training for counselors on cultural competency and sensitivity when working with diverse populations.

It’s important to note that there is always room for improvement in addressing the mental health needs of immigrant students. Some universities may still face limitations in resources or cultural competency among their counseling staff. It’s always a good idea for incoming immigrant students to research the specific mental health resources available at their chosen university and reach out if they have any concerns or needs.

8. What measures are being taken to create a more inclusive campus environment for diverse immigrant communities across all colleges within the state?


Each college within the state has its own specific measures and initiatives in place to create a more inclusive campus environment for diverse immigrant communities. Some examples of these measures may include:

1. Diversity and Inclusion Offices: Many colleges have established dedicated offices or departments that focus on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus. These offices often work with immigrant support groups and other student organizations to plan events and initiatives that celebrate different cultures and provide resources for immigrant students.

2. Cultural Awareness Programs: Colleges may offer programs such as multicultural or international student orientations, diversity workshops, or cultural celebrations to help raise awareness and build understanding of different cultures among students, faculty, and staff.

3. Student Organizations: Many colleges have student-run organizations specifically focused on creating a welcoming community for immigrants and fostering cross-cultural understanding. These groups may organize events, offer peer support, and advocate for the needs of immigrant students on campus.

4. Language Services: To ensure that language barriers do not hinder access to education, many colleges provide language services such as translation services, language classes, or tutoring programs for non-native English speakers.

5. Support Services: Immigrant students may face unique challenges such as navigating the visa process or adjusting to a new culture. Colleges may have support services in place such as counseling or advising specifically catering to the needs of immigrant students.

6. Financial Aid Resources: Some colleges have scholarships or financial aid specifically designated for immigrant students, who often face barriers in accessing higher education due to their immigration status.

7. Sensitivity Training: Colleges may offer training sessions for faculty and staff on how to best support immigrant students and create an inclusive classroom environment.

8. Community Outreach: Many colleges actively engage with local immigrant communities through outreach programs such as hosting informational sessions about college opportunities or participating in community events.

Overall, each college has its own approach to creating a more inclusive environment for diverse immigrant communities based on their unique needs and resources available.

9. Are there any policies in place to protect confidentiality and prevent the sharing of confidential information about undocumented students with authorities at our state’s colleges and universities?


Yes, there are often policies in place to protect the confidentiality of undocumented students and prevent the sharing of confidential information with authorities at state colleges and universities. These policies vary by institution, but may include:

1. Privacy Policies: Many colleges and universities have privacy policies in place that prohibit sharing student information, including immigration status, without the student’s written consent.

2. Non-Disclosure Agreements: Some institutions may require staff members to sign non-disclosure agreements stating that they will not share any confidential information about undocumented students with authorities without proper authorization.

3. DACA-Specific Policies: For students who are protected under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, many institutions have specific policies in place to protect their confidentiality and prevent sharing of information with authorities.

4. Sanctuary Campus Policies: Some institutions have declared themselves “sanctuary campuses,” meaning they will not cooperate with federal immigration enforcement efforts and will protect the rights and privacy of undocumented students.

5. FERPA Regulations: The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) also protects student records from disclosure without prior written consent, which can include immigration status.

6. Student Sabrina Morales Privacy Act (SSM): Some states have enacted laws like SSM, which limit what type of personal information a college or university can collect from students, including their immigration status.

It is important for students to familiarize themselves with the confidentiality policies at their specific institution and know their rights regarding the protection of their personal information as an undocumented student. Students should also be aware of any state-specific laws or regulations that protect their privacy and ensure they are being followed by their institution.

10. How do our state’s colleges accommodate religious practices and cultural traditions of immigrant students on campus?


Most colleges in our state have policies and resources in place to accommodate the religious practices and cultural traditions of immigrant students on campus. These accommodations may include:

1. Prayer Spaces: Most colleges provide designated areas for students to pray or engage in other religious practices.

2. Halal/Kosher Dining Options: Many colleges offer halal and kosher dining options to cater to the dietary restrictions of Muslim and Jewish students.

3. Religious Student Organizations: Colleges often have student-led organizations that focus on different religious beliefs, providing support and a sense of community for students with similar backgrounds.

4. Cultural Events: Universities often host events that celebrate different cultures and traditions, such as Diwali, Eid-al-Fitr, Chinese New Year, etc.

5. Religious Holidays: Most universities recognize major religious holidays and may offer excused absences or alternative options for students who need to observe these holidays.

6. Counseling Services: Some colleges have counseling services specifically trained to support immigrant students, including those dealing with cultural adjustment issues.

7. Language Services: Many universities offer language services, such as translation services or ESL classes, to help immigrant students whose first language is not English.

8. Cultural Centers: Some universities have cultural centers dedicated to specific groups of students, such as Asian American or African American students, where they can connect with their culture and find support.

9. Religious Studies Programs: Some schools have departments or programs focused on studying different religions, which can provide a safe space for interfaith dialogue and understanding.

10. Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives: Many universities have diversity and inclusion initiatives in place that aim to create a welcoming environment for all students, regardless of their background or beliefs. This includes promoting cultural sensitivity and awareness among the campus community.

11. Are there any initiatives in place to diversify faculty and staff members to better reflect the diversity of the student body, including immigrant populations, at our colleges and universities in Mississippi?

Yes, many colleges and universities in Mississippi have initiatives in place to diversify faculty and staff members. These initiatives may include targeted recruitment efforts to attract diverse candidates, professional development programs to support the retention and advancement of diverse faculty and staff, and diversity training programs for current employees. Some institutions also have diversity and inclusion committees or task forces that work to promote a more inclusive environment on campus. However, there is always room for improvement and ongoing efforts to increase diversity among faculty and staff are necessary to better reflect the diversity of the student body in Mississippi.

Additionally, some universities have specific programs aimed at supporting immigrant populations, such as international student services offices or ESL (English as a Second Language) courses. These resources can help ensure that immigrant students feel welcomed and supported on campus.

Overall, addressing diversity among faculty and staff must be an ongoing effort that involves a commitment from school leadership, as well as input from diverse community members, to create a truly inclusive learning environment for all students.

12. Does our state have guidelines or policies for responding to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities on college campuses, such as raids or investigations?

It depends on the state. Some states have enacted laws or policies that limit cooperation with ICE and protect college campuses as “sanctuary” spaces. Other states may not have formal guidelines, but individual colleges and universities may have their own policies in place for responding to ICE activities on campus.

Some examples of state laws and policies related to ICE activities on college campuses include:

– California’s “sanctuary state” law, which limits law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration authorities, applies to all public colleges and universities in the state.
– Illinois’ Trust Act prohibits police from detaining individuals based solely on their immigration status and prevents local government agencies, including public colleges and universities, from engaging in immigration enforcement.
– The City University of New York (CUNY), a public university system in New York State, has a policy that prohibits its security officers from asking about immigration status or participating in immigration enforcement actions.
– In contrast, Texas’ Senate Bill 4 requires local law enforcement agencies to comply with ICE’s requests to hold individuals who are suspected of being undocumented immigrants, potentially affecting college campuses in the state.

If you have concerns about how your state handles ICE activities on college campuses, you can research relevant laws and policies or contact your state legislators for more information. You can also reach out to your individual college or university administration to inquire about their specific policies and procedures related to ICE activities.

13. Is there an established program or policy for providing legal assistance or advice to immigrant students facing immigration-related challenges while enrolled in college in Mississippi?


There does not appear to be an established statewide program or policy for providing legal assistance or advice specifically to immigrant students in Mississippi. However, some colleges and universities may offer resources or services for all students, including those facing immigration-related challenges. Immigrant students can also seek assistance from nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, and legal aid clinics in their local community. It is recommended that students contact their college’s student affairs office or counseling center for more information on available resources.

14. How do we ensure that English Language Learners (ELLs) are supported academically in higher education institutions within Mississippi?


1. Provide English Language Support Programs: Higher education institutions can offer various programs specifically designed to support ELL students, such as English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, one-on-one tutoring, conversation groups, and workshops focused on language acquisition and academic writing.

2. Implement Language Assessment: All incoming ELL students should be assessed for their English proficiency level to determine their needs and place them in appropriate courses or support programs.

3. Offer Multilingual Resources: Institutions should make resources and materials available in multiple languages, including course materials, textbooks, and campus services information.

4. Train Faculty and Staff: It is important that faculty and staff receive training on how to effectively support ELL students in the classroom. This may include strategies for adapting instructional methods, providing extra time for assignments and exams, and offering one-on-one support.

5. Promote Inclusive Classroom Environments: Encourage faculty to create a welcoming and inclusive classroom environment that values diversity and provides opportunities for ELL students to practice their language skills.

6. Foster Peer Support Networks: Connecting ELL students with peers who speak the same language or have similar cultural backgrounds can provide a sense of community and support for academic success.

7. Monitor Academic Progress: Keep track of ELL students’ progress to identify any areas in which they may need additional support. This will also help evaluate the effectiveness of current support programs.

8. Collaborate with Community Organizations: Partnering with local organizations that serve immigrant communities can provide valuable resources and support for ELL students on campus.

9. Provide Technology-based Support: Consider implementing online language learning platforms or other technology-based resources to supplement traditional instruction methods for ELL students.

10. Create Cultural Awareness Programs: Ensure that all members of the campus community are aware of cultural differences amongst ELL students, including communication styles, social norms, and educational backgrounds.

11. Establish Mentorship Programs: Mentorship programs can provide ELL students with individualized support and guidance from more experienced peers or faculty members.

12. Encourage Participation in Campus Activities: Encouraging ELL students to participate in extracurricular activities and campus events can help them develop language skills, increase cultural awareness, and feel more connected to the campus community.

13. Provide Financial Support: Many ELL students may face financial barriers that could impact their academic success. Institutions can offer scholarships or other forms of financial aid specifically for ELL students.

14. Continuously Evaluate and Improve Support Programs: It is essential to regularly evaluate existing support programs for ELL students and make necessary improvements to ensure their effectiveness in helping these students succeed academically.

15. Does Mississippi offer any specialized academic programs or courses designed to meet the unique needs of refugee and immigrant students on college campuses?


The Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning does not have any specific academic programs or courses designated for refugee or immigrant students. However, individual colleges and universities in Mississippi may offer specialized programs or courses for these students. It is recommended to contact the specific college or university for more information on their offerings for refugee and immigrant students.

16. Are there any programs or initiatives in place to promote cultural competency and understanding across diverse groups on our state’s college campuses?


Yes, there are several programs and initiatives in place to promote cultural competency and understanding across diverse groups on our state’s college campuses. Some examples include:
1. Diversity and Inclusion Offices: Many colleges have dedicated offices or departments that focus on promoting diversity and inclusion on campus. These offices often offer programs, workshops, and resources related to cultural competency.
2. Cultural Events: Colleges often organize events that celebrate different cultures, such as cultural fairs or festivals. These events provide opportunities for students to learn about different cultures through food, music, art, and other activities.
3. Student Organizations: Many colleges have student-run organizations that focus on promoting understanding and acceptance of diverse cultures. These organizations often host events, workshops, and discussions related to cultural competency.
4. Diversity Courses: Some colleges require students to take courses that focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion as part of their curriculum. These courses educate students about different cultures, histories, and perspectives.
5. Faculty Training: Many colleges provide faculty with training on how to foster a culturally competent learning environment in their classrooms.
6. Study Abroad Programs: Studying abroad is an excellent way for students to immerse themselves in a different culture and gain a better understanding of other people’s perspectives.
7. Intercultural Communication Workshops: Colleges may offer workshops or training sessions focused on improving communication skills across diverse groups.
8. Mentoring Programs: Some colleges have mentoring programs that pair students from different backgrounds together to promote cross-cultural understanding and support.
9. International Student Services: Colleges often have dedicated services for international students to help them acclimate to the new culture and connect with the local community.
10. Resources Library: Many college libraries have resources available for students (books, articles, films) that address issues related to diversity, equity, inclusion, discrimination, prejudice, etc., which can help foster a better understanding of different cultures among students.

17. How do admissions policies at public universities in Mississippi ensure equal opportunities for immigrants and other marginalized communities?


Admissions policies at public universities in Mississippi are designed to ensure equal opportunities for immigrants and other marginalized communities in several ways:

1. Non-discrimination policies: Public universities in Mississippi have strict non-discrimination policies that prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or immigration status. This ensures that all applicants are given an equal opportunity regardless of their background.

2. Holistic review process: Many public universities in Mississippi use a holistic review process in which they consider a wide range of factors beyond just academic achievement when evaluating an applicant. This includes factors such as extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and personal experiences. This helps to level the playing field for applicants from marginalized communities who may not have had the same opportunities as others.

3. Outreach programs: Public universities in Mississippi often have outreach programs specifically aimed at recruiting and supporting students from underrepresented and marginalized communities. These programs provide information about the admissions process, financial aid options, and resources available on campus.

4. Financial aid options: Public universities in Mississippi offer various forms of financial aid, including scholarships and grants that are specifically available to students from low-income families and minority groups. This helps to make higher education more accessible for these populations.

5. Support services: Many public universities in Mississippi also offer support services for immigrant and marginalized students once they enroll. These can include counseling services, mentorship programs, and cultural organizations that provide a sense of community and support on campus.

Overall, these admissions policies work together to create a fair and equitable system that ensures equal opportunities for immigrants and other marginalized communities to pursue higher education at public universities in Mississippi.

18. What measures are being taken to increase access and support for higher education among immigrant students from low-income backgrounds in Mississippi?


There are several measures being taken to increase access and support for higher education among immigrant students from low-income backgrounds in Mississippi. These include:

1. Financial aid: Mississippi offers state-funded financial aid programs such as the Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant (MTAG) and the Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grant (MESG) that provide financial assistance to eligible low-income students, including immigrant students.

2. In-state tuition: The Mississippi Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to pay in-state tuition rates at public universities and colleges, making higher education more affordable for them.

3. Scholarships: Many non-profit organizations in Mississippi offer scholarships specifically targeted towards immigrant students from low-income backgrounds, such as the ILCM Scholarship Program and El Pueblo Latino Scholarship Fund.

4. College readiness programs: Programs like Upward Bound and Talent Search provide academic support, college preparation, and counseling services to help prepare low-income and minority students for college.

5. Outreach efforts: Colleges and universities in Mississippi have implemented outreach efforts to reach out to underserved communities, including immigrant communities, to inform them about the opportunities available for pursuing higher education.

6. Support services: Many schools have established support services specifically targeted towards immigrant students, such as English language courses, tutoring programs, and cultural exchange programs.

7. Partnerships with community-based organizations: Colleges and universities often partner with community-based organizations that serve immigrant communities to provide additional support services and resources for these students.

8. Diversity initiatives: Some institutions have launched diversity initiatives aimed at increasing enrollment of underrepresented groups, including immigrant students from low-income backgrounds.

9. Academic advising: Schools provide academic advising services to assist with course selection, degree planning, and career guidance for immigrant students.

10. Counseling services: Many schools offer counseling services to help address any personal or academic challenges that may be hindering an immigrant student’s success in higher education.

19. Are there any partnerships between colleges in Mississippi and local immigrant organizations to better serve this student population?


Yes, there are partnerships between colleges in Mississippi and local immigrant organizations to better serve this student population. Some examples include:

1. The University of Southern Mississippi’s Center for International Education has partnerships with various community organizations that provide support and resources to international students. These partnerships include the Global Biloxi Initiative, which connects international students with local host families, and the Gulf Coast International Friendship Program, which pairs international students with community mentors.

2. Mississippi State University’s Office of International Services partners with various organizations such as the World Affairs Council of Central Mississippi and the Hispanic Network Foundation to provide cultural events and networking opportunities for international students.

3. Jackson State University’s Office of International Initiatives collaborates with local community organizations, such as the Magnolia Speech School and Mississippi Immigrant Rights Alliance (MIRA), to provide language and citizenship classes for immigrants in the Jackson area.

4. Hinds Community College has a partnership with Catholic Charities of Jackson, which helps connect immigrant students to resources such as legal services, English classes, and job placement assistance.

5. The University of Mississippi collaborates with several community organizations, including the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council and Lafayette County Literacy Council, to offer volunteer opportunities for international students to engage with local schools and communities.

These are just a few examples; there may be additional partnerships between other colleges in Mississippi and local immigrant organizations that vary depending on location and specific needs of the student population.

20. How do we monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of our state’s campus policies in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion for undocumented and immigrant students?


1. Collect and analyze data: Gathering data is an essential step in monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of campus policies. This involves collecting information on demographic characteristics (e.g. race, ethnicity, citizenship status) of students, enrollment rates, graduation rates, access to resources and services, and other relevant data.

2. Conduct surveys and focus groups: Surveys and focus groups can provide valuable insights from students themselves on their experiences and perceptions of diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus. These methods can also help identify areas for improvement or potential barriers to success for undocumented and immigrant students.

3. Utilize campus climate assessments: Many universities conduct regular campus climate assessments to measure how diverse students feel included on campus. These assessments often include questions related to undocumented and immigrant student experiences.

4.Place a focus on outcomes: Instead of just measuring inputs (i.e., number of diversity initiatives or resources available), it is important to also track outcomes such as retention rates, degree completion, participation in leadership opportunities, and satisfaction with the overall college experience for undocumented and immigrant students.

5. Engage with student organizations: Student organizations specifically focused on supporting undocumented and immigrant students can provide valuable feedback about the effectiveness of campus policies in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.

6. Collaborate with community partners: Partnering with local organizations that serve undocumented and immigrant communities can help monitor the impact of state campus policies on these populations outside of the university setting.

7. Regularly review policies: It is important for universities to regularly review their policies related to diversity, equity, and inclusion to ensure they are effective in promoting an inclusive environment for all students including those who are undocumented or immigrants.

8. Adhere to legal requirements: Federal laws such as DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) protect certain categories of undocumented immigrants from deportation while they pursue higher education in the United States. Monitoring compliance with these laws is crucial in evaluating policy effectiveness.

9. Consider student success and satisfaction rates: Low retention or graduation rates among undocumented or immigrant students could be an indication that existing policies are not adequately addressing the unique challenges faced by these students.

10. Seek feedback from faculty and staff: Faculty and staff can provide valuable insight into the campus climate and how well policies are being implemented and sustained. Regularly soliciting their feedback can help identify areas for improvement.

11. Compare to peer institutions: Benchmarking against peer institutions can provide important context on how well our state’s campus policies fare in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion for undocumented and immigrant students compared to similar institutions.

12. Publish reports: After collecting and analyzing data, it is important to share the findings with the university community and stakeholders through regular reports. This can also help hold the university accountable for progress towards promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.

13. Implement recommendations: After evaluating the effectiveness of current policies, it is important to implement any recommended changes or improvements to better support undocumented and immigrant students.

14. Monitor progress over time: Monitoring data over time can help track progress towards increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion for undocumented and immigrant students on campus. This can help identify trends in retention rates, graduation rates, access to resources, etc.

15. Seek feedback from alumni: Gathering feedback from alumni who were undocumented or immigrants during their time at the university can provide valuable insight on the long-term impact of campus policies on their success.

16.Focus on intersectionality: In addition to evaluating overall diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts for undocumented and immigrant students as a whole, it is also important to consider how these policies may affect different subgroups within this population based on intersectional identities (e.g., race/ethnicity).

17.Provide ongoing training: Regular training sessions for faculty, staff, and administrators can help ensure they are aware of best practices in supporting undocumented and immigrant students on campus.

18.Encourage open communication: Creating a safe and supportive environment for undocumented and immigrant students to share their experiences can help identify areas for improvement and ensure their voices are heard in policy discussions.

19. Collaborate with other departments: Campus policies related to diversity, equity, and inclusion should not be the responsibility of one department alone. Collaboration with other departments such as admissions, financial aid, and student services is crucial in implementing effective policies.

20. Reevaluate regularly: Diversity, equity, and inclusion are ongoing processes that require continuous evaluation and improvement. It is important for universities to regularly review their policies and make necessary changes to better support undocumented and immigrant students on campus.