With the news of President Donald Trump putting an end to the program that allows undocumented immigrants work permits, Americans were finally given an answer to the administration’s decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, or DACA.
The program is aimed at giving work permits to undocumented imigrants who arrived in the country as children.
The the six-month delay in rescinding of the program would affect about 800,000 “Dreamers” benefiting from DACA.
UTEP President Diana Natalicio released a letter to students today detailing her sorrow for the news that would likely affect students.
“I join your UTEP family in expressing support for you and the achievement of your educational aspirations. We understand and very much regret that, with every breaking news story or rumor, the visa uncertainties that surround you gain new intensity and cause enormous stress and apprehension for you and your loved ones,” she said. “What we want to be sure you know is that UTEP stands fully behind you and your dreams of a successful future through the attainment of your UTEP degree. Please know, too, that we will do all within our power to ensure that you have the opportunity to achieve your educational goals on our campus.”
She also encouraged students to contact dean of students, Catie McCorry-Andalis, at [email protected] or 747-5648 or at 102 Union West, for additional information about these new laws.
“We look very much forward to our opportunity to celebrate with each and every one of you when you cross the Don Haskins Center stage to receive the UTEP degree that you will earn through your hard work and determination to succeed,” she said.
McCorry-Andalis suggests that students looking for guidance and support contact the following, as well as her office:
Counseling and Psychological Services (formerly University Counseling Center)
202 Union West
El Paso, Texas 79968
(915) 747-5302
Mondays & Tuesdays 8am-7pm
Wednesdays – Fridays 8am-5pm
Miners Talk, After Hours Crisis Line: (915) 747-5302
Employee Assistance Program
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
1-866-327-2400
“We continue to be committed to the success of ALL our students regardless of the circumstances that brought someone to this country,” McCorry-Andalis said. “Our goal is to educate students and we will continue to do all we can to help them move forward, achieve their goals and aspirations and accomplish great things.”
