EMU Today

YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University has welcomed three refugee students through the Welcome Corps on Campus program. As initially announced on June 20, Eastern became the first university in the U.S. to participate in the initiative, which the U.S. State Department launched in partnership with six national non-governmental organizations, including the Presidents' Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration.

This fall, students — Sarah Sulaiman from Syria, Nimo Abdiweli Shire from Somalia, and a student from the Democratic Republic of Congo who wishes to remain anonymous — arrived on campus as part of the program, which aims to support students from refugee camps around the world whose studies have been interrupted, allowing them to continue their education in the U.S.

“We are proud to lead the way in this national effort and welcome these students to our campus,” said EMU President James Smith. “Providing refugee students with the resources and support they need to succeed in their academic journeys is not only a humanitarian effort but also a valuable addition to the diversity and richness of the Eastern Michigan University community. In turn, it exemplifies our “All Are Welcome Here” theme that reflects the University’s commitment to inclusion and that is visible on signage throughout the community.”

Settling into campus life
Since their arrival at the start of the semester, the students have begun adjusting to life at EMU, receiving support from the university community and embracing their new academic environment.

Sarah Sulaimanis is studying interior design and recently reconnected with family members in Dearborn, Michigan. “The kindness and support from everyone, especially the sponsor group, made my transition smoother. I’m excited to make the most of this opportunity,” she said.

The student who wishes to remain anonymous is pursuing a degree in information systems. Known for their outgoing personality, they joined a volleyball club two weeks after arriving on campus. “Being part of the Welcome Corps has been a game changer. The team’s support has made this journey less overwhelming, and I’m excited to fully embrace university life,” they said.

Nimo Abdiweli Shire, a nursing major, quickly formed connections with other students. “I’ve made wonderful friends here, and I’m committed to making a difference in the lives of women and children, especially refugee women, through compassionate care,” she said.

A continued commitment to refugee education
EMU’s involvement in the Welcome Corps on Campus program is part of a larger national initiative to increase refugee access to U.S. universities. Since the initial announcement in June, the program has gained national attention. Lauren London, EMU’s general counsel who has been instrumental in guiding Eastern’s participation in the program, believes the program can change lives.

“This program is a transformative initiative, not just for the refugee students, but for our entire university community,” said London. “By offering these students a safe and supportive environment, we empower them to pursue their academic dreams while enriching our campus with diverse perspectives and experiences."

Looking ahead
EMU remains committed to expanding its participation in the Welcome Corps on Campus program. The University plans to welcome additional refugee students in the future, with the hope that the current students will serve as mentors for new arrivals. The initiative will expand to quadruple the number of refugee students in U.S. universities over the next two years.

About Welcome Corps on Campus
Welcome Corps on Campus links higher education to U.S. resettlement and a pathway to U.S. citizenship. Campus communities support refugee students who were forced to flee their homes and now face barriers to continuing their education. Campus private sponsor groups help newly arriving refugee students enroll in classes, provide academic support, and help them acclimate to campus life and American society. 

The Welcome Corps on Campus program at EMU depends primarily on charitable support. For more information, or to contribute, interested parties can give to the “New Future Fund” on the EMU Foundation website.

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.