FOIA Request to University Of Michigan – Dearborn regarding Chinese National students on June 16, 2025.
A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to the University of Michigan – Dearborn by Western Wayne Today, a media organization focused on local governmental affairs. The request seeks detailed information about Chinese National students enrolled at the university. Specifically, the request includes four main points:
1. A list or document showing all current students who are Chinese Nationals, including their department of study. If this information is protected, a total number of such students and a breakdown by department is requested.
2. Documents or lists detailing the scholarships received by current Chinese National students, including the amount and source of each scholarship.
3. A list of recipients of any scholarships affiliated with the Chinese Scholarship Council, if not included in the previous request.
4. Policies or procedures that describe how the university monitors students, including Chinese Nationals, to protect its Intellectual Property and other confidential information.
The request emphasizes that if certain student names are protected under privacy laws, redaction should be applied where necessary. Additionally, it suggests grouping information when possible to reduce administrative burden while maintaining transparency.
The FOIA request is submitted on behalf of Western Wayne Today and The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, an organization dedicated to increasing transparency in government actions through FOIA and Sunshine Laws. As a member of the media, Western Wayne Today has requested a fee waiver due to its role in public news dissemination.
We look forward to receiving this information in an electronic format as it will greatly aid in our reporting efforts. As always, we remain open for any questions or clarifications regarding this request.
