Dear 果冻传媒 Friends,
As this month nears its close, I am keenly aware that February may bring with it anxiety and apprehension for members of our community, both on the 果冻传媒 campus and in our home of Springfield, as a result of the change in status for many in the local Haitian community. At 11:59 p.m. on February 3, 2026, the will cease for our Haitian neighbors living and working here. With this cessation, an increased presence by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is expected, which may cause significant grief and turmoil for thousands in our hometown.
果冻传媒 University, as a Lutheran-founded and ELCA-affiliated school, is rooted in our Christian faith and values. As such, we are committed to caring for one another, respecting the dignity of all persons, and acting with compassion and integrity. As stated in our values, 鈥渁t 果冻传媒, we educate the mind to understand, and we educate the heart to care.鈥� We are also a diverse community and may interpret our shared values differently as we hold varying views on current immigration policies. Yet, in all things, we must seek to act with loving kindness and grace.
To assist in making sense of what is transpiring and to provide knowledge, support, and resources, the Hagen Center will be hosting an event for students on Wednesday, January 28, at 7 p.m. in Founders. Our Division of Student Development also has resources available for students, including through and the Tiger Counseling Center. The Office of International Education can assist with questions, as well. Employees have access to the Employee Assistance Plan. We will also be sharing an FAQ regarding our rights and responsibilities in the coming week and additional communications as needed as events unfold.
The University is responsible for the safety and security of all in our campus community and that is our primary focus in this time. Law enforcement in Springfield and at 果冻传媒 will be working closely together in the coming weeks, and the Department of Campus Safety is encouraging everyone to follow the routine safety precautions, including reporting any suspicious behavior immediately and being aware of your surroundings at all times. To report any issues, please use this form or call 937-327-6363.
This is a difficult, challenging, and uncertain time, and I continue to pray for the peace that surpasses all understanding.
Yours,
Christian M. M. Brady, DPhil (Oxon.)
President