Versions of the below message were sent to faculty and international students on June 4, 2025.
Dear Members of the International Student Community,
We understand that these may feel like uncertain times for many international students. Messaging and rhetoric about changing policies relating to international students raises alarms and creates concern about F-1 visas, SEVP certification, and potential shifts in government priorities and practices. The flurry of apparent policy changes, executive orders, and the resulting lawsuits and judicial actions can make for a very challenging atmosphere for many international students at this time.
In light of these difficulties, we write to you today with both assurance and good news.
College Commitments & Resources
Bryn Mawr College continues to welcome applicants and support students of all national origins and citizenship. We welcome international students and recognize that we are a stronger College because of you. You are welcome here and your perspectives, talents, and contributions enrich the academic and cultural life of Bryn Mawr in countless ways. We are committed to supporting you and will continue to provide the following resources:
- Communication – We are following closely all policy and legal changes that may impact international community members and will keep you advised of developments when concrete information is available.
- Support - The Office of International Student & Scholar Advising is available to help you. If you have questions or need assistance, you may contact our new incoming Director, Charity Alinda, at calinda@brynmawr.edu after June 9. Until then, Candice Love, Director of The Impact Center, may be reached at clove1@brynmawr.edu.
- Institutional Advocacy - Bryn Mawr will continue implementing internal policies that uphold the rights, well-being, and educational opportunities of our international community members, both on campus and beyond. We will also continue speaking out on behalf of international students, as evidenced by a recent article in The Philadelphia Inquirer in which President Cadge was quoted and noted that, "If we curtail the ability of international students to study in the U.S., we diminish the breadth of perspectives for innovation that have made American higher education a beacon for the world."
Important Announcement
As you read above, we are delighted to share the good news that Dr. Charity Alinda has accepted the position of Director of International Student and Scholar Advising. Dr. Alinda will begin work with us on a part-time basis on Monday, June 9, and will begin full-time work with us on Monday, July 7.
Dr. Alinda comes to us with robust lived and professional experience in international education. His work as a higher ed administrator in international advising and education – and his own background as a former international student – greatly enriches his viewpoint and the perspective he brings to this work.
His higher education experience includes designing and implementing a Global Ambassador Program, supporting study abroad work, assisting with international enrollment management, and leading immigration advising and supporting international students and scholars. In March 2023, he participated in the Fulbright Scholar grant program for international education administrators in Taiwan. Dr. Alinda earned a Master of Public Administration with a focus in International Student Service at West Chester University, and earned a Doctor of Public Administration at West Chester University.
In closing, we remind you that even in uncertain times, Bryn Mawr is a college that cares deeply for each of you. We value you and we will stand with you proudly as we navigate together the path ahead. This community cares about you and we have a strong team that supports you. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.
With care,
Wendy Cadge
President and Professor of Sociology
Timothy Harte
Provost
Tomiko Jenkins
Acting Co-Dean, Undergraduate College Division
Xuemei M. Cheng
Dean of Gradate Studies
Janet Shapiro
Dean of Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research