FOIA Request to The University of Southern Mississippi regarding Chinese National students on June 16, 2025.
A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to The University of Southern Mississippi by the Pine Belt Times on June 16, 2025. The request seeks detailed information about Chinese National students currently enrolled at the university.
The request, made under the Mississippi Public Records Act § 25-61-1 et seq., asks for several specific records. Firstly, it requests documents or lists showing all current students who are Chinese Nationals and their respective departments of study. If student names are protected, the request asks for a total number of such students and a breakdown by department.
Secondly, the request seeks information on scholarships received by these students, including the amount and source of each scholarship. It also specifically inquires about any scholarships affiliated with the Chinese Scholarship Council.
Additionally, the FOIA request asks for any policies or procedures that describe how the university monitors its students, including Chinese Nationals, to protect intellectual property and other confidential information.
The Pine Belt Times has indicated that this request is made in collaboration with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy. As a media organization committed to transparency and accountability in public institutions, they have requested a fee waiver based on their role in disseminating information to the public.
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.
