In a recent virtual forum hosted by the White House Executive Office of the President, Bard College President Leon Botstein took the stage to highlight higher education’s role in supporting displaced students through the Welcome Corps on Campus initiative. With Bard’s Annandale-on-Hudson campus already welcoming its first cohort of refugee students this fall, Botstein emphasized the importance of offering these students academic opportunities alongside a supportive community.
Known for his strong advocacy in education, Leon Botstein shared his personal connection to the refugee experience. Having been a child refugee himself, Botstein underscored the necessity of opening doors to students fleeing conflict-ridden regions, such as Ukraine and the Middle East. “This country, in my view, is dependent on people from other countries coming here,” Botstein expressed during the discussion, a sentiment that resonates deeply with Bard College’s mission.
The Welcome Corps on Campus program is a pioneering effort by the U.S. Department of State, enabling educational institutions to act as resettlement spaces for refugee students. Bard College stands among other prominent universities in leading this charge. This year, 208 displaced students are enrolled at Bard’s various campuses, with plans to further increase numbers in the coming years.
Bard’s integration of refugee students is not just about providing education but also fostering a vibrant campus culture. Leon Botstein highlighted that this engagement is not an act of charity but a critical addition to Bard’s educational mission. Welcoming refugee students contributes to a diverse academic environment, ultimately enriching the college community with global perspectives and fostering cultural understanding.
As Bard continues to expand its efforts, Botstein remains at the forefront, advocating for institutions to create more inclusive campuses. The initiative aligns with Bard’s broader goal of increasing refugee enrollment in higher education, contributing to global efforts toward educational equality and opportunity.