Leon Botstein Advocates for Refugee Integration in Higher Education

On September 4, Bard College President Leon Botstein took the virtual stage as a presidential speaker in a webinar hosted by the White House Executive Office of the President. The focus of the conversation was the Welcome Corps on Campus initiative, a program designed to facilitate the integration of refugee students into American higher education institutions.

Botstein’s invitation as a speaker highlights Bard College’s commitment to supporting displaced students. The college has taken significant strides by enrolling refugee students in its programs, making it a leader in this initiative. Bard has already welcomed two refugee students through the Welcome Corps on Campus this fall and plans to increase this number in the coming years.

During the event, Leon Botstein emphasized the importance of opening doors to individuals from other countries, underscoring the idea that such practices strengthen the nation. He shared his personal experience as a child refugee and spoke passionately about the need for American colleges to offer refuge and educational opportunities to those fleeing conflict.

Bard College has a long-standing history of supporting refugee education, with current enrollment numbers reflecting a diverse student body. The college has been proactive in enrolling displaced students, including 208 on its New York campuses alone. This move aligns with the global objective of enrolling 15% of refugees in higher education by 2030.

The Welcome Corps on Campus program is part of the broader Welcome Corps, initiated by the U.S. Department of State. This program leverages the capacity of universities to act as resettlement spaces, offering a supportive academic environment for refugee students. Leon Botstein’s involvement and advocacy highlight the key role educational institutions play in fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community.