FOIA Request to Northwestern State University of Louisiana regarding Chinese National students on June 16, 2025.
A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to Northwestern State University of Louisiana by Central Louisiana News. The request seeks detailed information concerning Chinese National students currently enrolled at the university. The inquiry is made under the Louisiana Public Records Act § 44:1 et seq., with a preference for receiving the data in electronic format.
The request comprises several specific items:
1. Documents or lists showing all current students who are Chinese Nationals, including their department of study. If student names are protected, the requester asks for a total number of such students and a breakdown by department.
2. Documents or lists detailing scholarships received by current Chinese National students, specifying the amount and source of each scholarship.
3. A list of recipients for any scholarships affiliated with the Chinese Scholarship Council that may not be included in the previous request, or identification of such scholarships if they overlap with prior requests.
4. Policies or procedures outlining how the university monitors its students, including Chinese Nationals, to safeguard intellectual property and other confidential information.
The request emphasizes the importance of access to public records for media professionals in holding public institutions accountable and ensuring transparency. It also notes that the requester is affiliated with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, an organization dedicated to promoting governmental transparency through FOIA and Sunshine Laws.
Central Louisiana News looks 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.
