FOIA Request to McNeese State University regarding Chinese National students on June 16, 2025.
A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to McNeese State University by SW Louisiana News on June 16, 2025. The request seeks detailed information concerning Chinese National students enrolled at the university. The inquiry is made under the Louisiana Public Records Act § 44:1 et seq., with a preference for receiving the information in electronic format.
The request includes several specific points:
1. A list or documents showing all current students who are Chinese Nationals and their respective departments of study. If student names are protected, a total number of such students and a breakdown by department is requested.
2. Documents or lists detailing scholarships received by current Chinese National students, including the amount and source of each scholarship.
3. A separate list of scholarship recipients affiliated with the Chinese Scholarship Council, unless this information is already covered in the previous request about scholarships.
4. Policies or procedures that outline how McNeese State University monitors its students, including Chinese Nationals, to safeguard intellectual property and other confidential information.
The request emphasizes that if redaction is necessary due to privacy concerns, it should be done where possible. Furthermore, it suggests that grouping information might be an alternative if redaction proves too burdensome without losing critical details.
This FOIA request was submitted on behalf of SW Louisiana News and The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, which supports media organizations in investigating governmental agencies through public records laws. As part of this effort, they seek transparency from public institutions like McNeese State University to ensure accountability and provide comprehensive news coverage 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.
