West Central Michigan News

FOIA Request to Ferris State University regarding Chinese National students on June 16, 2025.

A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to Ferris State University by West Central Michigan News, seeking detailed records related to Chinese National students enrolled at the institution. The request was made under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act § 15.231 et seq., with a preference for receiving the information in electronic format.

The request specifically asked for several pieces of information:

1. Documents or lists showing all current students who are Chinese Nationals, including their department of study. If certain information is protected, the requester asked for the total number of such students and a breakdown by department.

2. Documents or lists detailing scholarships received by current Chinese National students, including the amount and source of each scholarship.

3. A list of recipients of any scholarships affiliated with the Chinese Scholarship Council, unless this information is already included in the previous request.

4. Policies or procedures that describe how Ferris State University monitors its students, including Chinese Nationals, to protect intellectual property and other confidential information.

The request was sent on behalf of West Central Michigan News and The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization that aids media companies in investigating governmental agencies through FOIA requests. The requester also sought a fee waiver as a media professional involved in gathering and reporting news to hold public institutions accountable.

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.