An op-ed by Mark Zupan, Alfred University president, published recently in the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle, discusses the important role immigration has played over the years in the success of the United States and its colleges and universities.
The op-ed, titled “The Power of our Ellis Islands,” appeared in the Sunday, July 27, issue of the Democrat and Chronicle. “America's July 4th birthday this month was a fitting opportunity to reflect on our recipe for national success. A key ingredient to our success is an openness to talented and ambitious people from around the globe,” Zupan wrote.
Zupan noted the words that are inscribed at the base of the Statue of Liberty—"Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free”—which provided inspiration and hope to the nearly 12 million immigrants who arrived by ship at Ellis Island in New York Harbor between 1892 and 1954. “Immigrant talent and ambition have not disappointed. Whether over the Atlantic or Pacific oceans, or overland from the north or south, the immigrant story has long been woven into the fabric of American ingenuity,” he wrote.
Zupan noted that students from around the globe have excelled academically at institutions of higher education in the Greater Rochester area, including Alfred University.
“Over the years, immigrants have come to Rochester seeking opportunity, and by staying, created opportunities for succeeding generations. Today, that pattern is reflected in our local colleges and universities,” Zupan wrote. “There are 18 such mini-Ellis Islands in the greater Rochester area that collectively draw a significant number of international students, faculty and staff and thereby contribute to the dynamism of our local economy.”
