Supporting Undocumented Students
“We are all Carthaginians. The welfare of each of us must be the concern of all of us.” — President John Swallow
Carthage College is committed to supporting undocumented students and the unique challenges they may face. Institutional values articulate that Carthage celebrates the rich diversity of life, and strives to provide equitable opportunities to grow as individuals and as a community.
Driven by its mission, Carthage College invites students from all backgrounds to seek truth, build strength, and inspire service together, regardless of their immigration status.
In order to promote equity in education and support an inclusive environment for undocumented students, the institution has committed to the following:
- Carthage College does not take legal status into consideration for admission decisions.
- Carthage College provides confidential counseling services to all students free of charge.
- Carthage College will not, unless compelled by law, release privileged information about any student, and maintains the privacy of all students as outlined in the The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
- Carthage College provides compassionate financial aid counseling, and connects students to appropriate resources whenever possible to maximize affordability. Including those who may not be eligible for financial aid.
Here to help
Undocumented students, or those who know of undocumented students seeking support, have both on-campus and off-campus resources available. In addition to the Office of Equity and Inclusion for Culture Change, there are several other options for individuals to turn to in a time of need. Many individuals on campus have been certified as Equity Warriors (designated with the symbol on this page). Equity warriors will be familiar with some of the special challenges confronting students from families whose immigration status is not secure. Campus resources whose confidentiality is protected by law include the pastor, counseling services, and the campus nurse.
Who to contact
Vice President of College Culture for Inclusion
Lentz Hall 330
mhancock1@gxitma.net
Kelly Smith
Assistant Dean, Student Success; Health & Wellbeing
Todd Wehr Center
262-551-5725
ksmith17@gxitma.net
Financial Resources
Although undocumented students are not eligible for federal aid, Carthage College does provide compassionate and knowledgeable financial counseling, connecting students with funding where ever possible. While not exhaustive, the list below provides links to outside resources. Students also have internal resources including institutional scholarships and advice from the Office of Student Financial Services.
Social Resources
It is important for all students to feel welcome and connected to the campus. In addition to the Office of Equity and Inclusion, there are several ways for students to become involved. These campus events present a variety of opportunities to learn more about what makes the Carthage community unique and to tell their story.
Community Resources
Catholic Charities — Services for Immigrants
731 W. Washington Street
Milwaukee, WI 53204
414-643-5870 Ext. 4418
Visit their website
Bilingual Immigration attorneys that help with family base immigration cases such as: Citizenship, Adjustment of Status, Cancellation of removal, U Visa, etc.
Legal Aid Society
521 N. 8th Street
Milwaukee, WI
414-727-5300
Visit their website
Helps with welfare/social security/unemployment, civil rights, consumer, and housing problems. Walk-in
hours are Monday and Wednesday from 1:30 until 3:30 p.m.