FOIA Request to H. Councill Trenholm State Community College Regarding Chinese National Students on May 16, 2025.
As part of our commitment to transparency and accountability in local governmental affairs, we at River Region Times have submitted a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to H. Councill Trenholm State Community College. This request seeks detailed information about the presence and support of Chinese National students within the institution.
Our inquiry specifically asks for documents or lists that identify all current students who are Chinese Nationals, along with their respective departments of study. In cases where student names are protected by privacy laws, we have requested a total count of these students, broken down by department.
Additionally, we are seeking information regarding scholarships awarded to these students. This includes the amount of each scholarship and the source from which it originates. We have also requested details on any scholarships granted by organizations affiliated with the Chinese Scholarship Council.
Furthermore, our request extends to policies or procedures that the university has in place to monitor students, including those who are Chinese Nationals, in order to protect the university’s intellectual property and other confidential information.
This FOIA request is part of our broader effort, supported by The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy—a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting transparency—to ensure public institutions remain accountable and transparent in their operations. As members of the media, access to such public records is crucial for us to fulfill our role in informing the public and maintaining oversight over governmental actions.
We look forward to receiving this information promptly and will continue to report on developments as they unfold.
