HACC President John J. “Ski” Sygielski, Ed.D., issued the following statement on Jan. 29, 2017:
 
Dear colleagues and, most importantly, students:
 
As HACC’s president, I feel compelled to, once again, affirm our support to every member of our College community. Our collective commitment to the success of each of our students is more critical today than it has ever been. Providing an environment that is characterized by integrity, collegiality, excellence and trust will remain the bedrock of our institution.
 
Over the past few days, there have been executive orders issued that suspend admissions into the United States of refugees, immigrants and citizens of seven majority-Muslim nations. The uncertainty of what will come of these executive actions has the potential to create an environment of hostility, negativity and fear.
 
Whether you were born in the United States or you are one of HACC’s nearly 300 international students who represent more than 60 countries, the central mission of the College – to create opportunities and transform lives to shape the future together – applies to each of you equally. You are right where you belong – at HACC.
 
At HACC, we will do everything in our power to ensure that recent events do not adversely impact your academic journeys at HACC. However, it is important to note that HACC will comply with any federal regulations regarding immigration.
 
As the largest community college in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, HACC will continue to provide a platform for respectful, civil and transforming conversations among people from all walks of life.
 
Respectfully YOURS.
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John J. “Ski” Sygielski, Ed.D.
President
HACC, Central Pennsylvania’s Community College