FOIA Request to Rowan University regarding Chinese National students on June 16, 2025.
A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to Rowan University by Gloucester Today, a media organization focused on local governmental affairs. The request seeks specific records under the New Jersey Open Public Records Act, N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1 et seq., preferably in electronic format.
The FOIA request outlines several key inquiries:
1. Documents or lists showing all current students who are Chinese Nationals and their respective departments of study. If such information is protected, a total number of these students broken down by department is requested.
2. Documents or lists detailing all current Chinese National students, including the amount and source of each scholarship they receive.
3. A list of recipients of scholarships affiliated with the Chinese Scholarship Council, unless this information is already included in the previous request.
4. Policies or procedures that describe how Rowan University monitors students, including Chinese Nationals, to protect intellectual property and other confidential information.
The request emphasizes the importance of access to public records for media professionals in holding public institutions accountable and ensuring transparency. It also notes that Gloucester Today is acting on behalf of The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization that assists media companies and advocacy groups in investigating governmental agencies through FOIA requests.
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.
