Pasco Reporter

FOIA Request to University of Florida Regarding Chinese National Students on June 4, 2025.

In a recent effort to enhance transparency and accountability within public institutions, we at Pasco Reporter, in collaboration with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, have submitted a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the University of Florida. Our inquiry focuses on obtaining specific records related to Chinese National students currently enrolled at the university.

The request seeks comprehensive information under Article I, section 24 of the Florida Constitution, and chapter 119, F.S., preferably in electronic format. We are particularly interested in acquiring documents or lists that detail the number and departmental distribution of current students who are Chinese Nationals. In cases where student names are protected by privacy laws, we have requested aggregated data instead.

Additionally, our request includes documentation regarding scholarships awarded to these students. We aim to identify the amount and source of each scholarship received by Chinese National students. Furthermore, we seek clarification on any scholarships granted through affiliations with the Chinese Scholarship Council.

Another critical aspect of our inquiry pertains to university policies and procedures designed to safeguard intellectual property and confidential information from unauthorized access by any student demographic, including Chinese Nationals.

As media professionals dedicated to holding public institutions accountable and promoting transparency, we believe this information is vital for informing the public about how educational resources are allocated and protected. Given our role in disseminating news, we have requested a fee waiver for accessing these records.

Our commitment as part of The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy—a non-profit organization focused on investigating governmental agencies—drives us to leverage Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws effectively. This initiative aims to illuminate government actions and better inform the American electorate about issues impacting their communities.

We await a response from the University of Florida regarding this request and remain open to addressing any questions they may have during this process.