FOIA Request to Lee University Regarding Chinese National Students on May 14, 2025.
As part of our ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability in educational institutions, SE Tennessee News has submitted a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to Lee University. The request seeks detailed information about the university’s Chinese National students and related policies.
Specifically, we have requested documents or lists showing all current students who are Chinese Nationals, along with their respective departments of study. If this information is protected, we have asked for the total number of such students broken down by department. Additionally, we seek records detailing any scholarships these students receive, including the amount and source of each scholarship.
Further, we are interested in identifying recipients of scholarships affiliated with the Chinese Scholarship Council. In cases where this overlaps with previously requested information, we have asked for clarification on which scholarships satisfy this criterion.
Moreover, our request includes any policies or procedures that outline how Lee University monitors its students—particularly Chinese Nationals—to safeguard the institution’s intellectual property and other confidential information.
This inquiry is made in collaboration with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing transparency within governmental agencies through Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws. As members of the media committed to informing the public and holding institutions accountable, we believe this request is crucial for ensuring transparency at Lee University.
