FOIA Request to Pentecostal Theological Seminary Regarding Chinese National Students on May 14, 2025.
A recent Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to the Pentecostal Theological Seminary in Tennessee, seeking detailed information about Chinese National students enrolled at the institution. This request was made under the Tennessee Open Records Act and aims to gather data that can provide insights into the academic presence and financial support of these students within the seminary.
The request specifically asks for documents or lists detailing all current students who are Chinese Nationals, along with their respective departments of study. In cases where student names are protected by privacy laws, a total count of such students, broken down by department, is requested instead.
Additionally, the request seeks information on scholarships awarded to these students. It asks for details on each scholarship’s amount and its source. Furthermore, it inquires about any recipients of scholarships affiliated with the Chinese Scholarship Council.
Another aspect of the request involves understanding how the seminary monitors its students—particularly Chinese Nationals—to safeguard its intellectual property and other confidential information. This includes any relevant policies or procedures currently in place at the university.
This inquiry is part of our ongoing effort at SE Tennessee News to hold public institutions accountable and ensure transparency in governmental affairs. As members of The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, we leverage Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws to uncover important information that helps inform the public and enhance democratic engagement.
