WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 13, 2018) – Statement on the release of the Institute of International Education 2018 Open Doors report by Business Forward President Jim Doyle:

“The ‘Trump slump’ in higher education is continuing because international students feel less safe and welcome in the U.S. Nearly 7 percent fewer international students began studies in 2017-18 versus the prior year. That’s bad news for American universities, students, and the economy. International students pay more in tuition, pump money into local communities, and fill seats that otherwise would go empty because there are fewer American students enrolling. For decades, we’ve attracted the world’s best talent, educated them, hired them, helped them start new businesses, and created millions of new jobs. President Trump’s anti-immigrant rhetoric and his cuts to work visa programs are driving international students away, at the expense of the U.S.”

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ABOUT BUSINESS FORWARD
With the help of more than 60 of America’s most respected companies, Business Forward is making it easier for more than 100,000 business leaders from across America to advise Washington on how to create jobs and accelerate our economy. Business Forward is active in over 125 cities and works with more than 600 mayors, governors, members of Congress, and senior Administration officials.

Business leaders who have participated in our briefings have seen their suggestions implemented in the Affordable Care Act, the JOBS Act, the Clean Power Plan, the Toxic Substances Control Act, three trade agreements, and the President’s budgets. Many have also shared their recommendations with their representatives in Congress and through phone calls, op-eds, and interviews with local media. Ninety-eight out of 100 business leaders who have participated in a Business Forward briefing would be interested in participating in another one.

CONTACT:

Elizabeth Kerr
ekerr@businessfwd.org
202-861-1271

Nat Wood
nwood@businessfwd.org 
410-507-7898