Wichita Standard

FOIA Request to Wichita State University regarding Chinese National students on June 16, 2025.

A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to Wichita State University by the Wichita Standard, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs. The request seeks information under the Kansas Open Records Act § 45-215 et seq., specifically focusing on Chinese National students at the university.

The request outlines several specific inquiries. Firstly, it asks for documents or lists showing all current students who are Chinese Nationals and their respective departments of study. If this information is protected, the request asks for a total number of such students broken down by department.

Secondly, the request seeks details about scholarships received by these students, including the amount and source of each scholarship. Additionally, it requests a list of recipients of any scholarships granted by entities affiliated with the Chinese Scholarship Council.

Furthermore, the FOIA request includes a query about university policies or procedures that describe how it monitors students, including Chinese Nationals, to protect intellectual property and other confidential information.

The request emphasizes that access to public records is essential for fulfilling professional responsibilities related to holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency. It also notes an affiliation with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, which assists media companies in investigating governmental agencies through FOIA and Sunshine Laws.

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.