FOIA Request to Northwest Florida State College Regarding Chinese National Students on June 4, 2025.
We, as representatives of the Emerald Coast Times and The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, have submitted a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to Northwest Florida State College. Our request seeks comprehensive records concerning Chinese National students currently enrolled at the institution. This inquiry is part of our ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability in public institutions.
Specifically, we have requested 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, we have asked for the total number of such students and a breakdown by department.
Additionally, we seek information on scholarships awarded to these students. This includes details about each scholarship’s amount and source. We also aim to identify any recipients of scholarships affiliated with the Chinese Scholarship Council.
Furthermore, our request extends to any policies or procedures that outline how the university safeguards its Intellectual Property and other confidential information from unauthorized access by monitoring students, including those who are Chinese Nationals.
As media professionals dedicated to gathering and reporting news for public benefit, we emphasize the importance of access to public records in fulfilling our role. We believe this access is crucial for holding public institutions accountable and ensuring transparency. Given our role in disseminating information, we have requested a fee waiver for this FOIA request.
This effort aligns with our mission at The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy—a non-profit organization that aids media companies and advocacy groups in investigating governmental agencies through Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws. Our goal is to illuminate government actions and better inform the American electorate.
