Story perspectives

Trump's Deportation Orders Threaten 8,000 UW-Madison Students

1/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

In early 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration ordered deportations of international students.
The University of Wisconsin–Madison estimated about 8,000 students (15% of enrollment) could be affected.
Frances Vavrus, dean of the international division, said deportations could deter future applicants.
The University of Wisconsin–Madison conducted crisis management exercises to prepare for financial impacts.
Visa cancellations were later reversed, and weekly meetings continued to plan for worst-case scenarios.

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Story summary

In early 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration ordered deportations of international students.
The University of Wisconsin–Madison estimated about 8,000 students (15% of enrollment) could be affected.
Frances Vavrus, dean of the international division, said deportations could deter future applicants.
The University of Wisconsin–Madison conducted crisis management exercises to prepare for financial impacts.
Visa cancellations were later reversed, and weekly meetings continued to plan for worst-case scenarios.