A FOIA request was sent to SAE Institute of Technology-Nashville regarding information about Chinese National students on May 14, 2025. As representatives of the Nashville Standard, we are committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs. Our request seeks records under the Tennessee Open Records Act, §10-7-503 et seq., preferably in electronic format.
The request specifically asks for documents or lists that show all current students who are Chinese Nationals and their respective departments of study. If certain information is protected, we have requested a total number of such students broken down by department.
Additionally, we are seeking information on scholarships received by these students. This includes the amount of each scholarship and its source. Furthermore, we have requested details on any recipients affiliated with the Chinese Scholarship Council.
Moreover, we have asked for any policies or procedures that describe how the university monitors students, including Chinese Nationals, to protect intellectual property and other confidential information.
This request is made on behalf of our publication and The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy. As members of the media involved in gathering and reporting news to the public, access to public records is essential for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities. These include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. Given our role in disseminating information, we believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as media professionals.
The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy is a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Missouri Corporation assisting news media companies, publications, and public advocacy groups in investigating state and federal governmental agencies. It leverages Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws to shed light on government actions and help inform the American electorate. For more information about their work, please visit [stopsecrecy.org/about](https://stopsecrecy.org/about/).
