The Fulbright Association has issued a statement calling on alumni of the Fulbright Program and concerned citizens to stand with the Fulbright Program, which is currently threatened by the Trump administration.

I previously served as a Fulbright Research Scholar in France and later as a Fulbright Research Scholar in Belgium, conducting archival research and collaborating with professors and researchers in both nations.

I recognize the important work that the Fulbright Program does in supporting original research, research collaboration, and instruction through international academic exchanges of students, researchers, and professors in all fields.

The Fulbright Program is especially important for researchers in History and the Humanities, who have more limited funding opportunities than those in the natural sciences, medicine, computer sciences, and technological fields.

I strongly support the Fulbright Program and its crucial mission of promoting international academic exchanges.

Here is the statement by the Fulbright Association.

Together, We #StandForFulbright.

On behalf of the Fulbright Association, thank you. Because of your unwavering advocacy and belief in global exchange, Congress has restored some of the FY25 funding for international exchange programs—including our vital chapter grant from IIE. This is more than a budget win. It’s a resounding reaffirmation of Fulbright’s global value—and what we can achieve when we speak with one voice.

Our work is far from over. In fact, it’s intensifying. We now face two urgent challenges:

Congress must fully fund the Fulbright Program and the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) in the FY26 budget. With continued investment, America will maintain its leadership in international education and diplomacy.

We are deeply concerned about the growing uncertainty surrounding visas. This is increasingly affecting the stability of the Fulbright program, our alumni, and related initiatives.

We cannot—and will not—stay silent. We urge you to contact your representatives. Share your story. Stand with those affected and the Fulbright Association. Together, we protect the Fulbright mission.

 Here’s how we’re taking action:

 • Partnering with the Alliance for International Exchange to amplify our collective voice and direct connections to decision makers.

• We are in discussion with the U.S. for Success Coalition, and their partners to navigate a possible collaboration to foster student success during this time.

• We’re tracking these issues in real time—check our website for key updates.

• Our partners at NAFSA have launched an Action Alert so you can contact Congress directly.

And we’re not stopping there.

Following our #StandforFulbright Advocacy Day on March 12, we’re mobilizing our 54 chapters, bipartisan allies on the Hill, and global partners to lead with purpose and clarity. Soon, we’ll launch a letter-writing campaign to uphold Fulbright’s integrity and amplify our campaign.

This is not a time for reaction. It’s time for resolve.

We are committed—to our mission, our alumni, and Fulbright’s future. That’s why we’re offering resources like our upcoming mental health webinar on April 29—free for all alumni—to help our community stay strong and connected.

And on May 8, we will gather. Join us—in Washington, D.C. or online—for the inaugural #StandForFulbright: Night of Champions. This isn’t just an event. It’s a rallying cry. A stand for everything Fulbright represents. Register now – $19.46 in honor of Fulbright’s founding year and in support of our ongoing advocacy campaign.

Your voice. Your connections. Our power. When we show up—loud, clear, and united—we protect and advance Fulbright’s future and each other.

Let’s keep going. Let’s keep standing. Together, we #StandForFulbright.

Walter R. McCollum, PhD President and Chair, FA National Board

Jennifer Oxley Interim Executive Director

The statement and additional resources are available at the Fulbright Association website.