On February 15, 2026, the African Graduate Student Association (AGSA) leadership was alerted to an urgent situation involving an African graduate student who had become entangled in a series of unforeseen and unfortunate events. The circumstances resulted in SEVIS termination and an immediate need to depart the United States.
Recognizing the gravity of the moment, AGSA convened an emergency meeting the following day to identify practical ways to respond. After discussion, the board launched an assistance plan to support the student’s safe and timely departure.
“Our guiding principle was simple,” AGSA board members said. “If we could help our peer leave the country promptly, they would have a better chance of maintaining legal standing and preserving future opportunities to return to the United States.”
To meet the need, AGSA coordinated a rapid donation drive, sharing the call for support across African student networks on campus. Over the course of one week, 45 students responded, contributing roughly a total of $2,465. The funds covered airfare and required travel-related procedural fees.
Following the funds raised, two AGSA board members (pictured) accompanied the student to Tucson International Airport on February 27, 2026. The executive board confirmed the next day that the student arrived safely in their home country.
AGSA would like to clearly and publicly thank all the students who showed up with support during this difficult moment. Your solidarity—through donations, sharing the call, checking in, and offering help—was not only appreciated, but it was essential.
AGSA is a student-led association with active membership in ASUA-recognized clubs/organizations at the University of Arizona. It is dedicated to promoting African cultural awareness through events and self-empowerment initiatives that foster belonging and success among African graduate students. Students interested in joining can connect with AGSA board members and follow AGSA through its Instagram page and club website. Instagram page and club website.