Quick Takes
March 22, 2010
N.C. Allows Undocumented Community College Students
The North Carolina State Board of Community Colleges on Friday affirmed the right of students who do not have legal documentation to reside in the United States to enroll at community colleges (at out-of-state tuition rates),The Raleigh News & Observer reported. The latest move -- which has been coming for some time -- followsmore than a year of debate amid suggestions from some state officials that these students could not enroll legally. While federal officials confirmed that there was no legal ban on the students, the issue has become highly politicized and the state board noted that the General Assembly could overrule the policy.
Stanford Med School Toughens Conflict of Interest Rules
Stanford University's medical school, known for tough conflict of interest rules for faculty members, will strengthen them further today, The New York Times reported. The additional rules will apply to hundreds of local physicians who teach at Stanford, and will subject these adjunct faculty members to the same restrictions as full-time medical professors. The rules ban gifts from companies that produce drugs or medical devices, or giving paid speeches drafted by these companies.
Guilty Plea for Harassing UCLA Researchers
One animal rights activist has pleaded guilty and another no contest for their roles in stalking and harassing faculty members at the University of California at Los Angeles who conduct research with animals, the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office announced Friday. One faces a prison sentence of three years while the other must stay away from all University of California campuses or property. UCLA officials praised authorities for cracking down on those who engage in harassment. "Criminal acts to advance a cause or a belief have no place in a civilized society," said a statement from UCLA Chancellor Gene Block. "While we respect the rights of those who take a different view of animal research, we are committed to protecting our researchers from harassment and providing an environment where they can continue their work toward cures and a greater understanding of the human body."
