Bard College is currently supporting more displaced students per capita than any other college or university in the United States. The Sanctuary Fund helps displaced and undocumented students by providing scholarships, room, board, and assistance with books, medical, legal, and other pressing needs; it is designed to continue Bard’s long history of supporting displaced and undocumented students and faculty who for generations have found sanctuary at Bard.
Highlights of the Program
Bard has hosted student from Afghanistan, Eurasia, Gaza, Myanmar, Somalia, and Ukraine.
“Education is as necessary as food and water. We are living in an age of conflicts, disasters, and crises, where every two seconds someone is forced to flee their home. Higher education is an essential pathway for refugees and people in war-stricken countries, especially young women, to reclaim their agency and stability.”
–Aisha Khurram, Bard College Berlin student, originally from Afghanistan, writing for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
Student Profiles
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Photo by Sameem NazariNaseem Nazari ’24Ghazni, Afghanistan“From the challenging transition to a new country and culture to establishing myself as a leader and advocate, I have grown in ways I never imagined. My journey truly embodies my mom’s wisdom: ‘Slow and steady wins the race.’”Naseem Nazari ’24
“From the challenging transition to a new country and culture to establishing myself as a leader and advocate, I have grown in ways I never imagined. My journey truly embodies my mom’s wisdom: ‘Slow and steady wins the race.’” Hi, I am Naseem Nazari from Ghazni, Afghanistan, and the youngest of my siblings. I started my degree in business management at the American University of Afghanistan (AUAF) with a minor in data science, aiming to establish my own business one day. However, life comes with uncertainties, and we never know what life holds for us in the basket.
Upon arriving in the US in 2022, my quest for continuing education led me to Bard College, where I successfully secured a scholarship. As I integrated into Bard, both academically and within campus life, my experience proved to be profoundly enriching. In my Bard journey, I established the first Afghan Hub Club, integrating the incoming Afghan student cohort into the campus community. Professionally, I work with over four departments and serve as an administrative assistant for the Open Society University Network team. I have organized three international Get Engaged Conferences in Bishkek, Berlin, and Budapest. Due to my commitment to work and recognized skills as a leader within the community, it led to my nomination for the Talloires Network’s Steering Committee and becoming the recipient of Bard’s Robert Koblitz Human Rights Award.
Besides academics and career, some of my fondest memories at Bard include meditation at Blithwood and late-night road trips with friends. You’ll often find me at Montgomery Place or hiking at Tivoli Bays.
One thing I wish I had known before starting college is that it’s okay to change your major or career path. Interests and goals can evolve, and flexibility can lead to more fulfilling passions and careers.
Graduating in May 2024, I look forward to the future, carrying with me the lessons learned, the friendships made, and the invaluable experiences that have shaped me into a more adaptable and resilient individual. I am excited to embrace new opportunities. -
Photo by Sameem NazariHeram Amiri ’24Kabul, Afghanistan“My journey began in Afghanistan, took me to Kyrgyzstan, and ultimately brought me to Bard College in the US. The AUCA-Bard partnership made Bard a familiar name, but it was the scholarship program for Afghan students that made it possible for me to pursue my education here.”Heram Amiri ’24
“My journey began in Afghanistan, took me to Kyrgyzstan, and ultimately brought me to Bard College in the US. The AUCA-Bard partnership made Bard a familiar name, but it was the scholarship program for Afghan students that made it possible for me to pursue my education here.” I am Heram Amiri and I’m about to graduate with a joint major in economics and global and international studies. Unlike my engineer family, I chose a different path, driven by a desire to serve communities and make a meaningful impact. My time at Bard has been filled with enriching experiences. I got involved in civic engagement, working on projects with the Center for Civic Engagement and assisting voting rights lawyers with research. My dedication earned me the Community Action Award multiple times for my work with an organization in upstate New York, researching legal rights and transition strategies for immigrants. I also gained political campaign experience and served as an OSUN Student Government Association fellow and OSUN ambassador at the Friendship and Politics Conference. My leadership roles include serving as Bard Student Government treasurer and working as a communication fellow at Bard’s Language Center.
Looking back, I wish I had known to savor every moment of my college journey, as it passes swiftly. Graduation marks the beginning of a new chapter, filled with responsibilities and exciting opportunities. College life has its challenges, and during tough times, I found solace at Blithewood. The serene view, especially in the evenings, was my go-to spot to clear my mind and regain focus.
My passion lies in international policy-making and evaluation. This has shaped my career path, and after graduation, I’ll be continuing my studies in International and Public Affairs at Columbia Universiy in New York City. -
Photo by Sameem NazariMehria Ghafoori ’24Kabul, Afghanistan“From the vibrant streets of Kabul to the picturesque campus of Bard College, my journey has been nothing short of a roller coaster, brimming with surprises and transformative experiences.”Mehria Ghafoori ’24
“From the vibrant streets of Kabul to the picturesque campus of Bard College, my journey has been nothing short of a roller coaster, brimming with surprises and transformative experiences.” I am Mehria Ghafoori, from Kabul, Afghanistan, a place that I left behind a long time ago. Upon moving to the US, my pursuit of continuing education led me to discover Bard College, where I successfully secured a scholarship. Inspired by my father’s career as a businessman, I’ve harbored a lifelong ambition to establish my own business. Fueled by this aspiration, I pursued a bachelor of business management at the American University of Afghanistan. However, my field shifted to economics upon transferring to Bard. My time at Bard has been enriching: I served as an administrative assistant at the Career Development Office and communication fellow at the Office of Admission. In my professional career, I work as a business operations and project management support for a major corporation company in New York City.
My academic pursuit of economics at Bard has been instrumental in deepening my understanding of the challenges faced by developing nations. I have always been eager to engage in international economic development, with a focus on policy-making to aid developing countries and promote social equity. Some of my fondest memories at Bard involve late-night adventures with friends, driving through quiet streets or on spontaneous road trips. Those moments of shared laughter and support are dear to me. When college life was overwhelming, I found peace and solace in the serene beauty of Blithewood Garden.
One thing I wish I knew before starting Bard is the value of self-discovery. I learned that following your passions and nurturing your talents is far more fulfilling than meeting societal expectations. Life is more than a perfect GPA; it’s about pursuing what you love and honing your unique skills.
Graduating in May 2024, I’m filled with nostalgia and excitement. My senior year has been a whirlwind of achievements and experiences. While it’s hard to say goodbye, I’m eager to embark on my next adventure. -
Aqela Nussrat ’24Kabul, Afghanistan"My journey was not just about receiving a degree but also about overcoming barriers, defying norms, and standing up for my right to education."Aqela Nussrat ’24
"My journey was not just about receiving a degree but also about overcoming barriers, defying norms, and standing up for my right to education." "Nearly two and a half years ago, I left home with an Afghan passport and a small jar of Afghan dust and came to Bard, seeking education and personal growth far from home, uncertain of when I would return home. Today, I proudly stand as a graduate with honors, but I cannot forget the millions of women and girls deprived of such opportunities. My journey was not just about receiving a degree but also about overcoming barriers, defying norms, and standing up for my right to education. This achievement is not solely mine; it represents the countless sacrifices and support of those who believed in me and the power of education.
My post-graduation journey begins with Friends of the American University of Afghanistan, supporting the American University of Afghanistan in its mission to educate and empower young Afghans, particularly Afghan women. With optimism in my heart, I am honored to join their mission and believe my work will positively change the lives of many deprived of their rights. As I step into the next chapter of my life, I carry the lessons learned, the challenges overcome, and the belief in the power of education in transforming lives. Here is to making a difference, even if it's small, one step at a time!" -
Arrezo Massoud ’24Kabul, Afghanistan"In a land where girls face closed doors and dimmed futures, I strive to ignite a spark of hope and possibility."Arrezo Massoud ’24
"In a land where girls face closed doors and dimmed futures, I strive to ignite a spark of hope and possibility." After the collapse of Afghanistan in August 2021, I feared my dreams were shattered. Escaping to the United States, I was fortunate to receive a scholarship at Bard College, where I could rekindle my ambitions. Since childhood, I’ve dreamed of owning a business, which led me to study Business Administration at The American University of Afghanistan. At Bard, I pursued economics to deepen my understanding of business principles. My coursework ranged from microeconomics to entrepreneurship, equipping me with a robust foundation in economic theory and practical business skills.
At Bard, I engaged in various activities. I interned with a nonprofit as a Networking and Community Engagement intern, gaining valuable work experience. I also co-founded PhoenixHandmade Collection, a handmade jewelry club aimed at raising funds for Afghan women and children while teaching students business and artistic skills. Through a study abroad program in New York City, I interned with the International Rescue Committee (IRC), assisting Afghan women in their resettlement. This experience broadened my perspectives and balanced my academic and professional growth.
Currently, I work in commercial IT at a BioTeach company in New York, collaborating closely with the sales department and furthering my expertise in business and technology. My journey from Kabul to Bard has been transformative, providing hands-on experience and real-world application of my studies. I am committed to continuing my work in business and technology to make a meaningful impact.
Our Journey to Bard: Stories of Students Relocated from Afghanistan, Russia, and Ukraine to Bard College
21 students who made arduous journeys from Afghanistan, Russia, and Ukraine to study at Bard College share their stories, discussing why the left, what they hope to achieve, and what sustains them.
In the Press
· Chronicle of Higher Education: “Undaunted: In the Aftermath of War, a Student From Afghanistan Pursues His Education in the United States”
· Jonathan Becker for American Association of Colleges and Universities: “It Takes a Higher Ed Network”
· Hudson Valley One: “War in Peace: A Story of Two Bard College Refugees”
· Jonathan Becker for American Association of Colleges and Universities: “It Takes a Higher Ed Network”
· Hudson Valley One: “War in Peace: A Story of Two Bard College Refugees”
Bard’s History as a Refuge
Bard has a long history as a sanctuary and refuge for vulnerable populations. Bard’s efforts to support refugee scholars and students dates back to the mid 1930s, when the College gave refuge to distinguished writers, artists, intellectuals, and scientists fleeing Nazi Europe. Two decades later in 1956, Bard welcomed more than 300 Hungarian student refugees fleeing the Soviet invasion. As Bard established a global network of liberal arts institutions with the support of the Higher Education Support Program of the Open Society Foundations (OSF) in the 1990s and 2000, including partners in Germany, Kyrgyzstan, Lithuania, Palestine, and Russia, the College began utilizing its international network to help students from institutions under stress.