Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., grilled University of Michigan interim president Domenico Grasso Thursday on the institution’s failure to conduct a comprehensive audit following the arrests of Chinese nationals accused of espionage. The arrests, which occurred last year, involved students allegedly photographing U.S. military drills at Camp Grayling, a remote Michigan installation.
National Security Concerns
Stefanik questioned why the university had not assessed potential vulnerabilities in its research programs, particularly given the arrests of Chinese students linked to the Chinese Communist Party’s messaging app, WeChat. ‘Has the university conducted a full audit to determine what intellectual property or federally funded research was compromised?’ Stefanik asked.
Without an audit, we are unaware of any research that was compromised by these individual students.
Grasso acknowledged that no audit had been conducted, citing the students’ status as undergraduates and their lack of access to sensitive research. However, Stefanik countered that their actions, even off-campus, warranted a thorough review. ‘Well, they did do something nefarious off campus,’ she said. ‘I think it would be important for the university to ensure that there is a full audit conducted.’
Calls for Improved Vetting
Grasso emphasized ongoing improvements in background checks for foreign researchers and students, stating the university must collaborate more closely with federal intelligence agencies to ensure proper vetting before visas are issued. ‘We have improved, and we’re continuing to improve our background checks,’ he said.
The exchange highlights growing concerns over foreign influence in U.S. academic institutions, particularly those engaged in federally funded research. Stefanik’s questioning underscores the need for stricter oversight to protect American intellectual property and national security interests.