Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
Michigan Freedom of Information Act, Public Act 442 of 1976, MCL 15.231, et seq.
It is the public policy of the State of Michigan that all persons (except those persons incarcerated in state and local correctional facilities) are entitled to full and complete information regarding the affairs of government and the official acts of those who represent them as public officials and public employees.
The college’s policy with respect to FOIA requests is to comply with State Law in all aspects and to respond to FOIA requests in a consistent, fair and even-handed manner, regardless of who makes such a request.
Filing a FOIA Request
You may request information by mail, fax or using the online FOIA Request Form.
To Request Information Using the Online Form (preferred)
Fill out the FOIA Request for Public Records Form. Your request will be forwarded to the appropriate SMC administrators immediately upon submission.
To Request Information By Mail or Fax
Download and complete the FOIA Request for Public Records PDF*. Fax the completed form to 269-782-1336 or mail it to
Lyndon Parrish
FOIA Coordinator
Southwestern Michigan College
58900 Cherry Grove Road
Dowagiac, Michigan 49047
*The PDF is an interactive form that allows you to fill out the form on your computer and then save it to your computer or print it to send via mail or fax. You may also print the form and fill it out by hand.
FOIA Policies and Procedures
Southwestern Michigan College has established the following written procedures and guidelines:
FOIA Procedures and Guidelines
Copies of these documents are available at no charge in the Human Resources Office in the Briegel Building on the Dowagiac Campus.
Appeal Forms
SMC FOIA Administration Forms
FOIA Detailed Costs Itemization