This email was sent to all Systemwide students, faculty and staff by Senior Vice President for Finance and Operations, University of Minnesota.
Students, faculty, and staff,
There is much uncertainty in our community about changes in immigration policies outlined by the federal government. In my role overseeing the Department of Public Safety on the Twin Cities campus and in public safety matters systemwide, I want to reassure you that the University has personnel and resources in place to support faculty, staff, and students who may be affected by these changes. International students and scholars have been and will always be an essential part of the University of Minnesota, bringing new knowledge and experiences to our University for 150 years. They—and other employees and students who are affected by immigration policies—will be a vital part of the success of our state and the University of Minnesota long into the future.
There are many resources available if you have questions or need support. Students should contact Student Legal Service, which provides advice and guidance, and legal representation where appropriate, for students in a variety of immigration-related cases. Employees and students may reach out to the Law School’s Binger Center for New Americans for advice and guidance, and limited legal consulting and a discount on referrals is available to benefits eligible employees via the Employee Assistance Program.
As has been the University’s pledge over the years, we are fully committed to keeping all members of our community who are affected by immigration policies safe and well-informed so they can best navigate their responsibilities in compliance with law and policy. The brief FAQ below shares more about our approach.
Sincerely,
Gregg Goldman
Executive Vice President for Finance and Operations
FAQ
Q: What do I do if someone shows up at the workplace and asks for information on students, staff, or faculty and their immigration status?
A: Reach out to your supervisor and the Office of the General Counsel before taking any action.
Q: What role do campus departments of public safety, such as UMPD on the Twin Cities campus, play in the actions of ICE or other federal agencies?
A: Campus departments of public safety do not enforce federal immigration laws and our officers do not inquire about an individual's immigration status. Their focus remains on public safety, fostering trust, and maintaining strong relationships across the University community.
Q: What if ICE requests student information. Will you give it to them?
A: In compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the University does not provide private student information, unless required by subpoena or court order.