Statement From Washington Adventist University Regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
Washington Adventist University (WAU) remains committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all campus community members. We understand that should there ever be the presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on or near campus, it may cause anxiety and concern among our students, faculty, and staff. To our knowledge, no ICE agents have visited our campus.
Therefore, we want to assure our community of the following:
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- Commitment to Student Safety —The safety and well-being of our students are our top priority. WAU is dedicated to upholding the rights of all students and ensuring that they have access to education.
- Know Your Rights – We encourage all members of our community to be informed about their legal rights.
- Campus as a Learning Space – WAU is a private institution. ICE policies generally require agents to avoid enforcement actions at “sensitive locations,” which include schools and places of worship. However, this protocol may change in light of the new federal executive orders.
- Support Services — We recognize that ICE’s presence may cause uncertainty or anxiety. With this in mind, counseling resources are available through the university’s telehealth platform, Uwill, as well as community organizations dedicated to immigrant rights.
What You Can Do
If you see or are approached by law enforcement or immigration officials on campus, do the following:
- Remain Calm and Professional
- Stay composed to avoid escalating the situation.
- Direct ICE Agents to the Appropriate University Contact
- Inform the officer that you are not obstructing their process but need to contact Executive Vice-President Patrick Farley.
- Phone: 301-891-4124
- Email: pfarley@wau.edu
- EVP Farley and/or a designated liaison will work directly with the agent.
- Protect Student and Employee Privacy
- Inform the agent that you are consulting with appropriate university personnel who will be able to answer their questions and that you are not obstructing their process.
- Please do not provide personally identifiable information about anyone else unless required by a valid subpoena/warrant and told to do so by EVP Farley or a selected designee representing EVP Farley. Examples of personally identifiable information may include and are not limited to name, contact information, class lists, student schedules, etc.
- Ensure compliance with Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) regulations.
We urge our campus community to support one another during these times and to uphold the values of compassion, dignity, and justice that define Washington Adventist University. As a faith-based institution, we stand firmly by our mission to foster an environment where every individual is treated with respect and care.