Metropolitan State University of Denver hosted an open Q&A to address questions and concerns about campus safety and well-being for immigrant and undocumented students. Many students, faculty and staff have shared feelings of anxiety and uncertainty about current events.
The event was hosted and moderated by Gregor Mieder, director of the Immigrant Services Program at MSU Denver, and featured campus and community experts, including David Fine, MSU Denver’s general counsel; Lisa Boyum, Ph.D., a staff psychologist with the Counseling Center; Jason Mollendor, chief of police for the Auraria Campus Police Department; Kelly Ryan, an immigration attorney and longtime collaborator with Immigrant Services; and Rick Kornfeld, a criminal defense attorney and seasoned litigator.
Here are answers to some of the most common questions.
If federal law enforcement comes to campus, what should I do?
MSU Denver has no indication of planned immigration enforcement activity on campus, and no such activity has occurred. If you see or believe you see federal authorities on campus, please contact the Auraria Campus Police Department (ACPD). In the event of a disruption to campus operations or our academic mission, buildings may be changed to badge access only.
What if an agent tries to enter a classroom or office?
Classrooms and offices are considered limited-access spaces. If an agent attempts to enter one of these spaces, request a warrant and ask for the agent’s name, ID number and agency. You should also politely inform the agent that you need to contact MSU Denver’s Office of the General Counsel for assistance.
Federal agents must present a valid judicial warrant to enter nonpublic spaces such as classrooms or offices.
Does ACPD participate in immigration enforcement?
Immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility. ACPD does not contact, detain or question people solely based on suspected immigration status. ACPD’s role is to maintain a safe campus environment, and the department will cooperate with law enforcement as required by law. Chief Mollendor also highlighted the Auraria Higher Education Center’s policy on immigration enforcement.
Will MSU Denver protect undocumented students?
MSU Denver remains committed to providing a safe, welcoming learning environment for all students. However, MSU Denver must operate in accordance with the law. The University will ensure legal requirements are followed and provide support to students who may be impacted.
What student information could be shared with immigration officials?
Student education records are protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). MSU Denver does not share student records unless legally compelled by a court-issued subpoena, warrant or other binding order. Any such request would be reviewed by the Office of General Counsel.
What support is available to students who are concerned? How do we support students who may feel traumatized?
Meider said many students, faculty and staff are feeling anxious, and that for some immigrants and refugees, the fear and uncertainty can bring up traumatic memories. Students are encouraged to reach out for support, including counseling resources on campus.
MSU Denver’s Immigrant Services Program provides legal information sessions, family-preparedness planning and referrals. Many of these resources are also available to employees. Counseling services are available to help students manage stress, anxiety and trauma-related concerns and can provide referrals for employees who need support. Students can schedule an initial appointment online or over the phone, without coming to campus.
Learn more about programs and resources available to immigrant and international students and employees and stay informed on student and employee wellbeing resources.
How will the campus community be informed if enforcement activity occurs?
Emergency alerts are reserved for immediate threats to health and safety. MSU Denver will communicate verified information through official University channels if any activity impacts campus operations or its academic mission.
If you see what you believe could be immigration enforcement or outside law enforcement activity, contact ACPD and the MSU Denver Office of the General Counsel immediately. MSU Denver also encourages community members not to spread rumors and to wait for verified information through official University channels.
How do we stay informed about all of the work happening in this space?
- Subscribe to the Immigrant Services Program mailing list by emailing [email protected].
- Stay tuned to the government affairs updates in the Early Bird.
- Check the University Events Calendar, Early Bird employee news and the student ‘Runner for information on regularly scheduled trainings and events.
- Check out all the information available on the Immigrant Services webpage.
