Dear UW School of Nursing students,
In recent weeks, many in our community have shared concerns regarding reports of immigration enforcement activity in the region. I want to acknowledge the stress and uncertainty this has caused, and to offer the most current information we have, along with guidance to help us stay aligned and supported as a community.
At this time, there have been no confirmed reports of immigration enforcement activity on any University of Washington campus. We do know that some members of our broader community have encountered immigration enforcement actions elsewhere in the area, and we recognize how deeply unsettling these experiences can be.
UW Campus Community Safety has provided updated guidance on how the University responds to requests from federal law enforcement agencies. This protocol, grounded in Washington state law, helps ensure that we protect the rights, privacy, and wellbeing of our community while meeting our legal obligations. In general terms:
- As a public University, federal officers may enter public spaces on our campuses. These spaces include the UW’s grounds and areas of buildings that are open during business hours.
- Access to non-public University spaces – such as classrooms and laboratories in use, offices and residence halls – requires a valid judicial warrant or court order.
- Employees should not provide information, documents or records, or access to non-public areas and should instead contact the UW Police Department so trained personnel can respond.
- The University coordinates any response through campus safety officials in consultation with the Washington Attorney General’s Office, ensuring that we protect the privacy and rights of members of our community while also meeting our legal obligations.
- If federal agents are or have been on or near a UW campus, the University will gather details and share necessary information with the greater UW community as soon as practical.
- Never answer questions regarding confidential information unless told you should do so by UWPD or the Attorney General’s Office. As always, ensure compliance with FERPA and HIPAA regulations.
Several of you have asked what steps our School might take if a student or employee were detained. We deeply appreciate the care and concern behind these questions. Because these situations involve legal rights, privacy protections, and University-wide obligations, responses must be coordinated and applied consistently at the University level. Please know that the UW is committed to supporting students and employees to the greatest extent allowed, and I remain committed to continuing this conversation with you as more information is made available.
For those working or learning in clinical or field settings, please take a moment to review the updated guidance included in the UW protocol in the Q&A section.
Additional resource links are included below:
Thank you for supporting one another and for the care and intention you bring to your work each day. Your commitment to this community is at the heart of who we are as a School.
With care,
Hilaire
Hilaire J. Thompson, PhD, RN, ARNP, FAAN
Professor and Robert G. and Jean A. Reid Executive Dean
University of Washington School of Nursing