This briefing outlines steps for NIU faculty and staff to follow if Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents come to campus. The document is not legal advice, but rather guiding principles to ensure legal compliance while protecting the rights and privacy of students, staff and faculty.
As a public university, Northern Illinois University (NIU) welcomes the public to a significant portion of its campus. However, access is restricted or limited in areas due to privacy concerns, operational needs or safety considerations. Federal immigration enforcement officers are subject to these same access restrictions and must adhere to university protocols when entering non-public spaces.
It is important to note that ICE or federal Department of Homeland Security officials may be on campus for reasons unrelated to enforcement actions such as career recruitment events and guest lectures.
Due to our international programs, the university must report certain information about students with F-1 or J-1 visa status to ICE. This reporting is routine, and the university must comply with on-site visits to review records when requested.
| Access Category | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Public Access | Areas open to the general public where entry is not restricted or limited. These spaces are freely accessible and may include outdoor and common-use areas. | Library common areas, Northwestern Medicine, Counseling and Consultation Services, Holmes Student Center common areas, walkways, Convocation Center, cultural centers, hallways in academic buildings, dining areas open to the public, unrestricted access buildings and streets. |
| Restricted Access | Areas that require a key card, locked doors, or monitored entryways for access are protected to maintain safety and privacy. | Student rooms in residence halls, locked classrooms, administrative offices and restricted research laboratories. |
| Limited Access | Spaces are generally left unlocked during work hours but are not considered public due to their function. Access to these areas may require special permission or operational needs. | Faculty offices, classrooms in session, locker rooms, kitchens, food preparation areas, maintenance areas, storage rooms and other operational facilities. |
If you have further questions, FAQ are available online.