Frequently Asked Questions
Is WOU required to release student or employee information to the U.S. Immigrant and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials or other government officials?
WOU will NOT provide protected student information to ICE/other agencies in accordance with the Family and Education Rights and Privileges Act of 1974 (FERPA). According to FERPA, schools are generally required to withhold information that could identify students to third parties, including federal immigration officials.
Undocumented individuals have the same protections for their information as other learners. School administrators and staff are not allowed to share the immigration status of any learner, staff, or faculty member.
What happens if U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) shows up at WOU looking for information about undocumented individuals?
If a WOU student is approached for information about immigration status and a warrant or a subpoena is presented, immediately contact Campus Public Safety – Call or Text: 503-838-9000
Campus Public Safety will check the paperwork to determine whether the action is lawful.
If a WOU employee, contractor, or campus guest is approached for information about immigration status, immediately contact Campus Public Safety – Call or Text: 503-838-9000
Campus Public Safety will check the paperwork to determine whether the action is lawful.
If an undocumented person wants to attend WOU, do they have to share any information about their immigration status?
Per Oregon law, higher education institutions cannot deny admission based on immigration status. Immigration status does not prevent somebody from becoming a WOU student.
The university also complies with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). This federal legislation protects the privacy of student records and regulates how the information is used. Release of student records at Western Oregon University is bound by FERPA. For more information about FERPA, visit the University Registrar.
Does WOU welcome and support undocumented persons pursuing an education at WOU?
Yes, all learners are welcome at WOU.
Will WOU continue to provide updates when there’s new information that may impact immigrant/undocumented students or employees?
Yes, WOU will communicate updates through email as needed to keep our community informed.
As a STUDENT, what should I do if I’m concerned?
WOU will be updating students as new information comes to light. Please watch your WOU email for updated information. If you wish to reach out for confidential emotional support, schedule an appointment at the WOU Student Health & Counseling Center.
As an EMPLOYEE, what should I do if I’m concerned?
WOU will be updating employees as new information comes to light. Please watch your WOU email for updated information. Employees seeking confidential emotional support to help with anxiety and other concerns can contact WOU’s Employee Assistance Program by calling 800-433-2320, text option: 503-850-7721 or via email at info@canopywell.com.
Please Note: The resources listed here do not constitute legal advice and are provided for informational purposes only. Should a concern arise, individuals are strongly recommended to promptly seek the advice of an attorney to discuss their unique circumstances. It is WOU’s standard practice to refer all federal immigration officials and related inquiries to Campus Public Safety and the Office of the General Counsel. Consult Campus Public Safety and/or the Office of the General Counsel before responding to any request for immigration information.
