Message Regarding ICE Reports and Protocol

Dear SIPA Community,

It is a difficult time for our community, with a great deal of uncertainty for so many of us as individuals, as well as for our School and the University. 

Many of you are worried about the range of federal actions in recent weeks and days. I share your concerns and fears and recognize the distress this is causing. I am committed to providing as many resources as possible to you: our students, staff, and faculty.

I became aware this morning of public reports that a member of the SIPA and Columbia community was possibly either arrested or detained by immigration agents. Under University policy, Columbia will only provide non-public information in response to a valid judicial warrant or subpoena. I have confirmed that to date the University has not received either with respect to this incident. We take any actions concerning members of our community seriously and are actively seeking information. We have followed and will continue to follow the law. 

I am including two important links: the University statement on these reports as well as the public safety Protocol for Visits to Campus by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agents (otherwise known as “ICE”). I urge all members of our community to familiarize themselves with these important protocols.

If you observe ICE agents conducting enforcement activities on campus, including in residence halls, please immediately contact Public Safety (212-854-5555). This is the most important thing you can do. Law enforcement must have a judicial warrant to enter non-public University areas, including University buildings.

The student affairs team is available to provide student support throughout today and this week. All advisors are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the OSA suite or via Zoom — please reach out to your adviser to schedule a time. You can also contact Associate Dean Tsuya Yee for assistance.

In case of concerns, staff, please reach out to your direct managers, or Alex Sanford, Chief Operating Officer. And, faculty, please reach out to Hazel May, Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs. 

I am wishing students well with exams this week and a safe spring break. I look forward to jointly advancing the mission of our School with many opportunities to connect, discuss, and come together as a community in the coming weeks.

Sincerely,

Keren Yarhi-Milo
Dean, School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA)
Adlai E. Stevenson Professor of International Relations