Dear MCAD Staff, Faculty, and Students,
Thank you for the care and concern you have expressed for our MCAD community amid theongoing and fluid immigration enforcement activity in our city and region. No matter your views or your role at MCAD, you may be feeling on edge. We can all agree that these are historically challenging and uncertain times.
After careful and thorough consideration, we feel strongly that being in community with each other is important for connection and care. For that reason, we have decided to proceed with the planned start of spring classes in their regular format on January 20, 2026.
As part of our decision-making process, we reviewed all the emails that we have received on this topic. We are monitoring developments, consulting with legal counsel, and reviewing campus policies and procedures to ensure they reflect legal obligations and best practices. We are in close contact with other higher-education institutions and many Whittier neighborhood organizations.
If ICE Comes to MCAD
Be prepared. Please read and be familiar with MCAD's ICE Policy.
Be aware. If you see or hear something that raises concern, contact Campus Safety immediately.
Make sure the Campus Safety phone number (612-874-3801) is in your list of contacts.
If you are approached by an ICE agent, you can respond by saying: “I’m unable to provide that information.” Then contact Campus Safety.
Campus Safety would assess the situation and verify what is actually happening. Designated administrators would review documentation presented and determine what, if any, action is required by law. Leadership would then evaluate whether there is a credible safety concern that warrants changes to operations.
Private vs. Public Spaces
All MCAD buildings are locked 24/7 and designated as private.
Do not allow people you do not personally know into an MCAD building. Everyone must badge in.
ICE is not authorized to enter MCAD buildings without a signed judicial warrant.
For the foreseeable future, MCAD will not unlock exterior doors for any events or gatherings.
ICE is legally allowed to be present without a warrant in public spaces on campus, which include our parking lots, lawn, and sidewalks.
Providing Support
Faculty, staff, or students who have needs related to personal or family circumstances should reach out to their supervisor, faculty member, or Student Affairs to determine an appropriate plan.
If needed, students, faculty, and staff may request escort assistance within our escort boundaries.
Community members should familiarize themselves with their legal rights and available resources.
If an MCAD Community Member is Impacted
MCAD can provide information and referrals that offer legal guidance and support, and help individuals understand their rights and options.
Know that staff, faculty, and student privacy is required by law. Employees of MCAD are required to comply with the Minnesota Data Practices Act, Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and Health Insurance Portability Accountability Act (HIPAA).
MCAD Policies and Procedures
We must follow the law. Physically impeding any ICE operation can lead to arrest or being charged with obstructing federal law enforcement.
We have developed MCAD's ICE Policy, which includes a detailed outline of our procedures, clear decision framework, defined roles, and firm boundaries around when and how the college would respond.
Specific actions or plans will depend on the scenario at hand, ensuring we respond safely and appropriately.
For Students
We are holding a virtual Student Information Session on Tuesday, January 20 from 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. to answer questions and reiterate the information in this email. A separate email will be sent later with the link to the meeting.
Financial help may be available via the Emergency Parachute Fund for students who need paid rides to campus, cannot show up to work, or experience food insecurity.
While circumstances can change, our commitment to your safety, privacy, and well-being remains steadfast. We are prepared to adapt as warranted by circumstances, and will keep you updated. We are all in this moment together. Please reach out to me, your supervisor, faculty member, or Student Affairs if you have additional questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Gwen