According to WXOW News, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents were seen in La Crosse last month on Sunday, Feb. 1. This has prompted questions from Viterbo students about what to expect should ICE agents arrive on campus. Students have also expressed interest in learning about how to respond in these types of situations, as many are unfamiliar with the protocols and procedures of interacting with federal authorities.
In an interview with Alyson Graef, Viterbo’s Director of Campus Safety, she discussed what students should know. “Students have the right to feel safe and supported on campus regardless of immigration status,” Graef said. “If a student is approached by anyone asking for information, whether that person identifies as ICE or not, students are not required to answer questions about their immigration status.” Additionally, students are advised to contact campus security immediately, and they will work in consultation with the University’s legal counsel and leadership team to ensure all relevant protocols are followed. One such example is to make sure that anyone who enters a campus building is either a student, staff member, or someone affiliated with Viterbo who is authorized to access university establishments. These measures are in place to protect and support Viterbo students. Echoing this sentiment, Graef said, “As Director of Campus Safety, I want students to know that our role is not just security, its advocacy, support, and trust.”
Beyond what students should know about interacting with non-university personnel on campus, Graef was asked what Viterbo was doing for its students. “Viterbo University has a formal ICE response in place that prioritizes student privacy, safety, and legal rights. The University does not voluntarily share student, faculty or staff information with ICE unless legally compelled to do so,” said Graef. Additionally, Campus Safety serves as the primary point of contact for any inquiries related to ICE. “If ICE were to come to campus, Campus Safety verifies all documentation and works directly with University Counsel to ensure that any response complies with the law and protects the campus community,” said Graef.
Graef acknowledged that students are often engaged in civic life and may choose to participate in demonstrations or public events. “While Viterbo cannot control off-campus environments, the University encourages students to notify the Vice President of Student Life and Dean of Students if they plan to participate in organized demonstrations so safety guidance and resources can be shared. On campus, any organized protest must follow university policies to ensure safety for all participants,” said Graef. When it comes to encounters with ICE, the most important thing Viterbo students should know is to immediately contact Campus Safety, as they are trained to respond to these situations. They are also equipped to work with relevant authorities as needed in order to ensure that any interaction on campus follows the law and university procedures. Students are encouraged to reach out to Campus Safety at 608-796-3911 with any questions or concerns that they may have.
