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Guidance and Resources Regarding Federal Immigration Enforcement

Dear Colleagues:

Given the current national and local environment related to federal immigration enforcement and the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Pima County, I want to share some information that may be helpful to our community. Recent news and federal actions have raised serious concerns, and it is important to acknowledge the uncertainty and anxiety these events may be creating for many of our students and employees. Please know that we are mindful of how moments like this can affect people differently, and our goal is to provide clear information, practical guidance, and appropriate support.

To help support our employees and students, the College has prepared two Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) documents - one for employees and one for students - that address the potential presence of outside law enforcement on our campuses. I encourage you to review these materials alongside this message and to discuss them with colleagues and students as appropriate.

The FAQs provide guidance on:

  • Responding to law enforcement and ICE inquiries;
  • Supporting students who may be experiencing stress or fear, and fostering a safe learning environment.
  • Academic freedom, First Amendment considerations, and curriculum-related questions; and
  • Employee and student rights, privacy protections, and available campus resources.

To be clear, if you observe the presence of an outside law enforcement agency, including ICE, on a PCC campus or site, please contact the Pima Community College Police Department at 520-206-2700 and notify your supervisor or campus or site administrator. All classrooms are equipped with phones for emergencies, and blue emergency phones are available throughout parking areas. We recommend saving the phone numbers for the PCC Police Department and your campus or site administrator in your mobile phone for quick and easy access when needed.

We expect everyone to prioritize their own safety and the safety of our students and colleagues. Employees should not approach, engage with, or interfere with ICE or any law enforcement personnel. PCC Police, in coordination with the College’s legal team, will respond in accordance with established legal and safety protocols.

As we navigate this moment together, it is also important to be clear about College operations and professional expectations. We are aware that the current environment has prompted protests and calls for strikes or walkouts in many communities. Pima Community College will remain open and continue normal business operations in support of our primary mission: serving students. Employees who choose to participate in such activities are expected to do so in accordance with College policies, including established procedures for the use of personal leave or annual leave.

The College is closely monitoring developments and has plans and protocols in place for a range of potential scenarios. We will continue to keep you informed as circumstances evolve.

If you have questions that are not addressed in the FAQs, please reach out to your campus vice president or site administrator. You may also contact Brian Stewart, Vice President for the Northwest Campus, at bstewart@pima.edu, who is helping to coordinate these communications.

I recognize that this is an especially difficult moment for many in our community, and I am deeply appreciative of the empathy, care, and professionalism you continue to show toward one another and toward our students. Let’s continue to extend grace to one another and stay grounded in our shared commitment to empowering our students and serving our community.

Sincerely,

Jeffrey P. Nasse, Ph.D.
Chancellor
chancellor@pima.edu

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