Today, vice president of student development Dr. Mikki Cammarata and vice president of human resources Allison B. Jarvis alerted students, faculty, and staff to campus protocols and responses regarding federal immigration authorities, including ICE.
The statement emphasized their belief that “transparency, preparation, and clear communication are essential,” and provided information and resources for community members who may need support. While federal immigration authorities are not prohibited from being on campus in public spaces, the statement notes that if they are observed, William Paterson University Police must be contacted immediately.
The university further emphasized that its police department does not act as federal immigration authorities. Operating under New Jersey’s Immigrant Trust Directive, William Paterson University Police are tasked with “verifying credentials, assessing the legality of any federal presence, and determining whether a valid judicial warrant or court order exists.” Consequently, federal agents without a valid William Paterson ID or warrant are not permitted to enter classrooms, residence halls, faculty offices, the recreation center, or other ID-restricted areas on campus.
If you see ICE activity or are approached by any federal immigration authorities on William Paterson property, “you should notify University Police immediately via the Rave Guardian app or at 973-720-2300.”
According to the statement, university police will “serve as a point of contact and coordinate with university leadership,” while also meeting with federal immigration authorities to determine their purpose on campus, verify credentials, and ensure the necessary paperwork is in order. However, if a verified warrant or court order is presented, university police cannot interfere.
For resources and support, students can receive this confidentially through the Counseling Health and Wellness Center and the Social Worker for Student Support and Resources.
The Counseling Health and Wellness Center can be reached at 973-729-2257, and the social worker, who can respond to your concerns 24/7, can be reached at 973-720-2578 or via email at [email protected].
For faculty and staff, they can receive support from a third-party confidential EAP at HigherEdeap.com or 1-800-252-4555 or contact Human Resources at [email protected].
Additional resources include:
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding University Response
Immigration Rights in New Jersey: KnowYourRights-com_en.pdf
State of New Jersey Guidance on Federal Immigration Enforcement on Campus: https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:US:08a80d41-e348-4e46-bc68-8252639a21da
