Good afternoon NMC community,

As we navigate recent federal policy changes, I want to take a moment to address another issue that may be on the minds of many in our community. Following new executive orders related to immigration enforcement, we recognize that students and employees may have questions about how these policies could impact NMC and what to do if federal law enforcement officers visit campus.

Just as I shared in my message earlier today about Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), NMC remains committed to student success, open access, and fostering a welcoming environment for all members of our community. Changes in federal policy can create uncertainty, but our guiding principles remain the same: we will continue supporting students and employees, ensuring compliance with the law, and upholding our values of open access to education.

NMC’s Approach to Federal Law Enforcement Requests

NMC follows established procedures to balance three key responsibilities:

  • Compliance with Federal & State Laws: NMC follows all legally required procedures while ensuring due process is observed.

  • Protection of Student & Employee Privacy: Student records are protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and NMC does not track or disclose immigration status unless legally required to do so.

  • Access to Education Without Discrimination: NMC is an open-access institution, meaning that all students, regardless of their citizenship status, can enroll and attend classes in a supportive environment.

What to Do If Approached by Federal Law Enforcement

If a federal law enforcement officer (ICE, FBI, DHS, etc.) comes to campus requesting access to student or employee records or whereabouts, or access to nonpublic areas such as residence halls or classrooms, please follow these steps to ensure a safe and consistent response:

  • Refer all inquiries to NMC Security.
    • Inform the officer that all such requests must go through NMC Security.
    • Direct officers to the Security desk at the Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center at (231-995-1111).
    • For phone or email inquiries, contact Garrett Croon, Campus Safety Coordinator at (231-715-0003) (cell) or (231-995-1747) (desk), or via email at gcroon@nmc.edu.
  • Do not take possession of or sign any legal documents.
    • Do not accept service of a subpoena, warrant, or other legal document.
    • Instead, refer the officer to Security, who will review the request and coordinate the appropriate response.
  • Prioritize safety and cooperation.
    • Do not physically interfere with law enforcement actions.
    • NMC is considered a Sensitive Location under ICE policy, meaning enforcement actions on campus are generally discouraged unless exceptional circumstances exist.
  • Let Security handle the next steps.
    • Security is trained to manage these situations in compliance with federal and state laws while ensuring student and employee privacy.

Staying Informed & Moving Forward Together

We know that federal policies may continue to change, and we will remain vigilant in monitoring developments. NMC will continue to work closely with our state and national partners, including the Michigan Community College Association (MCCA), the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), and the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT), to stay informed and advocate for policies that support student success and open access to education.

As we navigate these evolving issues together, I encourage open, respectful conversations and remind you that NMC remains committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning and working environment. If you have any questions about these policies, please reach out to NMC Security, Student Services (students) or Human Resources (employees).

Thank you for being part of our mission-driven and values-grounded NMC community.

Nick

Nick Nissley, Ed.D. | President | Northwestern Michigan College | 231.995.1010

Northwestern Michigan College

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