Community of Care

Southern Illinois University Carbondale remains dedicated to maintaining an academically rigorous, safe and welcoming environment for all members of our community. We continue to provide support for all students and embrace the diversity that exists at SIU.

Below, you will find key information, guidance and resources to help navigate these ongoing changes. This webpage will be regularly updated as new information becomes available.

We continue to monitor developments at the federal, state, and local levels that may impact our campus community.

Department of Public Safety

SIU Department of Public Safety (DPS) is available 24/7
Contact: (618) 453-3771
DPS Police Chief: Dr. Ben Newman

SIU DPS Immigration Assistance

Know Your Rights: Immigrants' Rights - ACLU or National Immigration Law Center (NILC) – If you are unsure of your rights when interacting with ICE or other law enforcement.

Southern Illinois University Carbondale Department of Public Safety police officers are focused on the safety and security of the University students, staff, and visitors. University police officers are not immigration officials. Illinois law enforcement officers are prohibited from participating in most immigration enforcement activities. According to the Attorney General of Illinois, the Illinois TRUST Act and the Voices of Immigrant Communities Empowering Survivors Act “a local law enforcement agency in Illinois cannot give an immigration agent access to individuals in its custody; detain individuals pursuant to a federal administrative warrant; detain individuals pursuant to an immigration detainer request from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE); or share information about individuals in its custody with federal immigration authorities.

Protocol for Calls or Visits by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Southern Illinois University
School of Medicine property (PDF)

Helpful Resources

In times of uncertainty, small acts of kindness and connection make a difference. We encourage all members of our Saluki community students, faculty and staff to help foster an environment of care and compassion:

• Check in with others. A simple hello or genuine inquiry into someone's well-being can be meaningful.
• Extend kindness and grace. A little patience and understanding go a long way.
• Create space for support. Take a moment before or after class to share information on available resources.
• Be flexible when possible. Many in our community are facing challenges so consider offering reasonable flexibility.
• Together, we can ensure SIU remains a place where everyone feels seen, valued, supported and safe.

ACE's dotEDU Podcast
What the Department of Education Layoffs Mean for Colleges and Universities

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) Compliance

SIU protects student records under  FERPA .

No student information is released without a valid court order, subpoena or the student's written consent.

Faculty & Staff: If contacted by ICE or law enforcement requesting student records, notify the Department of Public Safety immediately of the request. Public Safety will then contact the appropriate people in leadership, who likely will refer this to SIU's general counsel.
Contact: (618) 453-2461

The SIU Student Health Center offers counseling and psychological services and medical care for chronic and urgent care concerns including basic laboratory and radiology services, immunization compliance, and musculoskeletal needs. Pharmacy services for over-the-counter medication needs and full pharmacy services for those who have the Student Health Insurance plan.
Contact: (618) 453-3311

The Saluki Cares program is an early alert initiative composed of professionals from different areas of campus life who work with students on a regular basis: Academic units, Dean of Students, New Student Programs, Center for International Education, University Housing, Wellness Center, and others. Saluki Cares displays a culture of caring by demonstrating to our students and families that they are an important part of the community. Referrals are made from faculty, staff, family members, peers, or by the student him/herself.
Contact: (618) 453-2461

The Student Multicultural Resource Center provides a space dedicated to the well-being and success of all our community members.
Contact: (618) 453-3740

Travel Considerations for Students

Students planning international travel should be aware of potential implications due to recent federal actions.

• Center for International Education (CIE) – Before traveling abroad, check with CIE to ensure you have up-to-date visa and travel documentation.
• Be Aware of Potential Delays– Changes in federal policies may lead to longer processing times at ports of entry. Plan accordingly.
• Know Your Rights When Reentering the U.S.– International students should carry valid documentation at all times and be prepared for possible additional screening at airports or border crossings.
• For travel-related guidance visit:
• Center for International Education (CIE)
  Contact: (618) 453-5774
• U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories