UPD states no ICE on campus

The Northern Light interviewed University Police Department Chief Jeff Earle to gain insight on the possibility of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement — also known as ICE — on campus.

Chief Earle said University officials have not been notified of an ICE presence on campus. The Northern Light has found no official reports of ICE being on campus.

Earle urged students to contact UPD if they see ICE on campus. “We are safer here on campus than anywhere else in Anchorage,” said Earle. 

As ICE policies continue to emerge, there is ongoing discussion about whether UAA offers protection or support.

In an interview with The Northern Light, when UAA Chancellor Cheryl Siemers was asked what protection UAA can provide for students from ICE. In response, she said UAA provides students support rather than protection. 

In a recent university-wide email statement, Siemers wrote, “we are working on updating classroom signage to clearly designate these as private spaces while instruction is in session.”

The Northern Light spoke with Rep. Ashley Carrick, Democratic district 35 Representative, on April 16. 

Carrick emphasized safety among students and said, “we are in a time right now where our students deserve to feel valued and protected. If you don’t have safety and security, how are you going to be expected to accomplish your degree program?” 

For students, staff or faculty who have concerns about ICE, Earle recommended reaching out to on-campus resources such as the care team or the Student Health and Counselling Center. 

The university will host an ICE information session with the general counsel, including several University of Alaska attorneys and support staff, via Zoom on April 24 at 2 p.m.