Immigration
If U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Comes to Campus Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) information for Students, Staff, Faculty and Administrators
This briefing outlines steps for University of Houston-Victoria faculty and staff to follow if Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents come to campus. The document is not legal advice but rather guiding principles to ensure legal compliance while protecting the rights and privacy of students, staff, and faculty.
Public Access (including Immigration officials) versus Limited Access Areas of UHV Campus
As a public university, the University of Houston-Victoria maintains a significant portion of its campus as open to the public, including enforcement officers. However, access is restricted or limited in areas due to privacy concerns, operational needs, or safety considerations. Federal immigration enforcement officers are subject to these same access restrictions and must adhere to University protocols when entering non-public spaces.
It is important to note that ICE or federal Department of Homeland Security officials may be on campus for reasons unrelated to enforcement actions, such as career recruitment events and guest lectures.
Due to our international programs, the University must report certain information about students with F-1 or J-1 visa status to ICE. This reporting is routine, and the University must comply with on-site visits to review records when requested.
Access Categories
Access Category |
Description |
Examples |
Public Access |
Areas open to the general public where entry is not restricted or limited. These spaces are freely accessible and may include outdoor and common-use areas. |
Outdoor areas, Library common areas, University Commons open areas, dining hall, unrestricted access buildings and streets. |
Restricted Access |
Areas that require a key card, locked doors, or monitored entryways for access are protected to maintain safety and privacy. |
Residence halls, locked classrooms, administrative offices, and restricted research laboratories. |
Limited Access |
Spaces are generally left unlocked during work hours but are not considered public due to their function. Access to these areas may require special permission or operational needs. |
Faculty offices, classrooms in session, locker rooms, kitchens, food preparation areas, maintenance areas, storage rooms, and other operational facilities. |
Steps to Take When Contacted by Immigration Customs Enforcement
Remain Calm and Professional
- Stay composed to avoid escalating the situation.
Request Identification and Documentation
- Politely ask for the ICE agents:
- Name and identification number
- Agency affiliation
Direct ICE Agents to the Appropriate Contact
- Inform the officer that you are not obstructing their process but need to contact:
- Phone: Jay Lambert in his office at 361-570-4290, via his cell 361-484-5931
- Email: Lambertj1@uhv.edu (if immediate assistance is not needed)
- If not available contact Stuart Sherman at 361-489-7214.
Designated Police Officer will work directly with the agent
Protect Student and Employee Privacy
- Inform the agent that you are consulting with appropriate university personnel who will be able to answer their questions and that you are not obstructing their process.
- You should limit providing personally identifiable information about students unless required by a valid subpoena/warrant and told to do so by the designated police officer or the Office of General Counsel. Examples of personally identifiable information may include and are not limited to name, contact information, class lists, student schedules, etc.
- Ensure compliance with FERPA and HIPPA regulations.
Additional Support for Students, Faculty, and Staff:
You may also direct affected individuals to UHV’s International Programs Office at (361) 570-4106; International@uhv.edu or the Counseling Center at 361-570-4135; counselingcenter@uhv.edu additional support if requested or needed.