Dear Cornell students, faculty, and staff,

As we continue to monitor the immigration action that unfolded at Columbia University this week, we want to use this opportunity to remind everyone of your rights and the university resources available if such action took place on our campuses.

First: Be Prepared 

Review important Know Your Rights information and university protocols for on-site visits by external (non-Cornell) law enforcement on the university’s Executive Orders website (login required).

On or off campus, it is Cornell’s policy that Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents are only allowed to enter a closed university space or private residence if they have a valid judicial warrant or if someone voluntarily allows them to enter. 

Second: If You Need Immediate Assistance

If you encounter immigration or other law enforcement activity on Cornell-owned property and have concerns, immediately contact the Cornell office tasked with security at your location so they can respond and coordinate appropriately. Trained campus safety professionals are available 24/7.

• Ithaca Campus: Cornell University Police, 607‑255‑1111
• Cornell Tech: Cornell Tech Safety & Security, 646‑971‑3611
• Weill Cornell Medicine: WCM Security, 212‑746‑0911 (please tell the dispatcher whether you’re in a WCM or NYP facility)
• Other Cornell‑owned New York state locations: Call CUPD at 607‑255‑1111

You can also use the RAVE Guardian app to connect with campus safety teams quickly.

Third: If You Need Immigration Support

International students and scholars who have questions about their immigration status, documentation, travel, or related matters should contact International Services directly. Advisors can provide accurate, situation-specific guidance and connect you to appropriate resources.

• Ithaca: International Services
• Cornell Tech: Student & Academic Affairs
• Weill Cornell Medicine: International Student Services

Fourth: For Emotional and Academic Support 

If recent events are causing stress or anxiety, support is available.

• Ithaca campus undergraduate, graduate, and professional students: Cornell Health Counseling and Psychological Services 
• Ithaca campus graduate students: Office of Graduate Student Life
• Cornell Tech campus students: Student & Academic Affairs
• Weill Cornell Medicine students: Student Mental Health Program
• Ithaca and Cornell Tech faculty and staff: Faculty & Staff Assistance Program 
• Weill Cornell Medicine faculty and staff: Employee Assistance Program Consortium 
• Student Support and Advocacy Services, if you are unsure where to turn
• Student Disability Services, for assistance exploring temporary academic accommodations, if needed

We recognize that news and social media can create uncertainty and stoke fear. Please remember that you do not need to navigate concerns alone. If you have questions about your individual circumstances, reach out to the appropriate campus office for accurate, situation-specific guidance. We are here to support you.

Stay informed by checking International Services alerts for the most up-to-date guidance. Additional useful information can be found on the Executive Orders site (NetID login required). Subscribe to receive important updates and our monthly newsletter by email. (International students are automatically subscribed.)