Federal Actions, Updates & Resources

With the transition of the new presidential administration in January 2025, several executive orders and other actions have been issued that are affecting, or have the potential to affect, higher education across the country.

UNC's leadership team is closely monitoring all actions at the federal and state levels that may impact the members of our university community and our institution. As the landscape evolves and we have more information to share, we will continue to provide updates, resources and guidance to our university community. 

Navigating Changes With Informed Guidance

Uncertainty about the future can be unsettling. To better understand and navigate policy changes, the university gathers guidance from higher education advocacy groups such as the Association of American Universities (AAU), the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities (APLU) and the American Council on Education (ACE).

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University Messages

Office of the President

• Jan. 24: Monitoring Evolving Federal Policy

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Resources

• Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

  Jan. 31, 2025: From UNC's Office of General Counsel

  While we do not know whether ICE agents will come to UNC, nor are we aware of any current plans to do so, we do know that many members of our university community have questions and fears about the possible presence of federal immigration enforcement officers on campus. As a public university, UNC is largely open to the general public, and it is important for members of the campus community to know the appropriate response to federal enforcement officials. 

  Below are the appropriate actions to take if ICE conduts enforcement action at UNC.

  Notify Authorities

  Immediately contact the UNC Police Department at 970-351-2245 (available 24/7/365). Provide a clear description of the agents’ presence and actions. Do not accept service of any subpoena/warrant before contacting the Office of General Counsel at 970-351-2399 (available during regular business hours.

  Do Not Interfere

  While you have the right to document and report the presence of federal immigration enforcement officers, for your own safety, do not physically obstruct or interfere with the actions of ICE agents.

  Familiarize Yourself with Responses to FAQs

  In an effort to inform our community, the following links provide answers in English and Spanish to Frequently Asked Question pages about ICE compliance. 

  • Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Campus Frequently Asked Questions
  • Preguntas frecuentes relacionadas con el Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas (ICE o “La Migra”)
• International Student Resources

  Office of Global Engagement

  • International Student and Scholar Services
• Office of Research and Sponsored Programs

  Office of Research and Sponsored Programs

  • Feb. 6: Update to Impact of Executive Orders on Federal Awards
  • Jan. 28: Important Updates Regarding Federal Funding
  • Jan. 27: Urgent: Federally Funded Research Update
• Other Relevant UNC Resources
  • Freedom of Expression in the Community of Bears
  • Student Resources and Support
  • Employee Assistance Program

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External Information Sources

• Presidential Actions from the White House
• U.S. Department of Education
  • Feb. 14 letter from Department of Education Office for Civil Rights
  • Frequently Asked Questions About Racial Preferences and Stereotypes Under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act
• The Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges - ABG
  • ABG Policy Alert: Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights Letter Dated Feb. 14
• The Association of Public and Land Grant Universities - APLU
  • APLU Overview of Trump's Executive Orders

For international students:

• Higher Ed Immigration Portal
• NASFA: Association of International Educators Executive and Regulatory Actions Under the Second Trump Administration