Immigration Support Resources and Campus Protocols (SB 98)

Dear Members of the Pitzer Community,

Pitzer’s commitment to the dignity, safety, and well-being of every member of our community is central to who and what we are as an educational institution. Among many other recent challenges, developments in immigration policy and enforcement have created an environment of instability, uncertainty, and fear for those affected personally, for their loved ones, and for all of us who are concerned for the safety and welfare of our fellow community members.

Pitzer remains steadfast in its support of every member of our community in the face of these threats to our mission and values.
To help ensure that everyone has access to clear information and meaningful support, the College has launched a centralized Immigration Resources and Support webpage. This site brings together guidance, campus protocols, and external resources to assist students, faculty, and staff who may have questions about immigration enforcement, legal rights, or available campus support services. 

Note that more detailed information, including contacts and procedures in the event of an immigration-related emergency, is available under password protection through the Pitzer Hub, linked on the above site.

Campus Protocols and SB 98 

California recently enacted Senate Bill 98 (SB 98), which establishes communications requirements for colleges and universities when immigration enforcement activity is confirmed on campus. Under this law, institutions must notify their campus communities if immigration enforcement is present and provide information about available resources. Notifications must include the date, time, and location of the confirmed activity and direct community members to support resources while ensuring that no personally identifiable information is shared.

Pitzer’s protocols reflect both SB 98 and our longstanding commitment to protecting the privacy and safety of our community members: 

• Campus-wide notification: If immigration enforcement activity is confirmed on campus, the College will promptly notify the community through official communication channels, including email and text alerts.
• Protection of personal information: The College does not share student or employee immigration status with immigration authorities except where legally required. 
• Verification of warrants: Any request from immigration officials must be reviewed by designated College officials to ensure that legal requirements, such as a judicial warrant or subpoena, are met before any action is taken. 
• Resources, support, and guidance: The College provides access to immigration legal resources, “Know Your Rights” information, guidance, and support to assist anyone affected by immigration concerns. 

Our goal is to ensure that members of our community have the information and support they need while sustaining a campus environment where everyone can learn, work, live, and thrive without fear. 

I encourage anyone with questions or concerns to review the resources on the website and connect with the campus offices listed there. Let us lean together into our shared mission and cherished community to listen, support each other, and uphold the inclusive values that define Pitzer.

Thank you for the care and concern you continue to show one another. 

Provida Futuri,

Strom C. Thacker
President