Webster University Reaffirms Commitment to an Inclusive and Supportive Community
January 31, 2025
Webster University remains unwavering in its commitment to fostering a community of care through diversity, equity and inclusion. We are dedicated to maintaining an academically rigorous, safe and welcoming environment for all members of our community regardless of political shifts in Washington, D.C. While we continue to monitor developments at the federal level, our core values remain unchanged.
We reaffirm our commitment to inclusive education, access and excellence for people of all backgrounds. A diverse community enhances creativity, decision-making and appreciation of different perspectives. There is a place for everyone at Webster University.
Below, you will find key information, guidance and resources to help navigate these ongoing changes. This webpage will be regularly updated as new information becomes available.
Community of Care: How We Can Support One Another
In times of uncertainty, small acts of kindness and connection make a difference. We encourage all members of our Webster community students, faculty and staff to help foster an environment of care and compassion:
- Check in with others. A simple hello or genuine inquiry into someone’s well-being can be meaningful.
- Extend kindness and grace. A little patience and understanding go a long way.
- Create space for support. Take a moment before or after class to share information on available resources.
- Be flexible when possible. Many in our community are facing challenges so consider offering reasonable flexibility.
Together, we can ensure Webster remains a place where everyone feels seen, valued, supported and safe.
Student and Employee Support Resources
Webster University offers a range of support services for students, faculty and staff. Click below to learn more about each resource.
Resources for All
- Webster University Department of Public Safety – Ensures campus security and safety.Available 24/7, 365 days at 314-968-7430.
- Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion – Guidance, programming and advocacy to support an inclusive university environment.
- Webster University’s Grab & Go Food Pantry – Free food and hygiene necessities, available 24/7.
- Know Your Rights: Immigrants' Rights - ACLU or National Immigration Law Center (NILC) – If you are unsure of your rights when interacting with ICE or other law enforcement.
- The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – Lifeline assists people in immediate crisis with a skilled, trained crisis worker who will listen to the problems they are experiencing and will connect them to local mental health services. All calls are confidential and free.
- Trans Lifeline – Connects trans people to the community support and resources they need to survive and thrive.
- The Trevor Project – If you are thinking about harming yourself, get immediate crisis support from trained counselors who understand the challenges of LGBTQIA+ young people. The Trevor Project provides 24/7, 365-day support via text, chat, or phone, ensuring a confidential and free lifeline for those in crisis.
Student Support Services
- Counseling and Life Development for Students – Free confidential personal and group counseling services for Webster University students.
- International Recruitment and Services (IRIS) – Visa support and travel guidance for international students attending Webster University.
- Housing and Residential Life – For on-campus residents feeling uncertain or in need of support, Housing and Residential Life staff are always available to talk. Visit the Housing Office or reach out to a staff member anytime.
- Office of Dean of Students – Staff are available to talk about concerns during this uncertain time and can also assist with emergency financial aid options. Students can log into Connections and search Office of Student Affairs for resources.
- Emergency Loans – To access emergency loan information, log in to your Connections account and search “Emergency Loans.”
- Student Health Services – Free triage for minor illnesses and injuries.
- Reeg Academic Resource Center (ARC) – Academic counseling, tutoring, disability accommodations and writing services.
- Multicultural Center and International Student Affairs – Cross-cultural learning and engagement programs.
- TogetherAll – A safe, anonymous and free online space dedicated to supporting mental health and well-being. Whether you are going through a rough patch or struggling to cope with something big, TogetherAll can help you explore your feelings in a supportive environment. Inside TogetherAll, students can share their experiences in a peer-supported community monitored by trained professionals, access self-assessments and recommended resources, and use creative tools for self-expression. The platform is available 24/7, 365 days a year. Webster students can register or log in at no cost through their Connections account. For immediate crisis intervention, students can contact Protocall at 314-246-7030 (Option 1).
Faculty & Staff Support Services
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Confidential mental health support and counseling.
- Office of Human Resources – Employment-related guidance and support.
- Professional Development & Wellness – Resources for resilience, growth and well-being.
Existing Protocols for External Law Enforcement Request
Webster University prioritizes the safety and privacy of its students and employees.
Our policies regarding external law enforcement include:
- Direct Inquiries to Public Safety – If approached by law enforcement, direct them to Webster University’s Department of Public Safety at 314-968-7430.
- No Disclosure Without Legal Mandate – Webster does not share student or employee information unless legally required (e.g., court order, subpoena).
- Limited Assistance – Public Safety does not assist ICE or other agencies in immigration enforcement unless required by law.
ICE & Missouri Jurisdiction
Missouri falls under the ICE Chicago Field Office, which oversees immigration enforcement in Illinois, Wisconsin, Kentucky, Missouri and Kansas. ICE officers do not have authority to enforce state or municipal laws, including traffic laws.
- ICE arrest warrants must be signed by a judge.
- Warrantless ICE investigations require probable cause. Presence in the U.S. alone does not justify enforcement action.
- If approached by ICE or other law enforcement, know your rights. Visit National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) for more details.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) Compliance
Webster University protects student records under FERPA.
- No student information is released without a valid court order, subpoena or the student’s written consent.
- Faculty & Staff: If contacted by ICE or law enforcement requesting student records, notify Public Safety immediately of the request. Public Safety will then contact the appropriate people in leadership, who likely will refer this to Webster's general counsel.
- For full FERPA guidelines, visit the Webster University Student Handbook (FERPA Section).
Know Your Rights With Immigration and Customers Enforcement (ICE)
All individuals in the U.S. regardless of immigration status have legal rights under the Constitution. If approached by ICE agents, it is important to understand these protections:
- You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status or how you entered the U.S.
- You do not have to open your door unless ICE presents a valid search warrant signed by a judge.
- You have the right to speak to a lawyer before signing any documents.
- Do not provide false documents or lie to an ICE officer.
Travel Considerations For Students
Students planning international travel should be aware of potential implications due to recent federal actions.
- Consult International Recruitment & Services (IRIS) – Before traveling abroad, check with IRIS to ensure you have up-to-date visa and travel documentation.
- Be Aware of Potential Delays – Changes in federal policies may lead to longer processing times at ports of entry. Plan accordingly.
- Know Your Rights When Reentering the U.S. – International students should carry valid documentation at all times and be prepared for possible additional screening at airports or border crossings.
- For travel-related guidance, contact:
Final Statement
We remain committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive community. This page will be updated regularly as new information becomes available. If you have concerns or need assistance, please reach out to me.
Vincent C. Flewellen
Associate Vice President Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Chief Diversity Officer