Illinois University Shifts to Online Learning Following ICE Office Discovery
Lewis University, a private Catholic institution in Illinois, has announced a significant operational change after learning that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) maintains administrative offices within the same building as one of its campus locations. The university confirmed that all in-person classes at its Oak Brook facility would transition to online delivery for a specific period as a precautionary safety measure.
Building Tenancy Concerns Prompt Safety Response
The university revealed that it was recently alerted about the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) leasing office space at 1111 W. 22nd Street in Oak Brook, Illinois, where ICE subsequently established administrative operations. Lewis University operates one of its educational locations within this same multi-tenant property but emphasized it has no control over leasing decisions involving other occupants.
"In light of social media attention referencing the potential for protests at the site, and the community's concerns regarding ICE, we are taking precautionary steps to support a safe, productive, and welcoming learning environment for all," the university stated in its official announcement, which was reported by multiple news outlets including the New York Post.
Temporary Online Transition Implemented
The temporary adjustment affects all in-person classes at the Oak Brook location from February 16 through February 21, with courses transitioning to online delivery where possible. University administrators described this as one of several measures being implemented to ensure instructional continuity while prioritizing the safety and well-being of students, faculty, and staff members.
"This adjustment is one of several measures being implemented to ensure continuity of instruction while prioritizing the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff," the university clarified in its formal statement. "We are communicating directly with property management and will provide updates as additional information becomes available."
Community Resources and Support Services
The university announcement specifically encouraged students to utilize available support services during this period of adjustment. Students experiencing anxiety or needing additional support were directed to the Lewis University Center for Health and Counseling Services or TimelyCare, which provides telehealth services available 24 hours daily, seven days weekly.
Broader Context of ICE-Related Tensions
The university's decision comes amid heightened tensions surrounding ICE operations nationally. Recent incidents have contributed to increased community concern, including:
- The January 7 shooting death of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent after she allegedly attempted to ram an officer with her vehicle
- The January 24 shooting death of Alex Pretti during escalating protests against federal agents
- ICE's own January report documenting dramatic increases in assaults (over 1,300%), vehicle attacks aimed at officers (3,200% increase), and death threats (8,000% increase)
A spokesperson for Lewis University informed Fox News Digital that the institution had no additional comments at this time but confirmed that updates regarding operations at the Oak Brook location beyond February 21 would be forthcoming as the situation develops.
