January 15, 2026

Dear students, faculty and staff,

As a new semester begins and you prepare to return to campus, we want to acknowledge the mix of emotions many in our community are feeling. There is real joy in seeing friends, colleagues and familiar faces, and settling back into the routine of things. At the same time, we know this moment has brought fear, sadness and anxiety for many. We want you to know that we acknowledge the tension, share your concern and understand what our community is going through.

A sense of safety is fundamental to the pursuit of learning, discovery and belonging. The University is committed to creating an environment where people from all backgrounds feel safe to live, work, learn and engage in the thoughtful exchange of ideas.

We recognize that the presence of federal law enforcement has real effects on people across our community.

The University of Minnesota Department of Public Safety, including the University of Minnesota Police Department (UMPD), does not enforce federal immigration laws and our officers do not inquire about an individual's immigration status. Their focus remains on public safety, fostering trust and maintaining strong relationships across the University community.

Here is some information for you to know as you return to campus.

Getting around

Safe Campus outlines many options to help you navigate campus, including Gopher Chauffeur and 624-Walk. Blue Light kiosks are located around campus and provide immediate access to 911 services when used, as well as 24/7 video surveillance.

Building access

In response to our shared concerns about building security, we have updated U Card access to buildings on the Twin Cities campus. Effective Tuesday, January 20, most buildings will require a U Card to enter. Always carry your U Card so you can access campus buildings without issue, and don’t prop doors open or allow someone to follow you into buildings. View current building hours and other campus information on Campus Maps.

Campus housing

University housing is accessible by U Card, and residents are reminded to have their U Card with them at all times and not allow others to follow them in without a U Card.

Stay informed

SAFE-U is the University of Minnesota's emergency notification messaging system. All students, faculty, and staff are automatically enrolled in SAFE-U Alerts. Text and phone call methods may be updated or changed within MyU. Dinkytown Alerts are opt-in emergency alerts for the limited area of Dinkytown in addition to SAFE-U Alerts. You can update your preferences by taking the following steps: Log in to MyU→ Select My info→ Select Manage SAFE-U Alerts →Select My Profile.

Reporting emergencies

If you determine your safety is in immediate jeopardy, there is civil disorder, or there is a likelihood of violence, call 911. If you cannot call 911, you can text 911. If you are on campus, a University 911 dispatcher will respond to your call.

Civic responsibilities

As we have seen across our cities and region, many Minnesotans are using their voices and their right to peaceful demonstration. If you choose to express yourself in this way, please stay safe. The University has guidelines and policies when demonstrations take place on campus, and it’s important to be familiar with them: Civic Responsibilities at the University of Minnesota.

You can find additional resources and more on Safe Campus, the University’s place for all things safety.

As you move through the semester, please know that you are not navigating these times alone. Our public safety teams, student support services, and campus leaders are here to listen and help as we work together to keep you safe and our campus secure.

Sincerely,

Gregg Goldman
Executive Vice President for Finance and Operations