Lewis University has temporarily shifted courses and campus activities at its Oak Brook location to online delivery following the discovery that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) maintains administrative office space within the same building. The decision, outlined in two official communications from university leadership, reflects growing concerns about student safety, potential protests, and the institution’s broader commitment to maintaining a supportive learning environment.
University officials stated that Lewis was “recently alerted that the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) is leasing office space within the building where we operate our Oak Brook location at 1111 W. 22nd Street, Oak Brook, Illinois, and that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is utilizing space for its administrative offices.” The university clarified that it “is one of several tenants in the property and does not have control over leasing decisions involving other occupants.”
The presence of ICE offices quickly gained attention online, prompting discussions among students and community members. Administrators acknowledged that “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.”
As an immediate measure, the university transitioned all in-person instruction scheduled between Feb. 16 and Feb. 21, 2026, to remote formats when possible. Courses requiring physical attendance, such as lab-based classes, were canceled during that period. Officials described the move as “one of several measures being implemented to ensure continuity of instruction while prioritizing the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff.”
A broader academic adjustment soon followed. In a campus-wide message, Provost Dr. Christopher Sindt thanked members of the university community for their cooperation, writing, “Thank you for your patience, understanding, and flexibility as we navigate the transition to an online modality for classes and activities at our Oak Brook location.” He acknowledged that “this situation has brought unexpected challenges for many,” adding that the university was “truly grateful for the resilience and cooperation shown across our community.”
Sindt emphasized that Lewis University’s guiding principles shaped the decision-making process. “As a Catholic and Lasallian university, our Mission calls us to foster a respectful, supportive, and inclusive environment where every individual is valued and treated with dignity,” the message stated. “This commitment guides our decision making, particularly when circumstances arise that may cause concern or disruption for members of our community.”
For Session I of the Spring 2026 semester, which runs from January 20 through March 14, the university announced specific scheduling changes. “All in-person activities scheduled at Oak Brook during Session I of the Spring Semester … will be transitioned,” the provost wrote. College of Business courses were moved “fully online,” while the Radiography and Nursing programs adopted “a combination of online and in-person classes at alternative locations.”
University officials underscored that students enrolled in affected courses would receive individualized guidance. “Students enrolled in affected courses will receive direct communication from their colleges and faculty with specific details,” the message explained. Administrators also sought to address potential concerns among international students, noting that “international students will receive separate communication that this transition will not impact the good standing of their student visas.”
Throughout both communications, Lewis University repeatedly framed the decision as a precautionary response rather than a reaction to any direct threat. “Our priority is to maintain a safe and supportive learning environment,” Sindt wrote, adding that the university “continues to work with partners to determine solutions for courses scheduled beyond Session I.”
