Resources for Federal Policy Changes

Federal Policy Updates & Resources

The University of Washington is providing resources for faculty, staff and students with the information, resources and tools they may need to stay in accordance with changing federal policies. They are closely evaluating and monitoring the ongoing guidance and the possible impact on members of our community and to our teaching, research and services.

You can find additional updates from the UW Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, Tricia Seri, on the Provost’s Blog.

Visit the Provost's Blog

Along with the UW, the School of Social Work is here to support members of our community while navigating changes brought on by the new administration. The School of Social Work will continue to live by the core values of social work as we care for each other, build connections, and provide support to individuals and communities who are feeling increasingly vulnerable. Please reach out for the support you need and also lend your strength to help those who need comfort.

Immigration Resources

International students and scholars are essential and valued members of our University and they contribute immensely to our community, state and nation. Increased federal immigration enforcement actions have raised concerns among members of the UW community. Washington state law prohibits the sharing of information or use of state resources, including University resources, to target Washington residents solely on the basis of race, religion, immigration, citizenship status, or national or ethnic origin. In addition, most student information is protected by federal law (FERPA).

In the event of a federal official from Immigration & Customs Enforcement or another agency appearing and requesting information or access, the University has developed protocols for response: UW protocol for responding to requests from federal law enforcement agencies – Campus Community Safety

If immigration officials come to your classroom, laboratory, campus residence or office, you must immediately contact your campus or facility safety office. They’ll work with the Attorney General’s Office so that we can respond appropriately given relevant state and federal laws. Employees should also notify their supervisor. We would also appreciate it if you would contact your safety office if you become aware of immigration officials on a campus or at a UW facility more generally.

Please explore these additional immigration resources:

School of Social Work Mental Health Resources

Talk with SSW Mental Health Specialist Lev Cunningham about anything on your mind, including referrals to resources and community networks, or if you need someone to just listen. For a referral to an alternate confidential support, email sswmentalhealth@uw.edu.
Need mental health support ASAP? Husky Helpline is UW’s same-day service to connect you with licensed clinicians 24/7 and in multiple languages via app and phone.
Need a break? Move at the IMA, experience art at the Henry, or visit the UW Medicinal Herb Garden.
Worried about access to food? Access Any Hungry Husky.

School of Social Work Human Resources

Please reach out to sswhr@uw.edu or call 206-221-7441 for immediate needs and our administrative offices will direct calls as appropriate.
UWHR resources: Immigration enforcement on campus – HR Support Resources for Federal Policy ImpactsHR Support Resources for Federal Policy Impacts

Message from the UW

You can stay up-to-date on the UW’s newest announcements regarding federal policy updates here.

We are committed to supporting our community while navigating this uncertain terrain. While we await additional information from federal agencies, we remain in compliance with state and federal laws that guide our programs. We will continue activities as planned until or unless we are notified differently. We also remain in close contact with the Washington Attorney General’s Office to ensure the important work we do in the service of access and excellence is protected to the full extent allowable by law.

We are closely evaluating and monitoring changes in federal policies and the possible impacts they could have on members of our community and our teaching, research, service and patient care. This is a fluid situation, and we continue to evaluate how to deal with various scenarios, including executive orders issued by President Donald J. Trump and related court rulings. While our planning is constant, any actual adjustments to our activities will be based on specific information rather than speculation on our compliance responsibilities.

Jan. 27, 2025: Our mission and values will guide us through changing times

Additional Resources from the UW

If you have any harassment concerns, there are resources available through UW to address and support.
Resources for caring for your well-being and those of students and employees are available on each campus and via the Washington State Employee Assistance Program.
The Office of the Provost has launched a Monitoring Changes in Federal Policies page, providing updates and insights on potential impacts.
The WholeU has created Building Strength from Within During Times of Change to provide change management and self-care resources, specific tools for managers, and post-election support.
The UW Office of Research recently published the Guidance on New Administration Policy for Federal Research that covers responding to award change notifications, and general award guidance on proposals, post-submission, advance spending, reports, travel, subawards, etc.
The DOM has comprehensive lists of well-being and DEIB resources.

Campus and Facility Safety Contacts

Seattle campus: 911 or (206) 685-8973
UW Bothell: 911 or (425) 352-5359
UW Tacoma: 911 or (253) 692-4416
UW Medicine clinical facilities: Please contact the Administrator On Call for your specific facility.

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