Dean of Students

When we hear the words EDI or DEI, they're really an acronym for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.

ECC remains unwavering in its commitment to its mission, vision, and strategic plan, fostering a welcoming, open, and accepting environment. Its practices have not changed, and it is dedicated to maintaining its alignment with these guiding principles.

We are aware of the Office of Civil Rights complaint happening in the state of Colorado. Here on campus, we have several bathrooms open to all genders. We continue to protect gender identity information in our computer systems under FERPA.

Federal financial aid for ECC students remains unchanged, and all current ECC financial aid policies remain in effect. No executive orders have been issued to eliminate it, as that requires congressional action. The federal administration clarified that the executive order's funding freeze does not affect individual students' federal financial aid. We recommend all students complete the FAFSA to apply for financial assistance, including scholarships from the ECC Foundation.

Currently, Title IV funding, which provides Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), has not been impacted by these executive orders.

These executive orders have not impacted Title IV funding, which currently provides Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). We encourage everyone eligible to complete the FAFSA. 

On February 6, 2025, the Trump administration filed a lawsuit against Illinois, Chicago, and Cook County. The lawsuit challenges their sanctuary policies limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities and alleges that these local laws impede federal immigration enforcement efforts. As a blue state, we seem targeted, but states have the right to prioritize their police resources. Immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility and not a state requirement.

The CRSS grant is state-funded (not federally funded) and would not be impacted by a federal freeze. However, the college receives other federally funded grants. As the situation evolves, ECC remains committed to adapting and overcoming the challenges we face. While we may not have all the answers now, we provide clear information as soon as possible.

No current federal or state law prohibits undocumented students’ admission to Elgin Community College or the college in their area. A Social Security Number or ITIN is not required to register for classes or to receive a certificate or degree. We don’t keep track of that information because of FERPA. For specific legal questions about your status, the college recommends community partners. Centro de Información offers low-cost immigration legal services. They can be reached at 847-695-9050.    

At this point, the executive orders have not impacted international students on F1 student visas. ECC’s Board of Trustees sets tuition rates for all student categories. These rates have historically not been influenced by federal financial aid. ECC continues to have the second-lowest tuition rate in the state, and we understand that keeping tuition rates low is important for ECC students and their families.