At Heartland Community College, we are committed to ensuring that immigrant students feel welcomed, valued, and supported. Guided by our commitment to equity, inclusion, access, and student success, we provide resources and assistance to help students navigate college processes and connect with available supports. While the College complies with applicable legal requirements and directives, we remain dedicated to treating all members of our community with dignity, respect, and fairness and to fostering an environment where every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
Need support or have questions? Jessica Pickel serves as Heartland's Undocumented Student Liaison and is available to help students connect with resources, navigate college systems, and find support throughout their time at Heartland. We encourage you to reach out and learn more about the services and assistance available to you.
Jessica Pickel, Dean of Students
deanofstudents@heartland.edu309-268-8300
WDC/Student Center Suite 2700
Resources for Students
Below are resources available for students from the college and in the community. This information is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
- Illinois Immigration Information Hub
- Office of the Illinois Attorney General
- The Immigration Project
- Illinois Coalition for Immigrant & Refugee Rights
- Heartland Resources for International Students
Law Enforcement Access and Campus Procedures
Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) Officers or other law enforcement on campus
Heartland Community College is committed to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment at each of our campus locations.
Students may contact Public Safety at 309-268-8300 regarding law enforcement activity on campus, including immigration enforcement or nonconsensual encounters with students or employees.
Representatives of the College have an obligation to protect student privacy as is required by law.
College employees who are approached by law enforcement and presented with a judicial warrant, nonjudicial warrant (including civil immigration detainers and civil immigration warrants as defined by the Illinois TRUST Act), search warrant, subpoena, other document, a verbal request, or a verbal demand should immediately contact a College Designated Law Enforcement Liaison.
Designated liaisons for ICE and other law enforcement officers:
- Steve Riesenberg, Director, Risk Management and Public Safety (primary)
Office: SCB 2001 ext. 8204 - Chris Nyman, Associate Director, Public Safety
Office: SCB 1016 ext. 8257 - Keith Gehrand, Assistant Director, Public Safety
Office: SCB 2001 ext.8454 - Amy Munson-Pawlik, Vice-President, Student Services
Office: WDC 2716 ext. 8249