Undocumented Immigrants and Allies

Equity, Inclusion and Social Justice Undocumented Immigrants and Allies

The UIAKC aims to engage higher education and student affairs professionals in social discourse and action that centers undocumented students and professionals. We aim to share information, knowledge, practical resources, and research about, with, and for undocumented students, students from mixed-immigration status families, and undocumented professionals in higher education.

Message from the UIAKC Leadership

Welcome to the Undocumented Immigrants & Allies Knowledge Community (UIAKC)!
We are excited to partner with you in advancing support for undocumented students and professionals in higher education. Please stay connected with us through Facebook and LinkedIn, and be sure to join our email listserv by updating your NASPA member profile. If you would like to get involved in your region or participate in the upcoming NASPA Annual Conference in Kansas City, MO (March 7–11, 2026), we’d love to hear from you. Together, we can advocate for equity and create inclusive spaces that foster student success.

We are especially thrilled to welcome you to the NASPA 2026 Annual Conference in Kansas City! This year’s conference offers opportunities to connect with colleagues, share best practices, and engage in meaningful dialogue that will shape the future of higher education. Join us for policy briefings, community meetings, and networking events to learn more about the UIAKC and how you can contribute to this vital work.

Please mark your calendar for our pre-conference gathering on Saturday, March 7, 2026, and check the conference schedule for UIAKC workshops, sessions, and social events. Whether you are new to this work or a longtime advocate, your participation is essential in strengthening our collective efforts to build inclusive and supportive environments for undocumented students.

We look forward to connecting with you in Kansas City!

Leadership Team

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About

The Undocumented Immigrants & Allies Knowledge Community (UIAKC) engages higher education and student affairs professionals in dialogue and action that centers the experiences of undocumented students and professionals. We are committed to sharing information, research, practical resources, and knowledge about, with, and for undocumented students, students from mixed-status families, and undocumented professionals in higher education.

Vision

The UIAKC envisions a society where access, opportunity, and success in education are guaranteed—regardless of immigration status.

Mission

Our mission is to equip the higher education community to support undocumented students and professionals (with and without DACA) through advocacy, education, and empowerment. In response to harmful anti-immigrant policies and executive actions, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to advancing equity and inclusion. Undocumented students deserve safe learning environments, equitable access to higher education, and the opportunity to pursue their academic and professional goals without fear. We strive to create a higher education landscape where undocumented students are empowered, protected, and provided with the resources they need to thrive.


Key Advocacy Actions for College Advisors

1. Provide Accurate Information & Resources
Stay current on immigration policy updates, DACA developments, and financial aid opportunities. Share clear and reliable information to help students make informed decisions.

2. Foster a Safe & Supportive Environment
Advocate for inclusive spaces by championing undocumented student resource centers, access to legal services, and culturally responsive mental health supports tailored to their needs.

3. Advocate for Institutional & Policy Protections
Partner with campus leadership to implement sanctuary campus practices, expand eligibility for in-state tuition and scholarships, and ensure institutional statements reaffirm commitment to undocumented students.

4. Empower Students through Career & Academic Guidance
Support students in exploring alternative pathways such as entrepreneurship, fellowships, and graduate programs. Connect them with mentors and professional networks that encourage and sustain their aspirations.


By embracing these actions, we stand in solidarity with undocumented students and affirm higher education as a space of opportunity, inclusion, and justice for all.

Get Involved

Follow us on LinkedIn. Also, be sure to subscribe to our Listserv by clicking “My NASPA Engagement” and selecting “Undocumented Immigrants and Allies” in your NASPA profile.

Events

One of the best resources available to you is the wide range of professional development opportunities available through NASPA. This list contains hosted events, workshops, and webinars that we plan and manage, as well as some related events hosted by the NASPA Central Office or other NASPA Constituent Groups. To see a full listing of NASPA events, please see the Events page.