Lewis University moved in-person classes online at its Oak Brook campus this week after learning that Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents are leasing space in the building they rent.

The move comes amid national pushback to President Donald Trump’s expansion of immigration agents, including attempts to open warehouses for long-term detention and expand office space. The White House’s efforts have faced opposition in Democrat-run cities and states but also in Republican strongholds as public opposition mounts to the administration’s heavy handed approach to immigration.

Lewis University operates at 1111 W. 22nd Street in Oak Brook and recently learned that the U.S. General Services Administration is leasing office space within the building for ICE administrative offices, the school said in a statement.

The school moved all in-person classes and activities online for the week from Feb. 16 through Feb. 21, the school said.

“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,” Lewis said in a statement.

In a statement, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security said it won’t confirm its locations due to the public backlash.

“Is it really news that when a federal agency hires more personnel that they need more space?” the statement said, noting it hired an additional 12,000 ICE officers and agents across the country.

https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/02/18/lewis-university-ice-office-oak-brook/