URGENT UPDATE: The University of Michigan’s Board of Regents convened Thursday to tackle pressing issues, including the controversial presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the critical state of gender-affirming care. This meeting comes as concerns mount among students and community members regarding safety and access to healthcare.
During the session held at the Alexander G. Ruthven Building, Michigan Medicine officials revealed that the new D. Dan and Betty Kahn Health Care Pavilion, which opened on November 23, 2025, has successfully treated an average of 194 patients a day and conducted 1,250 surgeries since its launch. Chief nurse Julie Ishak emphasized the dedication of healthcare staff, stating, “Teamwork and caring are two of our core values at Michigan Medicine, and they were on full display that day.”
Regent Jordan Acker raised alarms about ICE’s recent decision to lease space at a commercial property near Southfield, which has left many immigrant students and staff feeling vulnerable. Acker, alongside Rep. Rashida Tlaib and state Sen. Jeremy Moss, participated in public demonstrations against ICE, stating, “When masked officers operate without visible identification… trust erodes and fear fills the gap.” He called for clearer identification for law enforcement on campus to restore safety and confidence among the community.
In addition to discussions on ICE, Chancellor Gabriella Scarlatta reported a looming budget shortfall for the Dearborn campus for the 2026-2027 academic year due to declining enrollment, particularly among international graduate students. She noted efforts to enhance domestic enrollment through initiatives like the Great Lakes Scholarship, which offers in-state tuition to nearby states.
Public commentary highlighted emotional pleas regarding gender-affirming care. Community member Kim Dorey, mother of two transgender children, urged regents to restore gender-affirming care for patients under 19, which was halted following a federal subpoena. Dorey lamented, “What is the best way to explain to your child that they no longer have access to the care that saved their life?”
Interim President Domenico Grasso addressed ongoing evaluations for a proposed data center partnership with Los Alamos National Laboratory. Concerns from the Ypsilanti community about potential environmental impacts have prompted careful review of two sites, including one near vulnerable residential areas. Grasso affirmed, “We are conducting careful due diligence that includes listening,” emphasizing the University’s commitment to community engagement.
In a powerful closing statement, Ypsilanti Township Supervisor Brenda Stumbo urged regents to consider relocating the data center to minimize impact on local residents, asserting, “I’m asking, as elected public servants, please consider the people who are affected, the environment, and how we can make this a win-win for everyone.”
This urgent meeting underscores the University of Michigan’s ongoing challenges as it navigates healthcare access, community safety, and fiscal responsibility. The regents’ actions and decisions in the coming weeks will be critical for the university community and its surrounding neighborhoods.
Stay tuned for more developments as this situation unfolds.
