Often, the Dean-on-Call will be present at protests, demonstrations, and other events on or adjacent to University property.

When called upon, the Dean-on-Call will work actively to preserve an environment of spirited and open discourse and debate. As part of the University’s Department of Safety and Security, UCPD and/or safety ambassadors may be present to assist the Dean-on-Call.

In collaboration with the Department of Safety and Security, the Dean-on-Call will:

• Provide an opportunity for participants to contribute to intellectual exchange and full engagement in an event.
• Support the event and event organizers, including protesters.
• Communicate expectations of University policies, which may include requests to see University identification.
• Work to ensure a safe environment.

The Dean-on-Call is not a confidential resource. However, the Dean-on-Call will ensure the student’s privacy; this means that only those people who need to know certain information in order to assist will be given the student’s name and other limited information as necessary. In rare instances, the Dean-on-Call may learn information from a student that the University may be obligated to pursue, even against the student’s wishes.

In consultation with the student, the Dean-on-Call may notify the student’s Resident Heads, Area Dean of Students, friends, family, and/or other pertinent parties as applicable regarding the situation. In some occasions, the Dean-on-Call may determine that a situation is critical enough as to inform the student’s Area Dean of Students of a specific incident without consultation with the student.

UChicago HELP ensures students’ privacy; this means that only those people who need to know certain information to assist are given the student’s name and other limited information as necessary. FERPA protects a student’s education record but allows for communication with parents and University staff in the event of an emergency or if a student poses a threat to themselves or others.

A student referred to UChicago Student Wellness can establish a collaborative and confidential relationship with a therapist who can help the student learn coping strategies. UChicago Student Wellness is in full compliance with state and federal mental health laws regarding confidentiality.

Calls made to University of Chicago Police Department (UCPD) regarding student concerns are routed to the Dean-on-Call. UCPD may be utilized to transport the Dean-on-Call on site when appropriate. In collaboration with Student Wellness and Housing and Residence Life, UCPD will assist the Dean-on-Call on student well-being checks.