The Trump administration's announcement that it is phasing out the DACA program drew swift condemnation from higher education officials in Oregon Tuesday.
The leaders of Oregon's largest public universities quickly sought to reassure students with DACA status that their schools wouldn't be turning them over to federal authorities.
University of Oregon President Michael Schill called ending DACA a moral issue and said that it would be wrong to uproot young adults who were brought to the U.S. as children.
Portland Community College President Mark Mitsui said DACA has been a crucial option for PCC students and even some staff.
"It's meant the ability to go to school, earn a degree or credential, support their families, and be engaged, committed members of our community,” he said.
Clackamas Community College Board Chair Jane Reid said DACA students "should not be used as political pawns.”