Two historically Black universities in Virginia — one in Hampton Roads — and others across the South have received threats and canceled classes as a result.
Hampton University “has received notice of a potential threat and has ceased all non-essential activity,†according to a statement posted by the school Thursday morning.
All campus activities and classes were canceled Thursday and Friday, according to the school. That includes all athletic events and activities. Meetings are encouraged to be held remotely and all students on campus are encouraged to “minimize their movement across campus except for essential activities.†Students who live off-campus should not come to the campus, according to the university.
The school also said all non-essential personnel, including faculty and staff, should evacuate campus immediately, noting that “enhanced security measures are in effect across campus.â€
Anyone with information should contact HU Police at 757-727-5300. Virginia State Police is providing assistance “in response to an incident at Hampton University,†according to a release.
At Virginia State University, near Petersburg, the university reported a “threat to campus safety,†which prompted a lockdown. Classes were canceled, and all non-essential employees have been told to work remotely, according to a release from Gwen Dandridge, the assistant vice president of communications.
As of about 1 p.m., Virginia State reported no incidents or injuries in connection with the threat that had prompted the still-active lockdown. University administrators said local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies were actively investigating the credibility of the threat.
“We ask all members of the VSU community to remain vigilant — if you see something, say something,†Dandridge said in an update. Suspicious or criminal activity can be reported to VSU police at 804-524-5411.
and — both of which are also historically Black colleges — have reportedly been placed under similar lockdowns. Alabama State received “terroristic threats,†multiple media outlets report, prompting its lockdown.
