Three HBCUs Have Shut Down Campuses Today After Receiving Threats

Three Historically Black Colleges and Universities: Alabama State University, Hampton University, and Virginia State University have been forced to shut down campus operations and cancel classes in response to potential threats received on Thursday, September 11.

The precautionary lockdowns and closures have disrupted regular academic activities and placed a renewed spotlight on campus safety across HBCU communities.

Alabama State University

In Montgomery, Alabama State University officials confirmed to WSFA 12 News that the campus was closed “out of an abundance of caution.” The university’s administration emphasized that law enforcement agencies are actively involved in investigating the situation.

“We are working in close coordination with the appropriate law enforcement agencies to assess the situation and to ensure the safety and security of our students, faculty, staff, and the broader ASU community,” a university spokesperson said. “The safety of our Hornet family is our highest priority.”

Hampton University

Hampton University announced a full cessation of non-essential activity beginning Thursday, issuing a formal statement noting that all classes, meetings, and athletic events were canceled for September 11 and 12.

“Hampton University has received notice of a potential threat and has ceased all non-essential activity, effective immediately. The safety and well-being of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors remain our highest priority,” the university wrote.

Hampton encouraged students to stay indoors and off-campus students to remain home. Non-essential faculty and staff were instructed to evacuate campus as enhanced security protocols were put into place.

Virginia State University

Virginia State University issued an “urgent alert” early Thursday morning, stating the campus would be closed for the day due to a potential threat. A university spokesperson confirmed that the campus was under lockdown, with students on campus told to shelter in place and those off campus advised not to return until further notice.

While details of the threats remain under investigation, the coordinated response by these institutions reflects the seriousness with which HBCUs are prioritizing the safety of their students and campus communities.

At Watch The Yard, we stand in solidarity with the students, faculty, and staff at Alabama State, Hampton, and Virginia State—as well as the broader HBCU community—as they navigate this challenging and alarming situation. The safety of our institutions is non-negotiable.