Once again, we have had to issue alerts of a threat to our community – this time the target was Clark Atlanta University, our neighbor and partner in the shared mission of the Atlanta University Center.
Our outstanding public safety teamworked quickly to inform our campus community that a threat was issued. The Atlanta Police Department responded immediately, and the Mayor once again dispatched additional patrols. An all clear was issued once it was determined that the threat was false.
During an FBI briefing this week, we learned that, in addition to HBCUs, Black churches and Jewish organizations have been targets of threats like these in 32 FBI regions nationally since the beginning of the year.
These threats have risen to the level of highest priority with Homeland Security and the FBI. Though they could not speak in detail, significant progress is being made on gathering necessary evidence against perpetrators.
As you know, we have developed a series of training exercises. The full schedule is available at this link: www.spelman.edu/training-for-emergencies. We urge you to participate in the upcoming exercises developed by our public safety team.
Also, be sure to visit their website to become familiar with the team and Spelman's safety protocols.
These incidents are unnerving. We encourage our students to take advantage of services in the counseling center and 1 p.m.Sunday services led by Rev. Neichelle R. Guidry, Ph.D.These spaces have been a source of peace and solace. In addition, we encourage
our faculty and staff to take advantage of our employee assistance program, which has counselors available24/7.
By all means, reach out to each other. Send a note of comfort, greet someone as you cross The Oval, be a listening ear to someone who needs one. We will weather this storm, in solidarity, together.
Regards,
Mary Schmidt Campbell, Ph.D. President, Spelman College
Dolores Bradley Brennan, Ph.D. Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Professor of Psychology, Co-Director, RISE Program
