On September 11, two of Virginia’s most prominent Historically Black Colleges and Universities—Virginia State University (VSU) and Hampton University—shut down their campuses following threats that forced swift action to protect students, faculty, and staff.

Early in the morning, Virginia State University sent out emergency alerts announcing an immediate campus shutdown. Students, faculty, and staff were told to check their VSU email for instructions while law enforcement investigated the threat. The sudden move sparked confusion as students scrambled to find safety and information, highlighting the challenges schools face when navigating emergencies in real-time.

"Due to a potential threat, Virginia State University is currently on lockdown," school officials wrote in an email to students and staff, WWBT reported. "All students who are on campus should remain indoors, and those off campus should not come to campus at this time. All classes have been canceled, and all VSU employees are instructed to work remotely. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available."

Later that day, Hampton University followed suit, suspending all non-essential activity for two days. Classes, athletic events, and student gatherings were canceled, and security measures ramped up across the campus.

School officials urged students living off campus not to return and encouraged those already on campus to stay put unless absolutely necessary. Non-essential faculty and staff were instructed to leave, with Hampton emphasizing vigilance and a “see something, say something” approach. Updates are being shared via campus police and social channels.

The threats come on the heels of white supremacist Charlie Kirk being shot and killed during a speaking engagement at a Utah college on Wednesday.

As authorities continue their investigation, the message from both universities is clear: safety comes first, and the HBCU community is standing strong—even when under threat.