Letter From The VSU President Regarding Campus Threat On September 11
Dr. Makola M. Abdullah responds to threats made against HBCUs across the country.
Dr. Makola M. Abdullah responds to threats made against HBCUs across the country.
Dear Trojan Family,
Today, Virginia State University—along with several other Historically Black Colleges and Universities—received a threat intended to disrupt, intimidate, and instill fear in our community. In response, we took immediate action, including a temporary campus lockdown, which has since been lifted with restrictions. Thankfully, no injuries or incidents were reported.
Let us be clear: these threats are not random. They are targeted attacks on institutions that have long stood as pillars of excellence, empowerment, and progress. HBCUs exist because we refused to be denied an education—and we thrive because we continue to rise in the face of adversity.
To those who seek to silence or scare us: we will not be intimidated. For over a century, Virginia State University and other HBCUs have stood as a beacon of knowledge, excellence, and resilience. Today’s events only reaffirm our commitment to providing a safe and empowering environment for our students, faculty, and staff.
The greatest revenge is to get an education. Every step you take forward, every class you attend, and every degree you earn is an act of resistance and triumph.
We remain in close coordination with law enforcement, and enhanced security will remain in place. As always, your safety is our top priority.
Thank you for your patience, vigilance, and unity. Together, we are—and always will be—GREATER.
Sincerely,
Makola M. Abdullah, Ph.D.
President
Virginia State University