Thursday, September 11, 2025, turned into a frightening day for students and staff at three historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Alabama State University, Hampton University, and Virginia State University each confirmed that they received threats that forced administrators to cancel classes, close campuses, and in some cases order lockdowns.Alabama State University (ASU) issued an official statement announcing that its campus was closed for the remainder of the day. Students living on campus were directed to shelter in place, while those who live off campus were asked to leave immediately after their building was cleared by law enforcement. Campus Police and outside agencies are currently sweeping buildings, and all campus events and operations have been suspended.Hampton University canceled all classes and activities for both Thursday and Friday, including athletic events, after confirming it received a “potential threat.” The university urged students and staff to stay away from campus unless absolutely necessary, while enhanced security measures were put in place.Virginia State University (VSU) also confirmed it is on lockdown as law enforcement investigates a threat received earlier in the day. No injuries have been reported. The school canceled all afternoon classes and extracurricular activities, while advising students to remain indoors except for essential movement. Extra security has been deployed both on campus and at VSU housing locations off-campus.
These developments come just one day after conservative activist Charlie Kirk was assassinated on a Utah college campus, an event that has already intensified national conversations about safety, political violence, and security in higher education.All three universities stressed that the safety of their communities is their top priority, urging students, staff, and faculty to stay alert and report anything suspicious.These threats follow a troubling pattern that has targeted HBCUs across the country in recent years. Federal and local authorities have not yet disclosed the source or credibility of the latest wave of threats.Baller Alert will continue to follow this story as more details become available.
