On Thursday, January 22, Villanova University announced it was closing its campus due to a threat of violence aimed at an academic building. The alert, sent via NOVA Alert at 7:20 a.m., prompted immediate action from the university and was later confirmed by the Office of the President.
The FBI is now investigating the source of the threat. Villanova’s Public Safety team is collaborating with local, state, and federal law enforcement for a thorough investigation. Although it’s still unclear whether the threat is credible, the university opted for caution. Students living on campus are advised to stay in their residence halls, while non-residential students, faculty, and staff are instructed to avoid the campus for the time being.
To enhance security, there will be a noticeable increase in police presence around the university. The administration promised further updates at 9 a.m. and throughout the day as new information emerges.
This incident highlights a growing concern over campus safety. According to a 2022 survey by the National Center for Education Statistics, around 20% of students reported feeling unsafe on campus. Colleges and universities are prioritizing safety measures to address these feelings.
This situation is still unfolding, and local media, including The Villanovan, will keep the community informed as developments occur. For more on campus safety initiatives, you can explore resources from the U.S. Department of Education here.
