President Wippman’s Writings & Remarks

Update on April 16 threat incident

April 17, 2023

Tags Public Statements

Dear Students,

Several of you have written to ask that the College cancel classes Monday and Tuesday. We understand the concerns you have raised and the stress and anxiety created by last night's threat of an active shooter and police presence on campus.

The lockdown and associated events will affect different members of our community differently. For some students, the structure and routine of classes and the resumption of normal activities will be helpful. Others may need to take more time to process what happened, though as some of you have noted, that will not happen overnight. Faculty have been informed of last night’s events and asked to consider adjustments to deadlines as appropriate.

The Counseling Center has set aside time all day today for individual sessions and is working on scheduling additional group wellness sessions throughout the week. Students may also contact the Student Support care team in the Dean of Students Office for additional support.

In the meantime, it may be helpful to know that the individual believed responsible for the threat on social media that prompted the shelter in place order has been arrested and will face disciplinary action.

We understand how difficult the events of last night have been for many in our community, and that many may continue to feel anxiety even as we resume our normal activities. Your safety is Hamilton's first priority, so we want to thank everyone for taking this threat seriously, following our safety protocols, showing compassion for one another as you took shelter, and continuing to support each other.

Sincerely,

David Wippman
Chris Card
Ngoni Munemo