Dear Avila Community,
Last night we experienced a brief scare, with what was initially feared to be an active shooter incident on campus. At approximately 7:30, a woman from the local community entered a classroom in O’Reilly Hall, claiming to be fleeing a man with a gun. Campus security was immediately involved, as was the Kansas City Police Department (KCPD), and our campus safety protocols were engaged. Text messages went out to the community to shelter in place, while rooms were briefly locked electronically through our centralized system.
The KCPD quickly concluded that there was no actual threat to the campus community, and the all-clear was sent out.
Thanks to Campus Security, the KCPD, to Dr. Jordan Wagge, and to all students impacted by this incident, for your cooperation in keeping Avila a safe and secure campus.
Please note that we have counseling services available through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for faculty and staff. For students, please contact Student Affairs for information on counseling services available, either in person or through our telehealth provider.
Thank you all.
Peace,
Jim
Jim Burkee, Ph.D.
President and Professor of History
Avila University