In response to a credible security threat, Southern University faced a campus-wide security scare on Thursday, September 11, 2025. While the lockdown has been lifted, all weekend campus activities have been canceled as a precautionary measure, impacting the entire university community.
Lockdown Lifted, Activities Canceled
Southern University and A&M College, located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, along with its Law Center, Agricultural Research and Extension Center, and Laboratory School, initiated a lockdown on Thursday, September 11, 2025, due to a potential security threat. According to official university alerts, the lockdown, affecting all students, faculty, and staff, was implemented around 11 a.m. CT. The university promptly urged everyone on campus to shelter in place. By approximately 12:45 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. ET, the lockdown was officially lifted, as reported by multiple news outlets including WBRZ and 9News.
Despite the lifting of the lockdown, Southern University has taken the precautionary step of canceling all classes and campus activities through the weekend, extending until Sunday, September 14, 2025. This decision was made to ensure the continued safety and well-being of the university community following the earlier security incident.
Nationwide Hoax Threat Calls
The incident at Southern University was not isolated. It was part of a series of “hoax threat calls” targeting multiple Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the nation on Thursday. According to reports from 96.5 KPEL, other affected institutions included Hampton University, Virginia State University, Alabama State University, Clark Atlanta University, and Bethune-Cookman University. These coordinated threats prompted widespread concern and immediate action from law enforcement and university officials alike.
The FBI is involved in investigating these hoax threat calls, working in conjunction with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. The coordinated response underscores the seriousness with which these threats are being treated, despite their designation as “hoax” calls. The involvement of federal agencies highlights the potential for these incidents to be considered federal crimes, given their impact on educational institutions and potential disruption of interstate commerce.
Immediate Impact and Response
Shelter-in-Place Order
During the lockdown, students and staff on campus were instructed to shelter in place, finding secure locations within buildings and remaining there until further notice. Those who were off-campus were advised not to travel to the university, preventing further potential exposure to the perceived threat. The university’s swift communication, as reported by WLTX, was crucial in managing the situation and keeping the community informed.
Campus-Wide Cancellations
Following the lifting of the lockdown, classes were canceled for the remainder of Thursday and through the weekend. Non-essential employees were asked to evacuate the campus, minimizing the number of people present and allowing law enforcement to conduct thorough investigations. Accommodations are being made for students residing on campus, with direct communication providing specific instructions and support, according to Southern University Official Alerts.
Enhanced Security and Vigilance
In the wake of the incident, Southern University has implemented enhanced security measures to prevent future disruptions and ensure the safety of its community. The university is encouraging the community to hold meetings remotely, reducing the need for large gatherings on campus. Furthermore, the university is urging everyone to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to campus security or local law enforcement. This proactive approach emphasizes the importance of community involvement in maintaining a safe and secure campus environment.
Patch also reported that the university is working closely with law enforcement to review security protocols and identify any vulnerabilities that may have been exploited. This ongoing assessment is critical in adapting to evolving threats and ensuring that the university’s security measures remain effective.
Long-Term Implications and Moving Forward
The security scare at Southern University, while resolved, serves as a stark reminder of the potential threats facing educational institutions, particularly HBCUs. The coordinated nature of the hoax threat calls highlights the need for increased vigilance and collaboration between universities, law enforcement agencies, and federal authorities. The emotional and psychological impact on students, faculty, and staff should not be underestimated, and universities must provide adequate support and resources to help their communities cope with the aftermath of such incidents. The incident also underscores the importance of clear and timely communication during emergencies, ensuring that everyone on campus receives accurate information and instructions.
As Southern University moves forward, it is essential to learn from this experience and implement strategies to mitigate future risks. This includes enhancing security infrastructure, improving communication protocols, and fostering a culture of vigilance and preparedness. By working together, the university community can create a safer and more secure environment for all.
The cancellation of weekend activities represents a temporary disruption, but the long-term commitment to safety and security remains unwavering. Southern University is dedicated to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment, and these efforts are crucial in maintaining that commitment in the face of adversity. The university’s response to this incident demonstrates its resilience and determination to protect its community.
Mint reported the financial implications of such disruptions, noting that increased security measures and potential reputational damage can have significant economic consequences for universities. This underscores the need for proactive risk management and investment in security infrastructure to minimize the potential impact of future incidents.
In conclusion, the lockdown and subsequent cancellation of activities at Southern University highlight the challenges faced by HBCUs in the current security landscape. While the immediate threat has subsided, the incident serves as a catalyst for ongoing efforts to enhance security measures, improve communication protocols, and foster a culture of vigilance. By learning from this experience and working together, the Southern University community can create a safer and more secure environment for all.
