Dear Howard University Community,

It has been brought to our attention that a number of life-threatening and dangerous messages have been posted on social media by Howard University students, sent via email and group chats, threatening the safety of the Howard University community.

The safety of our campus community - students, faculty and staff - is our number one priority. Howard University takes all threats related to gun, and other forms of violence, very seriously.

After receiving reports and threats of gun violence and threats to personal safety, the University commenced an internal investigation, and referred the social media, emails and group chat posts to the appropriate authorities.

In light of the gun-related incidents on University campuses that have occurred nationally, we are fully cooperating with law enforcement. We recognize that we are not immune to people with ill intent that aim to cause harm to our community. 

Any students found responsible for participating in behavior that is in violation of the University Student Code of Conduct, will be held accountable for this behavior, up to, and including suspension, expulsion or prosecution. See here for the Code of Conduct every Bison is expected to adhere to: https://www.howard.edu/specialstudentservices/JudicialAffairs.htm.

While we fully empathize with students who may have financial challenges meeting established deadlines, threats against our campus community will not be tolerated under any circumstance. Each scholar on Howard University’s campus is held to a high level of excellence that is demonstrated in our credo. When our community is at our best, we are actively engaged. We support one another. We are respectful, and we advance civil discussions in search of higher understanding.

Howard’s practice has been and remains to accommodate students who have experienced extenuating circumstances. We are still committed to doing so, but we will not excuse vitriol and hate as a part of this process. That is not Howard. That is not the campus community that we have cultivated or aim to cultivate.

Advocacy is welcomed and encouraged but must be based on truth. Distorting facts and promoting violence is unacceptable. 

We are thankful to the students and staff who brought this concern to our attention. It took bravery to exhibit leadership and recognize the difference between expression of one’s discontent versus expression of violence against our own Howard community.

Even when we have differences of opinion, one thing always remains very clear – all of us love this institution, and only want the best for our fellow Bison. 

Excellence in Truth and Service,

Wayne A. I. Frederick, M.D., MBA
President