Today's Shelter-in-Place

Dear Seattle University Community, 

I am writing to update you on the lockdown and shelter-in-place order that was issued earlier today.

Shortly after 4 p.m., Seattle police responded to reports of an armed carjacking in the 800 block of Broadway. With the incident occurring close to campus, Seattle police promptly contacted Seattle University Public Safety and a shelter-in-place order was issued. Once campus was cleared of any threat, the order was lifted. 

This was a scary incident. The sense of anxiety many of us experienced as events were unfolding on campus was only heightened with this week’s tragic events at Michigan State University fresh in our minds. Fortunately, thanks to the quick response by the Seattle Police Department and our Campus Public Safety, a potentially more dangerous situation was averted and no injuries were known to have occurred on or off campus. 

There is no higher priority than the safety and security of our campus community. Thank you to students, faculty and staff for recognizing the seriousness of this threat, securing in place and looking out for one another. I am particularly grateful for the response by the Seattle Police Department and Campus Public Safety. 

We know the stress and anxiety an incident like today’s can cause. The following resources are available should you need support: 

• Telehealth medical and mental health resources are available 24/7 through TimelyCare.
• Students can call Counseling and Psychological Services at 206-296-6090 for an appointment. Campus Ministers are available in Student Center 120. Call 206-296-6075 or 206-296-6052 for an appointment.
• Staff and faculty can access benefits through Resources for Living, SU’s employee assistance provider. Please contact Human Resources for more information at hr@seattleu.edu or 206-296-5870. 

Please do reach out for support if you are struggling. Also, this is a good reminder to sign up to receive emergency text alerts. For those who are not yet registered, you can do so here. Thank you for all you do to keep our community safe.

Warm regards, 

Eduardo M. Peñalver
President