May 31, 2007
Updated: 9:54 a.m.

Seattle Central is open for classes today. We will hold evening classes as usual.

As we first reported on Friday, May 25, a message with a threat to commit mass violence on campus was discovered in the men's restroom in the Science and Mathematics Building. It was written on a toilet paper dispenser and specifically referred to May 31. The message in its entirety says "I will kill everyone at SCCC on May 31." There is no further information and no specifics. Thus, rumors that this is a bomb threat or any specific threat are unfounded.

In response to this threat, we have increased security in and around our campus. Today you will notice officers from the Seattle Police Department working along with our own campus security and officers from our North and South campuses. I want to thank each of these officers for their help in securing our campus.

We are taking this threat very seriously. Faculty, staff and students are advised to use their best personal judgment about reporting to work and classes today. This is an unsettling and unprecedented situation for our campus. If you feel you cannot come to campus today, accommodations will be made.

The eyes and ears of our entire campus community is our best defense against violence. If you see or hear something suspicious, call security at 587-5442. In case of emergency, call 911. "Suspicious" means anything out of ordinary and persons who act unresponsive or odd, or perhaps dressed inappropriately for this week's warm weather.

Please be assured that we are doing everything in our power to provide a safe working and learning environment. Threats like these are an unfortunate reality on all college campuses today. We are doing everything possible to maintain a safe environment for all. Thank you.

Mildred W. Ollée, President