By AFRO Staff

Morgan State University (MSU) officials have decided to cancel or postpone all events related to the 2023 homecoming season. 

In a message to the MSU community on Oct. 4, David K. Wilson, Ed.D., president of the institution explained the decision.

“Today, we unfortunately find ourselves navigating this tragic event during a time at which we should be celebrating our National Treasure during Homecoming. Please understand that the safety of our campus is of the utmost importance and our resolve in ensuring that we have a secure campus is paramount,” stated Wilson, in the letter. “In response to last evening’s events, we are aggressively increasing security measures on campus, further amplifying additional security measures that have been implemented in recent years.” 

“Regarding Homecoming, regrettably for the very first time in Morgan’s history all activities planned around Homecoming will be either canceled or postponed until the perpetrator(s) of this atrocity have been found and brought to justice,” explained Wilson. 

The institution will postpone the MSU 39th Annual Homecoming Gala, which was set for Oct. 6, and the football match against the Stony Brook University Seawolves that was planned for Oct. 7. 

Wilson said in his letter that “canceled activities include: the Homecoming Concert, Silent Headphones Party, Homecoming Pep Rally, Homecoming Parade and all other on campus events including our Lady Bear Volleyball match.”

Students are being offered counseling and classes were canceled for the remainder of the week. 

Wilson said the choices made were tough. 

“We arrived at this decision after very careful—and at times emotional—deliberation with key stakeholders within our University community including members of my administration, student leaders from SGA and our University Council,” he wrote. “In closing, I want to reiterate our unwavering commitment to delivering a safe campus for our entire Morgan family. We greatly appreciate the support of our larger community who have expressed their concern and support during this most trying time. As more details become available, please know that you will hear from me in the coming days.”