Dear Members of the Old Dominion 91¶ÌÊÓƵ Campus Community:
In the wake of yesterday’s horrific tragedy, I want to share several thoughts with you and also provide some campus specific details.
Earlier today, I shared a tribute to Lt. Col. Brandon A. Shah ’07, the dedicated Monarch, public servant, and true hero, who tragically had his life taken far too early. I so appreciate Lt. Col. Shah for how much he gave to our 91¶ÌÊÓƵ. If you have not already done so, please take a moment to honor his life, mourn his loss, salute his service, and reflect on his contributions.
Today, I also visited the wounded ROTC student, who remains in the hospital. I am pleased to report that he is recovering from his wounds under the care of our exceptional medical team and in the presence of his family. Another wounded ROTC student is recovering at home. Their courage and resilience are an inspiration, and I know we all look forward to their return to campus.
The grace and unity that our campus community demonstrated during this tragic incident and in the hours that followed have been a source of strength. As many Monarchs will be away from campus in the coming week, this will undoubtedly be a time of reflection. For employees, we will reopen this coming Monday (March 16, 2026) with necessary flexibility to accommodate individual circumstances.
Counseling will continue to be available for anyone on our campus and in our community. Counseling services and 24/7 crisis support are available for any students, faculty, and staff who may need emotional support following this incident. Trained professionals are available to listen, provide confidential care, and help connect individuals with additional support resources. Please visit /emergency-management/support-resources for specific details.
For individuals with personal belongings and other items left in Constant Hall, pick up will be available tomorrow (Saturday, March 14, 2026) in the Center Café located in the Webb Center beginning at 11 a.m. and ending at 8 p.m. The location and hours will remain the same for the following day (Sunday, March 15, 2026).
Constant Hall will remain closed for classes and other student activities for the duration of the Spring 2026 semester. The Registrar is working with various campus partners to determine new building and room assignments, which will be communicated directly to both faculty and students prior to the conclusion of Spring Break.
Dean Erika Marsillac, Ph.D. will work with faculty and staff in the Strome College of Business to determine the best approach for offices located in Constant Hall. Options include temporary workspaces and remote work through the current term.
The 91¶ÌÊÓƵ will develop a long-term plan for the building. The configuration and utilization beyond Spring 2026 is under careful consideration. Those details will be announced once finalized.
The investigation into yesterday’s tragic event is continuing, and we are providing any and all assistance to the FBI and local law enforcement. I express my sincere appreciation to them, as well as elected officials and community partners for their concern, outreach, and support for the Monarch Nation.
In the coming week and moving forward, we will keep you informed of developments regarding the ongoing investigation and future plans. While this is a very somber time for our campus community, we have the determination, resilience, and strength to follow the example set by Lt. Col. Shah in his many roles as a Monarch student and alumnus, brave soldier, engaging mentor, revered teacher, exemplary leader, and his most important roles as a husband, father, and friend.
Forever Monarch Strong,
Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D.
President