Supporting the ODU community, one concern at a time.
At Old à£à£Ö±²¥Ðã University, we recognize that students, faculty, and staff may encounter challenges that affect their well-being and behavior. Peers and colleagues are often well-positioned to notice when someone is struggling.
To support our community, ODU established the Office of Threat Assessment (OTA) and Threat Assessment Team (TAT).
The Threat Assessment Team (TAT) is a cross-functional, multidisciplinary group committed to identifying, evaluating and managing the risks associated with certain behaviors that may pose a threat to the campus community's safety.
The Office of Threat Assessment is responsible for leading and facilitating the threat assessment and violence prevention processes at ODU.
We encourage all members of the Monarch community, including students, faculty, staff, and parents, to report any behaviors that seem concerning, no matter how minor they may appear. Your vigilance can be the first step in helping someone get the support they need and in maintaining a safe environment for everyone.
To report a concern or learn more about the Threat Assessment Team please visit our threat assessment team page.
Why Report a Concern
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Early Intervention
A quick response means rapid solutions for the distressed individual, ensuring they remain successful academically or at work. With timely resources, they can avoid the negative consequences of late intervention, such as dropped or failed classes.
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Connecting the Dots
We receive reports from all over campus. Our ability to connect your concerns with the concerns of others means we are able to provide a greater level of support to all involved. When piecing together a puzzle, every bit of information matters!
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Monarchs Care
Reporting your concern shows that you care enough to get the person the help they need. It means you are not prepared to let someone fall through the cracks, and that ODU is a family that takes care of its members.
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It May Be Required
Under certain circumstances, faculty, staff, and students are obligated to report acts of violence and other threatening behaviors. Review ODU Policies & Procedures for details.
Behaviors that cause concern:
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Verbal or written threats toward individuals, groups, or institutions
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Homicidal or suicidal ideation or behavior
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Disturbing writings, drawings, self-produced videos, or internet communications containing violent or threatening content or fantasy
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Fixation on a person, group, grievance, or cause, including obsessive or intrusive thoughts or communications
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Expressions of paranoia or distrust that are contextually disproportionate to the situation
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Hostile, aggressive, or bullying behavior toward others
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Grievance-driven ideation, particularly where the individual feels wronged or persecuted and sees violence as a form of redress
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Unusual or worrisome interest in prior attacks, mass shootings, or publicized acts of violence
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Weapon-seeking behavior, especially if linked to statements about potential attacks
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Rehearsal of attacks or ambush scenarios, either through behavior or expressed ideation
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Sudden or unexplained changes in behavior, mood, or functioning, particularly if accompanied by increased isolation or withdrawal from others
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Statements or behaviors suggesting feelings of hopelessness, desperation, or revenge
What should you do?
Here are several suggested courses of action you could take to help you decide how best to handle your concern:
- In imminent emergencies, dial 9-1-1 or contact the ODU Police Department at 757-683-4000
- Discuss your concerns with any member of TAT
- When in doubt, report the concern