Jersey City, NJ – Officials of Saint Peter’s College in Jersey City, New Jersey received a threatening note at 10:40am on Wednesday, February 20, 2008, prompting them to activate their emergency response system for the first time. Within minutes, messages were sent via text, email and cell phones, alerting students, faculty and staff members of possible danger. A message was also posted on the home page of the College’s Web site. The decision to utilize the newly-formulated system was made by the President of Saint Peter’s College, Eugene J. Cornacchia, in agreement with other top aides. The Jersey City Police began a thorough investigation of the campus, initiating a lockdown until they were assured that no danger was present. It was about five hours later that the alert was lifted and classes resumed.
“While it is a pity to realize that such an emergency system is necessary, it is a relief to know that it can be effective in safeguarding our community,” stated Dr. Cornacchia. “I applaud my staff and the Jersey City police department, as well as the students who remained calm during this disruptive period.”
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About Saint Peter’s College. Saint Peter’s College is the Jesuit College of New Jersey. Founded in 1872, Saint Peter’s has an enrollment of approximately 3,000 students in undergraduate and graduate programs. The main campus is located in Jersey City. The College has a branch campus for adults in Englewood Cliffs, NJ and also offers courses at various corporate sites at the Jersey City waterfront and in South Amboy, NJ.