November 1, 2026

Dear UD students, faculty, and staff,

As we navigate the days following the shooting adjacent to campus, we recognize that all of us are impacted. We know that there is value in coming together as a community and supporting each other, which is why we have made the decision to keep campus open.

At the same time, our whole community is shaken by last night’s shooting on Main Street. To give students, faculty, and staff time to rest, process, and connect with support, all classes will be suspended on Monday, Nov. 2. This decision is not based on a safety concern. Newark Police continue to indicate that there is no ongoing threat to the community.

Here is what a suspension of classes means for you.

Students: There will be no classes, in person or virtual, and no exams or assignments due Monday. With the University closed Tuesday for Election Day, classes resume Wednesday, Nov. 4. Campus dining and services will remain open, and we encourage all to gather.

Faculty: We ask that you do not hold class virtually or require work on Monday, and to please reschedule any exams or deadlines that fall that day.

Staff and other employees: You are encouraged to take the time and space you need to care for yourselves, support one another and attend to your personal well-being. Supervisors are asked to exercise flexibility and compassion in supporting employees. This may include approving leave or allowing employees to adjust their work schedules as appropriate.

Previously scheduled events for this evening and tomorrow can be held at the discretion of the event organizers. We recognize that there is a tradeoff between people taking a pause and the value in gathering together. The event organizer is best positioned to decide whether to hold the event or cancel.

Counseling walk-in support will be available Monday from 9:00 AM-4:00 PM in Warner Hall, and TimelyCare is available 24/7. Faculty and staff can reach the Employee Assistance Program.

The Newark Police continue with their active investigation; there is nothing further to report at this time. We encourage you to look to the Campus Alerts page, which contains prior updates and will provide further updates as information is available and confirmed as well as additional in-person campus support and resources as they are put in place. The banner at the top of the UD homepage will list when a new update is posted.

Yours in UD,
Laura, Bill and Ellen