Prairie View A&M University students, faculty and staff have used the tragic bombings at the finish line of the Boston Marathon in Boston, Mass. as motivation to be prepared during similar threatening situations.
Sheleah Reed, executive director of communications, sent a notice Monday evening encouraging students to be aware of the university web page, social networking sites and the Panther Alert system. The system allows students to be notified by phone or text messages during emergency situations where communication may be limited.
Monday afternoon during the Boston Marathon, a bomb went off on the side of the finish line. Seconds later, another bomb went off near the same area. Reportedly, the bombings killed three and injured hundreds more. Among those killed were 8-year-old Martin Richard whose 6-year-old sister lost her leg.
Officials are now trying to piece evidence, leads, pictures and videos together to track down the type of bomb, source of detonation and suspects. There are no strong leads so there is a high sense of anxiety around the nation.
Government relations officer and mayor of the city of Prairie View Frank Jackson said, “[The incident] is a reminder of how truly dangerous our world is. Prairie View, both the city and the university, have emergency management and emergency response plans synchronized with Waller County’s emergency management plan.”
Many students took time to show support to the victims and those affected by the incident. On social media networks students posted “Pray for Boston” messages and photos or the heartbreaking events on that day. Students even took the initiative to wear purple or red in honor of the victims.
“I think it’s really important to show support and awareness for these types of situations. Whether I’m directly affected or not, this affects my country,” said Ryan Tate, senior accounting major.
Though the university and students have taken action, it is imperative that students become well aware of the magnitude of our nation’s vulnerability. Campus police and security officials are well trained in case similar situations that may occur here on our campus or at related university events off campus.
“The Department of Public Safety needs the assistance of everyone. The entire community should pay close attention to their surroundings while on campus. Faculty, staff, and students need to report things that they consider suspicious or just not right,” said Wilton White, lieutenant of the DPS.
During a recent press conference, President Barack Obama said, “We will find whoever harmed our citizens and we will bring them to justice.”
Prarie View A&M
Tuesday, June 24, 2025