Brandeis University reopens its campus after bomb threat forced an evacuation

Brandeis University in Waltham, Mass., has resumed normal operations after a bomb threat closed the campus Wednesday.

"Now that the 'all-clear has been sounded, residence halls have been reopened and we will resume full campus operations," Brandeis President Ron Liebowitz said in an online message to the campus community. 

"As we prepare for the majority of our students moving in for the fall semester this weekend and next week, I want to reassure you that the safety and well-being of all members of our community is our highest priority."

Officials closed the campus Wednesday morning after receiving a threat via email. Although classes were not in session, several hundred early-arriving students already were on campus, as were many administrators, professors and other staff members.

"With an abundance of caution, we have determined to close the Brandeis campus to all faculty and non-essential personnel until public safety personnel can assure our community that there is no longer a threat," the university announced.

The campus was closed while authorities completed a search of all buildings. 

"Faculty and staff who were asked to depart from campus did so quickly," Leibowitz said. "Students remained in good spirits, were mutually supportive, and generally handled the day in a simply exemplary way. In short, we came together as a strong, united, caring, and competent Brandeis community."

Leibowitz says authorities are continuing to investigate the threat, and police officers will maintain a visible presence on campus.