College community,

This morning, as you likely know, a suspicious package was discovered in the Maple Building garage in Newburgh. While the Maple Building is not owned or operated by the College, its adjacency to our buildings certainly places it squarely within our Newburgh campus community.

Fortunately, after all appropriate investigations, authorities confirmed that the package was not a threat.

As we digest the situation that unfolded today, I want to both affirm the safety of our facilities/grounds on both campuses, and commend the actions of students, employees and local authorities during their responses to today’s evacuation.

While any incident of this nature comes with much uncertainty in those first minutes, the evacuations of our buildings were calm and orderly. Everyone followed instructions and safely moved to a suitable location. I recognize that such events bring about a degree of inconvenience, and I appreciate everyone’s understanding as we are obliged to follow the directions given to us by law enforcement officials and other agencies that assume command of the incident.

In support of the efforts of local, state and federal organizations today, our Safety and Security team thoroughly canvassed all College-owned buildings on both campuses as an added level of examination in light of today’s situation.

SUNY Orange continues to maintain safe environments on both campuses, but it is important that we remain vigilant always. The adage of “See Something. Say Something” holds true now more than ever. I ask each member of the SUNY Orange community to keep your eyes and ears open so we can continue to assemble, teach and learn in surroundings that enhance our academic and personal growth.

If you feel the need, please know that Maureen Flaherty, a personal counselor from the Wellness Center, will be available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Kaplan Hall Room 322 tomorrow (Sept. 19). Walk-ins are welcome and no appointments are necessary.

The College will return to a normal full schedule tomorrow (Sept. 19).

I am thankful that we are all safe.

Kris