Since AU is in the nation's capital, and America remains a target of terrorists worldwide, it is not surprising to hear that businesses and schools in the area have plans if another attack should happen. We just aren't so sure what our school's plan is.
Homeland Security's main compound sits across Ward Circle, and apparently they are ready to respond should something happen and people need to be evacuated. However, some people question how ready the department is as well as what AU's plans in the event of a disaster are.
Apparently RA's are not informed on these plans, but RD's are. The last evacuation of the campus happened two days after the Sept. 11 attacks and it was largely successful. While we do not expect every student to know the intricacies of AU's plans, student leaders, especially those in charge of resident students, should be abreast of the details. The current lack of consensus could spell trouble if a disaster does occur.
The university has asked 250 faculty and staff to serve as response team members and oversee the evacuation of campus should something happen. These people's names and departments should be made known to the campus community. Should D.C. be attacked with biological weapons or worse, our plans may not cut it. That is why having Homeland Security nearby could be very helpful.
