Message from the Chancellor and President following Attack in Vienna

The following message from Webster University Chancellor Elizabeth (Beth) J. Stroble and President Julian Z. Schuster was distributed on Nov. 2, 2020.

To the Webster Community,

It is with shock and sadness that we have learned that a terrorist attack was reported in Vienna, Austria, within walking distance from our campus. At approximately 8 p.m. in Vienna, police reported a terrorist attack near a synagogue located in Schwedenplatz, a popular plaza filled with bars and restaurants that is located about 750 meters from the Webster Vienna campus. Initial reports indicate that several people were injured, with possible fatalities.

Webster University has been in contact with employees at the Vienna location. We have not received any reports of any Webster students, faculty or staff being injured or being directly in the line of danger from this incident.

As a precaution, the Webster Vienna location will be closed Tuesday and all University operations there, including classes, will be held remotely. We are hoping for the safety and security of all our Webster community as well as our family and friends in the region. Our thoughts are with them, and they will receive all necessary support during this challenging time.

We will continue to monitor the situation as it evolves.

Elizabeth (Beth) J. Stroble
Chancellor

Julian Z. Schuster
President