About Threat Assessment
The Threat Assessment Team (TAT) provides consultation and support to the College community when a threat to the community has been reported. In severe or extreme risk cases, the TAT provides guidance, recommends interventions, and facilitates communication and coordination throughout the review and intervention process.
The NOVA Threat Assessment Process started in 2009, immediately following the passage of state laws which mandated all colleges and universities to establish and operate campus violence prevention committees and threat assessment teams. See Va. Code § 23.1-805. The statute calls for a threat assessment team that includes members from law enforcement, mental health professionals, student affairs and human resources representatives, and, if available, college or university counsel.
The Administrative Council of NOVA sought planning for such a response at NOVA. As a result, Campus Assessment, Response and Evaluation (CARE) teams and the Threat Assessment Team were formed. On September 9, 2011, the process was officially approved by the NOVA Administrative Council. In order to implement the requirements of the law, NOVA created the Office of Wellness and Mental Health (formerly the NOVACares Office) in 2012 to aid in the threat assessment process. On November 21, 2016, NOVA’s Administrative Council approved the policy.