US Campuses

Pepperdine Campus Operations Normal Following Earthquake 

Posted on

At 7:28 AM a 4.6 magnitude earthquake shook Malibu, with an epicenter roughly two miles north of Point Dume, which is northwest of the University’s Malibu campus. A 2.8 magnitude aftershock followed a few minutes later. 

The shaking from the initial earthquake was felt on the University’s Southern California campuses, and in particular at Malibu and Calabasas. At this time, the University has not received reports of injuries or damage as a result of the earthquake. Utility service continues at all University campuses, and there are no reported impacts to campus routes, though rocks could be present on some routes, and drivers should proceed with appropriate caution. 

In case of a strong earthquake, the Pepperdine community is reminded to follow the Duck, Cover, and Hold On procedures:

  • Duck under an object, such as a desk or table if inside, to prevent any falling objects from hitting you;
  • Cover your head and neck;
  • Hold on to the furniture to ensure it does not shake/move away from you; and 
  • When the shaking stops, leave the building. 

Additional information regarding earthquake preparedness is available on the University’s Emergency Information website and at United States preparedness website ready.gov.

This entry was posted in Calabasas, Malibu.

Two Suspects Apprehended Following Reports of Suspicious Activity On the Malibu Campus

Posted on

University officials have issued an all-clear after two suspects on the Malibu campus were apprehended. This followed reports of a white SUV driving on campus, during which an individual displayed what appeared to be a firearm from the vehicle’s window.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) received a report regarding the suspicious vehicle related to activities on PCH, and DPS subsequently received a report of the car on campus. Both responded to investigate and search for the vehicle. 

LASD intercepted the vehicle in question nearby the John Tyler Booth and apprehended both occupants without incident. Upon searching the car, sheriff’s deputies found a BB gun and no other weapons. 

During the incident, the University’s Emergency Operations Committee (EOC) activated its Everbridge mass communication system to promptly inform the community of the potential threat and provided regular updates throughout the incident. We understand that this may have caused concern, but keeping the community informed is essential to ensuring everyone’s safety. Anyone who needs further support may reach out to any of the resources listed below:

  • Students may contact the Counseling Center at 310.506.4210 or student.counseling.center@pepperdine.eduThe Counseling Center provides free, confidential emotional/psychological support to all Pepperdine students. 
  • Faculty and staff may access counseling services through their Employee Assistance Program. Details are available on the HR website or by contacting HR at 310.506.4397.
  • Pastoral support is available to the Pepperdine community through The Hub for Spiritual Life which may be contacted at timothy.spivey@pepperdine.edu or  cam.gilliam@pepperdine.edu or by phone at 310.506.4545.

The University wishes to thank the Department of Public Safety and law enforcement for their swift response, as well as all community members who responded to directions and allowed law enforcement to address the situation.

This entry was posted in Malibu.

PCH Closed at Point Dume Due to Police Activity

Posted on

Pacific Coast Highway is closed in both directions, north of campus, between Heathercliff Road and Busch Drive due to police activity involving an assault with a deadly weapon suspect barricaded in a vehicle. The Los Angeles County Sheriff advises the public to avoid the area until further notice. 

All other routes to campus remain open and clear of delays. 

Students and employees are encouraged to drive slowly and carefully, leave plenty of extra time for travel, and remain informed about Pepperdine’s Southern California campuses by utilizing the following resources: 

Greater Los Angeles traffic information can be viewed online at www.sigalert.com.

This entry was posted in Malibu.

Black Bear Sighting On Malibu Campus

Posted on

Department of Facilities Services staff spotted what appears to be a black bear in the Terrace Parking Lot shortly before 11 PM tonight. The sighting was reported to Public Safety, who contacted the local sheriff’s department and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, per University practice for wildlife sightings. Public Safety officers were dispatched to the area but were unable to locate the animal. Out of an abundance of caution, Public Safety officers will conduct additional patrols throughout the evening.  

Black bear sightings in Malibu are exceedingly rare, as their normal range is farther north. Pepperdine officials share confirmed wildlife sightings near the Malibu campus to ensure the University community is informed of, but not alarmed by, the wildlife with whom we share the Santa Monica Mountains.  

If you encounter a black bear:

  • Respect the animal.
  • Keep a safe distance and back away slowly. 
  • Do NOT run. 
  • Do not make eye contact. 
  • Appear as large, loud, and powerful as possible. Let the bear know you are there. 
  • Let the bear leave the area on its own. 
  • If there are small children or pets present, pick them up immediately. Additionally do NOT leave them unattended outside.
  • In the unlikely event of an attack, fight back. Do not fall to the ground or roll into the fetal position.

Please remember:

  • Public Safety security escorts are available on the Malibu campus 24/7 by calling Public Safety Dispatch at (310) 506-4442.
  • If you see concerning wildlife on or near the Malibu campus, please report the incident to Public Safety at (310) 506-4441.
    • If safe to do so, please take a picture and/or video and send it to Public Safety via the LiveSafe app.

This entry was posted in Malibu.