Rally points are used in the event of an evacuation. Never use a car to evacuate. Always go to rally points on foot. There are 2 reasons for using foot instead of car: 1) minimize traffic leaving the scene while emergency personnel are trying to get to the scene; and 2) it is not safe behind the wheel after a traumatic event.
Rally points allow the university to take attendance.
Rally points also allow a safe location for parents/citizens/community members to find loved ones.