Appalachian Connections
December 2018

Message from Chancellor Sheri Everts

With the possibility of a significant winter weather event on the horizon, preparations are underway on campus. We are accustomed to the challenges of winter weather, and our campus and community personnel manage snow and ice safely, expertly and efficiently.

Student safety is our top priority. Across our university, staff from Emergency Management, Physical Plant, Food Services, Housing, Parking & Traffic and many other areas are preparing for the potential impacts of this storm. As standard practice, we work with numerous agencies, including the National Weather Service and response agencies across the region, to determine the best course of action for our university community.

Earlier today, your student received a message from Emergency Management Director Jason Marshburn, which:

• detailed many of the preparations our campus has underway, including preparations for Food Services operations and extended residence hall housing if needed;

• provided information about how to prepare for possible severe weather;

• shared important information about how to stay informed regarding schedule changes for exams and events taking place over the next few days; and

• encouraged those traveling over the coming days to check forecasts and travel conditions.

As we wind up final exams for the semester, Academic Affairs has contingency plans in place, which we will implement as needed, with as minimal impact as possible to students’ schedules.

Over the past two years, we have been increasing our use of technology so students can learn safely from their homes and residence halls on days when travel in the mountains is treacherous, and if the end of this year is any indication, it appears we may be relying on this technology even more next semester!

This has been an eventful semester, full of successes for our students, faculty and staff. We look forward to commencement for our graduates next Saturday, Dec. 15. The same day, we have the added excitement of the R + L Carriers New Orleans Bowl for our Mountaineers.

As winter weather continues, the students have been delighted to know we installed the Appalachian Duck House — a bit of whimsy and fun as we close the year.

My best wishes to each of our Appalachian Families for the holidays.