Recent winter weather has sparked discussion among Baldwin Wallace University students about snow days and how the university handles severe conditions. 

“They barely exist,” Alli Geary, a first-year communication sciences and disorders student, said. “I do think there should be more, especially when it comes to the temperature, because the temperature gets so low and so many students have to walk to class.” 

Weather-related decisions at BW are led by Senior Vice President and Chief Operations Officer Greg Flanagan, with input from multiple departments, according to Vice President of Marketing and Communications Dan Karp.

“We look at weather forecasting, National Weather Service advisories, Ohio Department of Transportation information and local and regional media reports,” Karp said. “We also do real-time assessments of parking lots, walkways and road conditions.” 

Facilities staff monitor whether campus pathways can be kept clear, but sometimes weather conditions can make it difficult. 

“Despite the valiant effort of building and grounds, sometimes they can’t keep up with the snowfall,” Karp said. “That’s when walkways and entrances become unsafe.” 

Academic leadership is also involved in the decision-making process. 

“We’re trying to stay on the curriculum and stay on the syllabus,” Karp said. “If you miss too many days, you’re going to be behind, and it’s hard to catch that up.” 

BW does not operate with a set number of weather-related cancellation days, Karp added. 

“We don’t have calamity days like K–12 schools,” Karp said. “Five days off from some programs would be pretty detrimental.” Karp pointed to programs such as nursing, theater, and music as examples of coursework that cannot easily shift.  

“That’s why we encourage remote instructions when we can,” Karp said. 

Geary said cold temperatures make getting to class difficult. 

“[BW should] definitely make classes online optional on days that are really cold,” Geary said. “Maybe have a certain number of online days so people aren’t just skipping class.” 

She also raised concerns about campus accessibility when the weather gets severe. 

“If they are going to have class, they really need to lock in on plowing the sidewalks,” Geary said. “I was having trouble walking, and I can only imagine what it’s like for students with mobility issues or wheelchairs.” 

Despite student concerns, Karp said accessibility remains a priority for the University. 

“Students with disabilities and mobility concerns are very high on the list for us,” Karp said. “That’s something we need constant dialogue about.” 

Commuter students are also taken into account during severe weather, Karp said. 

“If there’s an ODOT warning or road closure, that affects our decision-making,” Karp said. Faculty are encouraged to show flexibility. 

“We don’t want anybody putting themselves at undue risk trying to get to campus,” Karp said. 

All Baldwin Wallace students are automatically enrolled in the university’s Rave Alert system for weather-related updates. 

“Parents and guardians have to sign up for those alerts themselves,” Karp said. “Anyone can receive them… parents, community members, even surrounding businesses.” 

Karp encouraged families and community members to enroll so they can stay informed about delays, remote instruction, and closures.