Generally, Shepherd University does not cancel operations because of inclement weather. Unlike the K-12 schools, the University has different operational issues because some of our students live on campus. If severe weather conditions render it dangerous for commuter students to reach the University, those who fail to travel to campus on that particular day will not be put at a serious disadvantage. Individual students who have encountered severe travel conditions should notify their instructors of their absence prior to the next class meeting and should request appropriate arrangements for the makeup of course work.
Employees encountering severe travel conditions should notify their supervisors of their absence and discuss work conditions, leave time, and special needs.
All employees designated as emergency personnel (via a memo from their supervisors) will be required to report at their regular work times regardless of weather conditions, unless otherwise directed by their unit supervisors.
Should an extreme weather emergency or power or water failure warrant the closing of offices and/or canceling or altering the schedule of classes and events, then public notification will be made via the Shepherd website (www.shepherd.edu), switchboard (304-876-5000), Rave text-messaging system (students, faculty, and staff can sign up at https://www.shepherd.edu/rave-alert/), and area media.
Radio and television stations carrying emergency announcements include: WEPM (1340 AM and 93.7 FM), WRNR (740 AM and 106.5 FM), Martinsburg; WUSQ (102.5 FM), WFQX (99.3 FM), WINC (92.5 FM), Winchester; WJEJ (1240 AM), WDVM-TV, Hagerstown; West Virginia Public Radio; and WUSA-TV Ch. 9, Washington, D.C.
Announcements of emergency plans will be communicated by 6 a.m. when the emergency condition precedes the start of the work and/or instructional day. When classes are in session during the fall or spring semester, delays occurring on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Fridays will occur on the hour, i.e., 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon, or 1 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday delays will follow class times and occur at 9:35 a.m., 11 a.m., or 12:25 p.m.
When the emergency condition arises during the day, the announcement will be communicated through the heads of those units which may be affected. Announcements concerning evening classes will be communicated by 2 p.m. Announcements for weekend classes and events beginning before 4 p.m. will be communicated by 7 a.m. For weekend events beginning after 4 p.m. announcements will be communicated by 2 p.m. In some cases where weather patterns are changing we will post a delayed opening announcement. In these instances please watch for further announcements.
Please note: Shepherd announces delays and closings only. If Shepherd is not mentioned on designated radio/TV stations for a delay or cancellation, the University is open and operating on its regular schedule.