Power was restored for several dormitory, academic, and administrative facilities today at Bluefield University, including our dining hall. This comes after our chapel and athletic facilities regained power on Monday.
“We want to thank the utility company for their response and assistance in restoring power,” said Hal Keene, Director of Facilities at Bluefield’s campus. The effort is ongoing, and some power is intermittent as crews find additional issues that must be addressed. “They are doing their best under these conditions. It’s quite a job,” added Keene.
After Hurricane Helene reached the area on Friday, many Bluefield University students traveled home ahead of Fall Break. Residential classes were canceled, and our dining services and residence life staff continued to serve students on campus. Our faculty, several of whom were also experiencing power and network outages, have accommodated online students affected by the storm.
According to BU’s Provost, Dr. Michael Salmeier, “We moved quickly to offer classes virtually and then we canceled classes when we realized the damage would keep the campus without power for several days. We asked faculty in our online courses to work with our students on deadlines and assignments. Our faculty love their students and want them to succeed.”
Over the past few days, several students, employees, alumni, and friends of the university have assisted with clearing debris on campus. Bluefield University appreciates all the support and assistance we have received as we remedy the effects of the hurricane. Though cleanup and power restoration efforts continue, significant progress has been made.
We wish our students and faculty a restful Fall Break and look forward to serving you upon your return next week.
