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Preparing for Dental School: Lessons from a ��سԹ� Graduate

��سԹ� — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 15:33:48 +0000

Students interested in dentistry often wonder what they should be doing during college to prepare for professional school. While strong grades and science coursework are important, successful preparation involves much more than academics alone.

Future dentists must develop leadership skills, learn to communicate effectively, build meaningful relationships with mentors, and gain experiences that help them understand the realities of patient care. ��سԹ� alumnus Ulises Martinez-Ceballos found those opportunities while pursuing a Biology degree with a Biomedical Sciences concentration before continuing his education at the UNC Adams School of Dentistry.

His experience offers valuable insight for students considering dentistry and other healthcare professions.

Key Takeaways

Professional school preparation extends beyond coursework.

Faculty mentorship can play a significant role in student success.

Leadership and teaching experiences help develop valuable professional skills.

Service opportunities provide important exposure to patient-centered care.

Building relationships and gaining experience early can strengthen preparation for healthcare careers.

Building a Foundation for Professional School

��سԹ�’s Pre-Healthcare pathways are designed to help students prepare for a variety of healthcare professions, including dentistry, medicine, pharmacy, physician assistant studies, physical therapy, and veterinary medicine. The pathways are not majors themselves, but carefully designed plans that help students select coursework and experiences aligned with their professional goals. Students pursuing dentistry often choose academic programs such as Biology with a Biomedical Sciences concentration, Biochemistry, or Chemistry while working closely with faculty advisors throughout their undergraduate experience.

For Martinez-Ceballos, that academic foundation began in the classroom but extended far beyond it. Through rigorous science coursework and close interaction with faculty, he developed the knowledge and study habits that would later help him navigate the demands of dental school.

Professional schools move quickly and require students to absorb large amounts of information. Building strong academic habits and learning how to think critically can make that transition more manageable.

Why Mentorship Matters

One of the advantages of ��سԹ�’s pre-professional pathways is the opportunity for students to work closely with faculty mentors. Small class sizes and direct interaction with professors allow students to receive guidance throughout their academic journey, from course selection to professional school preparation.

For Martinez-Ceballos, those relationships continued to matter long after graduation.

” The ��سԹ� community gave me, a first-generation college student an opportunity that truly changed the course of my life. The support, encouragement, and belief that I received from the GWU community made a lasting impact on me both personally and professionally. The professors, mentors, classmates, and staff who supported me along the way helped build my confidence and showed me what it means to invest in people.”

Mentors can help students identify opportunities, navigate challenges, and stay focused on long-term goals. For students pursuing healthcare careers, those relationships often become one of the most valuable parts of their undergraduate experience.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Preparing for a healthcare profession requires more than mastering course material.

During his time at ��سԹ�, Martinez-Ceballos served as a teaching assistant for courses including organic chemistry and general biology. Those experiences helped him develop communication, leadership, and organizational skills that continue to benefit him in dental school today.

Healthcare professionals must regularly educate patients, collaborate with colleagues, and manage multiple responsibilities at once. Experiences such as tutoring, mentoring, research, student leadership, and teaching can help students develop these abilities before entering professional school.

As Martinez-Ceballos reflects on his current training:

“Every day brings a new challenge because I’m constantly doing things for the first time on real patients, and that has pushed me to grow quickly both personally and professionally.”

Those challenges are easier to navigate when students have already developed confidence, adaptability, and strong communication skills during their undergraduate years.

The Importance of Service in Healthcare

Healthcare is ultimately about serving people.

Today, Martinez-Ceballos volunteers through student-run clinics that provide care to individuals who may have limited access to dental services. Those experiences have reinforced his understanding of how healthcare affects confidence, quality of life, and overall well-being.

Students preparing for healthcare careers benefit from service opportunities because they provide exposure to different communities and patient populations. These experiences help students develop empathy, cultural awareness, and a deeper understanding of the needs people face when seeking care.

Service also helps students connect classroom learning with real-world impact, an important part of preparing for any healthcare profession.

Advice for Students Considering Dental School

When asked what advice he would give students hoping to follow a similar path, Martinez-Ceballos emphasized the importance of relationships and support systems.

“Build relationships with classmates, faculty, and mentors because those connections can guide you through difficult moments and open opportunities in the future.”

Students considering dentistry or other healthcare careers can benefit from several practical steps:

Gain experience early through shadowing and volunteer opportunities.

Seek mentors who can provide guidance and encouragement.

Develop strong study habits and time-management skills.

Pursue leadership opportunities whenever possible.

Build a supportive network of classmates and peers.

Approach setbacks with a growth mindset and continue moving forward.

These habits can help students prepare not only for professional school applications but also for the demands of healthcare careers.

“Build relationships with classmates, faculty, and mentors because those connections can guide you through difficult moments and open opportunities in the future.”

Preparing for Your Own Healthcare Journey

Every student’s path to dental school is different, but successful healthcare professionals often share similar foundations: strong academics, meaningful mentorship, leadership development, and a commitment to serving others.

��سԹ�’s Pre-Healthcare pathways are designed to help students build those foundations while exploring careers in dentistry and other healthcare fields. Through close faculty mentorship, rigorous academics, leadership opportunities, and service experiences, students can begin preparing for the next step in their professional journey.

Interested in a future in dentistry or another healthcare profession? Explore ��سԹ�’s Pre-Healthcare Dentistry pathway, Biology major, and Biomedical Sciences concentration to learn how you can begin preparing today.

Pre-healthcare: Dentistry

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Finding Your Place: Inside ��سԹ�’s Housing & Residence Life Experience

��سԹ� — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 15:54:34 +0000

Choosing where to live is one of the most important decisions a college student will make. It’s more than just a room—it’s where friendships begin, routines take shape, and a sense of belonging starts to grow. At ��سԹ�, housing and residence life are intentionally designed to support students not only as learners, but as individuals navigating a new chapter of independence and connection.

From the first day on campus, students are invited into a community that values support, engagement, and personal growth.

More Than a Room: Building Community from Day One

For many students, moving into a residence hall marks their first experience living away from home. That transition can bring both excitement and uncertainty. ��سԹ�’s Housing and Residence Education team works to make that shift as smooth and welcoming as possible.

As Leslie Paul, director of Housing and Residence Education, explains, the goal is to create an environment where students feel immediately connected:

“We want students to feel like they belong as soon as they arrive. Housing is about more than a place to sleep and shower—it’s about community.”

That sense of belonging is built through intentional programming, shared experiences, and a residence life structure that prioritizes connection. From hall meetings to campus events, students are encouraged to engage with one another and form meaningful relationships early on.

Support Systems That Make a Difference

Living on campus means students are never navigating college life alone. Residence halls are supported by trained staff members, including Resident Assistants (RAs), who serve as mentors, leaders, and points of connection.

These student leaders play a key role in helping residents adjust, whether that means answering questions, offering guidance, or simply being a familiar face in the hallway.

Paul emphasizes that this support system is central to the residential experience:

“Our staff are here to walk alongside students—to help them navigate challenges and celebrate successes.”

This approach creates a built-in network of care that extends beyond academics. Students have access to resources, encouragement, and guidance right where they live.

Safety, Structure, and Peace of Mind

For both students and families, safety is a top priority when considering campus housing. ��سԹ�’s residence life program is structured to provide a secure and supportive environment where students can focus on their growth.

Residence halls are designed with safety measures in place, and staff are trained to respond to a wide range of student needs. At the same time, clear expectations and community standards help create a respectful and accountable living environment.

This balance of structure and independence allows students to develop responsibility while still feeling supported.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

One of the most valuable aspects of living on campus is the opportunity for learning that happens outside of class. Residence life at ��سԹ� is intentionally designed to foster personal development, leadership, and life skills.

Through everyday interactions and organized programming, students gain experience in:

Communication and conflict resolution
Time management and responsibility
Cultural awareness and community engagement

These moments—whether planned or spontaneous—help shape students into confident and capable individuals.

As Paul notes, the residential experience is a key part of the overall college journey:

“Students are learning in their living spaces just as much as they are in the classroom.”

A Place to Belong

At its core, housing at ��سԹ� is about creating a place where students feel seen, supported, and valued. The relationships built in residence halls often become some of the most meaningful connections students carry with them long after graduation.

From late-night conversations to shared milestones, these experiences contribute to a strong sense of community that defines the ��سԹ� experience.

For students who may feel unsure about leaving home or stepping into a new environment, that sense of belonging can make all the difference.

Explore Housing at ��سԹ�

Whether you’re a prospective student or a parent seeking reassurance, Gardner‑Webb’s housing and residence life team is available to answer questions and provide clear insight into the supportive, engaging living experience available on campus.

To learn more about residence halls, living options, and what to expect on campus, visit:
/housing

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You Don’t Have to Wait for a Crisis: How College Counseling Services Support Student Success

��سԹ� — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 12:58:28 +0000

College brings opportunity, independence, and growth—but it can also come with stress, uncertainty, and change. Many students wonder: When should I talk to someone? The answer may be sooner than you think.

College counseling services are designed to support students through both challenges and everyday transitions. Whether you’re navigating academic pressure, relationships, or simply trying to understand yourself better, having a space to talk can make a meaningful difference. At ��سԹ�, the Counseling Center offers a range of support options to meet students where they are—whether they need ongoing care, a single conversation, or just a place to check in.

What You Need to Know

Counseling isn’t only for crisis situation
Services are confidential and student-centered
Support includes individual sessions, groups, and informal event
Mental health care is just as important as physical health
Early conversations can prevent bigger challenges late

Why College Counseling Services Matter

College is a season of transition. Students are often living independently for the first time, managing academic expectations, and forming new relationships—all at once.

That combination can lead to stress, anxiety, and uncertainty. According to Kim Retherford, director of the ��سԹ� Counseling Center, mental health should be viewed as part of overall wellness—not something separate.

“Mental health… is really as important as physical health. We are one body,” Retherford explains.

Having access to campus counseling services provides students with a consistent, trusted space to process those experiences. It also gives them tools to manage emotions, build resilience, and stay grounded during demanding periods

What Support Does a Campus Counseling Center Offer?

College counseling services go far beyond traditional therapy sessions. At ��سԹ�, students have access to a variety of options depending on their needs:

Individual counseling for ongoing support
Single-session appointments for short-term concerns
Group counseling and therapeutic programs
Informal spaces like Table Talk Tuesdays
Specialized support for topics like substance use or stress

These options create multiple entry points for students—especially those who may feel unsure about formal counseling.

As Megan Peek, university counselor, shares, creating approachable environments matters, “It’s just a space to come and hang out… and if you want to talk, great.”

This flexibility helps reduce barriers and allows students to engage in ways that feel comfortable.

When Should Students Seek Counseling?

One of the most common misconceptions is that counseling is only for serious or urgent situations. In reality, students can benefit from support at any stage.

You might consider reaching out if you’re experiencing:

Peek emphasizes that counseling doesn’t require a major event, “Counseling is for anybody at any time with anything that they might be going through.”

Even a single conversation can provide clarity, reassurance, or a new perspective.

Common Myths About Counseling (and the Truth)

Despite growing awareness, some misconceptions still prevent students from seeking help.

Myth: “I don’t need counseling unless something is wrong.”

Reality: Mental health care is proactive. Just like visiting a doctor, it’s about maintaining overall well-being.

Myth: “I’ll be judged.”

Reality: Counseling is built on empathy and understanding—not judgment.

Myth: “My situation isn’t serious enough.”

Reality: If it matters to you, it’s worth talking about. Students often find that simply sharing their thoughts reduces stress and helps them feel less alone.

How Counseling Supports Life Beyond College

Counseling isn’t just about getting through a semester—it’s about building skills that last well beyond graduation.

Through counseling, students can develop:

As Retherford notes, college is an ideal time for growth and self-discovery, “This is also a really great time to do some healing if you need to.”

These skills carry forward into careers, relationships, and everyday life.

Practical Ways to Take the First Step

If you’re unsure about reaching out, start small:

Remember, you don’t have to wait until things feel overwhelming.

Find Out More

If you’re a current or prospective student at ��سԹ�, you can learn more about available support or request an appointment through the Counseling Center page under Student Services Resources. Taking that first step can open the door to meaningful support and growth.

The Counseling Center is located inside the Tucker Student Center and can be reached by email at counselingservices@gardner-webb.edu or phone at 704.406.2729. If you’d like to hear more from Kim and Megan, check out this interview on the .

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What Student Success in College Really Requires��

��سԹ� — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 14:07:34 +0000

Student success in college is often discussed in terms of grades, retention rates, or graduation timelines. But behind every successful student is something deeper: a network of relationships, resources, and intentional support systems that help them navigate the college experience.��

At many universities, student success is not the responsibility of a single office. It is a shared commitment across faculty, advisors, mentors, and campus services. When institutions focus on helping students build connections, clarify goals, and develop resilience, they create the conditions that allow students to persist and complete their degrees.��

Understanding what truly supports student success can help both students and educators see the path forward more clearly.��

What Does Student Success in College Really Mean?

Student success is more than simply earning a degree. It involves helping students grow academically, personally, and professionally while working toward meaningful goals.��

According to��I��Kenneth Johnson, Executive Director of Student Success, success begins by recognizing where students start.��

Many students arrive on campus feeling uncertain or disconnected. They may be navigating��a new environment, adjusting to academic expectations, or questioning their career path.��

Johnson describes this journey through what he calls the��DIIP model:��

Disconnection��– Students initially feel uncertain or isolated.��
Intentional Connection – Advisors, faculty, and peers build relationships with students.
Internal Belonging – Students begin to feel part of the campus community.��
Purposeful Engagement – Students contribute to the community and mentor others.��

When institutions intentionally guide students through this progression, they strengthen both persistence and overall student development.��

As Johnson explains, success often begins with one simple step: helping students feel connected.��

Why Belonging Is Critical for Student Retention��

Research across higher education consistently shows that students who feel a sense of belonging are more likely to stay enrolled and complete their degrees.��

Belonging does not happen automatically. It develops through meaningful relationships and consistent support.��

Students experience belonging when they:��

Build relationships with advisors and faculty
Engage with campus programs or organizations
Connect with peers who share similar academic interests
Participate in mentoring or leadership roles

Johnson emphasizes that belonging is universal.��

“Everybody can feel disconnected. We��have to��create intentional��connections��so students feel like they belong.”��

When students begin to feel invested in their campus community, their motivation and persistence often increase.��

That sense of connection can transform the college experience from simply attending classes into becoming part of a supportive learning environment.��

The Role of Advising and Career Clarity Early in College��

One common reason students take longer than expected to graduate is uncertainty about their academic path.��

Many students enter college with��limited��understanding of potential careers or how their interests align with different majors. As a result, they may change��majors��multiple times.��

Early advising can help address this challenge.��

Effective advising strategies often include:��

Career assessments that help students identify strengths and interests
Structured course planning to avoid overwhelming schedules
Regular advisor check-ins during the first year
Guidance connecting academic programs to career outcomes

Johnson notes that helping students clarify their direction early can significantly improve completion rates.��

When students understand their goals and how their coursework connects to future careers, they are more likely to remain focused and engaged.��

How Peer Mentoring Supports Student Success��

While professional advising is important, some of the most valuable guidance students receive comes from other students.��

Peer mentors can help new students navigate aspects of college that are not always explained in orientation materials or course syllabi.��

These mentors often help students:��

Understand campus resources
Develop study and time-management strategies
Learn how to approach professors or seek tutoring
Navigate everyday challenges of campus life

Johnson describes peer mentoring as an extension of the belonging process.��

Students who have already��established��connections on campus often become mentors themselves, helping new students build those same relationships.��

This creates a cycle of support that strengthens the entire campus community.��

Why GRIT��Matters in College Persistence��

Even with��strong support��systems, students will��encounter��academic challenges.��

Success often depends on how students respond to those setbacks.��

Johnson highlights the importance of��GRIT, which he defines as:��

Growth – commitment to improvement
Resilience – recovering from challenges
Intentionality – actively seeking support
Tenacity – continuing to work toward goals

For example, a student who struggles in a course might initially feel discouraged. But persistence means��taking action��such as seeking tutoring, adjusting study strategies, or asking instructors for guidance.��

As Johnson explains:��

“You��have to��do whatever is necessary to be successful in that class.��That’s��grit.”��

Teaching students how to respond to difficulty is just as important as teaching course material.��

Practical Ways Students Can Strengthen Their Success��

Students can take several steps to improve their chances of thriving in college:��

Build relationships early. Connect with advisors, faculty, and mentors.
Use campus resources. Tutoring, counseling, and academic support services exist to help students succeed.
Clarify your goals. Explore career pathways and academic interests early.
Engage in campus life. Join organizations or learning communities that create connections.
Develop resilience. Treat challenges as opportunities to adjust strategies and grow.

These actions help students move from uncertainty to confidence in their academic journey.��

Supporting the Whole Student Experience��

Student success is not the result of a single program or initiative. It is the outcome of intentional support across an entire university community.��

When institutions focus on connection, belonging, advising, and resilience, they create environments where students can grow and complete their educational goals.��

As higher education continues to evolve, the most effective institutions will��remain��those that meet students where they are and help them move forward with clarity and purpose.��

Johnson says the goal of student success work is simple: build avenues that help students move forward with confidence. “We have to create the pathway for our students—to meet them where they are so they can be successful.”��

Explore the academic programs,��advising��resources, and student support services available at ��سԹ� to learn how the university helps students succeed from their first semester through graduation.��

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Campus Status and Safety Information

��سԹ� — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:15:35 +0000

��سԹ� continues to monitor campus conditions following recent winter weather.

On Tuesday, February 3, remote learning and remote work will be in effect until 12 p.m. The University will continue to operate under Essential Employees Response Team 2 through 12 p.m., which includes grounds, maintenance, and housekeeping.

Beginning at 12 p.m. Tuesday, classes, work schedules, and campus operations will resume normal operations.

Students in clinicals, practicums, or internships should continue to follow guidance from their program coordinator or instructor.

Campus Services and Hours��

Dining Services��

Monday, February 2:��

Cafeteria:��Open until��6 p.m.��with dine-in and to-go options��
All other dining locations:��Closed��

Tuesday, February 3:��

Cafeteria:��Open from��9 a.m.–8 p.m.��
All other campus dining locations:��Open beginning at��11 a.m.��

Campus Facilities��

Monday, February 2:��

Dover Library:��Closed through Monday, February 2��
Suttle Wellness Center:��Open��until��5 p.m.��

Tuesday, February 3:��

Dover Library:��Opens at��12 p.m.��
Suttle Wellness Center:��Opens at 12 p.m.��

Campus Safety��

As community members prepare to return to campus Tuesday afternoon, please continue to prioritize health and safety:

Use caution on sidewalks, stairs, and parking areas��
Walk on grass where it provides better traction than icy sidewalks��
Use designated walking routes where available��
Avoid marked or restricted areas��
Report safety or maintenance concerns promptly��

Facilities crews will continue monitoring conditions and maintaining primary pathways through Tuesday morning.

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Campus Status: Remote Operations on Monday

��سԹ� — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 18:40:26 +0000

��سԹ� continues to monitor winter weather conditions and their impact on campus operations.

Monday will be an asynchronous remote learning day and a remote workday for all employees, except those supporting Essential Employees Response Team 2 operations.

Employees should coordinate directly with their supervisor or vice president for additional guidance.

Students in clinicals, practicums, or internships should continue to follow guidance from their program coordinator or instructor.

Campus Services

Dining Services

Cafeteria: Reduced hours from 9 a.m.–6 p.m. with dine-in and to-go options
All other dining locations: Closed

Dover Library – Closed through Monday, February 2

Suttle Wellness Center – Open Monday from 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

Campus Preparedness & Safety

Snow removal crews continue working across campus. Faculty, staff, and students should continue to prioritize safety and warmth.

Please continue to:

Use designated primary walking routes on the campus map
Avoid barricaded areas and caution tape
Use extra care on sidewalks, stairs, and parking areas
Walk on grass where it provides better traction
Report safety or maintenance concerns promptly
Unless absolutely necessary, avoid driving on campus

The next scheduled update will be shared Monday at 2 p.m., or sooner if conditions change.

How to Stay Informed

To receive timely updates regarding classes, dining services, athletics, and campus operations, please:

Monitor LiveSafe alerts, your ��سԹ� email, and official University social media channels
Visit the University’s official weather page for the latest information:
/weather-updates

Get LiveSafe

LiveSafe is an official University safety app used by students, faculty, and staff to receive emergency notifications, access emergency resources, and connect directly with University Police.

To download the LiveSafe app and join the ��سԹ� organization:

Download the app from the App Store or Google Play
Follow the prompts to create a LiveSafe profile
Add ��سԹ� as your organization
Enter your ��سԹ� email address and validate your account to begin using LiveSafe

LiveSafe is one of the fastest ways to receive and share information during weather-related incidents or emergencies.

Important Contact Information:

University Police: 704-406-4444
Residence Life On Call: 704-300-3161
Counseling Crisis Line: 704-406-4647

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Campus Status: No Additional Changes to Previously Announced Operations

��سԹ� — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 17:29:59 +0000

As of today, there are��no��additional��changes��to the operational updates previously shared.��

��سԹ� continues to monitor winter weather conditions and their potential impact on campus operations. All previously announced modifications for the weekend remain in effect, including the University’s transition to the Inclement Weather Plan and Essential Employees Response Team 2.

Faculty, staff, and students should continue to prioritize personal safety, warmth, and well-being. Temperatures are forecasted to drop significantly overnight. Please dress appropriately for cold conditions and limit time outdoors when possible. Unless absolutely necessary, avoid driving on campus until safety crews are able to clear the snow, which will begin tomorrow morning.

Current Operational Status (No Changes)��

Inclement Weather Plan & Essential Employees Response Team 2��remains��in effect��
Weekend face-to-face classes at the Charlotte campus remain in a synchronous online format��
Students in clinicals, practicums, or internships should continue to follow guidance from their program coordinator or instructor��

Campus Services (No Changes)��

Dining Services

Cafeteria: Reduced hours from 9 a.m.–6 p.m. with dine-in and to-go options��
All other dining locations: Closed��

Dover Library: Closed through Sunday, February 1

Suttle Wellness Center: Closed through Sunday, February 1

The next scheduled update will be shared on Sunday, February 1 at 2 p.m., or sooner if conditions change.

Campus Preparedness & Safety��

Campus teams remain prepared to support students and maintain safe facilities, including readiness in the event of a power outage.

Please continue to:

Use designated primary walking routes on the campus map��
Avoid barricaded areas and caution tape��
Use extra care on sidewalks, stairs, and parking areas��
Walk on grass where it provides better traction��
Report safety or maintenance concerns promptly��
Unless��absolutely necessary, avoid driving on campus��

How to Stay Informed

To receive timely updates regarding classes, dining services, athletics, and campus operations, please:

Monitor LiveSafe alerts, your ��سԹ� email, and official University social media channels
Visit the University’s official weather page for the latest information:
/weather-updates

Get LiveSafe

LiveSafe is an official University safety app used by students, faculty, and staff to receive emergency notifications, access emergency resources, and connect directly with University Police.

To download the LiveSafe app and join the ��سԹ� organization:

Download the app from the App Store or Google Play
Follow the prompts to create a LiveSafe profile
Add ��سԹ� as your organization
Enter your ��سԹ� email address and validate your account to begin using LiveSafe

LiveSafe is one of the fastest ways to receive and share information during weather-related incidents or emergencies.

Important Contact Information:��

University Police: 704-406-4444
Residence Life On Call: 704-300-3161
Counseling Crisis Line: 704-406-4647

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Campus Status: Normal Operations Today, Essential Response Begins Saturday��

��سԹ� — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 21:00:00 +0000

��سԹ� continues to monitor winter weather conditions and their potential impact on campus operations.

The University remains on normal operating hours today. Faculty, staff, and students should prioritize their own health and safety. Travel plans to and from campus should be carefully evaluated in light of rapidly developing weather conditions.

Upcoming Operational Changes

Beginning at 12 a.m. on Saturday, January 31 through Sunday, February 1, the University will transition to our Inclement Weather Plan & Essential Employees Response Team 2, which includes grounds, maintenance, and housekeeping.

Weekend face-to-face classes at the Charlotte campus have moved to a synchronous online format. Professors will contact affected students directly with further information regarding coursework and expectations.

Students enrolled in clinicals, practicums, or internships should contact their program coordinator and/or instructor for further guidance.

Campus Services

Dining Services

Friday: All dining open normal hours
Saturday and Sunday:
- Cafeteria – will operate on reduced hours from 9 a.m.–6 p.m. In addition to our dine in service, students will also be offered to go options to accommodate the change in hours
All other dining locations closed

Dover Library – Closed beginning 5:00 p.m. January 30 – Sunday, February 1.

Suttle Wellness Center – Closed beginning 7:00 p.m. January 30 – Sunday, February 1.

Campus Preparedness and Safety

Preparations have been made to ensure campus facilities are prepared to safely accommodate students in the event of a power outage. Additional information will be shared if needed.

Please reference the campus map for primary walking routes and avoid barricaded areas and areas marked with caution tape. Use caution on sidewalks, stairs, and parking areas. In some cases, walking on the grass may provide better traction. Report any safety or maintenance concerns promptly.

An update will be provided tomorrow at 12 p.m, or earlier if conditions change.

How to Stay Informed

To receive timely updates regarding classes, dining services, athletics, and campus operations, please:

Monitor LiveSafe alerts, your ��سԹ� email, and official University social media channels
Visit the University’s official weather page for the latest information:
/weather-updates

Get LiveSafe

LiveSafe is an official University safety app used by students, faculty, and staff to receive emergency notifications, access emergency resources, and connect directly with University Police.

To download the LiveSafe app and join the ��سԹ� organization:

Download the app from the App Store or Google Play
Follow the prompts to create a LiveSafe profile
Add ��سԹ� as your organization
Enter your ��سԹ� email address and validate your account to begin using LiveSafe

LiveSafe is one of the fastest ways to receive and share information during weather-related incidents or emergencies.

The post Campus Status: Normal Operations Today, Essential Response Begins Saturday�� appeared first on ��سԹ�.

Weather Update: Weekend Weather Conditions

��سԹ� — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000

As wintry weather is expected in our area this weekend, ��سԹ� is actively monitoring conditions and their potential impact on campus operations. The safety of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors remains our top priority.

An update will be provided Friday, January 30 at 4 p.m., or earlier if conditions change.

How to Stay Informed��

To receive timely updates regarding classes, dining services, athletics, and campus operations, please:

Monitor��LiveSafe alerts, your����سԹ� email, and��official University social media channels��
Visit the University’s official weather page for the latest information:��
/weather-updates��

Get LiveSafe

LiveSafe is an official University safety app used by students, faculty, and staff to receive emergency notifications, access emergency resources, and connect directly with University Police.

To download the LiveSafe app and join the ��سԹ� organization:

Download the app from the��App Store��or��Google Play��
Follow the prompts to create a LiveSafe profile��
Add����سԹ���as your organization��
Enter your ��سԹ� email address and��validate��your account to begin using LiveSafe��

LiveSafe is one of the fastest ways to receive and share information during weather-related incidents or emergencies.

The post Weather Update: Weekend Weather Conditions appeared first on ��سԹ�.

Weather Update: Current Status & Safety Information

��سԹ� — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 17:39:47 +0000

Out of an abundance of caution, ��سԹ� will continue to operate under remote work and remote learning until noon on Wednesday, January 28^th. Beginning at noon on Wednesday, classes and work schedules will resume normal operations.

Professors will contact affected students directly with further information regarding coursework and expectations related to remote learning.

During this period of time, the University will continue operating under Essential Employees Response Team 2, which includes grounds, maintenance, and housekeeping. Employees should coordinate directly with their supervisor or vice president for guidance, as needed.

Campus Services

Tuesday, January 27^th Dining Services

The cafeteria will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
In addition to dine-in service, to-go meal options will be available to accommodate the adjusted hours.
All other dining locations will be closed.

Wednesday, January 28^th all Dining Services will resume normal hours.

The Dover Library will be closed until noon, Wednesday, January 28^th.

Suttle Wellness Center will be open from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 27^th and will resume normal operating hours beginning on Wednesday, January 28^th.

Campus Safety

Community members should continue to prioritize their health and safety while navigating campus.

Please use caution on sidewalks, stairs, and parking areas. In some cases, walking on the grass may provide better traction than icy sidewalks. Use designated walking routes where available and avoid any marked or restricted areas. Please report safety or maintenance concerns promptly.

Facilities crews will continue to monitor conditions and work to keep primary pathways as clear as possible. The University will continue to monitor conditions and share updates as needed.

Download Recommended Walking Path Map

How to Stay Informed

To receive timely updates regarding classes, dining services, athletics, and campus operations, please:

Monitor LiveSafe alerts, your ��سԹ� email, and official University social media channels
Visit the University’s official weather page for the latest information:
/weather-updates

Get LiveSafe

LiveSafe is an official University safety app used by students, faculty, and staff to receive emergency notifications, access emergency resources, and connect directly with University Police.

To download the LiveSafe app and join the ��سԹ� organization:

Download the app from the App Store or Google Play
Follow the prompts to create a LiveSafe profile
Add ��سԹ� as your organization
Enter your ��سԹ� email address and validate your account to begin using LiveSafe

LiveSafe is one of the fastest ways to receive and share information during weather-related incidents or emergencies.

Important Contact Information:

University Police: 704-406-4444
Residence Life On Call: 704-300-3161
Counseling Crisis Line: 704-406-4647

The post Weather Update: Current Status & Safety Information appeared first on ��سԹ�.

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Campus Status: Remote Operations on Monday

Campus Services

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Campus Status: No Additional Changes to Previously Announced Operations

Current Operational Status (No Changes)��

Campus Services (No Changes)��

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Campus Status: Normal Operations Today, Essential Response Begins Saturday��

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