Building use will be limited to students staying on campus during the university's closure
About 160 students will live in Ohio University dorms for the duration of winter break this year.
Most of OU's buildings and facilities, however, will be closed between Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.
Officials have put in place what they call the “Winter Break Closure Plan,” which is designed to reward university employees with an extended period of time off while classes are not in session.
"Other than essential functions such as OUPD, the heating plant and essential maintenance, everything is closed” said Joseph Lalley, senior associate vice president for Information Technologies and Administrative Services.
Smith House, Voigt, Sargent and Bromley Halls will remain open, allowing 130 of the 160 students to keep their Fall Semester room assignments during the break.
With a number of students on campus during the winter closure period, Residential Housing has measures in place to ensure the safety of residents.
Students can find resource documents on the back of their doors with information, including the number for on-call staff and instructions for contacting OUPD in the event of an emergency.
“Staff will also be conducting rounds multiple times each day to make certain that students are comfortable in their space and have a presence in the facilities,” said Peter Trentacoste, executive director of Residential Housing.
Residential Housing will have staff available for office hours from 8:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. in Jefferson and Sargent Halls.
With the majority of campus facilities closed, university-sponsored activities and meals will also be limited.
West 82 in Baker University Center will provide meals for purchase — using cash, credit or debit card, Bobcat Cash or Flex Points — for a portion of the break.
“Residential Housing will be sponsoring several evening activities to engage with students staying on campus and will provide pizza and snacks,” Trentacoste said.
The Winter Break Closure Plan is not likely to be a substantial money-saving opportunity, according to OU's site.
With older buildings lacking effective climate-control systems, closing campus facilities will not save a significant amount in energy costs.
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