The following message was sent to University of Chicago faculty, staff and students on Jan. 6, 2014, from Nim Chinniah, Executive Vice President for Administration and Chief Financial Officer; Karen Warren Coleman, Vice President for Campus Life; and Rich Iorio, Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer:
With temperatures and travel improving, classes will resume Tuesday, Jan. 7. The Laboratory Schools will also reopen Tuesday. All four campuses of the University of Chicago Charter School will remain closed Tuesday, reopening Wednesday. Most University operations that were curtailed Sunday and Monday are expected to return to normal schedules, but we encourage you to check unit and office websites for information on particular offices or programs. Please check www.uchicago.edu for updates as well.
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Even as the University returns to normal functioning, and the most dangerous weather subsides, bitter cold and strong winds are predicted to continue into Wednesday, with continuing risk of hypothermia and frostbite. We urge all members of the University community to minimize time spent outdoors and take extra precautions. Dress warmly and cover exposed skin when going outside. Take advantage of public transit when possible—use uchicago.transloc.com to track buses and shuttles in real time, reducing outdoor waiting time. If you must drive, please be aware that some streets in Hyde Park remain snow covered and street parking may be very limited.
We recognize that some students, faculty and staff who were out of town are still struggling to return. In the academic units, deans will work with faculty and students to resolve issues that arise. Employees should take up any specific questions with their supervisors. We expect that these situations will be handled with appreciation for the difficult circumstances and an understanding that safety comes first.
We want to extend our deep gratitude to staff members who have provided essential services through the worst of this weather, putting the safety of the University community before their own comfort. We appreciate all of you who put in extra work as a result of this unusual weather, and we thank everybody for your patience and cooperation over the last few days.
We wish you all a safe and productive start to the Winter Quarter.
—Prof. Jacqueline Stewart
