Winter Weather Caused Challenges for Both Students and Faculty

With roadways having not been in the best of shape due to the continued snowfall, commuters faced difficulties arriving at Pitt-Greensburg to attend class.

Nick Dolney, junior business management major, was one of the students who faced difficulties while commuting from his house in Trafford to Pitt-Greensburg.

“On Tuesday the roads were super bad, I was sliding around everywhere, and none of my classes were canceled,” said Dolney.

That Friday also brought snow to the area, forcing Dr. Danielle Mehlman-Brightwell, assistant professor of public policy and communication, to move her classes for that day from an in-person format to a virtual one instead.

“I woke up at 5 a.m., and noticed I had a good amount of snow, and my neighborhood was not plowed. I received an email from Dr. Gregerson saying if anyone felt unsafe to change modality to virtual lecture, and so therefore I decided to change my teaching to Zoom,” said Dr. Brightwell.

Other Pitt-Greensburg professors like Christie Orlosky, part-time instructor of natural science, praised the benefits of Zoom and the opportunity for flexibility the platform offers.

“Zoom is a good option. One good thing that came out of the pandemic,” said Orlosky. 

Pitt-Greensburg’s facilities department, headed by Director of Facilities & Operations, Joe Bleehash, was well-prepared to combat potentially hazardous conditions in the face of raised concerns following the advent of severe winter weather conditions. With over two miles of sidewalks and three miles of roads, a team of 20 from the facilities department salted and plowed roads and walkways to ensure staff and student safety.

“I think the facilities crew does a great job clearing roads and walks during a snowstorm. We take a lot of precautions to keep everyone safe as they move about campus,” said Bleehash.

Pitt-Greensburg largely abides by Pitt’s Emergency Management Guidelines, but when it comes to cancellations and delays, leaves it up to the regional presidents. Pitt-Greensburg commits to remaining open in most circumstances, while taking into account other factors, most crucially, the needs of students. It is encouraged that students and staff exercise caution and ultimately decide for themselves if they should commute. 

“If you think it’s too hazardous to go out, don’t. Communicate with your instructors, if the pandemic taught us anything, it’s how to be flexible with Zoom classes when the weather is bad,” said Bleehash.