Inclement Weather

General guidance regarding UP procedures, notifications, and weather-related schedule changes is provided on this webpage. Information below addresses specific issues that arise when the university is impacted by winter weather.

University Closures

Because the University of Portland (UP) is a residential campus with 24/7 operations, we rarely close. In rare circumstances, however, hazardous weather conditions may force cancellation of classes and/or activities for part or all of a day. 

Employees responsible for responding to inclement weather and related cleanup are expected to report to work, provided they can do so safely. Employees in this category should contact their supervisors if they have concerns about safety, related to traveling to campus. Those required to be on campus should use extreme caution outdoors and beware of downed trees or power lines, or other hazards. Avoid walking in and around campus if possible.

The university may remain open while public schools and local childcare centers close due to weather. Supervisors are encouraged to recognize the difficulties this creates for working parents by responding with as much flexibility as the particular work environment allows. Supervisors may permit guardians to make an alternative arrangement or to take work home, if the specific job duties accommodate that arrangement.

Essential Services

Regardless of the cancellation or closure decision, employees who perform essential duties are expected to come to work.  Examples include those who work in Facilities, in residence halls and dining services, in campus safety, and those responsible for snow removal or storm cleanup.   Supervisors of employees who perform essential service work are responsible for communicating attendance expectations in advance and discussing anticipated transportation difficulties.

CAMPUS CLOSURE GUIDANCE

FOR STUDENTS

CLASSES

• In-person classes will be canceled. Check your syllabus or class communication channels for any alternative plans or instructions.
• Online classes will continue at the instructor’s discretion.

EVENTS/ATHLETICS

• Special events and athletic games held on the UP campus are canceled.

CAMPUS EMPLOYMENT

• Students employed by the university should not come to work.
• Students employed by private businesses on campus, including dining services, should consult with their supervisors.

HOUSING & RESIDENCE HALLS

• Open

DINING

• Reduced operations: Please check the Bon Appetit website. 

CAMPUS SAFETY

• Open

FOR EMPLOYEES

WORK GUIDANCE

• Review the University Closure Policy to determine what a closure means for your position or consult with your supervisor.
• Consult with your supervisor if the campus is open but weather conditions preclude you from coming in.
• After an inclement weather incident, Human Resources will share detailed information on how to report work hours and appropriate leave usage via email and on the Human Resources Website
• Read the annual Inclement Weather Notice.

FACULTY

• In-person classes are canceled.
• Online or hybrid classes may continue at your discretion.
• Encouraged to exercise flexibility with students who are unable to attend class due to circumstances related to the campus closure (i.e. power outage, childcare challenges)