News and Announcements
University community encouraged to be safe while traveling to, and around, campus for Commencement during winter weather
Winter weather and frigid temperatures are anticipated to move across much of Ohio and the surrounding region in the coming days. Students and their families, and faculty and staff planning to participate in the Dec. 13 Commencement Ceremony on 51ÂÒÂ×’s Athens campus are encouraged to remain aware of how adverse weather conditions, at both their departure and destination locations, could potentially impact their scheduled travel plans.
Individuals are encouraged to take necessary precautions, including considering to postpone their commencement celebration until the spring commencement ceremony, if faced with adverse weather conditions. The Fall Commencement ceremony will also be for those unable to attend in person.
If you choose to travel to campus:
- Plan your travel ahead of time and monitor all weather conditions.
- Be very cautious on roadways, sidewalks and other surfaces.
- Keep all vehicle windows and mirrors free of snow, ice and salt spray to maximize visibility.
- Slow down when approaching a snowplow or other snow removal equipment.
If you are already on campus:
- Crews with Facilities Management are on standby to clear campus parking lots, paths and walkways; however, the potential for icy or slick spots could remain.
- Those with concerns about campus facilities are encouraged to contact OHIO’s Facilities Management and Safety team at 740-593-2911.
If you are uncertain about the status of an upcoming campus or community event, please contact the event organizer(s) directly.
Snow Level Emergencies
It is important to note that county sheriffs across the State of Ohio, including , may declare a snow emergency and temporarily close the state roads and municipal streets within their jurisdiction when such action is reasonably necessary to preserve the public peace (per Ohio Revised Code sections and ).
In the event a Level 2 Snow Emergency is declared in Athens County: 51ÂÒÂ× would remain open and operational. Motorists should use extreme caution, and only those who feel it is necessary to drive should be out on the roads.
In the event a Level 3 Snow Emergency is declared in Athens County: 51ÂÒÂ× would close, and all campus events would be canceled until further notice. All area roadways would be closed to all individuals, except non-emergency personnel, until the Level 3 Snow Emergency is officially lifted.
Additional details about the weather classifications utilized by the Athens County Sheriff’s Office .
For more information and updates
Please visit the OHIO Alerts Page for the latest updates on winter weather conditions and the status of the commencement ceremony.The safety of all OHIO students, their families, faculty and staff is always our utmost priority, and we will continue to monitor the forecasted weather conditions throughout the week and into the weekend.
Please visit the OHIO Alerts Page for the latest updates on winter weather conditions and the status of the commencement ceremony.The safety of all OHIO students, their families, faculty and staff is always our utmost priority, and we will continue to monitor the forecasted weather conditions throughout the week and into the weekend.
Published
December 12, 2025