Update on Rutgers-Camden Operating Status (Oct. 31, 2012)

To the Campus Community:

The unprecedented storm that began as Hurricane Sandy has caused significant damage to our state and region.  I hope that you and your family are well.  During the coming days and weeks, our campus community will rally to find ways to assist our neighbors and our fellow New Jerseyans as we recover from the storm.

We are fortunate that the Rutgers-Camden campus sustained minimal damage.  I understand that the same may not be true where you live.  While Rutgers-Camden will resume classes on Thursday, Nov. 1, I encourage each and every member of our campus community to be mindful of their individual safety and to act accordingly.  Students who may not be able to travel to their class location – on campus or off – should contact their professors to advise them of their situations.  Our faculty understand the need for flexibility regarding absences in the aftermath of the storm.

Off-campus classes also will resume on Thursday, Nov. 1.  If an institution hosting a Rutgers-Camden off-campus class should close, then that class also is canceled.

As detailed in the University-wide update email distributed Tuesday, Oct. 30, Rutgers will resume regular administrative functions effective 5 p.m. today.  Staff should report to work according to their normal schedules.  I ask managers to be accommodating regarding schedules during Thursday and Friday.  Faculty who are unable to attend their regular class sessions should advise their students with ample notice.

Rutgers-Camden is working closely with local and state authorities to monitor road conditions and public transportation.  We are advised that the major roadways serving our campus are largely clear and that conditions are improving.  The PATCO SpeedLine has resumed normal operations.  NJ TRANSIT buses are operating on a Sunday schedule today, and the River LINE may resume operations later today; please check with those organizations for updates. 

During Thursday, Nov. 1, and Friday, Nov. 2, ticketing will be suspended in Rutgers campus parking lots to accommodate individuals who might not be able to utilize their regular modes of public transportation.  This applies only to Rutgers parking lots, and does not include metered street parking or the Camden County College parking garage.

Many events during this week have been rescheduled or canceled.  I would like to note that the men’s soccer team is scheduled to host Rutgers-Newark for an NJAC playoff match at the Rutgers-Camden Community Park at 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 2.  Similarly, the volleyball team is scheduled to host Ramapo College for an NJAC playoff match in the Athletic and Fitness Center at 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 2.  Admission is free for anyone with a valid Rutgers ID card.  If you are able, please come out and cheer on our teams.

Wendell E. Pritchett, J.D., Ph.D.

Chancellor