“Winter Weather Alert: Essential Travel Tips for Panhellenic Recruitment!”

By Rory Dulock | News Editor

Due to Central Texas being under a winter weather advisory, Baylor’s Emergency Management team is collaborating with the National Weather Service and local authorities to guarantee safety for all when returning to Waco.

The winter storm necessitated Baylor to switch to remote operations on Thursday and Friday for the protection of faculty and staff. Given that the Panhellenic recruitment process begins on Monday, the winter advisory may also create travel challenges for participating students, according to a Presidential Perspective authored by Baylor President Linda Livingstone.

“If you plan to come back to Central Texas in the coming days, please review your local weather forecast prior to departure, and take all precautions to avoid icy conditions should you choose to drive,” Livingstone stated. “The frigid weather is impacting a significant section of the country and travel will be hindered in numerous locations. Additionally, ensure you closely monitor your Baylor email and the University’s official social media pages for updates regarding the weather.”

Erin Ellis, associate director of Fraternity and Sorority Life, indicated in a statement via email that the university’s Student Life team is “constantly observing various weather conditions” that could complicate students’ travel back to campus.

“The health and safety of our students have always been and will continue to be our foremost priority,” Ellis remarked. “Considering this, we understand that some of you planning to partake in recruitment may be worried, given your travel situation, about how to safely return to campus and participate in recruitment events. Please be assured that students who expect travel disruptions or delays will remain able to fully engage in recruitment without any penalties.“

As stated, Student Life will assist students based on their return and will modify their schedules or communicate to chapters regarding a student’s travel circumstances. If a student foresees their arrival being after 8 a.m. on Jan. 13, they should reach out to Erin Ellis at E_Ellis@baylor.edu.

“We recognize the significance of this week for your Baylor journey and will do everything we can to ensure your safe return and assist you in navigating any necessary accommodations that may arise during recruitment week,” Ellis assured.

George Nunez, director of Emergency Management, asserted that although the recent winter storm is moving away from Texas, it does not imply that Central Texas is in the clear. His office emphasizes to those returning this weekend to take care before heading out and to plan accordingly.

Nunez indicated that safe winter driving tips recommended by transportation, law enforcement, and emergency management agencies include preparing, checking weather and road conditions, planning ahead, reducing speed while driving, and packing an emergency kit.

Baylor is anticipated to return to regular operations as of Jan. 11. Nunez mentioned decisions are made based on the information received from the National Weather Service along with their local and state partners, and that the university considers all these factors.

“While the storm may be departing the the area … there is still the risk of refreezing and black ice on the highways and untreated roads, bridges, and overpasses, particularly as temperatures drop overnight,” Nunez cautioned. “As we enter into the colder months of the year, January and February, individuals should always use caution when driving at night, especially if there has been any precipitation during the day and if temperatures fall below freezing.”