Skidmore College
Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan (CEMP)

Inclement Weather Policy

As a residential institution, Skidmore operates on a continuous 24-hour, 12-month basis. There may be occasions, however, when the College suspends some operations due to severe inclement weather or other emergencies.

Decisions for delayed campus openings, early releases, or campus closure due to inclement weather will be made by Human Resources in conjunction with the College administration, based on National Weather Service advisories and/or State or local police bulletins.

In instances of delayed openings, early releases, or campus closures, only employees essential to the operation of the College will be required to work. As a general guideline, this will include the staff in Campus Safety, Boiler Operations, Grounds and Transportation, and Maintenance. When the students are in residence, the Food Service staff is also designated as essential. This list is not all-inclusive, and in the event that other departments are deemed necessary, department directors will notify personnel in those areas.


Campus Closure, Delayed Openings, and Early Release
  • The Director of Human Resources confers with the Vice President for Business Affairs and makes the decision after input from Campus Safety and Facilities Services.
  • The decision is relayed to Campus Safety, Facilities, the Director of College Relations, and President's Staff.
  • The automated voice-mail system is used to relay information to employees. IT provides technical assistance.
In the event of campus closure or delayed opening, announcements will be sent to the following media and internal communications from the Office of College Relations:
  • Radio Stations: WGY, WROW, and STAR
  • Television Stations: WNYT (13), WRGB (6) and WTEN (10)
  • Electronic email messages to employees and students
  • Automated telephone message on 580-SNOW through Campus Safety
  • Messages on departmental phones as directors see fit
In the event of an early release, Human Resources will use the voice-mail system to relay information to employees. Employees are required to confirm that they are released from work with their supervisor prior to leaving campus.