Petition to Cancel In-Person Campus Operations at Eastern Connecticut State University on February 25, 2026

Over the past several days, our area has experienced severe snowfall, creating dangerous conditions across campus and surrounding roadways. Students have been circulating numerous photos and videos showing uncleared roads, icy sidewalks, and hazardous parking lots throughout Eastern Connecticut State University. Some of those photos (taken by students) have been attached below. Many members of our campus community feel unsafe walking to class, driving to campus, or navigating the grounds in their current condition.

Commuter students, in particular, are expressing serious concerns about traveling on untreated and slippery roads. For many, the risk of accidents, vehicle damage, or personal injury is very real. No student should have to choose between their safety and their attendance.

Neighboring high schools and colleges have already made the decision to close for tomorrow, recognizing the severity of the weather and prioritizing the safety of their communities. We respectfully ask: if surrounding institutions acknowledge that conditions are unsafe, why can’t we?

While we understand that the university has stated it will reassess weather conditions in the morning, waiting until the last minute forces students and faculty to make rushed and stressful decisions at dawn. Many commuters must leave early to make it to class on time. Providing clarity now would allow everyone to plan responsibly rather than scramble in potentially hazardous conditions.

Even if normal operations proceed, it is likely that attendance will be significantly reduced due to safety concerns. Some professors may choose to cancel classes individually, leading to inconsistency and confusion. Maintaining in-person operations under these circumstances creates unnecessary risk and inequity for students and faculty who do not feel safe traveling.

Requiring members of our Eastern community to report to campus despite widespread safety concerns is both unfair and irresponsible. The well-being of students, faculty, and staff should be the university’s top priority.

For these reasons, we respectfully urge university administration to cancel in-person campus operations for February 25, prioritizing safety today protects our entire community tomorrow. Safety should never be optional.