Responding to a Weather Emergency

For the Record, An AACRAO Podcast

We are seeing an increase in the frequency and strength of major weather events, or emergencies caused by weather events: Hurricanes, snow storms, wildfires, etc. In this episode, we use the backdrop of Hurricane Ian to discuss preparedness for weather emergencies on campus.

Key Takeaways:

• A Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) is a critical document that enables rapid and thorough response to an emergency situation. If you haven’t reviewed your COOP, or if you don’t have a COOP, start there. Your emergency management team should be able to assist.
• Registrar’s offices have a specific set of responsibilities that need to be accounted for in the case of an emergency; planning for a worst case scenario is a good idea. Assume no power, no internet, and no system status for some period of time.
• Designated, authorized individuals in the registrar’s office may need to create a “driveaway kit” that includes information about student class schedules, emergency contact information, and any other critical forms, documents, or information that your institution may need.
• Often, the majority of the work relating to a weather emergency happens once the storm (or event) itself has passed. Maintaining flexibility, understanding, and working with compassion with your staff, your students, and your faculty can go a long way to restoring some semblance of normalcy.
• Being able to coordinate with other registrars is very helpful! AACRAO and your regional association can help you make those connections.

Hosts:

Sarah Reed, Registrar
University of California Hastings College of the Law
[e-mail]

Doug McKenna, University Registrar
George Mason University
[e-mail]

Guests:

Brian Boyd
University Registrar
University of Central Florida
[e-mail]
https://registrar.ucf.edu/

Additional Resources:

ready.gov - Federal resource for emergency planning

Continuity of Operations Plans - FEMA guidelines

Core Competencies and Professional Proficiencies:

Leadership and Management

Collaborative Decision Making