Elliott Tower on Oakland University's campus

Frequently Asked Questions

These frequently asked questions address the recent campus impacts related to the high temperature hot water (HTHW) system repairs and the resulting modified operations. This page is intended to provide quick, clear answers to common concerns from students, faculty, staff, and visitors as restoration efforts continue. Information includes guidance on building access, classes, work expectations, campus services, and available support resources. Updates will be added as conditions change and additional information becomes available.

What is the current status of the High Temperature Hot Water System repairs?

Repairs to the HTHWS are now expected to continue through at least December 11. This extended timeline will impact the final week of classes and most final exams.

What should I do if my office or classroom is in a building without heat?

Limit entry into unheated buildings to prevent further heat loss.
Move all meetings in these buildings to a remote format.
Minimize staffing in heat-impacted locations as much as possible.

Is the University coordinating guidance with the AAUP?

Yes. A Letter of Agreement is currently being finalized, and AAUP has been in constant communication with Academic Affairs. Pending final agreement, the following guidance applies.

I teach in a building without heat. What should I do?

You should move your course to a remote modality for the remainder of the term.

What if students need access to a computer or internet connection?

There is Oakland University wifi available at the Oakland West Campus to support students & faculty.

I need to continue teaching face-to-face. Are classrooms available?

A limited number of classrooms are available at:

Oakland West Center (OWC)
Macomb University Center (MUC)

To request off-campus classroom space, submit request using this sheet: Requests for classrooms during outage. For questions, contact Vice Provost Dr. Amy Banes-Berceli at [email protected] by Monday, December 1.

My class is in a building that still has heat. Can I continue as usual?

Yes. You may:

Continue normal in-person instruction,
Offer a hybrid option for students who cannot return to residence halls, or
Move the class fully remote, if needed.

Please stay in close communication with your students over the next two weeks.

How are research labs affected?

Some temperature-sensitive labs have temporary heating units installed.
Labs in non-impacted buildings may continue normal activity.
Labs in impacted buildings may be accessed on a limited basis only; each entry contributes to additional heat loss.

Which performance spaces or event locations are affected?

Varner Hall is impacted; find information about performance updates
The Oakland Center (OC) is also impacted; many events may be cancelled or rescheduled.
Other events depend on the affected location. For example, the President’s Colloquium has been postponed to next semester.

What if my final exam cannot be held remotely?

Faculty may request off-campus classroom space at OWC or MUC using the form requests for classrooms during outage. Requests should be submitted by Wednesday, December 3, or contact Dr. Amy Banes-Berceli directly.

What support is available for students who cannot travel?

Students needing transportation assistance for off-campus classes or exams should contact the Dean of Students Office at [email protected].

What about students who require Disability Support Services?

Disability Support Services remains open and accessible in its standard location during modified operations, with the west doors unlocked for access to Wilson Hall and DSS.

How should faculty accommodate students unable to return to campus?

Faculty are asked to make every effort to accommodate students who cannot return to campus for finals, including those whose residence halls remain without heat.

Which campus buildings are affected by the heating outage?

The following buildings are currently impacted:
Biomedical Research Support Facility, Central Heating Plant, Dodge Hall, Elliott Hall, Engineering Center, Hamlin Hall, Hannah Hall, Hill House, Kresge Library, Math and Science Center, Meadow Brook Theatre, North Foundation Hall, Oakland Center, O’Dowd Hall, Pawley Hall, Recreation and Athletics Center, South Foundation Hall, Vandenberg Hall, Van Wagoner Hall, Varner Hall, Wilson Hall.