Please check this page for frequent campus updates following the recent storm that impacted the region. Here you will find the latest information for students and employees, as well as any storm-related cancellations and closures.
Employee Daily Update
August 24, 2020:
Storm Recovery Update/Need for Volunteers
Supervisors please make an effort to get this information out to your teams as many employees still do not have reliable power and internet access.
Progress on Power Restoration
Work continues on repairing the following main campus buildings following the storm:
Art & Theater Annex & Kiln Building – The power has been restored to the building and it will open as normal tomorrow (8/25) at 8 a.m.
Main Campus Library – Power was restored to the building on Friday and it will open for regular business tomorrow (8/25) at 8 a.m.
Repairs are ongoing at both The Iowa Equestrian Center and The Kirkwood Center for Lifelong Learning. As progress is made, updates will be sent through direct communications to those impacted at those facilities.
This will be the final daily update following the storm recovery. As it becomes available, additional information will be sent through Have You Heard as well as posted to www.kirkwood.edu/stormrecovery.
Help Welcome Back Students
We are seeking volunteers to help create a welcome environment for students as we begin the fall semester. Volunteers will greet and help students find their way. In addition, the team will assist students with PPE and clarifying expectations with Kirkwood masking requirements, social distancing protocols, and related questions.
Stations are being arranged in buildings on both the main and Iowa City campuses and will be staffed from 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (M-F) during the first two weeks of the term.
If you are able to fill a time slot on either campus, please email Beth Schrader at beth.schrader@kirkwood.edu. Volunteers will be asked to fill a 1-2 hour time slot.
Thank you!
August 21, 2020:
Storm Recovery and COVID-19 Update
Supervisors please make an effort to get this information out to your teams as many employees still do not have reliable power and internet access.
Progress on Power Restoration
Work continues on repairing the following main campus buildings following the storm:
Art & Theater Annex & Kiln Building – The transmission lines and poles that service this location were badly damaged and are scheduled for repair by Alliant. An exact date for power restoration is still yet known but every measure is being taken to have the facility restored early next week.
The Iowa Equestrian Center – A section of the North riding arena roofing and overhead door was removed during the storm. This resulted in significant damage to the acoustical ceiling and suspected moisture to the main power switch gear. The temporary roof repair is complete and crews have started clean-up and electrical gear inspection.
The Kirkwood Center for Lifelong Learning – Clean-up crews are continuing to work and prepare the facility for staff and students to return on Aug. 31.
Main Campus Library – Power was restored this morning and tests are being done on equipment to ensure the building will be ready to open on Aug. 24.
COVID-19 Updates
Additional Safety Protocols
Kirkwood is excited and ready to welcome students back to campus this fall. In order to provide a safe and productive learning environment for everyone attending in-person classes, there will be additional requirements for everyone to follow. For more information on new campus safety protocols, as well as what in-person classes will look and feel like, go to www.kirkwood.edu/backtocampus.
No Food or Drink Allowed in Classrooms
As part of the new COVID-19 safety requirements, food and drink will not be allowed in any Kirkwood classroom.
Prepackaged Food and Drinks Available
Prepackaged food and drink items will be available for purchase at the Linn Hall café and the bookstore on main campus as well as the café on the Iowa City Campus.
Recommended Minimum Computer Standards
Students entering Kirkwood are recommended to have their own personal laptop computer. It is recommended that the laptop have an i3 processor if new or an i5 or above if purchased in the last three years. The laptop should have a webcam and be running Windows 10. A minimum of 8 GB of RAM is recommended, although higher RAM is a relatively inexpensive way to significantly increase the speed of the computer. The laptop should have at least two web browsers installed. A Chromebook is not recommended as it does not work with all applications a student may use. Students pursuing Nursing, Interior Design, Construction Management, or Architectural Technology should look to those programs for more specific computer requirements. Students considering transfer to another institution after Kirkwood should look to those institutions to determine if they have computer recommendations or requirements.
Registration and Student Services Available by Phone or In-person
Department offices are open for students needing assistance. Questions about enrollment, academic advising, and financial aid may be directed to Enrollment Services at two locations. Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (202 Kirkwood Hall and 114 Benton Hall). Students may also call 319-398-5411 for general information.
Semester Start Delay Reminder
The start of the fall semester has been delayed. Fall classes will now begin Aug. 31.
August 20, 2020:
Storm Recovery Update
Supervisors please make an effort to get this information out to your teams as many employees still do not have reliable power and internet access.
Progress on Power Restoration
The majority of Kirkwood locations and buildings are open and operational as of today. There are a few exceptions on main campus which are:
Art & Theater Annex & Kiln Building – The transmission lines and poles that service this location were badly damaged and are scheduled for repair by Alliant. An exact date for power restoration is not yet known.
The Iowa Equestrian Center – A section of the North riding arena roofing and overhead door was removed during the storm. This resulted in significant damage to the acoustical ceiling and suspected moisture to the main power switch gear. Teams are working to patch the roof, remove the acoustical ceiling to prevent falling debris, and dry out the switch gear to restore power. Building roof repair started this morning and should be completed by the end of the day. The power restoration timeline is still unclear at this time.
The Kirkwood Center for Lifelong Learning – Power has been restored to the building but roofing damage during the storm resulted in water damage within the facility. A temporary roof has been installed and efforts are being made to repair the areas affected by water. Crews are working to prepare the facility for staff and students to return on Aug. 31.
Main Campus Library – When power was restored, the transformer that services the main campus library failed and will need to be replaced or refurbished. A temporary transformer will be in place and power will be back online by Monday, August 24.
Rec Center Now Open
The rec center is now open with an enhanced safety protocol. Hours will be limited to 6-9 a.m., 11 a.m.-2 p.m., and 4-7 p.m. Monday-Thursday and Friday afternoons from 3-6 p.m. The center will be closed for two-hour blocks each day for deep cleaning of the building.
Masks and social distancing will be required at all times while in the building. Everyone will be required to do a temperature check and building occupancy will be limited to 50 people at a time. Drinking fountains, showers, and lockers will remain off/closed at this time and check-out equipment (basketballs, weight belts, etc.) will not be available. Spray bottles and towels for cleaning will be provided when you enter and each individual is expected to clean their machine prior to and after use.
Navigating Campus and Debris Removal
Public Safety has observed some drivers moving too fast and not being careful on main campus. The college would like to remind everyone to please navigate the campus safely. A good amount of storm debris is still present around campus. The removal of storm debris will continue into next week. In addition, with cleanup efforts and ongoing construction activity, a lot of machinery is present on Kirkwood roads and in parking lots. As a result, traveling on campus requires drivers to pay closer attention to their surroundings and drive with caution.
Johnson Hall Locker Rooms Open to Students and Employees
The Johnson Hall locker rooms have been made available for students and employees that need a hot shower. Anyone needing to use a shower can do so between 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. now through August 21.
Registration and Student Services Available by Phone or In-person
Department offices are open for students needing assistance. Questions about enrollment, academic advising, and financial aid may be directed to Enrollment Services at two locations. Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (202 Kirkwood Hall and 114 Benton Hall). Students may also call 319-398-5411 for general information.
Semester Start Delay Reminder
The start of the fall semester has been delayed. Fall classes will now begin Aug. 31.
Sign Up for Kirkwood Alert
This year, Kirkwood is using a new distribution system for Kirkwood Alert. As a result, you will need to register to receive alert messages from the college for this academic year and beyond. If you were registered previous to July 1 of this year, you will need to re-register in order to receive messages moving forward. If you have not yet done so, please go to www.kirkwood.edu/alert to make sure you are ready to receive any critical safety communications from the college.
August 19, 2020:
Storm Recovery Update
Supervisors please make an effort to get this information out to your teams as many employees still do not have reliable power and internet access.
Progress on Power Restoration
As of today, every Kirkwood location across our seven-county service area is open for regular business. Most of main campus is back online with the exception of a few specific buildings where crews continue to work on restoring power. Those buildings include:
Art & Theater Annex & Kiln Building
The Iowa Equestrian Center
The Kirkwood Center for Lifelong Learning
Main campus library
A more in-depth update on the progress being made will be provided tomorrow.
Navigating Campus
Public Safety has observed some drivers moving too fast and not being careful on main campus. The college would like to remind everyone to please navigate the campus safely. A good amount of storm debris is still present around campus. In addition, with cleanup efforts and ongoing construction activity, a lot of machinery is present on Kirkwood roads and in parking lots. As a result, traveling on campus requires drivers to pay closer attention to their surroundings and drive with caution.
Johnson Hall Locker Rooms Open to Students and Employees
The Johnson Hall locker rooms have been made available for students and employees that need a hot shower. Anyone needing to use a shower can do so between 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. now through August 21.
Registration and Student Services Available by Phone or In-person
Department offices are open for students needing assistance. Questions about enrollment, academic advising, and financial aid may be directed to Enrollment Services at two locations. Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (202 Kirkwood Hall and 114 Benton Hall). Students may also call 319-398-5411 for general information.
Semester Start Delay Reminder
The start of the fall semester has been delayed. Fall classes will now begin Aug. 31.
August 18, 2020:
Storm Recovery Update
Supervisors please make an effort to get this information out to your teams as many employees still do not have reliable power and internet access.
Progress on Power Restoration
The majority of Kirkwood locations and buildings are open and operational as of today. There are a few exceptions on main campus which are:
Art & Theater Annex & Kiln Building – The transmission lines and poles that service this location were badly damaged and are scheduled for repair by Alliant.
The Iowa Equestrian Center – A section of the North riding arena roofing and overhead door was removed during the storm. This resulted in significant damage to the acoustical ceiling and suspected moisture to the main power switch gear. Teams are working to patch the roof, remove the acoustical ceiling to prevent falling debris, and dry out the switch gear to restore power.
The Kirkwood Center for Lifelong Learning – Power has been restored to the building but roofing damage during the storm resulted in water damage within the facility. A temporary roof has been installed and efforts are being made to repair the areas affected by water.
Main Campus Library – When power was restored, the transformer that services the main campus library failed and will need to be replaced or refurbished. Currently, the best timeline is four weeks for a new or refurbished transformer but temporary solutions are being considered to power the facility.
Michael J. Gould Recreation Center – The rec center will be reopening tomorrow. See details below.
Rec Center Reopening Wednesday
The rec center will reopen tomorrow (8/19) with an enhanced safety protocol. Hours will be limited to 6-9 a.m., 11 a.m.-2 p.m., and 4-7 p.m. Monday-Thursday and Friday afternoons from 3-6 p.m. The center will be closed for two-hour blocks each day for deep cleaning of the building.
Masks and social distancing will be required at all times while in the building. Everyone will be required to do a temperature check and building occupancy will be limited to 50 people at a time. Drinking fountains, showers, and lockers will remain off/closed at this time and check-out equipment (basketballs, weight belts, etc.) will not be available. Spray bottles and towels for cleaning will be provided when you enter and each individual is expected to clean their machine prior to and after use.
Johnson Hall Locker Rooms Open to Students and Employees
The Johnson Hall locker rooms have been made available for students and employees that need a hot shower. Anyone needing to use a shower can do so between 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. now through August 21.
Registration and Student Services Available by Phone or In-person
Department offices are open for students needing assistance. Questions about enrollment, academic advising, and financial aid may be directed to Enrollment Services at two locations. Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (202 Kirkwood Hall and 114 Benton Hall). Students may also call 319-398-5411 for general information.
Semester Start Delay Reminder
The start of the fall semester has been delayed. Fall classes will now begin Aug. 31.
August 17, 2020:
Storm Recovery Update
Supervisors please make an effort to get this information out to your teams as many employees still do not have reliable power and internet access.
Progress on Power Restoration
Great news! All college locations will be open for regular business on Tuesday, August 18, with a few exceptions. The following locations remain closed due to ongoing power restoration or infrastructure issues:
Art & Theater Annex & Kiln Building
The Iowa Equestrian Center
The Kirkwood Center for Lifelong Learning
Main campus library
Main Campus Registration Sites Open
In addition to the majority of campus locations reopening on Tuesday (8/18), both registration sites on main campus (202 Kirkwood Hall and 114 Benton Hall) will be open. Students who need assistance registering for fall classes will be able to do so in-person from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Return to Work Plan
All phase three employees should plan on returning to their offices Tuesday morning with the exception of the locations still without power mentioned above. Those employees unable to return to their workspaces due to the storm should plan to work remotely as they are able or make arrangements with their supervisors.
Employees coming back to main campus should navigate the grounds carefully as there are still some downed trees and debris from the storm.
Before coming back to work, please remember to do your daily health check. If you feel sick, are experiencing symptoms, or have been exposed, please do not come to work and notify your supervisor as well as Kirkwood's COVID-19 hotline (319-784-1650).
August 16, 2020: Storm Recovery Update
Supervisors please make an effort to get this information out to your teams as many employees still do not have reliable power and internet access.
Progress on Power Restoration
Power restoration efforts continue on the main campus. Some buildings are coming back online early this week, while others will take longer to restore. Details are provided below.
Power restoration and infrastructure evaluation is occurring in the following buildings, with the goal of reopening on Tuesday (8/18):
Animal Health/Diamond V
Benton Hall
Cedar Hall
Heritage
Horticulture
Hotel at Kirkwood Center
Iowa Hall
Johnson Hall
Kirkwood Hall
Main campus library
Linn Hall
Mansfield Swine Center
Nielsen Hall
Simulation Center
Washington Hall
Tippie Beef Center
Power restoration is NOT yet able to begin in the following buildings:
Art & Theater Annex & Kiln Building
Auto Collision
Facilities Buildings
Iowa Equestrian Center
Jones Hall
KCETC & New Automotive Technology
Linn County Regional Center
Mail Services
Prairie Alternative
Recreation Center
Tippie-Mansfield Center
Locations that have power and will open on Monday (8/17) with normal operations:
Benton County Center
Cedar County Center
Iowa City Campus
Iowa County Center
Jones County Regional Center
Kirkwood Regional Center at the University of Iowa
Washington County Regional Center
Return to Work Plan for Monday (8/17)
Employees on the main campus, Linn County Regional Center, and Tippie-Mansfield Center may NOT return to campus until instructed to do so. These employees should plan to work remotely as they are able or make arrangements with their supervisors. If anyone has a critical need to access their workspace, equipment, or supplies, they are asked to contact Public Safety at 319-389-1774 before traveling to campus.
Employees working at the Iowa City Campus and the other regional and county centers that have power will return to work beginning Monday morning.
August 15, 2020: Storm Recovery Update
Progress on Power Restoration
Significant progress is being made to bring power back to the main campus. Crews have started restoring power to several campus buildings and are evaluating infrastructure in those buildings and that work will continue through at least Monday. Linn County Regional Center, Belle Plaine Center, and KCETC/Auto Tech remain without power.
Employees working on the main campus are instructed NOT to return to the campus until specifically told to do so. We are hopeful to have several buildings back on line early next week. More information will be posted as it becomes available.
Fall Kickoff Postponed to Aug. 26
Fall Kickoff has been rescheduled to August 26 at 8:30 a.m.
August 14, 2020: From the Desk of Lori Sundberg
Hello Kirkwood Colleagues,
I hope this message finds you and your families safe following Monday’s devastating storm. I pray that you and your families were able to escape without injuries. I know that some of you did experience significant property damage and loss and my heart goes out to you. I hope that the recovery and clean up goes as quickly as it can, and all of us can get some normalcy back to our lives as soon as possible.
I wanted to send you the first of many updates to let you know what is happening at the college. As you all know, we have decided to delay the start of the semester by one week to August 31. It was important to do this for a number of reasons.
Most importantly, with the massive impact of this historic storm, our entire region was affected in one way or another. In addition to being without power, many in our communities have to had to deal with a staggering level of destruction. Some have had to contend with the reality of major damage to their homes or the homes of loved ones. A few are even adjusting to temporary living situations. We all need time to process this event, repair what we can, and take care of those most important to us. The delay will allow us to do that, even if just for a short time.
While we recover from the storm, please bear in mind that we are still in a pandemic. Help your neighbors because they need it, but do so in a smart way. If you start to feel ill, take care of yourself, contact your health provider, and notify the Kirkwood COVID hotline. Please remember to stay safe.
As I write this, the main campus is closed and without power, and it may be several days before it is restored. Additionally, parts of the college sustained significant damage as a result of the storm. Multiple buildings on main campus have roof damage, the most severe being Cedar Hall, The Kirkwood Center for Lifelong Learning and The Iowa Equestrian Center. Over 100 trees were lost as well. A few of our regional and county centers have some damage too. The extra days before the start of the semester will help us ensure that we can provide a safe environment for all students, faculty, and staff when we return to campus. Our cleanup crews have been working tirelessly and are doing an amazing job, but there’s still much work to be done.
Heading into next week, the locations that have power will open on Monday with normal operating hours. Employees at these sites should report to work as usual or contact your supervisor to make other arrangements. These locations include:
Benton County Center
Cedar County Center
Iowa City Campus
Iowa County Center
Jones County Regional Center
The Kirkwood Regional Center at the University of Iowa
Washington County Center
Employees who work at main campus and the Linn County Regional Center should prepare to work remotely if they are able to do so. We understand that some will not have the capabilities of working remotely due to power or internet loss. Those who are unable to work remotely should contact their supervisor to discuss your options.
We have endured a great deal this year. At times it has seemed like more than we can bear… at least in the short term. But as I’ve continued to say since we faced the pandemic in March, I know we will get through this. It won’t be easy but we will. Kirkwood’s “can do” attitude continues to amaze me. Our employees are the backbone of our college and I have to tell you, that I would not want to face this crisis with any other college community. Kirkwood stands tall in its ability to withstand crisis and come through to the other side. We are a community that looks out for and helps each other. We are at our best when the going gets tough.
Just a few years ago, our community endured a flood of unthinkable proportions. But despite the widespread loss and hopelessness, Kirkwood and our community came through it all much stronger than before. I firmly believe we will do the same thing this time.
In times like these, we get reminded of the important things in life. All of our employees sheltered in their respective locations and we had no injuries. That is our first blessing. I’m very grateful that even though we had major damage to our campus, it pales in comparison to some of the damage in other locations across our city and district. It could have been much worse for Kirkwood. I continue to count our blessings even though we face a mountain of work. Once we get past this period and look back, we will again know that we are ready for the next difficult challenge–because as Eagles, we’ve proven time and time again that we can rise up and meet whatever challenge is presented to us. It’s what makes Kirkwood the college it is.
To all who have been working tirelessly on campus during this time, thank you for your commitment. Your devotion to getting Kirkwood back up and going is an inspiration to all of us.
To everyone else, thank you for your perseverance despite the challenges we face, please stay safe, and I’ll be in touch on Monday with an update.
Lori
Student Update August 24, 2020: Storm Recovery Udpate
Progress on Power Restoration Work continues on repairing the following main campus buildings following the storm:
Art & Theater Annex & Kiln Building – The power has been restored to the building and it will open as normal tomorrow (8/25) at 8 a.m.
Main Campus Library – Power was restored to the building on Friday and it will open for regular business tomorrow (8/25) at 8 a.m.
Repairs are ongoing at both The Iowa Equestrian Center and The Kirkwood Center for Lifelong Learning. As progress is made, updates will be sent through direct communications to those impacted at those facilities.
This will be the final daily update following the storm recovery. As it becomes available, additional information will be sent through the student email newsletter “Updates at Kirkwood” as well as posted to www.kirkwood.edu/stormrecovery.
August 21, 2020: Storm Recovery and COVID-19 Update
Progress on Power Restoration Work continues on repairing the following main campus buildings following the storm:
Art & Theater Annex & Kiln Building – The transmission lines and poles that service this location were badly damaged and are scheduled for repair by Alliant. An exact date for power restoration is still yet known but every measure is being taken to have the facility restored early next week.
The Iowa Equestrian Center – A section of the North riding arena roofing and overhead door was removed during the storm. This resulted in significant damage to the acoustical ceiling and suspected moisture to the main power switch gear. The temporary roof repair is complete and crews have started clean-up and electrical gear inspection.
The Kirkwood Center for Lifelong Learning – Clean-up crews are continuing to work and prepare the facility for staff and students to return on Aug. 31.
Main Campus Library – Power was restored this morning and tests are being done on equipment to ensure the building will be ready to open on Aug. 24.
COVID-19 Updates
Additional Safety Protocols
Kirkwood is excited and ready to welcome students back to campus this fall. In order to provide a safe and productive learning environment for everyone attending in-person classes, there will be additional requirements for everyone to follow. For more information on new campus safety protocols, as well as what in-person classes will look and feel like, go to www.kirkwood.edu/backtocampus.
No Food or Drink Allowed in Classrooms
As part of the new COVID-19 safety requirements, food and drink will not be allowed in any Kirkwood classroom.
Prepackaged Food and Drinks Available
Prepackaged food and drink items will be available for purchase at the Linn Hall café and the bookstore on main campus as well as the café on the Iowa City Campus.
Recommended Minimum Computer Standards
Students entering Kirkwood are recommended to have their own personal laptop computer. It is recommended that the laptop have an i3 processor if new or an i5 or above if purchased in the last three years. The laptop should have a webcam and be running Windows 10. A minimum of 8 GB of RAM is recommended, although higher RAM is a relatively inexpensive way to significantly increase the speed of the computer. The laptop should have at least two web browsers installed. A Chromebook is not recommended as it does not work with all applications a student may use. Students pursuing Nursing, Interior Design, Construction Management, or Architectural Technology should look to those programs for more specific computer requirements. Students considering transfer to another institution after Kirkwood should look to those institutions to determine if they have computer recommendations or requirements.
Registration and Student Services Available by Phone or In-person
Department offices are open for students needing assistance. Questions about enrollment, academic advising, and financial aid may be directed to Enrollment Services at two locations. Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (202 Kirkwood Hall and 114 Benton Hall). Students may also call 319-398-5411 for general information.
Semester Start Delay Reminder
The start of the fall semester has been delayed. Fall classes will now begin Aug. 31.
August 20, 2020: Storm Recovery Update
Progress on Power Restoration
The majority of Kirkwood locations and buildings are open and operational as of today. There are a few exceptions on main campus which are:
Art & Theater Annex & Kiln Building – The transmission lines and poles that service this location were badly damaged and are scheduled for repair by Alliant. An exact date for power restoration is not yet known.
The Iowa Equestrian Center – A section of the North riding arena roofing and overhead door was removed during the storm. This resulted in significant damage to the acoustical ceiling and suspected moisture to the main power switch gear. Teams are working to patch the roof, remove the acoustical ceiling to prevent falling debris, and dry out the switch gear to restore power. Building roof repair started this morning and should be completed by the end of the day. The power restoration timeline is still unclear at this time.
The Kirkwood Center for Lifelong Learning – Power has been restored to the building but roofing damage during the storm resulted in water damage within the facility. A temporary roof has been installed and efforts are being made to repair the areas affected by water. Crews are working to prepare the facility for staff and students to return on Aug. 31.
Main Campus Library – When power was restored, the transformer that services the main campus library failed and will need to be replaced or refurbished. A temporary transformer will be in place and power will be back online by Monday, August 24.
Rec Center Now Open
The rec center is now open with an enhanced safety protocol. Hours will be limited to 6-9 a.m., 11 a.m.-2 p.m., and 4-7 p.m. Monday-Thursday and Friday afternoons from 3-6 p.m. The center will be closed for two-hour blocks each day for deep cleaning of the building.
Masks and social distancing will be required at all times while in the building. Everyone will be required to do a temperature check and building occupancy will be limited to 50 people at a time. Drinking fountains, showers, and lockers will remain off/closed at this time and check-out equipment (basketballs, weight belts, etc.) will not be available. Spray bottles and towels for cleaning will be provided when you enter and each individual is expected to clean their machine prior to and after use.
Navigating Campus and Debris Removal
Public Safety has observed some drivers moving too fast and not being careful on main campus. The college would like to remind everyone to please navigate the campus safely. A good amount of storm debris is still present around campus. The removal of storm debris will continue into next week. In addition, with cleanup efforts and ongoing construction activity, a lot of machinery is present on Kirkwood roads and in parking lots. As a result, traveling on campus requires drivers to pay closer attention to their surroundings and drive with caution.
Johnson Hall Locker Rooms Open to Students and Employees
The Johnson Hall locker rooms have been made available for students and employees that need a hot shower. Anyone needing to use a shower can do so between 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. now through August 21.
Registration and Student Services Available by Phone or In-person
Department offices are open for students needing assistance. Questions about enrollment, academic advising, and financial aid may be directed to Enrollment Services at two locations. Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (202 Kirkwood Hall and 114 Benton Hall). Students may also call 319-398-5411 for general information.
Semester Start Delay Reminder
The start of the fall semester has been delayed. Fall classes will now begin Aug. 31.
Sign Up for Kirkwood Alert
This year, Kirkwood is using a new distribution system for Kirkwood Alert. As a result, you will need to register to receive alert messages from the college for this academic year and beyond. If you were registered previous to July 1 of this year, you will need to re-register in order to receive messages moving forward. If you have not yet done so, please go to www.kirkwood.edu/alert to make sure you are ready to receive any critical safety communications from the college.
August 19, 2020: Storm Recovery Update
Progress on Power Restoration
As of today, every Kirkwood location across our seven-county service area is open for regular business. Most of main campus is back online with the exception of a few specific buildings where crews continue to work on restoring power. Those buildings include:
Art & Theater Annex & Kiln Building
The Iowa Equestrian Center
The Kirkwood Center for Lifelong Learning
Main campus library
A more in-depth update on the progress being made will be provided tomorrow.
Navigating Campus
Public Safety has observed some drivers moving too fast and not being careful on main campus. The college would like to remind everyone to please navigate the campus safely. A good amount of storm debris is still present around campus. In addition, with cleanup efforts and ongoing construction activity, a lot of machinery is present on Kirkwood roads and in parking lots. As a result, traveling on campus requires drivers to pay closer attention to their surroundings and drive with caution.
Johnson Hall Locker Rooms Open to Students and Employees
The Johnson Hall locker rooms have been made available for students and employees that need a hot shower. Anyone needing to use a shower can do so between 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. now through August 21.
Registration and Student Services Available by Phone or In-person
Department offices are open for students needing assistance. Questions about enrollment, academic advising, and financial aid may be directed to Enrollment Services at two locations. Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (202 Kirkwood Hall and 114 Benton Hall). Students may also call 319-398-5411 for general information.
Semester Start Delay Reminder
The start of the fall semester has been delayed. Fall classes will now begin Aug. 31.
August 18, 2020: Storm Recovery Update
Progress on Power Restoration
The majority of Kirkwood locations and buildings are open and operational as of today. There are a few exceptions on main campus which are:
Art & Theater Annex & Kiln Building – The transmission lines and poles that service this location were badly damaged and are scheduled for repair by Alliant.
The Iowa Equestrian Center – A section of the North riding arena roofing and overhead door was removed during the storm. This resulted in significant damage to the acoustical ceiling and suspected moisture to the main power switch gear. Teams are working to patch the roof, remove the acoustical ceiling to prevent falling debris, and dry out the switch gear to restore power.
The Kirkwood Center for Lifelong Learning – Power has been restored to the building but roofing damage during the storm resulted in water damage within the facility. A temporary roof has been installed and efforts are being made to repair the areas affected by water.
Main Campus Library – When power was restored, the transformer that services the main campus library failed and will need to be replaced or refurbished. Currently, the best timeline is four weeks for a new or refurbished transformer but temporary solutions are being considered to power the facility.
Michael J. Gould Recreation Center – The rec center will be reopening tomorrow. See details below.
Rec Center Reopening Wednesday
The rec center will reopen tomorrow (8/19) with an enhanced safety protocol. Hours will be limited to 6-9 a.m., 11 a.m.-2 p.m., and 4-7 p.m. Monday-Thursday and Friday afternoons from 3-6 p.m. The center will be closed for two-hour blocks each day for deep cleaning of the building.
Masks and social distancing will be required at all times while in the building. Everyone will be required to do a temperature check and building occupancy will be limited to 50 people at a time. Drinking fountains, showers, and lockers will remain off/closed at this time and check-out equipment (basketballs, weight belts, etc.) will not be available. Spray bottles and towels for cleaning will be provided when you enter and each individual is expected to clean their machine prior to and after use.
Johnson Hall Locker Rooms Open to Students and Employees
The Johnson Hall locker rooms have been made available for students and employees that need a hot shower. Anyone needing to use a shower can do so between 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. now through August 21.
Registration and Student Services Available by Phone or In-person
Department offices are open for students needing assistance. Questions about enrollment, academic advising, and financial aid may be directed to Enrollment Services at two locations. Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (202 Kirkwood Hall and 114 Benton Hall). Students may also call 319-398-5411 for general information.
Semester Start Delay Reminder
The start of the fall semester has been delayed. Fall classes will now begin Aug. 31.
August 17, 2020: Storm Recovery Update
Progress on Power Restoration
Great news! All college locations will be open for regular business on Tuesday, August 18, with a few exceptions. The following locations remain closed due to ongoing power restoration or infrastructure issues:
Art & Theater Annex & Kiln Building
The Iowa Equestrian Center
The Kirkwood Center for Lifelong Learning
Main campus library
Main Campus Registration Sites Open
In addition to the majority of campus locations reopening on Tuesday (8/18), both registration sites on main campus (202 Kirkwood Hall and 114 Benton Hall) will be open. Students who need assistance registering for fall classes will be able to do so in-person from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. During your visit:
Please navigate campus carefully as there are still some downed trees and debris from the storm.
Masks are required when on campus.
Please continue to practice six feet social distancing during your visit.
If you have any questions, please call Kirkwood Community College at 319-398-5411 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday to speak with someone directly.
August 14, 2020: Message from President Sundberg
Hello Kirkwood Students,
I hope this message finds you and your families safe following Monday’s devastating storm. I pray that you all were able to escape without injury or major property damage.
I wanted to send an update to let you know what is happening at the college. As you may know, we have decided to delay the start of the semester by one week to August 31. It was important to do this for a number of reasons.
Most importantly, with the massive impact of this historic storm, our entire region was affected in one way or another. In addition to being without power, many of us have to deal with a staggering level of destruction. Some have had to contend with the reality of major damage to their homes or the homes of loved ones. A few are even adjusting to temporary living situations. We all need time to process this event, repair what’s broken, and take care of those most important to us. The delay will allow us to do that, even if just for a short time.
While we recover from the storm, please bear in mind that we are still in a pandemic. Help your neighbors because they need it, but do so in a smart way. If you start to feel ill, take care of yourself, contact your health provider, and notify the Kirkwood COVID hotline. Please remember to stay safe.
As I write this, the main campus is closed and without power, and it may be several days before it is restored. The extra days before the start of the semester will help us ensure that we can provide a safe environment for all students, faculty, and staff when we return to campus. Our cleanup crews have been working relentlessly and are doing an amazing job, but there’s still much work to be done. However, we are confident that the campus will be prepared and ready for you to have a successful year.
The delay to the start of term will also give you more time to get registered for your classes if necessary. Whether you were directly or indirectly impacted by the storm, you may need additional time to finalize your class schedule and related items, including your financial aid and other business. We will be working over the next several days to get operations up and running in order to assist you. More details on those operations will be shared with you soon.
We have endured a great deal this year. At times it all seems like too much… at least for such a relatively short period of time. But we’ll all get through this. In fact, we don’t have to look too far back in our history for evidence that we will.
Just a few years ago, our community endured a flood of unthinkable proportions. But despite the widespread loss and hopelessness, our community came through it all much stronger than before. This time will be no different.
In times like these, we get reminded of the important things in life. Remember to count your blessings. Once we get past this period and look back, we’ll know we are ready for the next difficult challenge–because as Eagles, we’ve proven we can rise above and overcome.
Thank you and stay safe.
Lori Sundberg
President, Kirkwood Community College
Cancellations and Closures
Class Delays:
Fall semester start delayed to Aug. 31
Class Cancellations:
All Continuing Education classes on main campus (through Aug. 21 at 5 p.m.)
All Continuing Education classes at Linn County Regional Center (through Aug. 21 at 5 p.m.)
All Continuing Education classes at the Kirkwood Continuing Education Training Center (through Aug. 21 at 5 p.m.)
Event Updates:
Aug. 19 employee Kickoff rescheduled for Aug. 26 at 8:30 a.m.
Building Closures: To see location and building status, click here.