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Dear students, parents, colleagues, and friends,

A heavy rainstorm, beginning this evening and continuing through Thursday, has been forecast for much of Southern California. Authorities warn that, because the Thomas Fire destroyed most of the vegetation in the Ventura County hillsides, this storm poses a significant risk of mudslides. Although Thomas Aquinas College is not seriously threatened, erosion could temporarily cut off access via Highway 150. Thus, as a precautionary measure, we will voluntarily undergo an evacuation, starting this evening.

Please note:

  • This afternoon’s classes and thesis defenses will take place as scheduled.
  • This evening’s seminars are canceled.
  • We will serve an early dinner at 4:30 p.m., after which students are to depart campus.
  • All classes and thesis defenses for Wednesday are canceled.
  • We will announce on the College’s website, Facebook page, and Twitter feed the status of Thursday’s classes and thesis defenses no later than 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday.
  • We will post our next update by 8:00 p.m., or as circumstances warrant.
  • If you live locally and can offer shelter to students who may need it, please contact Assistant Dean Christopher Decaen.
  • Please send any other inquiries to ThomasFireTAC@gmail.com.

I want to emphasize that the campus is in no immediate danger. Not knowing what this storm will bring, however, the prudent thing to do is to insure the safety of the students, faculty, and staff and evacuate the campus while it can be done safely.

Thank you for your patience as we work our way through this extraordinary time. Please pray for those threatened by the rain and for the safety of all first responders.

Sincerely,

Mike

 

 

Michael F. McLean, Ph.D.
President
Thomas Aquinas College