Marshall University’s Smith Hall Complex, including the Communications Building and Smith Music, is closed this weekend for repairs following a small fire in an electrical panel caused by Friday’s thunderstorms. There were no injuries reported, but the building is undergoing continued assessment and repair this weekend. American Electric Power, third-party contractors and Marshall’s electricians are all on site and will determine next steps to restore the building to full functionality. Once power is stabilized in the complex, ionizers will be deployed to scrub the air in the affected areas.
It’s expected that Smith Hall and Smith Music will be open on Monday; however, Smith Communications Building will remain closed, as will the Smith Hall Parking Garage.
The following operations, employees and students in that building are affected:
*WMUL Radio*University cable system
*University College
*SOJMC
*Other university offices and classrooms
At this time, and on the recommendation of Human Resources, Supervisors in Smith Communications Building may select one of the following options for employees working on Monday, July 11.
Impacted department supervisors should communicate with personnel and students regarding the inability to work or have class in Smith Communications due to the system critical failure.
Employees and students should their email for possible additional updates this weekend.