Greenwood Bounces Back After Hurricane Helene’s Rampage
As Hurricane Helene swept through Greenwood, South Carolina, the community experienced one of the most disruptive events in its recent history. In the early hours of Friday, September 27, the storm unleashed its fury on the region, leaving Lander University and nearly the entire Greenwood County without power. The damage was so severe that all but one entry point to the university campus was obstructed by fallen trees and power lines, turning normal routes into hazardous paths.
A Community of Bearcats Rises to the Challenge
The day after the hurricane, Lander University’s emergency response kicked into action. Utilizing their own version of the Incident Command System (ICS), the university leadership, including President Cosentino, worked tirelessly to assess and respond to the needs of approximately 1,500 residential students. This ICS framework allowed for clear communication and effective management of the disaster response efforts.
Incoming reports and first-hand assessments revealed a daunting landscape. Many essential staff members were hampered by the situation’s adverse conditions, unable to reach the campus due to blocked routes. Despite this, a skeleton crew, supported by dining services and university officials, rolled up their sleeves and set to work keeping the students fed with available resources.
Preparing meals became an exercise in creativity as power outages forced the team to heavily rely on portable generators. Collaborating under challenging conditions, they managed to serve students simple but heartfelt meals cobbled together from what was available at eateries like the campus Starbucks and Chick-fil-A.
Nurturing the Lander Spirit Amidst Hardship
Saturday saw the decision to temporarily close the campus and suspend classes, prioritizing the restoration of power and ensuring student safety. Students capable of traveling were encouraged to head home. However, widespread damage meant significant barriers remained for many students hoping to leave, stuck in the vicinity due to impassable roads and scarce fuel.
With local highways operating below normal, the team at Lander focused their efforts on supporting and stabilizing the situation for the students who remained. Health services, mental health counseling, and logistical support in the form of transportation shuttles were made available as essential services. In an act of great camaraderie, the university plaza became a lively hub where students could gather, charge their devices, and share meals, creating a sense of community despite the darkness.
Power Restored: A New Dawn for Lander University
In the days following the hurricane, the restoration of power to campus buildings was a slow and arduous process. The initial flickers of light finally returned to a number of buildings by Monday, September 30th, with full power progressively restored by Wednesday, October 9th. During this time, the rallying effort by the university staff was immense, mobilizing to conduct critical repairs and upkeep in various campus facilities.
Through persistent efforts, staff ensured that each building was safe for occupation, conducting repairs such as removing damaged materials, addressing waterlogged areas, and rebooting technical systems. This comprehensive recovery laid the groundwork for the university to announce a phased return to educational routines, beginning with virtual classes on Thursday, October 10th, and a full return to physical classes following Fall Break on Wednesday, October 16th.
Strengthening Community Ties
The road to recovery underscored a broader commitment to community. Support poured in, with local businesses, organizations, and churches extending generous hands to aid not just Lander University, but also the greater Greenwood community. The challenge brought people together and spotlighted the strength of both community spirit and cooperation.
As the campus gradually regained its normal rhythm, the resilience displayed by students and staff alike became a source of inspiration. Highlighting their determination to overcome obstacles and embrace opportunities, the experience underscored an invaluable lesson: unified effort and unwavering spirit can turn the tide, even in the face of extraordinary challenges.
