Notice: Fiber Optic (Internet/Phone) Outage on Campus FAQ

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Last updated: October 12, 2026, at 6:10 p.m.

Contractors working on repairs to a steam tunnel between Lankford and Stubbs accidentally cut a fiber-optic cable that delivers internet access and phone service to the southern end of campus. Affected buildings are as follows: Brock Hall, Joan Perry Brock Center, Greenwood Library, Willett Hall, Wygal Hall, Bedford Hall, CSTAC, Hull Hall, Pierson Hall, Sharp Hall, Register Hall, Johns Hall, Moss Hall and Stubbs Hall. It is estimated that the repairs will be complete and internet and phone access restored by the end of the week. While we await restoration, we have collected important information that will help you navigate campus this week.

Are classes still happening this week?

On-campus undergraduate classes that start before 4 p.m. on Monday, October 12, will not be held. Classes will resume on Tuesday, October 13, on a normal schedule. Faculty will communicate with students about any adjustments to class schedules or meeting locations. Students should check their email and Canvas for communications.

Where can I go to study, take a test or work on assignments where internet access is available?

Students should utilize the Upchurch University Center and Allen Hall, which have internet access. Upchurch is open from 7:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Students are encouraged to use the lounges, first floor food court area and the Wilson Chamber (when available). If a room in Upchurch is available, students can use it.

Allen Hall has 24-hour card access. The building is open and unlocked from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., with no card access, and can be accessed with your Lancer Card after 9 p.m. Students are encouraged to utilize Allen 101 as well as the 1st and 2nd floor classrooms, when classes are not being held.

Additionally, students can use academic classrooms in other buildings with internet access while they are open. Academic buildings close at 9 p.m.

Is WiFi on campus impacted?

Yes. All of the affected buildings are currently without WiFi internet. WiFi boosters are being added to buildings with internet access to help with increased demand in those areas.

Is cell service on campus impacted?

Given the internet and phone outages impacting campus we anticipate that cell service connectivity during peak hours may be slower than usual. Students should utilize the spaces on campus where internet access remains available: Upchurch University Center (open 7:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.), Allen Hall (open 24 hours with card access) and academic classrooms while not in use for classes (academic buildings close at 9 p.m.).

Is Greenwood Library still operating under normal hours?

Yes. The library is open normal hours without internet service. Please be aware that printing is not available and chat reference and email will be available intermittently as staff work remotely. However, materials may be borrowed and returned and online library resources are available as usual. The Comma will be closed this week.

Since I can’t print at the library, are there alternative printing options available?

Remote printing (black and white only) to Chichester G-13, Upchurch 305, and Hiner 11 remains available. During the fiber-optic disruption, the Lancer Print Shop will also print jobs for students at the same cost as printing at the library. Students can upload their print jobs online and choose the “pay at pickup” option. The Lancer Print Shop accepts Lancer Cash and debit cards.

Is the dining hall schedule impacted?

Dorrill Dining Hall is operating on a weekend schedule on Monday, October 12. On Tuesday, October 13, it will resume regular operating hours. All other on-campus dining facilities are operating as usual this week with the exception of The Comma, which is closed.

Is the campus rec center impacted?

No. Pierson Hall will operate on a normal schedule this week.

Is card access impacted anywhere on campus?

No. Card access to residence halls and academic buildings is unaffected. Fire alarms, life-safety systems and other emergency notification systems are also operating normally.

How do I reach the offices and staff located in Brock Hall?

  • Registrar’s Office – Staff is available in Radcliff Hall this week. Students can continue to contact the office by phone x2580 or email registrar@longwood.edu.
  • Student Success – Staff is available in Brock Hall. Students can contact staff via email or Microsoft Teams.
  • Student Employment – Staff is located in Eason Hall 207B. Staff can be reached by email at studentemployment@longwood.edu or by phone at extension x2944. Students needing to submit I-9 documentation should go to Radcliff Hall.
  • Writing Center/Tutoring – Operating as usual in Brock Hall. Students should download their work before their scheduled sessions.
  • Dean of Students, Title IX, Student Conduct and Integrity and Accessibility Resources offices can be reached on campus at extension x2490. Students can also reach individual staff via Microsoft Teams or their Longwood emails. Please be patient as we expect delays in accessibility testing services.

Is Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) impacted?

CAPS staff is still located in the CAPS Office and appointments are not impacted. To contact CAPS on campus, call extension x2405 or email CAPS@longwood.edu. If you are a student experiencing significant distress or a mental health crisis, contact HelpNow by calling 1-855-239-0278.