A Community In Need

Mar 2, 2026 9:00 AM

What began as a normal Tuesday at Westernport Elementary on May 13 turned dangerous when relentless rains triggered severe flash flooding across Allegany County, Maryland. Rising waters swallowed roads and parking lots, forcing students and staff to evacuate by boat as cars and dumpsters drifted across the school grounds, and families anxiously awaited word of their safety.

That evening, Frostburg State University mobilized to help. “FSU values our role in the community and consistently steps in to assist whenever possible,” said Dr. Jeff Graham, Senior Associate Vice President for Student Affairs. The university’s Quick Response Team delivered more than 150 comfort kits — blankets, sheets, pillows, and hygiene items — to displaced students at Mountain Ridge High School, while volunteers distributed additional supplies to flood victims. FSU Athletics also opened its laundry facilities to a Lonaconing nursing home without water service, ensuring residents had clean linens and clothing during the crisis.

As recovery efforts began and Governor Wes Moore declared a state of emergency, local school leaders faced a pressing question: where could more than 200 displaced elementary students safely finish the academic year, given that Westernport Elementary was significantly damaged and time was running out?

Principal Derek Horne reached out to Dr. Sarah O’Neal, director of FSU’s Children’s Literature Center (CLC), which had a long-standing relationship with the school. With campus space available, the university responded immediately. “It was an instant yes,” O’Neal said, highlighting FSU’s commitment to service.

Working with Allegany County Public Schools, FSU transformed its Education and Health Sciences Center into a temporary elementary school for Westernport students through June 6. Classrooms were reconfigured and safety measures implemented. “Bobcat Nation was happy to offer our support,” said FSU Interim President Darlene Brannigan Smith, Ph.D. “I’m proud of our staff who stepped up to provide learning spaces for these elementary students — and dare I say, future Bobcats.”

The effort involved the entire campus. The CLC provided administrative offices and enrichment activities, helping students maintain a sense of normalcy. University Police managed traffic and security, facilities crews prepared classrooms, Athletics opened fields and gyms for P.E. and recess, and the Lane University Center served as the central meal site. Elior Collegiate Dining, newly partnered with the university, quickly mobilized to serve breakfast, lunch, and snacks. “We were honored to assist the surrounding communities,” said Elior Operations Support Manager Daniel Meyer. “Our goal was simple — to create great food so students could keep learning without interruption.” Printing Services produced classroom materials and signage, while staff across campus volunteered to ensure every student felt welcome and supported.

On May 29, Westernport Elementary students arrived on campus for their first day in their temporary home, greeted by balloons, banners, and high fives from FSU’s mascot, Bob E. Cat. Each child received a “Future Bobcat” T-shirt — a small but meaningful symbol of unity and encouragement during a difficult time.

“With the support of so many community partners and especially Frostburg State’s CLC, we are back together as a family,” Principal Horne said. “Our hearts are filled today.” Dr. Smith emphasized that the university’s response reflects its mission and values. “The efforts of our students, faculty, staff, and administrators demonstrate the true spirit of service and all that FSU stands for,” she said. “We’re grateful that something positive could come out of this tragedy.”

While the flood caused lasting damage, it also revealed Westernport’s resilience and the strength of regional partnerships. As students continue their school year on FSU’s campus, they do so surrounded by compassion, collaboration, and a community determined to help them move forward — together.