Malibu

President’s Briefing Recap – Palisades Fire – January 2025

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The President’s Briefing Recap summarizes important information for the Pepperdine community shared during each President’s Briefing. In a special broadcast for faculty, staff, and students, president Jim Gash (JD ’93) was joined by members of Pepperdine’s Emergency Operations Committee to share their insights in light of the Palisades Fire and other ongoing fires in the area.

President’s Update

President Jim Gash (JD ’93) opened the special broadcast of the President’s Briefing with reflections on the past week as the University navigates the challenges facing the Malibu campus and the broader Pepperdine community in the wake of the Palisades Fire. He recalled witnessing the devastation of the Pacific Palisades and Malibu communities in the days following the start of the fire and emphasized the University’s commitment to supporting each other and our broader community as we recover. In his opening prayer, he acknowledged that God draws near to us when we draw near to him in times of pain and sorrow, and committed to engaging the Pepperdine community in prayerfully and proactively finding ways to restore and rebuild in the days and weeks to come. 

Emergency Operations Committee Updates – Phil Phillips (’88, JD ’92), Executive Vice President and Nicolle Taylor (’98, JD ’02), Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

Executive vice president Phil Phillips, who chairs the University’s Emergency Operations Committee (EOC), provided an incident timeline. When the Palisades Fire broke out last Tuesday, January 7, Pepperdine was prepared with ample information about the Red Flag Warning and the extreme conditions that impact how quickly the fire would be addressed and contained. Pepperdine activated its EOC that morning and has continued monitoring the fire closely since. As expected, the Palisades Fire did not move much closer to the Malibu campus than the edge of the area burned by the Franklin Fire, which had previously burned the brush closer to campus. 

Senior vice president and chief operating officer Nicolle Taylor addressed Pepperdine’s continued work with partner agencies, in particular our relationships with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL Fire) and the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACFD) that allow the University to be part of meetings at the incident command posts. 

Pepperdine’s relationship with Southern California Edison (SCE) provided the University with the most up-to-date information about possible public safety power shutoff (PSPS) warnings, which are an attempt to prevent additional wildfires by preemptively shutting off power when fire conditions are dangerous. While the Malibu campus had power throughout the Palisades Fire incident, SCE initiated PSPSs for various areas in Malibu and through Malibu Canyon.  

Due to the fires across the Los Angeles area, SoCalGas shut off gas service to the Malibu campus, as well as all areas between Pacific Palisades to Malibu. As SoCalGas restores service in the area, Pepperdine’s Malibu campus is the site of their incident command center for the Palisades Fire. By staging teams on campus, SoCalGas teams can more quickly access the Malibu and Pacific Palisades communities to restore access to natural gas. The Malibu campus is also the temporary site of the City of Malibu’s Emergency Operations Committee so they may conduct their operations while they are displaced from City Hall.

Taylor also addressed current weather conditions, including the current Red Flag Warning that ends Wednesday evening. Red Flag warnings are a weather designation that identifies times when wildfires could spread quickly, typically characterized by dry and very windy conditions.

While some evacuation zones around greater Los Angeles have received boil water notices–a water district’s notice that the water in the area is not safe to drink–the Malibu campus is not in an evacuation zone, and no boil water notices have been issued for Pepperdine. As such, Malibu campus water is safe for use. 

In a discussion of current road conditions, Taylor shared that Kanan Road and PCH north of the Malibu campus are open. Malibu Canyon Road is temporarily closed. PCH is closed on the east end at the McClure Tunnel and on the west side near the Malibu Pier. Closer to campus, many businesses, such as Chevron, Ralphs, and CVS, including the pharmacy, remain open. 

Areas within mandatory evacuation zones have received curfew notices. The Malibu campus is not in an evacuation warning or mandatory evacuation zone, and a curfew is not in effect in the area immediately surrounding the Malibu campus.

While mudslides could potentially become a concern following area wildfires following rainfall, Taylor shared that local agencies are proactively working on measures to guard against mudslides in the burn areas. 

Academic Enterprise and Air Quality – Jay Brewster, Provost and Chief Academic Officer

Due to ongoing efforts to fully contain the Palisades Fire, limited campus access, and gaps in the availability of faculty, staff, and students, the EOC determined that moving the vast majority of classes online for the first week of the spring semester was in the best interest of the Pepperdine community. Provost Brewster reinforced the deliberative processes used by the EOC and school deans to gather information to serve the community of students, faculty, and staff. While disrupting academic operations at the beginning of a new semester is not ideal, he shared it was the right thing to do given the magnitude of the Palisades Fire and its potential impact on Pepperdine’s academic experience based on the totality of the information. Provost Brewster expressed his deep appreciation for faculty, staff, and students as they adapted to the changes. 

As the University continues to monitor conditions during the week, the EOC assessed that improving campus conditions and the restoration of utilities will enable the return to in-person classes on Tuesday, January 21. In the unlikely event there are any changes to this plan, the University will notify faculty, staff, and students by noon on Thursday, January 16. In the meantime, the University is committed to delivering remote learning with the highest academic standards.

Harnessing his background as a professor of biology, Provost Brewster also discussed air quality around campus during and following a fire, addressing both typical populations as well as individuals who are more susceptible to respiratory challenges. Provost Brewster explained the basics of particulate matter in the air during a wildfire and the air quality index (AQI) used across the United States which defines levels of particulate matter and other airborne components that could be dangerous to humans. The current and forecasted AQI for Malibu was shown to be at normal healthy levels. Provost Brewster and President Gash reinforced that normal campus operations and activities would not resume if the air quality was unhealthy. Provost Brewster shared that the University is monitoring air quality conditions and testing campus spaces to ensure the safety of faculty, staff, and students as they return to campus. A significant supply of N95 masks is available to all members of the community during this time and can be picked up at the HAWC, the Payson Library circulation desk, and the Student Affairs front desk.

Internet Network Restoration – Lila McDowell Carlsen, Interim Vice Provost

Lila McDowell Carlsen discussed the work of the Office of the Provost in communicating with Pepperdine’s Information Technology (IT) department in monitoring network status and restoration of network issues that have arisen during the Palisades Fire. She shared that, while both Verizon and Spectrum internet connections have been impacted on our campuses, internet is available at Pepperdine’s Malibu, Calabasas (depending on electricity), West LA, and Irvine campuses. Outages to network services in on-campus faculty and staff housing have been due to power outages and not fire damage.  

As of this morning, Spectrum has informed us that their crews will be working through the night to install infrastructure using temporary fiber to restore service to areas within 24 to 48 hours. While they work, IT will work on alternatives in the event Verizon and Spectrum aren’t able to restore service in the next couple of days to ensure everyone on campus has reliable and stable internet connections. 

Student Life and Student Support – Connie Horton (’82), Vice President for Student Affairs

Connie Horton shared that all residence halls (serving the hundreds of students who have returned to campus) have utilities, including gas (heat, hot water), electricity, and WiFi/Internet. Dining Services is available with limited hours, and Payson Library is open. 

During and following this wildfire, the Student Health Center and the Counseling Center are open and operating daily. The Student Health Center is available for students in person and through remote appointments. The Counseling Center is open for in-person and remote sessions (only for California residents due to federal regulations) and available for after-hours emergencies. Out-of-state students can access 24/7 care through the TimelyCare app.

Students are advised to contact the Student Care Team about any students who have lost homes or have other fire-related losses or needs. The Student Care Team and others have been working closely to respond to those impacted by the fires through individualized case management, immediate financial support, and assistance in finding housing (short and long-term on-campus options). They can also assist with replacing computers and assisting with food, toiletries, and other immediate needs. 

Employee Support – Sean Michael Phillips (’07, MS ’11), Associate Vice President, Human Resources and Business Services

In recognition of community members who have experienced varying challenges throughout the recent wildfires, Sean Michael Phillips shared that the University has activated the Pepperdine Strong Fund, providing nearly $100,000 to students, faculty, and staff impacted by this crisis to help with their immediate needs. Pepperdine’s Human Resources office has also contacted more than 100 employees with a home address potentially affected by the wildfire or evacuation notices to learn how they are doing and understand the nature of their needs.

Due to an outpouring of support for impacted community members, Christin Shatzer Román, director of community engagement and service, will lead an effort to organize donations of clothing and other necessary items to community members affected by the fires and provide resources to help affected members with cleanup, childcare concerns, and more. 

This entry was posted in Calabasas, Malibu.

Monitoring Los Angeles Area Fires  – Update #5

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University officials continue to monitor the fires in the greater Los Angeles area. 

The Palisades Fire remains approximately 2.5 miles from campus and is not presently a threat to Pepperdine’s Malibu campus. The Palisades Fire has burned 23,713 acres and is 11% contained. 

The Kenneth Fire is now 100% contained. All evacuation orders for this fire have been lifted. 

Air Quality
Air quality is generally improving, though it can vary depending on wind direction related to the fires in the greater Los Angeles area. Pepperdine officials continue to monitor air quality in the area. For those with additional sensitivities, N95 masks are available upon request. 

Classes and Campus Operations
The University is prepared to resume all undergraduate and graduate classes on Monday with undergraduate and the vast majority of graduate classes on the Malibu campus held online through Sunday, January 19. Students with classes scheduled on the Calabasas, West Los Angeles, or Irvine campuses should follow the guidance of their deans.

Faculty will deliver classes online from home or their campus offices as fire and road conditions permit. Deans and supervisors have provided additional guidance to faculty related to teaching schedules and office hours.

Staff should return to normally scheduled work shifts and campus locations, unless approved by supervisors to work remotely. Employees with additional sensitivities may speak with their supervisor about alternative arrangements or to request an N95 mask. Employees who live in the areas impacted by the fires, or have children whose schools are impacted, should work with their supervisors to adjust work schedules to attend to family or home needs.

Curfew
In order to secure areas evacuated due to the Palisades Fire, officials have instituted a curfew from 6 PM to 6 AM in the mandatory evacuation areas. All students, faculty, and staff are asked to remain out of and off roads within these evacuated areas during this time. 

Red Flag Warning
The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for portions of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties until 6 PM Wednesday with predicted sustained winds of 15-30 miles per hour (MPH) and gusts up to 50 MPH accompanied by low relative humidity.

Road Conditions Update
Malibu Canyon Road, Topanga Canyon, and Pacific Coast Highway remain closed. The closure point of PCH has moved from Malibu Canyon to just south of the Malibu Pier, with Ralphs and the Chevron gas station open for business. PCH remains closed on the south end at the McClure Tunnel. Currently, the only way to access Pepperdine’s Malibu campus is by taking Kanan Road south to PCH and entering campus on John Tyler Drive.

This entry was posted in Calabasas, Malibu.

Resources for Faculty and Staff Affected by Wildfire

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Many in our University family have been personally affected by the damaging wildfires. The Pepperdine community continues to hold our neighbors, colleagues, and friends in our prayers as they navigate disruption, anxiety, grief, and loss during this time of devastation. Below is a list of resources available to assist those affected by the recent and ongoing wildfires in Southern California. 

Pepperdine Strong Fund Resources

If you are directly impacted by the recent wildfires – experiencing an evacuation order, a partial loss of your home, or a total loss of your home – please contact Human Resources (humanresources@pepperdine.edu or 310.506.4397) to learn of immediate resources available to you. 

State and Federal Resources

Transportation Resources

For evacuees in need of transportation, free rides are available to shelters through various services:

  • LA Metro has suspended fares for today, January 10.
  • Lyft: Riders in need can use the code CAFIRERELIEF25, valid for 2 rides up to $25 each ($50 total) from now until 1/15 at 11:59 p.m.
  • Uber: Use promo code WILDFIRE25 in the wallet section of your Uber app to redeem 2 free Uber rides up to $40/each for transportation to/from active shelters.

Temporary Housing Resources

  • Airbnb – Temporary Housing for Wildfire Victims. Airbnb is offering temporary housing to individuals impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires. 
  • Local Real Estate. The University has engaged a network of local realtors who are ready to assist with housing, both short-term and long-term needs. For more information, please contact Lisa Stone (lisa.stone@pepperdine.edu). 
  • Open Hoteling Space – Calvary Westlake Village. Calvary Westlake is currently open to anyone in need of a safe and secure place to sit, work, charge devices, or access WiFi (today, January 10, from 8 AM to 6 PM). Calvary Chapel can also assist you or your family with temporary housing.

Financial and Insurance Resources

  • Benefit Services Financial Group (BFSG). BFSG, through its partnership with Pepperdine, offers no-cost personal assistance with various financial matters provided by certified financial planners (CFPs), including reviewing homeowners and renters insurance policies and submitting claims.
  • Aetna Health Members – Resources for Living (RFL). Aetna is offering expanded services through its Resources For Living (RFL) program, which provides support for emotional stress and crisis management, for those affected by the wildfires. Call 1-833-327-AETNA (1-833-327-2386) to be connected to a dedicated support specialist.
    • Prescriptions: For urgent prescriptions, visit any open CVS or covered pharmacy in your area. Non-urgent prescriptions can be mailed by calling Aetna Pharmacy at 1-888-792-3862. Delivery may take 5-7 days.
    • Pharmacies: Due to the wildfires, local pharmacies may be closed or without power. For personalized assistance finding an open pharmacy nearest you, call the concierge number on the back of your member card or visit your member portal.
  • Kaiser Permanente Health Members. Kaiser Permanente members affected by the Southern California wildfires can utilize the following support:
    • Appointments: Video and phone appointments for primary care are available. For questions, contact the Appointment and Advice Call Center at 1-833-574-2273.
    • Prescriptions: For urgent prescriptions, visit any open Kaiser pharmacy. Non-urgent prescriptions can be mailed by ordering online or calling the Mail Order Pharmacy at 1-866-206-2983. Delivery may take 3-5 days.
    • Pharmacies: Due to the wildfires, local pharmacies may be closed or without power. For personalized assistance finding an open pharmacy nearest you, call the concierge number on the back of your member card or visit your member portal.
    • Member Services: For any questions or mental health support, contact the 24/7 Member Services Contact Center at 1-800-464-4000 (English). More details can be found on Kaiser’s website.

Spiritual and Psychological Resources

  • University Chaplain Support. The Hub for Spiritual Life is available to provide spiritual support and guidance during this challenging time. If you need assistance or wish to speak with a chaplain, please contact Tim Spivey (timothy.spivey@pepperdine.edu) or Dee Dee Mayer (deedee.mayer@pepperdine.edu).
  • Grief and Loss Support with Robert Scholz. Robert Scholz, M.A., LMFT, LPCC, a respected professional with over 25 years of experience in clinical and leadership roles and a friend of Pepperdine, will host two opportunities:
    • A Grief Support Workshop will be held on Monday, January 13 at 11:00 AM via Zoom. This session is designed to support both the community and those who have experienced loss. It will offer guidance on managing grief, coping strategies, and maintaining emotional well-being during these challenging times.
    • One-on-one consultations are available for individuals seeking ongoing, personalized support. Please email robert@roberttherapy.com to schedule an appointment.
  • Health Advocate – Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Health Advocate offers 24/7 support University employees, their spouses, dependents, and family, including counseling, insurance assistance, and a wide range of other support services during this ongoing crisis (this resource flyer provides local emergency shelters and other essential resources). To contact Health Advocate, please call 866-799-2728 or visit myhealthadvocate.pepperdine.edu.

Get Involved and Help The Community 

Many people are asking what they can do to support the community during this time. In addition to supporting many worthwhile organizations that support natural and humanitarian crises, there are a few ways to directly help those within the Pepperdine community:

Please contact Human Resources with any questions or requests for assistance. The Pepperdine community grieves with those experiencing loss, and offers support, compassion, and hope in the face of intense challenge.

This entry was posted in Calabasas, Malibu.

Monitoring Kenneth Fire – Update #3

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The University continues to monitor the Kenneth Fire, which is 1.5 miles from the Calabasas campus and remains north of the 101 freeway. The fire has grown to approximately 960 acres. The National Weather Service is forecasting sustained winds from the northeast from 25-35 MPH and wind gusts up to 50 MPH tonight. 

Resources are available to address this incident, and agencies are dedicating a considerable amount of firefighting ground and air resources to suppressing the Kenneth Fire. While evacuation warnings and orders have been issued and may continue with fire activity, some have already been recalled on the eastern side of the fire. The latest evacuation warnings for the Kenneth fire are available on the Genasys website. Please monitor and follow evacuation instructions if your area is impacted.

Roads in the area are congested, including with evacuation traffic. There are reports of significant traffic on Kanan Road. The 101 freeway is currently open. If the fire approaches closer to the freeway, officials could temporarily close the freeway. Please be mindful of road closures and traffic patterns as road conditions are fluid. Road conditions for the local area can be found at www.sigalert.com.

Please be advised of the following:

  • Community members whose homes are affected by the fires or road closures should follow the directions of their local governmental agencies. 
  • There are reports of significant traffic on Kanan Road as well as the 101, please be mindful of road conditions and traffic patterns as you consider your response. Faculty, staff, and students are welcome to remain on campus as appropriate.
  • Road condition information is available on the University’s Road Condition hotline at 310.506.ROAD (7623).

Our Pepperdine community has been through significant challenges this week as fires have devastated Southern California and have directly impacted many in our community. Even in these heartbreaking moments, we have witnessed our Pepperdine community come together to support one another through it all. We are proud to serve a community that truly cares and helps one another in real and tangible ways. Let us continue to pray for one another and for God’s continued protection for those in our Pepperdine community and all of Los Angeles County.

The Emergency Operations Committee (EOC) will be monitoring the fires throughout the evening and overnight, though this will be the last message tonight unless conditions materially change.

This entry was posted in Calabasas, Malibu.