Gladfelter Fire Scare
Harley Woods | October 6, 2022
Over the summer of 2022, the new Buncombe County Fire Marshal, Kevin Tipton, began a strained relationship with Warren Wilson College (WWC) upon observing past and frequent fire code and safety violations.
On Sept. 29 at 5:30 p.m. the fire alarm sounded in Gladfelter — WWC’s dining hall. Not only was the main dining hall affected, but the entire first and second floor needed to be evacuated, including staff working in the kitchens.
More than 50 staff and students sat across from the building, many of whom had abandoned their meals inside.
Ralph “RJ” Chittams, director of residence life, strolled down the Sunderland hill towards the alarm with an expression of contentment and relief.
“It’s not reslife this time!” Chittams said.
The first fire truck arrived ten minutes after the alarm sounded. One firefighter — not in full gear — entered the building with a public safety officer. Shortly afterward, a second fire truck arrived. One firefighter in full gear also entered the building to inspect the source.
As the fully dressed firefighter began his inspection, junior and Woodworking Crew member Aria Hansen speculated: “I think something’s wrong.”
As the debacle continued, Hansen repeatedly voiced her hunger.
Also occurring on Sept. 29 was the Alumni-Student Career Social. The event’s starting time was pushed back by 15 minutes due to the evacuation and delay in setting up.
One alum who had arrived early remarked that she felt she was receiving a proper “Warren Wilson experience.”
Despite stress among the student body concerning the fate of Gladfelter, the firefighters cleared the building for re-entry only thirty minutes after the initial alarm.