God’s Story Never Ends in Ashes

“Out of these ashes, we will rebuild, stronger and better equipped to serve out the mission of UJ in accordance with His will.”

UJ President Dr. Polly Peterson’s words rang out in a crowded Harold Newman Arena on Wednesday, January 22, just three days after a fire tragically destroyed the kitchen and dining facility in UJ’s Badal Nafus Student Center.

Students, staff, faculty, and community members gathered to pray, share a meal, and hear an update from Dr. Peterson on how the University would move forward.

This isn’t a story of destruction though; instead, it’s one of gratitude, community, and hope.

Though the fire ruined UJ’s dining facility, it occurred in the middle of the night. No one was hurt, and thanks to the quick action of UJ student Elias Harris—who was out delivering a late-night pizza, saw the fire, and immediately called 911—the fire was contained.

Firefighters, along with UJ’s Director of Residence Life & Public Safety Gabe Martinez, were on the scene within minutes to keep UJ’s beloved campus and community safe. The wind chills were more than 38 degrees below zero, creating incredibly challenging conditions. Ultimately, crews from both city and rural fire departments spent more than eight hours battling the fire.

UJ alum, Dean of Undergraduate Academic Affairs, and volunteer firefighter Dr. Jakob Barnard was one of the brave first responders on the scene.

“The University of Jamestown is about relationships. Being part of an academic community is being part of a greater community.” That sense of community that Dr. Barnard values has shone through in UJ’s time of need.

Sodexo, UJ’s dining partner, immediately went to work to give students a quality dining experience. The Civic Center and Jamestown High School stepped in, allowing Sodexo’s staff to utilize their kitchens to prepare meals.

More than 40 local businesses, organizations, churches and individuals have reached out, providing food, beverages, and volunteer hours to assist in recovery efforts.

Multiple colleges and universities have called to help, including Wyoming’s Northwest College. Staff from the college drove more than 1200 miles, from Powell, Wyoming to Jamestown and back—twice—to deliver mobile kitchen equipment previously used on their campus.

“Throughout the night of the fire and the days since, I have been deeply moved by the outpouring of kindness and strength from the Jimmie family and beyond. I’ve cried more tears than I thought possible—not of sadness, but of overwhelming gratitude for the goodness of people and the grace of God,” Dr. Peterson said. “The loss is tremendous, but the spirit of resilience and community we have witnessed reminds me that our current year’s theme, Together, was providential.”

The University recognizes that thank yous will never be enough, though they are given with genuine love.

“I am as energized as I have ever been,” said Dr. Peterson. “We count our blessings every day, and when people ask us how we are doing, we answer affirmatively, ‘We are good because God is even greater.’” UJ’s story of resilience and growth is far from over.

This fire has ignited a passion—a movement for good. A movement for God, whose story never ends in ashes. Through His grace, restoration is always possible. UJ will come out of this tragedy stronger and better than ever before.

WANT TO HELP?

We are graciously accepting donations to support our fire recovery efforts. If you would like to contribute financially, please visit uj.edu/donate-fire-recovery