Student Telephone Services

Student Residence Hall Telephones Removed

As of the fall of 2012, Kenyon will no longer provide phones in student residence rooms. Usage studies over several years show that fewer and fewer students use their room phones, primarily because of the increasing popularity of cell phones and Skype. Last spring the Housing and Dining Committee of Student Council (as well as the entire Student Council) reviewed and approved a proposal to remove the phones. Removing the telephones will create significant cost savings that are targeted to purchase more internet bandwidth.

Phones will be available in certain public areas of each residence hall. From these phones you can call 911, make long distance calls using calling cards, and place 800 number calls. However, the phones do not accept incoming calls. Many Kenyon students use the computer program Skype, a free service, to replace telephone calls and the Helpline can help you install Skype on your computer.

Students with a justifiable need for a residence hall room phone can apply to have one installed Examples of a justifiable need are: students who cannot obtain a cell phone; and students who need special technology due to a disability. If you can demonstrate a justifiable need, go to:

http://lbis.kenyon.edu/forms/telephone-request and complete the online form.

Questions regarding telephones can be directed to: Bev Actis, Telecommunications Coordinator, at pbx 740-427-5703 or actisb@kenyon.edu.

Cell Phone Service in Gambier

Verizon Wireless and AT&T/Cingular are now in our cellphone service area. While Kenyon has no agreements with any cell phone company, we note that cell phone reception in Gambier is strongest using Verizon, which has a tower erected near Gambier. AT&T/Cingular service had installed an antenna on the Gambier water tower, and service is good in most areas of campus. For questions about Verizon service, contact 877-228-9899. For questions about AT&T/Cingular service, contact the Gambier Village Administrator at 740-427-2671.