Emergency message system in operation
Shippensburg University has implemented a text-messaging system as one of its communication methods in the event of a crisis or emergency that poses an immediate and life-threatening danger to the campus community.
After the Virginia Tech tragedy, University President William N. Ruud asked for a review of all policies related to a crisis or emergency. In addition to our current methods, including e-mails, website and Hotline, a text-messaging system was a major focus. The system was implemented Aug. 27 and all members of the campus community are urged to register.
To register, students should login to the Student Information System with their Ship e-mail address and password. Once there, click on Computer Services and Emergency Text Msg. Students may also include parents’ numbers or e-mail addresses. Faculty and staff associates should login to the Employee Information System with their Ship e-mail address and password. Once there, click on Emergency Text Messaging.
Instructions to register are on each page and you can register up to five telephone numbers or e-mail addresses. Once registered, you will receive a confirmation code to activate the account. If you change cell numbers or providers, please return to your page and make the changes.
If an alert is sent, it is vital that you follow instructions in the message. The message length is limited but will provide needed information. The system is, for now, the quickest communication method in a crisis and is an effective way to contact individuals off-campus. It is not the only way, however, as we will continue to use current and add other methods to provide information. Other communications methods continue to be reviewed include an emergency broadcast system on our internal television system, intercoms in all buildings, an outdoor public address system, and digital display units throughout campus.
Individuals with questions or suggestions for ways to communicate with the campus may contact Dr. Peter M. Gigliotti, executive director for university communications and marketing, via e-mail at pmgigl@ship.edu or by calling 477-1202.
