Connect Ed

Emergency Notification System (Connect-ED)  Rev. 4-14-2009

Bemidji State University (BSU) is contracted with Blackboard Connect (Connect-ED), an Emergency Notification System. The multimodal Connect-ED service allows BSU officials the ability to send emergency voice messages via:  landline, cellular telephone, and e-mail messages when circumstances dictate an alert to issue.  The Connect-ED system is part of the University's overall campus emergency plan.

Connect-ED is only activated when a situation exists that presents an imminent danger to the campus.  An "Imminent danger" is defined to be a situation that threatens the immediate safety of the campus community, is not anticipated, and failure to provide such a warning may result in serious harm.  Examples of such emergencies may include:  a tornado in the Bemidji area, chemical or hazardous material spills, an armed and actively violent person, etc.  Connect-ED messages are only activated if the situation is determined to be imminent and requires immediate action.

The information collected and imputed into the Connect-Ed system is extracted from registration records individuals provided upon BSU entry.  The Connect-ED system is only used for purposes of emergency communication and will not be sold or used for marketing or any purpose other than emergency communications.  "Emergency communications" is defined to be communication that is vital information to help minimize any significant risk to the health and safety of the community.

Procedure

Connect-ED may be activated by:  the Vice President for Finance & Administration, Vice President for Student Development & Enrollment, Vice President of Academic Affairs, Director of Security & Safety or his/her full time designees.

Connect-ED is tested once a semester to ensure the system is in good working order and to assist campus community members with emergency preparedness in the event of an actual emergency.

Registration

1. All Students, Faculty and Staff are automatically enrolled in Connect-ED.   (Individuals are responsible for providing accurate data.  The University assumes no liability or responsibility for improper or outdated data) *See below on how to update data*
2. Student data is collected from the students "BSU Portal".  Every student must assure that the information in their portal is accurate and current for successful Connect-ED notification.
3. Faculty and Staff data is collected from the BSU directory.  Faculty and Staff that would like to have their contact number changed to receive Connect-Ed notification must complete a Connect-ED permission form.  This form can be found at the BSU Security & Safety website:  http://www.bemidjistate.edu/offices/security/Connect%20Ed%20Form.pdf.  Once completed the form must be submitted to the Department of Security & Safety.