Emergency Alert System Tested after UCA Shootings

Staff Writer

   In light of the recent shootings on the University of Central Arkansas campus, how would students be informed if similar circumstances occurred on the University of Arkansas-Monticello campus?

   In previous years, UAM adopted a system with the Arkansas Crime Information Center called Alert Express.

   With this system, students and faculty receive notification almost instantly if the campus faces a threatening event. Those instances may include news of an active shooter on campus or even when to take cover if a tornado touched down.

   Campus Security chief John Kidwell enters information into the computer and selects whether to send notification via phone or e-mail.

   Kidwell said it takes under a minute to reach the public once he sets the information.

   According to Clay Brown, vice chancellor of Student Affairs, a test run of the system went out to himself and the officers after the incident at UCA.

   “It took about 48 seconds to arrive,” Brown said.

   The system allows Kidwell to choose who receives what message. Different messages send to the public and to his officers.

   Kidwell said if a text-messaging plan becomes available, he would probably use it.

   He realizes not everyone will receive the information sent via e-mail.

   “If I can get one in 10, that will spread pretty quickly,” he said.

   Brown said very few students have turned in information.

   The reason why few students turn in information lies in the fact few students know about the service. Brown said he considers revisiting a campaign for the system.

   Chelsey Stewart, a sophomore nursing major, said, “I didn’t know there was a plan, but I would have turned my information in had I known about it.”

   Students may turn in their contact information to the Registrar’s office.

   “I’d love for all students to be able to sign up,” Kidwell said. “It’s a great system.”

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