North Dartmouth, MA- UMass Dartmouth has launched myAlert, a new emergency notification system that will instantly transmit a text or voice message to the cell phones of students, faculty and staff in the event of a major emergency.

The campus has begun an aggressive campaign to encourage students, faculty and staff to sign up for myAlert via a secure web site at www.umassd.edu/myalert. Students, faculty, and staff signing up by Wednesday, May 7 will be eligible to win an iPod Nano.

"Our myAlert system will allow us to deliver the fast, clear, and accurate information that is critical when a crisis occurs,'' UMass Dartmouth Public Safety Emil Fioravanti said. "We now need students, faculty and staff to do their part by registering with myAlert."

Subscribers' cell phone numbers will remain confidential and will be used only for emergency notifications by UMass Dartmouth. Cell phone numbers will not be available to UMass Dartmouth administration, faculty, or staff. Cell phone numbers will NOT be used for marketing purposes or other non-emergency communications. myAlert is a free service, however, standard text messaging and voice rates apply.                                                                                              
The myAlert system will work in conjunction with other campus communication vehicles such the umassd.edu web site, email, and campus phone voice mail. myAlert will only be activated in response to emergencies that significantly disrupt daily activities or pose a threat to the health and safety of the UMass Dartmouth community.

myAlert is the latest initiative designed to enhance the safety of the UMass Dartmouth community. Since September, the campus has hired new police officers, improved lighting, upgraded the emergency call box system, and held a major emergency training exercise in collaboration with state, county, and local public safety agencies.

UMass Dartmouth

The Office of Public Affairs, reporting directly to the Chancellor, is responsible for coordinating the strategic communications and advocacy strategies of the campus.

The office oversees media relations and publications, and works closely with the web development, alumni affairs, fundraising, admissions, and academic units to tell the UMass Dartmouth story in a manner that builds public and private support; and attracts talented faculty, students, and staff to campus.

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