LEBANON, Ill. – McKendree University has implemented several new security and safety measures, including emergency text messaging and the addition of two Code Blue emergency phones.
“We are constantly reviewing our campus safety and security mechanisms,” said McKendree University President James Dennis.
McKendree University’s emergency alert system is a text messaging program that allows the school to instantly communicate emergency information with its entire campus community through mobile phone text messaging, E-mail, Web sites, personal Internet portals and wireless PDAs. In addition to receiving emergency messages, the system will allow the McKendree community to receive information about extreme weather and school closings.
McKendree has also placed two Code Blue phones at the Melvin Price Convocation Center north parking lot and in the commuter parking lot near the campus fitness center. Blue in color and for emergency use only, the two phones provide an instant connection to school public safety emergency services.
Established 10 years ago to provide the campus with guidance in the event of a major disaster, McKendree has updated its university emergency response plan as well as formed an emergency response team comprised of campus personnel trained in emergency response procedures.
Other new safety and security measures taken by McKendree include:
- Enhanced lighting in numerous campus locations to provide the campus community with secure passage after dark
- Placement of generators in appropriate locations across campus to ensure continuity of power for the university’s computer networks and telephone systems
- New radio systems in the office of public safety that will improve communications not only with McKendree’s public safety officers but also with off-campus law enforcement, fire departments and other first-responder agencies
_________________________________________________________
McKendree University press release
Founded in 1828, McKendree is Illinois’ oldest and first college. McKendree is ranked among the top 14 percent of “Comprehensive Colleges – Bachelor’s” in the nation by U.S.News & World Report’s “America’s Best Colleges 2007.” McKendree is also the only “Comprehensive Colleges-Bachelor’s” college or university in the St. Louis region to earn U.S.News & World Report’s “Great Schools, Great Prices” ranking. Undergraduate and graduate experiences distinguished by great teaching, a vibrant community and successful outcomes have earned McKendree the title “College of Distinction.” The college’s main campus is in Lebanon, Ill., just 25 miles from St. Louis. McKendree also has campuses in Louisville and Radcliff, Ky. and offers off-campus programs at Scott Air Force Base and other sites in Illinois and Kentucky. For more information about McKendree visit www.mckendree.edu.
