MSU to begin automatically enrolling phone numbers into MSU Alert system

June 17, 2024

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Spartan community,

As part of our commitment to enhance our capabilities within our mass notification alert system, Michigan State University will begin automatically enrolling cell phone and preferred/primary residence phone numbers for students and employees into the MSU Alert system this summer. This is expected to be completed by July 18. This update will provide you with an additional level of safety and preparedness if an emergency occurs.

What this means for you:

Students: You should add or update your contact information by logging into the Student Information System (SIS). After logging in, please click on the ‘My Profile’ tile to access the Contact Details menu. From there, you can add and/or update your phone numbers, specifically:

• The phone number entered in the “Cellular Number” field will receive SMS/text messages.
• The phone number selected as “Preferred” will receive phone calls.

Employees: You should ensure that your contact information is up to date in the MSU EBS Portal. After logging in, please click on “My Personal Information” and “Personal Profile.” From there, you will need to update your contact information in two locations:

• The phone number entered in the Addresses/Permanent Residence section as your Telephone Number will receive phone calls.
• To receive SMS/text messages, ensure you have one cell phone number listed in the Contact Information section.
• If you are also a student, please also update your information in SIS. SIS will serve as the primary record.

It is possible for you to receive an alert via both a phone call and a text message. Additionally, students and employees with classes or offices in the Grand Rapids or Flint areas will be automatically enrolled to receive notifications for emergencies impacting these areas. Please visit the MSU Alert website’s FAQ page to learn more about additional settings, including opting out of certain modalities, adding locations, and adjusting notification preferences. You cannot opt out of receiving alerts via MSU email.

Later this summer, MSU Police and Public Safety will conduct a full test of our campus alert notification system to include this implementation. The test will take place on Wednesday, July 31, at 10:15 a.m. More information about the test will be shared as the date approaches.

Additionally, former students and employees will be removed from the MSU Alert system on July 31 and will be notified prior to their removal. Former students and employees, in addition to affiliates and community members, may still receive MSU Alerts by downloading the SafeMSU App or by texting MSUALERT to 888777. Message and data rates may apply. Those interested in receiving alerts from additional city, county, or state emergency notification systems may visit the MSU Alert website for more information on how to register.

MSU Police and Public Safety is committed to ensuring a safe and welcoming community for all. If you have questions or need support regarding the MSU Alert system, you can request help by completing this form.

Sincerely,

Doug Monette (he/him)
Interim Vice President and Chief Safety Officer
Michigan State University

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Media Contact: 
Dana Whyte, Communications Manager and Spokesperson, Michigan State University Police and Public Safety 
517-282-3711 | WhyteD@dpps.msu.edu