MISSION: The Office of Emergency Management’s mission is to support the University’s efforts to develop graduates of distinction by protecting our campus from the effects of disasters, including natural, manmade, and technological hazards to ensure a safe learning, living, and teaching environment.
VISION: This Office envisions a campus that is resilient and prepared, where students, faculty, and staff can thrive in a safe and secure environment free from the impact of emergencies and disasters. We see a future where the University is recognized as a leader in emergency management, with a comprehensive and effective program that prepares the campus community for any type of emergency, ensuring the continuity of teaching, learning, and research.
The Office priorities includes life safety, incident stabilization, and property preservation with the ultimate goal of “returning to normal.”
Using a comprehensive Emergency Management program focused on mitigation, planning, preparedness, response, and recovery, we are working to build a culture of readiness and resilience on campus.
Our Goals
- Ensure that potential impacts of known hazards are mitigated as best as possible prior to an emergency or hazard occurring
- Provide emergency management training and learning opportunities for the campus community
- Ensure plans are in place to effectively respond to emergencies and hazards on campus
- Ensure effective and efficient recovery after an emergency or incident
- Partner with internal and external stakeholders to improve communication, build expertise, and engage readiness opportunities for all phases of emergency management
- Build a culture of awareness, readiness, and resiliency across the University
Incident & Event Response
The Office of Emergency Management responds to emergencies and large-scale events on campus to support incident and event coordination and resource support. When an incident or event grows in size or scope, the Office of Emergency Management can activate the University’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and staff the center with appropriate personnel from the University’s Crisis Management Group. This group is authorized to staff the EOC and to exercise operational decision-making authority for their related units during the incident or event – including assigning university resources, making operational decisions, and coordinating with external agencies.
Public Education
Each semester, our Office has a variety of presentations and workshops offered that provide information in various topics related to emergency preparedness and response. Presentations are offered on general emergency preparedness and specialized topics, such as severe weather, personal preparedness, or acts of violence response.
If you would like to arrange a presentation, please contact our office directly by email at OEM@wssu.edu.
If you are interested in training opportunities or participating in campus-wide exercise, contact our office for more information.
Training & Exercises
The Office of Emergency Management maintains an all-hazards training and exercise program for the University. Training sessions and exercises for responsible personnel are based on identified needs. OEM also conducts exercises regularly – these test the University’s emergency plans, processes, and procedures.
Emergency Alerts (RamAlert)
The University maintains an emergency alert system called RamAlert. OEM assists WSSU Police and Public Safety in educating the campus community about emergency alerts and sending RamAlerts during incidents and emergencies.
All information sent via the emergency notification system can be found at wssu.edu/ramalert
Blue Light Phones
The university has installed more than 60 emergency call boxes (blue light phones) throughout campus for use when WSSU Police and Public Safety assistance is needed. These call boxes are strategically located in prominent places on campus including in the parking areas, outside the residence halls and administrative buildings, and other areas commonly used by students, faculty, and staff members.
These Emergency phones are monitored 24 hours a day and provide direct voice communications to the WSSU Police Communications Center. By pressing the red button on the phone, users can communicate directly with one of our emergency communications personnel. The location of the emergency call box is digitally displayed on police communications computers so WSSU Police and Public Safety know where the call is coming from.
For questions concerning blue light phones, contact WSSU Police and Public Safety at campussafety@wssu.edu.
