Blackboard Connect

Blackboard Connect is an online data system that can, in case of an emergency, send a message from the University to our stakeholders via text messages, e-mails, and phone calls. For the system to be effective, students need to self-disclose contact information. Blackboard Connect will only be used in case of an emergency, and occasional tests of the system. The information you provide will be utilized only for these purposes.

All students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to sign up for text and voicemail alerts to receive notifications regarding emergencies at the University. This system is intended for immediate transmission of specific information regarding an emergency to all areas of the University, including campus closure due to severe weather.

To ensure Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota has the most up-to-date contact information, please verify and update your emergency contact information in the Student Portal or the Faculty/Staff portal:

• Log in to Student Portal:  student.smumn.edu
• Select update student demographic information
• Select update emergency contact information
• Fill in your information and select submit

This information may be updated as often as necessary. The University regularly uploads the information to Blackboard Connect. Failure to provide information or update information in a timely manner may result in individuals not receiving emergency notifications. The University will update room and University e-mail address changes; however, it is your responsibility to update other personal information as it changes.

For additional security and safety-related information, review the following resources:

• American Red Cross
• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
• Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA)
• Minnesota Department of Public Safety
• National Weather Service
• U.S. Department of Homeland Security
• U.S. Fire Administration
• U.S. Secret Service