March 29, 2023

In response to Federal Communications Commission requirements, mobile carriers are requiring emergency notification system users to differentiate between emergency and operational SMS (text) messages. To comply with this new requirement, Drexel University will be making slight modifications to the DrexelAlert messaging format. These changes are minor; however, we want to make you aware of the change and why it is happening.

DrexelAlert will now include the keyword “URGENT” toward the beginning of each text message. Going forward, you will see “DrexelAlert URGENT’’ followed by the message.

The DrexelAlert system is designed to deliver critical information to our students, faculty and staff quickly via text and email. These alerts are only sent for situations, incidents or emergencies that pose an immediate threat or hazard on campus or within the university patrol zone. They are also intended to communicate information that requires immediate action.

All drexel.edu -associated email accounts are automatically registered to receive these alerts, but individual mobile devices must be registered in DrexelOne. If you are not receiving text alert messages, or you’re unsure if you are, you are encouraged to register your mobile number by logging into DrexelOne and clicking the DrexelAlert link located under the "Safety and Security" section of the “Welcome” tab.

For more information on DrexelAlerts and other types of messages sent from Drexel Public Safety, please review the DPS Notification Guide.