Audit Finds UNC-CH Lacking in Emergency Alert Training Compliance
An internal audit has revealed that the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-CH) has fallen short in meeting federal training requirements for its emergency alert system. The audit, finalized in December, indicated that key officials responsible for the university’s threat notification did not complete the annual training mandated under the Clery Act.
Audit Findings on Emergency Alert Training Compliance
The audit discovered that UNC-CH had not complied with the UNC System regulation regarding “campus emergency communication and alert systems.” This policy was established in February and mandates yearly training for designated emergency officials to ensure they are knowledgeable about the Clery Act’s requirements for crime notifications.
Training Deficiencies
- Designated officials have not received Clery Act training since November 2022.
- A variety of training sessions were held, but they did not meet system requirements.
This revelation comes over two years after a tragic shooting on campus, which highlighted concerns about the university’s emergency response protocols. In the aftermath of the incident on August 28, 2023, students and faculty suggested improvements for the Alert Carolina system, particularly in the precision of language used in emergency notifications.
Improving the Alert Carolina System
The scrutiny intensified when an erroneous notification about an armed suspect created concern among the campus community. In response, UNC-CH has modified the language in its emergency alerts and initiated various updates to the Alert Carolina system since the shooting.
The UNC System policy dictates that each university’s chancellor must appoint a primary emergency alert authority from campus law enforcement or public safety units, along with at least two backup officials. All must undertake annual training on Clery Act notification procedures.
Future Training Plans
The audit emphasized the absence of the required training, which could result in improperly trained personnel and outdated materials. However, Darrell Jeter, the director of emergency management and planning, has announced intentions to hold a Clery Act training session before June 30.
“This audit finding presents an opportunity to enhance our training specific to campus alert authorities,” Jeter stated in an email. “We are developing plans for this training, including setting a regular schedule.”
Systemwide Commitment to Emergency Preparedness
According to UNC System spokesperson Andy Wallace, the campuses are actively working to align training with the new policy. He expressed support for UNC-CH’s ongoing efforts to improve emergency preparedness.
“This initiative reflects a positive commitment across the system to strengthen emergency preparedness and ensure effective communication during crises,” Wallace added.
