Emergency Contact Information
To support student safety and ensure timely communication during critical situations, ECU requires students to provide up-to-date emergency contact details, local address, and a cell phone number. This information is used only when necessary and is kept strictly confidential.
Why is my emergency contact information required?
Providing your emergency contact information allows ECU to promptly notify someone important to you in the event of a serious concern for your safety or well-being. With a student population of approximately 30,000, critical incidents can arise that affect individuals and the broader campus community. Having up-to-date emergency contact information helps ECU respond quickly and effectively during such situations.
Why is my cell phone number required?
ECU is committed to notifying students quickly and effectively about urgent communications. Critical information may be sent via text message (standard data rates apply). Students have the option to opt out of text messages. Your cell phone number is kept strictly confidential and shared only with authorized ECU personnel. It will never be shared with third parties.
Why is my local address required?
ECU partners with emergency personnel to conduct wellness checks when there is a concern for a student’s life or safety. Your local address is required to assist in these situations. This information is kept strictly confidential and used only when necessary to ensure student well-being.
When will ECU reach out to my emergency contact?
The university will notify your emergency contact only if there is an immediate concern for your life or safety.
How often do I have to update my personal contact information?
It is imperative that you keep your emergency contact details, cell phone number, and local address current. You should update this information promptly whenever changes occur to ensure ECU has the most accurate and up-to-date records. Additionally, you are required to review your personal contact information each semester and make any necessary updates.
To edit your personal contact information, visit pirateport.ecu.edu and select the “My Information” portal. Then, click on ‘Personal Information’ and scroll to the appropriate section. Click the pencil icon to make edits or updates, or select the trash bin icon to delete outdated contacts.
Is this like the ECU Alert system?
ECU Alert is a campus-wide notification system used to communicate critical information to the entire ECU community. In contrast, your emergency contact information is specific to you and is used only when there is an immediate concern for your life or safety.
If I have a conduct issue or an academic issue (i.e., poor attendance, failing grade) will ECU notify my emergency contact?
No. ECU will notify your emergency contact only when there is an immediate concern for your life or safety.
Will ECU share my personal contact information?
Your personal contact information is kept strictly confidential and is shared only with ECU personnel who are authorized to access the system. This information will never be shared with third parties. Your emergency contact details and local address will be used only in situations involving an immediate concern for your life or safety. Your cell phone number will be used only to communicate urgent university information.
Do I have to list my parent or legal guardian as my emergency contact?
No. While many students choose a parent or legal guardian as their emergency contact, you may list anyone you trust—such as a sibling, spouse, partner, relative, or friend. It does not have to be your next of kin. Carefully consider whom you select, and be sure to let that person know they may be contacted by ECU in the event of an emergency involving your health or safety.
Do you need additional support or have additional questions?
If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact the Dean of Students Office at 252-328-9297. Students may also schedule a meeting with a case manager for additional support and guidance.
Resources for Emergencies & Critical Incidents: