Image courtesy of Illinois State University 

NORMAL, Ill. – Illinois State University’s Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies department partnered with Emergency Management on Friday to host a training event highlighting the university’s on-campus safety rules and protocols.

Dr. Jacklyn Weier, Women’s Gender and Sexuality Studies advisor, spoke about what the training with Emergency Management entailed.

“The two-hour training provided an overview of how to respond to emergencies, including active shooter situations and other common crises,” Weier said.

Weier said the training covered several topics, including recognizing signs of potential targeted violence, preparing for emergency situations, and responding to targeted violence or lockdown scenarios.

Weier expressed that some of their faculty aren’t well-versed in these situations. She said, “We wanted to make sure they had the right information to prepare them in case of an emergency.”

Weier explained why the training is necessary, recalling an incident in February 2024 when three men in ski masks entered an introductory WGSS class, recording the students and instructor.

The incident made Weier realize there was no mandatory training for instructors and that the situation was frightening. She noted, “We want to make sure faculty and instructors are prepared in case something like that happens again.”

As of right now, there are no set plans for further future training. Weier explained that they lack the resources to continue the training program and added, “We hope the university mandates safety training for faculty.”

Training for emergencies isn’t just for faculty, students can play a part too,” Weier said. “Students could ask their university administrators to provide training regularly and accessibly for everyone.”

Emergencies can be stressful, but staying informed is key; for more on safety protocols, visit Illinois State University’s Safe Redbirds Emergency Guide.

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