Ball State University faculty succeeded in securing a $2.5 million grant to improve communications during emergencies.
Tom Morrison, associate vice president for business affairs, said U.S. Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency provided Ball State with the national grant after faculty members participated in a competitive proposal process.
Nancy Carlson, associate professor of telecommunications, said Ball State was chosen to be a leading training center for emergency responders in public communication because of its resources.
"Ball State has a hazardous materials expert, Thad Godish, and a wonderful communications college," she said.
Godish could not be reached for comment.
The grant does not involve an increase in campus security, Carlson said. It deals with population security in general, she said.
Emergency responders, including 9-1-1 dispatchers, on-scene incident commanders and public information officers, will learn what to do in the case of a natural disaster, terrorist attack or hazardous materials issues, she said.
Mark Hayes, deputy press secretary for the office of Senator Richard Lugar, said the training program will include the use of an educational video, an electronic independent study module and hands-on activities.
FEMA provides emergency public communications training for essential communications personnel, he said.
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
