dailyloe.com – Central Michigan University will revise its communication protocols after concerning comments appeared on social media beginning Sunday afternoon. Investigators told TV5 on Monday there was no indication of an imminent threat. Classes at the Mt. Pleasant campus continued as normal throughout the incident.
In a Tuesday letter, CMU President Neil MacKinnon identified the person who posted the comments as a student. That student has now been banned from campus and could face arrest if they return. MacKinnon stated police have been in contact with the individual.
He reiterated there is no threat to the community. The investigation has been referred to the Isabella County Prosecutor’s Office for formal review.
MacKinnon acknowledged the social media statements felt threatening to students, faculty, and staff. He said the lack of information from the university led to confusion and fear. Those fears and concerns are understandable, according to the president.
MacKinnon admitted the university should have addressed the situation more appropriately. He said CMU learned a great deal from this incident. The school is now revising its communications protocols to respond more effectively in future situations.
The president’s letter notes CMU Police have protocols for threats and emergency communication. However, the school lacks a defined process for communicating during a perception of fearful behavior without a direct threat. There was also uncertainty about what could be communicated.
MacKinnon stated those are not excuses and the university can do better. A team of university leaders will meet in the coming days to discuss incident assessment. They will work on alleviating concerns with accurate and timely information.
The university appreciates the feedback shared by the community, MacKinnon said. Updated communication practices will be shared with the university community once they are complete. This will let people know what to expect from the administration moving forward.[]
Source: WNEM
