Case Study: Southern Wesleyan University achieves near-100% student reach for emergency alerts with CallFire

SMS Texting Offers Effective Solutions For Emergency Notifications

CallFire, a cloud voice, SMS and IVR provider, partnered with Southern Wesleyan University to address new Clery Act emergency-notification requirements. SWU needed a fast, low‑cost way to contact students and staff, while complying with federal opt‑in rules and keeping contact lists current with limited staff resources.

CallFire implemented a simple SMS opt‑in system (keyword “SWUAlert” to a shortcode) plus an easy web portal for uploading lists and sending broadcasts; recipients could opt out with “Cancel.” The result was a streamlined, user‑friendly process that delivered near‑100% reception—thousands notified in minutes (e.g., a tornado watch sent in 2 minutes)—and growing subscriber numbers and confidence in campus safety communications.

Southern Wesleyan University

Joe Brockinton

VP of Student Life