Policy Information
Area
Information Technology Services (ITS)
Applies to
Campus Community
Issued
August 10, 2026
Sources
Twilio A2P 10DLC Requirements; FCC TCPA; IT-2100-00
Policy Owner
Chief Information Officer (CIO)
Purpose
This policy establishes the terms and conditions governing text message (SMS) communications sent by Georgia Southern University through GS Connect, the University’s student success platform. These terms satisfy carrier registration requirements under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and Twilio’s A2P 10DLC program compliance standards.
Scope
These terms apply to all members of the Georgia Southern University community who have provided a mobile phone number and affirmatively opted in to receive text message communications through the GS Connect platform. Participation is voluntary.
Program Description
Program Name
GS Connect — Georgia Southern University Student Success Platform
Sponsoring Organization
Georgia Southern University, Departments of User Experience & Engagement and Information Technology Services, in coordination with the Office of Student Success.
Message Types
Users who opt in may receive text messages related to the following:
- Academic advising appointments and reminders
- Financial aid deadlines and award notifications
- Registration and enrollment reminders
- Campus resources and student support services
- Emergency and urgent campus notifications
- Follow-up communications from assigned advisors or success coaches
Message Frequency
Message frequency varies. The number of messages received will depend on individual activity, appointment schedules, and the University’s academic calendar. Students may receive up to several messages per week during peak enrollment and advising periods.
Opt-In Procedures
How to Opt In
Users opt in to receive text messages from GS Connect by providing their mobile phone number through the University’s CAS-authenticated student portal and affirmatively selecting to receive SMS communications. Opt-in is not required for access to GS Connect or any University service.
Confirmation
Upon successful opt-in, students will receive a confirmation text message. Continued use of the messaging service constitutes ongoing consent.
Opt-Out Procedures
Users may opt out of GS Connect text messages at any time using any of the following methods:
- Reply STOP to any text message received from GS Connect. You will receive a final confirmation message, and no further texts will be sent.
- Log in to your GS Connect account and update your communication preferences.
- Contact the Office of Student Success directly to request removal.
After opting out, you may opt back in at any time by replying START or by updating your preferences in GS Connect.
Help Information
Users may contact Georgia Southern University directly:
- Phone: (912) 478-5611
- Email: studentsuccess@georgiasouthern.edu
- Web: GS Connect Student Success Portal
Mobile Data Privacy
Georgia Southern University is committed to protecting your personal information. With respect to mobile communications:
- We do not sell, share, or lease your mobile phone number or opt-in data with any third parties for marketing or promotional purposes.
- Your mobile number will only be used to send communications related to academic success and University services.
- Mobile opt-in data is handled in accordance with the University’s Online Privacy Policy (IT-2100-00).
- Text message content and history may be retained in accordance with the University’s records retention schedule.
Carrier Disclaimer
Message and data rates may apply. GS Connect text messages are delivered via standard SMS through participating U.S. wireless carriers. Georgia Southern University is not responsible for any charges assessed by your wireless carrier in connection with receiving text messages. Check your wireless plan for details.
Modifications to These Terms
Georgia Southern University reserves the right to modify these terms at any time. Material changes will be communicated to opted-in students via text message or email. Continued use of GS Connect text messaging following notice of changes constitutes acceptance of the revised terms.
Related Policies
- Online Privacy Policy (IT-2100-00)
- Acceptable Use Policy
- Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
- FCC Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA)