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Missing Student

Federal law requires colleges to establish a missing student notification policy and related procedures for students who reside in on-campus housing. The Simpson College policy follows.

Policy Statement on Missing Students

Each student has the option to identify an individual to be contacted by Simpson officials or law enforcement personnel no later than 24 hours after the time a student is determined missing (see below).

  • Each student may register and update the identity of this individual, known as the Missing Student Confidential Contact, on their Simpson College portal page.
  • In the case of students who are under 18 years of age and not emancipated, Simpson College is required by federal law to notify a custodial parent or guardian no later than 24 hours after the time a student is determined missing.
  • Simpson College officials will notify the appropriate law enforcement agency no later than 24 hours after the time a student is determined missing.
  • If the Office of Security is notified of a potential missing student and makes a determination that the student has been missing for more than 24 hours and has not returned to campus, Simpson College will initiate the emergency contact procedures in accordance with the student’s designation. If the Office of Security has reason to believe the student is missing and endangered, the emergency contact process may be initiated prior to being missing for 24 hours.

Missing Student Confidential Contact

Students may identify their contact by completing the “Missing Student Confidential Contact” section of their Simpson College portal page. The specific data entry statement follows:

Missing Student Confidential Contact Information

You have the option to designate an individual to be contacted in the event you are determined to be missing—by Simpson officials or law enforcement personnel—for a period of more than 24 hours. * Note:If you are under 18 years of age and not emancipated, federal law requires that a custodial parent or guardian be contacted.

Procedure If You Believe a Student Is Missing

  • Immediately notify a Residence Life staff member, Student Development staff member, or Campus Security officer. A report will be filed with the Office of Security and an investigation initiated.
  • After investigating, the Office of Security will make a determination as to whether or not the student is missing and has been missing for more than 24 hours.
  • If the student is determined to be missing for more than 24 hours, Simpson College officials will notify the Indianola Police Department and the student’s confidential contact (if the student has provided a confidential contact). If the missing student is under 18 years of age and not emancipated, Simpson College officials will immediately notify a custodial parent or guardian.