SMS Terms and Conditions
The wireless industry (CTIA) has imposed new rules on text messaging (SMS or Short Message Service) for anyone sending texts from non-cellphone sources. This includes RingCentral users and campus automation using SMS. The rules apply universally to all users and impose new steps to protect against unwanted messages. Failure to comply may result in discontinuation of your SMS service and/or fines for the seminary.
Everyone using RingCentral for SMS messaging as well as any other computer automation of text messaging must comply with these rules.
The most important requirement for senders is Required Consent. All SMS uses require senders to obtain permission from each recipient before sending them text messages. The permission must be explicit and preserved in written or electronic form.
SMS Privacy:
Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary does not sell your personal information to third parties. GCTS departments are required only to use your SMS information for business purposes. Additionally, we will never share, trade, or otherwise provide phone numbers or SMS consent to third parties. For more information, please refer to this link https://www.gordonconwell.edu/privacy/
We may also disclose information about you when we believe that such use or disclosure is reasonably necessary to comply with any legal or regulatory obligation, or disclosure is necessary to appropriate authorities as required by federal, state, or local law.
Obtaining Consent:
SMS consent forms are attained through an electronic form provided by GCTS Admissions Department during the admissions process (stored in Hubspot) or by contacting the recipient in person, via email or phone call, and asking them to provide their consent by sending you an email or message saying:
"You may send SMS messages to [Phone Number, Recipient name]"
Sending a text message to ask the recipient to send this message violates the consent protocol.
You should also inform them that they may incur wireless carrier charges by receiving messages from you and that they must be willing to pay those expenses themselves.
Text Stop to opt-out. Message & Data rates may apply.
Opt-Out:
Another aspect of Consent is discontinuing messages when asked. If a recipient sends a message asking you to stop sending, you must do so immediately and permanently. You must also do so if the recipient sends a text message with the word STOP. You should reply only with this messageL
We received a STOP message from your phone number. You will no longer receive messages from this number.
After replying, you may not send any more text messages to this number from your phone number. To be able to send again, the recipient must contact you and re-authorize SMS usage. Failure to comply with a STOP message may result in termination of your SMS permissions and, potentially, fines for the Seminary.
Types of SMS Communications:
Below are examples of SMS you may receive concerning registration, application status, etc.
Hi [Student's First Name], I am reaching out to remind you to register for the [Fall/Spring/Summer Semester]. Registration for this semester closes on [Date Registration Ends]. Many of the classes are filling up; therefore. I recommend registering as soon as possible. If you have any questions about registration or what classes you should be registering for, please feel free to respond to this text or call me [Phone Number]. Reply STOP to opt-out for future text messages. Message and date rates may apply.
Hi (Name), this is (Name), your Student Success Representative. I am reaching out to remind you that the last day to register for courses is (date). You can find the list of courses and registration instructions at www.gordonconwell.edu. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me. Reply STOP to opt-out of future text messages. Message and data rates may apply.
Hi [Name], this is [Name] from GCTS admissions. Wanted to check in and remind you that the deadline to register for classes is a week from today - Friday, September 10th. Can I help you with registering? Reply STOP to opt-out of future text messages. Reply STOP to opt-out of future text messages. Message and data rate may apply.
SMS Terms and Conditions
You agree to receive text messages (appointment reminders, account notifications, etc.) from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. You can opt-out at any time by texting "STOP." For assistance please visit us at support.gordonconwell.edu or email us at tech@gordonconwell.edu