On Sunday, February 10, 2013, an EF-4 tornado ripped across the front lawn of The University of Southern Mississippi (USM), as it swept over portions of Marion, Lamar and Forrest counties. Left in its path of destruction were remnants of the historic oaks and structures so nostalgic to the university community. Though the negative impacts of the storm were severe, the university students, faculty, and staff rallied together to rebuild. Emergency response plans for both the Department of Residence Life and University Communications are under improvement to better prepare for future crises, including updates to the Eagle Alert system.