What is Homeland Security?

By definition, Homeland Security is a concerted state and national effort to prevent terrorist attacks within the state, reduce our vulnerability to terrorism and or any disaster that may occur, minimize the damage, and recover from events that do occur.

What is the Department of Homeland Security?

The Department of Homeland Security is the newest department of the federal government. It was established in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

What is Eta Sigma Iota?

Eta Sigma Iota (HSI) is a homeland security professional student organization run by students to bring together students and faculty interested in homeland security. Eta Sigma Iota is an independent organization, not represented by the Department of Homeland Security.

Why is Homeland Security important?

On September 11, 2001, we learned that the changing nature of the threats facing our country required a renewed and deliberate focus on cooperation to protect the hometowns of America.

Before the horrible atrocities committed against our country on 9/11, no one single government agency had homeland security as its primary mission. In fact, responsibilities for homeland security were divided among more than 100 different government organizations. Today America can look to the unified structure of Homeland Security to improve protection against the unknown threats of tomorrow.

How does Homeland Security apply to me?

"The homeland will be secure, when the hometown is secure." We all have a responsibility to protect ourselves and others from threats against our life. All majors and fields of study have a part to play. From equipment desiging engineers to first responders to emergency planners, the field of homeland security is all inclusive.

When disaster does strike, personal property may be damaged, people could be displaced from their homes, and medical assistance may be needed. Eta Sigma Iota is dedicated to producing industry-leading professionals to support the homeland security effort in every way. For more information on how homeland security applies to your everyday life, please visit the Department of Homeland Security website.

What kinds of certifications are available to members?

Eta Sigma Iota provides First Responder, Threat & Risk Assessment, CPR, First Aid, AED (defibrilator) and other disaster response training. As well as a knowledge base on issues of homeland security ranging from disaster relief to military intelligence.

You can look at the past training and educaiton opportunities offered by Eta Sigma Iota in the Training & Education section of the website. If you would like to request a specific certification or type of training please send us an email at EtaSigmaIota@purdue.edu.

What if there is no HSI chapter at my school?

Start your own chapter! We will guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. Before we travel to your university, you should establish how much interest there is at your school.

All you need to do is hold an informal callout regarding the creation of a homeland security professional student organization. We are looking to expand to other universities, please contact us if you would like more information.

What is the National Homeland Security Threat Advisory System?

The National Homeland Security Threat Advisory System is a color-coded advisory system used to communicate with public safety officials and the public at-large about implementing protective measures when specific information to a specific sector or geographic region is received.

It combines threat information with vulnerability assessments and provides communications to public safety officials and the public. Warnings contain actionable information about an incident involving, or a threat targeting, critical national networks or infrastructures or key assets.

Are there any membership fees?

The current membership fee is $15/semester or $25/year. This fee is to fund guest speakers, certification opportunities, professional, and society expansion.