Communications

Date: Jan 18, 2010

To: All U.Va. Students

From: Patricia M. Lampkin

Subject: Welcome Back - Important News and Reminders

Dear Students:

Welcome back to a new semester and the beginning of a new year. I hope you enjoyed your winter break and found time for things important to you.

Last week was marked by the historic naming of Teresa A. Sullivan as the eighth president of the University of Virginia. She is known for her commitment to students, and she embraces the concept of student self-governance. Once she arrives in August, I am sure you will be hearing from her firsthand.

Beyond Charlottesville, the news is sobering following the devastating earthquake in Haiti. We are saddened by the tremendous loss of life, including at least one member of the U.Va. community. Our deepest condolences go out to everyone who has lost loved ones as a result of this tragedy.

A number of efforts are under way within the University to help the people of Haiti. Information is currently centralized through the University’s Community Relations Web site at

http://www.virginia.edu/communityrelations/haitiassistance.html.

Due to the chaotic conditions and lack of infrastructure in Haiti, monetary donations are most needed right now. If you are interested in making a donation, you can easily do so by going to the above Web site.

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With the beginning of a new semester, new patterns and new activities, now is another good opportunity to remind you about personal safety. Your success as a student depends in many ways on maintaining a safe environment for yourself and your fellow students. Here are a few reminders:

* With the opening of the first phase of the South Lawn project, some of you will be meeting for class in the new facility. Jefferson Park Avenue is heavily traveled, and student-pedestrian accidents have occurred there in the past. Please use the designated crossing at the traffic light to get to the South Lawn. You may need to allow extra time to get to class safely and promptly. The pedestrian footbridge will greatly alleviate this problem, but until that opens in the near future, please use extra caution.

* Anytime you are crossing a street, please give your full attention to your safety. Listening to music or talking on a cellphone can distract you from sudden, unforeseen dangers – whether a speeding vehicle or icy pavement.

* Avoid isolated areas and walking alone at night. Use SafeRide (434-242-1122), walk with friends, or take a late-night weekend bus.

* Trust your instincts about a person or situation. If you feel uncomfortable, immediately report your concerns and pertinent details to police by calling 911 (or pick up one of the blue-light phones if you are on Grounds).

* If you live off Grounds, get to know your neighbors and look out for one another. Talk with your landlord about replacing burned out exterior lights or trimming overgrown hedges that create opportunities for criminal activity. Contact the Off-Grounds Housing Manager (vhawes@virginia.edu) if you need help in this regard.

Finally, with the potential of more wintry weather occurring in our area, you may want to prepare for that possibility, especially if you are traveling. This means checking the weather forecast, ensuring your car is in good working condition with plenty of gas, and packing food, a blanket and other items you may need if you become stranded.

Although the University closes only in extreme situations, you can stay informed of any closings by going to the University’s home page or by calling 924-SNOW. More tips for staying safe during the winter are available on the Office of Emergency Preparedness Web site at:

http://www.virginia.edu/emergencypreparedness/TipoftheMonth12-11-09.html.

Again, welcome back and best wishes for a successful semester. If any of the Student Affairs staff can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Warm regards,

Patricia M. Lampkin
Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer