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Date: February 1, 2012

To: All U.Va. Students

From: Patricia M. Lampkin, Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer

Re: Community Resources -- Upcoming Trial

 

Dear Students:

 

On Monday, Feb. 6, the trial of George Huguely will begin in Charlottesville Circuit Court. As the trial gets under way and attention focuses on our community once again, nearly two years after the death of Yeardley Love, our efforts to build a caring community will become more important than ever. One reason for this message is to outline ways in which we can support one another during this time.

 

As the trial draws near, we also have an opportunity to learn about criminal law and procedure in Virginia. Toward this end, President Sullivan has asked U.Va. Law Professor Anne M. Coughlin to lead a discussion tomorrow evening, Feb. 2, at 6 p.m. in Wilson 402.  The program is open to all students, faculty and staff.  I hope you will attend. Several student organizations, including Student Council, the Honor Committee, University Judiciary Committee, University Programs Council and the law school’s Student Bar Association are cosponsoring the event. More details are available at http://www.virginia.edu/vpsa/coughlin.html.

 

As the trial proceeds, details emanating from the courtroom may create or compound emotional distress for students or others with whom you live, socialize or have classes. We are fortunate to live in a safe community, where mutual respect and concern are the norm rather than the exception. The support and concern that you demonstrate toward other members of the community will be even more important during the next two to three weeks.

 

If you sense that someone in your circle – a friend, classmate, hallmate, apartment-mate – needs attention or help, then we encourage you to call upon the resources available here at the University. It is important not to ignore those around us who may be experiencing difficulty.

 

Resources available to you will vary depending on the situation and who is involved.  The following is intended to serve as a reminder of existing resources and where to find help (phone numbers are listed at the end of this message):

 

If you witness or suspect an immediate threat or violence . . .

  • Do not hesitate to call the Police at 911.

If you are concerned about a friend, classmate or acquaintance...

  • Approach the individual if you are comfortable doing so and ask how you can help.
  • Alternatively, talk with your Resident Adviser or a member of the Office of the Dean of Students staff.

If you personally need support. . .

  • Do not hesitate to ask for help. You may want to start with your resident adviser, faculty adviser, association dean or another trusted individual.
  • You can always call the Office of the Dean of Students or the Center for Counseling and Psychological Services. You may start there if you don’t know where else to turn.

If you are approached by the media. . .

  • You are free to decide whether you want to talk to the media. If you decide to be interviewed, remember that you are speaking as an individual, not in an official University capacity.
  • Know that the University will not be issuing any statements during the trial.
  • The Office of Public Affairs is working to accommodate members of the press on Grounds, but has also asked them to be respectful of the daily routines of students, faculty and staff.
  • If you have questions or comments about the media, contact the Office of Public Affairs.

Thank you for supporting each other as we enter a challenging time for the University community. Please do not hesitate to call upon my office if you have questions, concerns or if you identify ways in which we can be of additional support to you.

 

Phone Numbers

Police:  911

 

Office of Dean of Students: 924.7133; 243.3326 after hours

 

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS): 924.5556 or 243.5150; 972.7004 after hours

 

Faculty and Employee Assistance Program: 243-2643

 

Public Affairs: 924.1400

 

All area code 434.

 

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