At UVA, we've been getting messages about COVID-19 since January (we didn't even know that term back then). The University assembled a team of public health experts to provide direction to us as the situation developed. Today, they announced that university-sponsored events like the ones we host are suspended.
Until further notice, we will not have any tours, information sessions, or open houses. Our staff is available to answer questions. As always, I'll be happy to chat with you in the comments of the blog and on Twitter and Instagram.
The email below is going out to admitted students who registered for our open house events later today. Students who registered for tours and information sessions will get a similar email.
In response to the novel coronavirus, known as COVID-19, the University has made the decision to cancel University sponsored events indefinitely, including: Days on the Lawn, Admitted Student Tours, Spring Blast, Spring Fling, and EscAPADe. Unfortunately, this means we no longer are able to host you on Grounds for your scheduled admitted student visit.
This decision was made by University leadership after consulting with leading medical experts. It is our hope that these efforts and this decision will best protect the health of our students, staff, faculty, and visitors and assist in slowing the spread of the virus. Our admission deans are available to talk by phone or email if you have questions, and we will be providing updates on social media and on our institutional coronavirus webpage.
We are terribly sorry for the inconvenience as we know you went to great efforts to plan and arrange travel to Charlottesville. We are honored that you are considering the University as a college destination and we are confident you would contribute greatly to our classrooms and community.
Please know discussions have started about alternative ways we can introduce you to our dynamic student experience despite not being able to accommodate visitors. In the meantime, below are links to some resources that we hope will help you get to know our community, our students, and the University Grounds.
Most importantly, stay healthy and take care of yourselves and your families. Stay tuned for updates in the coming weeks.
Best wishes,
The Office of Undergraduate Admission