Summer Orientation for the Class of 2019 will incorporate a few changes to the program intended to make it more centered on safety and community values.
Matthew Charles, deputy spokesperson for the University, said the changes made to orientation are based on feedback provided by students, parents and staff, as well as developments that demand attention.
“For summer 2015, the most significant change is a renewed focus on educating incoming students and their parents on the norms and values of our community,” Charles said in an email.
Charles also said Dean of Students Allen Groves will be leading a session called “Not on Our Grounds: Safety at U.Va.”
“[It] will focus greater emphasis on safety and prevention efforts within the University community and how we work together to keep students safe,” Charles said. “It will include a panel, led by Groves, with representatives from the Gordie Center, University Police Department and other organizations.”
Groves will also be speaking to incoming students at a new “Hoos Got Your Back” session, which will inform students of the system of values upheld by the University community.
“It will include a discussion of how they can contribute by being active bystanders, the strengths that come from being part of a diverse community, and that no matter how big the University may feel at times, incoming students are not alone,” Charles said.
Second-year College student Daniel Barr, member of the Student Life Committee of Student Council, said his team is also working to add programs to Summer Orientation 2015.
“We have been working with some of the administration to add some programs to summer orientation,” Barr said in an email. “Specifically, we've been working to reinstate the Cavalier Outdoor Adventure Retreat.”
A description of the Cavalier Outdoor Adventure Retreat — COAR — said planning the retreat was a collaborative effort between the Student Life Committee and U.Va Recreation.
“Our hope for this program is to lay a foundation of friendship and support that is so vital for incoming students,” the description says. “We want to make the University feel smaller.”
The program will pilot in July with three separate trips, and is being promoted by the Office of Orientation.
Charles also said during Fall Orientation an addition will be made to “Grounds for Discussion,” that will aim to exemplify diversity at the University, and encourage students to all take part in the diverse community.
“The University will also incorporate specific references to resources in the vignettes so that new students will walk away with an awareness of at least one additional resource if ever in need,” Charles said.
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