As of a few weeks ago, University Dining began selling cigarettes at the Castle amid some criticism from the University community.
Although cigarettes had previously been sold at other locations on grounds, including the Treehouse, the expansion to the Castle was the result of student demand.
"The only reason we carry cigarettes is because students are asking for them," said Eddie Whedbee, the director of operations for U.Va. Dining. "If a lot of students are asking for us to carry something, we are obliged to carry the things students need."
Largely, the decision of whether or not tobacco should be sold on Grounds is left up to the students.
"I honestly did not think you could sell tobacco on Grounds," said Allison Beaver, interim director office of Health Promotion. "Obviously, we would probably prefer them to not sell tobacco, however it's up to the students and if the students did not want tobacco to be sold on Grounds, we would support that."
According to Beaver, the University receives grant funds focused on the use of tobacco from the Virginia Department of Health every year. A team of students decides how the funds are allocated.
Rachel McDonald, a fourth-year Education student and Fighting, Overcoming, and Responding to Cancer Everywhere member, said she believed that the decision to sell cigarettes at the University is extremely irresponsible.
"As a member of FORCE and a past officer, I think it is really disappointing that the University is supporting the sale of cigarettes as they are the most common cause of lung cancer and the leading cause of many other types of cancers," McDonald said.
Second-hand smoke is another concern of those opposed to the sale of cigarettes on Grounds, including McDonald.
"Additionally, about 3,000 non-smokers die of lung cancer every year from breathing other people's smoke," she said. "I think that should be a huge consideration when they decide to sell cigarettes because they affect non-smokers as well."
Some Old Dorm residents said they are concerned that the convenience of cigarettes in the Castle will make it harder for smokers to quit.
"I would say just the fact that cigarettes are more available will affect residents who might think about quitting," said Kristen Youcis, Hancock resident advisor and second-year Engineering student "Availability will prolong smoking among those who do smoke."
Others said they believe the sale of cigarettes will not affect the number of students who smoke.
"It's dumb for the University to promote healthy lifestyles and then sell cigarettes in the Castle," first-year Nursing student Trent Sassman said. "However, I don't think that students who don't smoke will start because they are sold there"
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