An attempted robbery occurred last Thursday in the T-3 lot near Olson Hall on Stadium Road, according to University Police Chief Michael Gibson.
According to a safety alert released by the University, the confrontation took place just after 8:30 p.m. at which time the victim reported that an individual approached her and demanded money.
Gibson said the victim reported parking her car before she was approached.
"After a verbal exchange, the suspect left the area and met with what we believe to be was an accomplice that was stationed nearby," he said.
The victim was then able to leave the scene without further problems, according to Gibson.
The victim described the suspects as black or Hispanic males with light complexions, according to Gibson. They were about 14 or 15 years old and were wearing dark baggy clothing.
Gibson said no suspects have been identified thus far.
According to Gibson, the University Police have responded to this incident by making regular intensive patrols of that area at all times of the day.
A similar incident occurred in the same area Feb. 20. A student and a professor were approached by two men armed with handguns who demanded their wallets. One of the victims was hit on the back of the head.
The University Police issued reminders to everyone in the area about safety around Grounds, including avoiding poorly lit, isolated areas when possible and reporting suspicious activity to police.
Gibson strongly emphasized that students and faculty should trust their instincts.
"If something doesn't feel right, then it probably isn't," Gibson said. "Also, if confronted by a robber, comply with his or her demands immediately by handing over material possessions such as wallets and purses," Gibson added.
-- compiled by Breanna Hockenbury and Courtney Kessler
Thomas Jefferson Foundation medals awarded
The 2007 Thomas Jefferson Foundation medals will be awarded to former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan, architect Zaha Hadid and international relations attorney and educator Anne-Marie Slaughter.
Greenspan will receive the medal in citizen leadership. This is the first year this medal is being awarded, according to University spokesperson Carol Wood.
Hadid will receive the medal in architecture; Slaughter will receive his medal in law, Wood said.
"All are world class leaders in their areas," Wood said. "These are areas [in] which Thomas Jefferson excelled."
The recipients will be honored April 13, the first day of Founder's Weekend and Jefferson's birthday.
The University does not award any honorary degrees because Jefferson did not believe in them, Wood said.
"These medals are the highest honor to people outside the University," Wood said.
The medals are jointly sponsored by the University and the Thomas Jefferson Foundation, which owns and operates Monticello.
-- compiled by Stephanie Kassab
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