This week's From the Archives examines how the administration and admissions processes at the University have changed over time. These articles chart changing priorities over five decades, from the 1950s conflicts between student government and administrative power to later attempts at diversity and inclusivity. Collectively, they show how institutional choices have continuously influenced student life and identity, reflecting the University's continuous balancing act between expansion, policy and representation.
1950s
Nov. 10, 1954
“Letter From Darden To SC President Phillips”
President Darden requested that The Cavalier Daily print a letter that he sent to the student council president. After reading a Cavalier Daily article discussing the reorganization of the student council, Darden felt uneasy about going forward with the reorganization plans. Darden believed that he and the student council had not yet reached alignment on the topic. The article illustrates the administration's effect on student life.
1960s
Nov. 10, 1961
“Dean Runk Explains Recent Court Ruling”
By Fred Hilton
This article describes when Dean B. F. D. Runk sent a letter to each fraternity house restricting parties to invited guests only, following disturbances in the Rugby Road-Madison Lane area. The ruling was based on Judge Allan N. Spitzer's interpretation of Virginia's "common nuisance" law and cautioned fraternities that if they violated this ruling, they might face probation or investigation.
1970s
Nov. 12, 1970
“The Growing University”
Due to overcrowding issues, the administration came to the conclusion that the next year’s entering class could be no larger than the current set of entering students. Students were already having a hard time finding parking, getting food in the cafeteria and, most importantly, securing housing. Not expanding the first-year class meant that the number of accepted male applicants would have to decrease, as the University planned to continue accepting 550 women.
1980s
Nov. 14, 1986
“Fall Fling lures blacks”
By Tom Scott
This article details the Fall Fling Program to recruit Black high school students via a "preview" of life at the University. Black Student Alliance Chairman Rodney Hopson said that the short event and limited time spent with white students was a “pampering technique,” though he felt it was well-meaning.
1990s
Nov. 14, 1996
“Early decision applicant numbers increase again”
By Mandy Biles
More and more students were applying to the University each year. A rising number of applicants pushed prospective students to submit early decision applications. Admissions officials feel that there is a correlation between high achieving students and those who submit early applications.
2000s
Nov. 11, 2004
“International student enrollment is declining”
By Caroline Freeman
Photos by Stephen Thiele
This article describes how, for the first time in more than thirty years, the number of international students enrolled in U.S. universities fell during the 2003–2004 academic year, according to a report published by the Institute for International Education. Students' increased security concerns and visa application challenges following September 11th, as well as increased competition from universities in other English-speaking nations, were major factors in this decline. Vice Provost for International Affairs Leigh Grossman expressed confidence that the University would continue to attract applicants despite a decline in undergraduate international enrollment.
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