To
All Students
From
Cedric Bernard Rucker, Interim Dean of Students

Happy last full week of the semester, Wahoos! As classes wind down and students finish preparing for finals (or get ready for graduation and Final Exercises on the Lawn!), I want to tell you how inordinately proud I am of each of you and all you've accomplished this year. Not just in your classes, but on Grounds and in the C'ville community, you have demonstrated excellence and embodied our UVA mission to be both great and good in all you do!

If you or your friends are planning to participate in any of the public events over the coming weeks—including Foxfield, beach week, or any of the other community celebrations—we encourage you to make a plan and use the safe practices below. As members of our UVA community, you play an important role in creating a community of care where students feel safe, included, and supported. Ways to do this can include setting intentions that align with your values, respecting others who do the same, and stepping in to help others when you notice something concerning.

Students should also...

  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration
  • Eat plenty of high protein foods to maintain your energy and counteract the effects of any alcohol if you choose to drink
  • Start a group chat to stay in contact with friends and communicate in case anyone needs help
  • Stay in your group (or use the buddy system) and look out for one another
  • And make a transportation plan before you go out to ensure everyone gets home safely!

Remember the 3Ds (Direct, Distract, Delegate) – three different strategies for intervening and preventing a potential moment of harm. And if alcohol is involved, remember that almost all UVA students who drink use five or more safer strategies and stay on the lookout for signs of an alcohol emergency (PUBS).

As you celebrate the end of the spring semester, we encourage you to create a positive and safe atmosphere for yourself and others, as well as members of the Charlottesville community. Make us proud, Hoos—and congratulations!

Cedric Bernard Rucker
Interim Dean of Students