The University of Virginia announced that students may return to Grounds to move out between May 4 and 24 by scheduled appointment. When Grounds closed in March due to the coronavirus pandemic, many could not retrieve their belongings. Now, Housing and Residence Life offers options to undergraduates who lived on-Grounds and graduates who lived on the Range.
Dean of Students Allen Groves spoke to CBS19 about move-out procedure.
“So long as it was highly structured, limited in terms of times people could be here, the number of people that could be here, and what they were doing such as face coverings, that we could open that window briefly during May and allow people to come back and get their possessions,” Groves said. “As of this morning, 45 percent of students have signed up for a time slot, so that’s impressive.”
Those who plan to return during the move-out period can schedule their appointment online. The last possible day to sign up is Thursday, May 21.
No one may return who is ill or has a fever. All must follow CDC guidelines, including wearing face masks and social distancing. If students cannot return to Charlottesville, they may designate someone to move out for them. As a last resort, students can ask for the University to pack and store their belongings at the expense of the University. Students who request their belongings to be shipped to them are responsible for costs involved.
Unlike a standard move from University housing, trash and any unwanted belongings may be left behind. Donation locations will also be available. Since on-Grounds summer classes have been cancelled through June 30, no students may remain in their on-Grounds housing during the summer. After leaving Grounds, mail will be forwarded to home addresses provided by the students.
Patricia Lampkin, Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer, spoke to local news about the decision to permit the move.
“The pandemic has been an incredibly difficult experience for all of us. Even if we have not been directly touched by the loss of life, COVID-19 has brought stress in many forms,” Lampkin said. “We recognize the added stress for you and your student with regard to move-out. We hope the options available to you and your student will ensure a combination of safety, flexibility, and resolution as we work together during this time of continuing uncertainty and sacrifice.”
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