Our Offices & Programs
So who are we, anyway?
At Student Affairs, our job is to support you. College life is rarely linear; we're here to help you make sense of the opportunities and challenges woven into your path. We recognize that growth - academic and personal - does not occur in a vacuum. Your UVA experience is shaped in large part by the forces around you. Because of this, we do our work not just from one central office but through a number of offshoots, all of which fall under the Student Affairs umbrella. Below, you can learn more about each of these offices and their role in fostering an inclusive, supportive Grounds-wide culture that puts your well-being first.
Orientation & Transition Programs
Orientation & Transition Programs helps first-year, second-year, and transfer students adjust to academic and social life at the University. We're glad you're here!
Volunteering and Service
Looking for a way to serve while doing what you love? Whether it's online tutoring, park restoration, or animal rescue, connect with a volunteer opportunity just right for you!
Join an Organization, Club, or Other Student Group
Find your community by following your passion. If you don't see what you're looking for among the 650+ student organizations at UVA...start your own!
Veterans and Military Student Support
The Veteran Student Center was created in 2021 as an on-Grounds meeting point for veteran and military-affiliated students. Here, you can build community and learn to leverage your unique experiences and perspectives during your time at UVA.
Get involved in Greek Life
Learn about UVA's four Greek Councils and how they provide opportunities to pursue scholarship, leadership, service, and diversity.
Multicultural Student Support
Whether you're from a historically underrepresented community or broadening your cross-cultural understanding, our four centers – Multicultural Student Center, LGBTQ Center, Latinx Student Center, and Interfaith Student Center – can help you find your voice.
Student Safety
UVA is committed to creating a safe environment in which to live and study. Learn about safe transportation options, emergency contact information, and how to do your part in preventing unsafe situations.
First-Generation & Limited Income Student Initiatives
With an emphasis on community and mentorship, Hoos First: FGLI Student Initiatives helps first-generation and limited-income students feel at home at UVA.
LGBTQ+ Student Support
Questioning, coming out, queer, or an ally? The LGBTQ Center is the place for you. We are a welcoming, safe space with services and programs that raise awareness of sexual and gender diversities at UVA.
Food Insecurity
Many UVA students find themselves having to choose between affording tuition and daily essentials. If this is your experience, we're here to help. Get the healthy food and hygiene products you need, anonymously and free of charge, at food pantries on and off Grounds.
Event Planning
Reserve a space for your on-Grounds event and review University guidance on advertising, decorating, and catering.
Hazing Education and Prevention
Hazing has no place at UVA. Learn how to recognize and report different types of hazing behavior.
Support for Second-Year Students
Our mission is to provide a supportive, coordinated effort that empowers second-year students to exercise the knowledge and skills to thrive at UVA.
Meriwether Lewis Institute
The Meriwether Lewis Institute for Citizen Leadership at the University of Virginia is a multi-year fellowship that prepares students for a lifetime of leadership at the University and beyond.
Transfer Student Resources
Whether you're transferring to UVA in the fall or mid-year, we're here to support you! Learn about programming and resources to help you settle in.
Office of the Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer and the Dean of Students
Our offices oversee all University-wide initiatives aimed at developing students intellectually, socially, physically, and psychologically. Since no two students have the same lived experience, we lead with diversity in mind. Departments include: Communications, Orientation & Transition Programs, Fraternity & Sorority Life, Judicial Affairs, Multicultural Student Services, Hoos First, Student Engagement, Transfer Student Support, Second Year Experience, and Veteran & Military Affiliated Student Support. Our goal is to create a meaningful, memorable college experience while preparing you to launch as educated, active citizen-leaders.
Office of African-American Affairs
Our office was established in 1976 as an integral part of Student Affairs at UVA. We are devoted to creating a supportive University environment that promotes African-American students' full participation in academic and extracurricular life. Externally, our team advocates and educates; internally, we build community and celebrate the diversity among the students that call our site on Dawson's Row their "home away from home."
University Career Center
While it can be hard to imagine life after college, experience tells us that those days will be here before you know it. Not to fear: Our office has everything you need to prepare for what comes next. Whether you're starting at square one and have no idea what you're looking for, or you've already got internships under your belt and want to connect with an alumni mentor for additional support, we've got the resources you need... and then some! Make an appointment with us today and walk away feeling better equipped for your future.
Housing & Residence Life
Housing & Residence Life works collaboratively to create open, welcoming communities on Grounds for students at the University of Virginia. Residents are empowered to engage their potential as scholars and leaders through self-governance and participation in residential area activities and leadership. From incoming first years and returning undergraduates to transfer students, graduate students, and faculty/staff, residents encounter inclusive environments supporting the University’s academic, cultural, and social goals.
Student Health and Wellness
We help students reach their full potential by optimizing their physical and mental health during their time at UVA. We know it can be hard to prioritize personal well-being in the midst of the stressors of fast-paced college life, and we want to help remove barriers to accessing support. That's why any student who has paid full fees with their tuition is eligible for medical and mental health services at UVA. You can also visit our page to learn more about TimelyCare virtual mental health services, accessibility services, public health education and leadership, and our nationally renowned research and institutional partnerships. Remember: A healthy Wahoo is a happy Wahoo!
Policy, Accountability, and Critical Events
The Policy, Accountability, and Critical Events (PACE) unit of Student Affairs includes coordination and support of student disciplinary processes, policy and compliance, and critical incident/event response.
PACE advances the University’s mission to develop responsible citizen leaders by:
- Supporting the student-run Honor and Judiciary Committees in their ownership and management of student conduct adjudication;
- Promoting a student culture of self-governance, honor, respect, safety, and freedom;
- Facilitating student conduct practices that are fair, transparent, and educational;
- Developing and managing University policies that support student, Divisional, and University priorities;
- Creating and executing emergency response plans that promote student safety and the ongoing delivery of mission essential functions; and
- Reviewing and advancing relevant government legislation to support the student experience.