New River Valley Times

Uva Leaders To Hold Virtual Town Hall On Public Safety Issues

University of Virginia President Jim Ryan and members of his leadership team will hold a virtual town hall Tuesday to address concerns around gun violence and public safety, and to provide information about efforts at UVA and in the greater Charlottesville area to keep the community safe.

The virtual town hall is scheduled for Tuesday from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Register here to receive a link to access the Zoom meeting when it begins.

Ryan will be joined by Associate Vice President for Safety and Security and Chief of Police Tim Longo, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Jennifer “J.J.” Wagner Davis and Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer Robyn Hadley. Following their remarks, the panel will address questions submitted by viewers.

The region in recent months has experienced an increase in incidents of gun violence, including areas on and nearby Grounds. In the most recent case on March 18, a man identified as a contractor for the University died after sustaining gunshot wounds in a late-night shooting on Elliewood Avenue. Charlottesville police have since arrested and charged a suspect.

University leaders have recently taken steps to both better understand the root causes of gun violence in the region and develop responses that enhance security and position UVA and its public safety partners in Charlottesville and Albemarle County, the Virginia State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigations to find solutions for the long term.

UVA has increased police presence and patrols on and near Grounds, working with Charlottesville police closely in areas where jurisdiction is shared. The University also has extended the presence of unarmed guards affiliated with the Ambassador Program on and around Grounds.

Find more information on these and other ongoing efforts in UVA Today’s coverage.

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