Dear UVM Students,

We hope your first couple of weeks at UVM have engaged you in intellectual discussions that are challenging you to think, create and innovate. As new and returning learners, we are writing to ask for your help in promoting respectful, civil discourse in all aspects of your academic and social life at UVM. The free flow of ideas and the opportunity to challenge those ideas are central to the mission of a great university. It is also our responsibility to do so in a manner that reflects our commitment to the values of Our Common Ground, a pledge you made as first-year students to sustain a healthy environment that celebrates diversity in all of its forms.

We are receiving a few reports that some in our community are voicing disagreements with others in a manner well outside the bounds of Our Common Ground. You are empowered to intercept situations where our community values are not honored. We also offer the Bias Response Program, the Center for Student Conduct, and the Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity as resources with opportunities to report incidents of bias, misconduct, and harassment. In any situation where you feel your personal safety is at risk, you should immediately contact UVM Police Services at 802-656-3473 or 911.

The privilege of being a member of the UVM community comes with responsibilities. We know we can count on you to continue your commitment to the values of Our Common Ground in all of your interactions

Sincerely,

Suresh V. Garimella, President
Patricia A. Prelock, Provost and Senior Vice President