All members of the university community are urged to assist in making the campus a safe place by being alert, cautious, security conscious, responsible, and by not taking safety for granted. Everyone who utilizes campus facilities must assume responsibility for the security of personal belongings and their own personal safety. Suspicious persons, dangerous or unusual situations, and all other crimes or attempted crimes including assault or attempted assault should be reported immediately to the Security Department. Everyone is urged to protect personal property by keeping residence hall rooms, entrance doors and vehicles locked and by not leaving keys or valuables in cars.

Behavior on Campus

The behavior of students, staff, faculty and visitors on campus is subject to the applicable University rules and regulations, Virgin Islands and federal laws. To this end, unlawful conduct by anyone may result in legal and/or disciplinary charges being brought against the person by University officials.

Sexual Harassment & Assault

The University is committed to creating and maintaining a community in which students, faculty and staff can work together in an atmosphere free of all forms of assault, sexual harassment, exploitation, or intimidation. Every member of the UVI community should be aware that such behavior is prohibited by both federal and local law, and by University policy. Sexual harassment is defined as deliberate, unsolicited, and un-welcomed sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature or with sexual implications. Personal compliments, social interaction, or relationships freely entered into and welcomed by the recipient do not constitute sexual harassment. Sexual assaults, forcible and non-forcible rape, are considered criminal offenses subject to disciplinary action, arrest and imprisonment.

Students who believe they have been sexually harassed in violation of the University's policy, should notify the Counselor. Employees should immediately notify the University's Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Officer (EEOC) through Human Resources. Victims of sexual assault, whether students or employees, should notify Campus Security as well as file charges with the local Police Department.

During new student orientation and throughout the academic year, education programs are held to inform students and employees about crime prevention and the availability of support services.

Alcoholic Beverages and Illegal Drugs

The University of the Virgin Islands seeks to encourage and sustain an academic environment that respects individual freedom and promotes the health, safety and welfare of all members of it's community. In keeping with these objectives, the University has established policies and guidelines governing the possession, sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages on the University's campuses. These policies and guidelines are in compliance with laws of the Virgin Islands.

UVI does not condone possession, use, or distribution or marijuana, LSD, hallucinogens, narcotics by anyone in any campus facility or on it's grounds. Any individual known of possessing, using or distributing such drugs is subject to disciplinary action, which could result in suspension, or dismissal, possible arrest, imprisonment and/or fined according to Virgin Islands and Federal laws.

Drug and Alcohol Prevention Education Program

Through the UVI's Drug and Alcohol Prevention Education Program, assistance is provided to UVI community members in finding alternatives to alcoholic beverages for stress reduction and promoting social interaction. It also provides referral services and resources for students and staff who experience alcohol-related difficulties.

University security has increased patrols in the campus area and investigate all incidents, but it is vital that each member of the campus community do everything he or she can to be safe. Click here for further safety information, advise and suggestions.

Reporting a Crime or Emergency

To report a crime or emergency on the St. Thomas Campus, dial extension 1530 if calling from an office on campus, or 693-1530 if calling from a direct-line or outside the campus. On campus callers can also dial 9-911 for speedy access to the Virgin Islands Police Department for serious incidents, or 911 from a direct line or cellular phone. If dialing 9-911, the incident should also be reported to the campus security office. Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to report potential criminal actions and other emergencies to Security.

Smart Classrooms

Smart Classrooms and Video Conference rooms on the St. Thomas and St. Croix campuses facilitate the use of technology and distance learning and link both Campuses when conducting meetings. To safeguard the valuable equipment installed in these rooms, the following security plan has been implemented.

Click here for UVI's policies on Smart Classroom and Video Conference Room access and security.

Security Orientation

New students and employees are briefed on University security measures during their orientation program. The Chief of Security and Security Supervisors are invited to new student orientation twice a year and to faculty and staff orientation at least once a year.