New and transfer students at the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) will receive a warm Buccaneer welcome as faculty and staff on both campuses prepare for the start of the 2025 fall semester with a full week of orientation activities.
On the Orville E. Kean Campus on St. Thomas, new students will move into their residences on Tuesday, Aug. 12. Orientation sessions will be held in the Elridge W. Blake Sports and Fitness Center on Wednesday, Aug. 13, starting at 8:30 a.m., and Thursday, Aug. 14, starting at 9 a.m.
On the Albert A. Sheen Campus on St. Croix, welcome activities begin with new student move-in on Wednesday, Aug. 13, followed by two days of orientation events on Thursday, Aug. 14, and Friday, Aug. 15, in the Great Hall. Returning students will move in on Saturday, Aug. 16, and Sunday, Aug. 17.
“I’m excited to meet our new and transfer students and help them discover the resources and community that will support their academic and personal growth,” said Dr. Pamela Moolenaar-Wirsiy, vice president of Student Success and Innovation. “I encourage students to ask questions, get involved and take full advantage of everything UVI has to offer.”
Throughout the week, students will take campus tours and learn about essential resources such as computer labs, 24/7 virtual tutoring, the library, Health Services and Wellness Center, opportunities for public/community service through Greek life, residence halls and student support services. Orientation also includes presentations on campus safety, financial aid, student organizations and clubs, as well as academic advisement and course registration.
On the Albert A. Sheen Campus, the New Student Convocation will take place Friday, Aug. 15, from 2 to 3 p.m. in the Great Hall followed by the Presidential Scoop, where the students will be treated to ice cream and a chat with UVI President Dr. Safiya George. On the Orville E. Kean Campus, Convocation will be held Monday, Aug. 18, from noon to 1 p.m. in the Sports and Fitness Center. The formal ceremony welcomes new students to the university community.
“Starting college can feel overwhelming, but our students should know they are not alone,” said Dr. Leslyn Tonge, dean of students on the Orville E. Kean Campus. “Orientation is our chance to welcome them into the Buccaneer family and show them that we are committed to helping them succeed in every way possible — academically, socially and personally.”
Dr. Colvin Georges Jr., dean of students on the Albert A. Sheen Campus, added,
“We want every student to feel seen, supported and inspired from day one. Orientation is where those first connections happen — with classmates, faculty and staff — and those bonds often last a lifetime. We look forward to helping our students start strong and make UVI their home away from home.”
Activities throughout the Welcome Week also include island tours, and social and recreational events designed to help students build friendships and adjust to life at UVI.
Classes begin on both campuses on Monday, Aug. 18. For details and updates on orientation events, visit orientation.uvi.edu or uvi.edu.
For media inquiries, contact pr@uvi.edu.
