Important update from the Foundation regarding COVID-19 and the Jefferson Scholars Selection Weekend

The Jefferson Scholars Foundation has announced an important update regarding COVID-19 (coronavirus) and its impact on the upcoming Jefferson Scholars Selection Weekend. After careful consideration, the Foundation has decided to modify the schedule and format of this year’s event and will no longer host any selection activities in Charlottesville in March. All interviews between finalists and selection committee members will be conducted via live video conference.

The Foundation takes very seriously the health and safety of its community, which includes the 120 finalists and nearly 100 committee members who would have had to travel to Charlottesville in order to participate in this year’s selection event. While no case of COVID-19 has been reported among U.Va. students, faculty, staff or local Charlottesville residents to date, the Foundation recognizes the possibility of community spread as a result of travel from and through areas with reported cases.

As has been the case over its 40-year history, the Foundation remains committed to protecting the integrity of its selection process. Conducting all interviews online will ensure that all finalists, regardless of where they reside, have the same opportunity to demonstrate leadership, scholarship, and citizenship. 

If school counselors, finalists, or selection committee members involved in this year’s selection process have any questions about the changes, please do not hesitate to contact the Foundation.