The University of Virginia (U.Va.) has temporarily suspended its student-led campus tour program, a move that has sparked discussions due to the program’s recent focus on the university’s historical ties to slavery.
The suspension affects the University Guide Service (UGS), a student-run organization that has been providing tours for prospective students and visitors for many years.
The Jefferson Council, a conservative alumni group, has criticized the UGS for allegedly overemphasizing the university’s use of enslaved labor as well as the fact that its founder, Thomas Jefferson, owned slaves. The council has argued that this focus alienates potential students by presenting a “woke version of U.Va. history,” which minimizes Jefferson’s contributions to the university and the nation.
However, University of Virginia officials have stated that the decision to suspend the guide service is unrelated to these criticisms. According to university spokesman Brian Coy, the suspension was prompted by concerns about the UGS’s ability to manage the required number of tours and the consistency of the information provided. The university has emphasized that the suspension is due to operational quality rather than content.
The UGS responded to the suspension by issuing a statement on social media, expressing disappointment with the university’s decision. The group defended its performance, citing internal feedback mechanisms that show positive visitor experiences. The UGS also stated that it will continue to collaborate with the university administration to find a solution that allows student-led tours to resume.
Meanwhile, tours will be led by student interns employed directly by the university’s Office of Admission. According to university spokesperson Bethanie Glover, the administration has been in close contact with UGS leadership and is developing a performance improvement plan to ensure that the tours meet university expectations.
The Jefferson Council, which has been vocal in its criticism of the UGS, welcomed the suspension, seeing it as an opportunity to address what they believe is a biased portrayal of the university’s history. The group has previously accused the UGS of including “radical views” in its tours, undermining Jefferson’s legacy.
Despite the suspension, the UGS remains dedicated to its mission of providing comprehensive and honest tours of UVA’s history. The group has stated its intention to continue collaborating with the university to restore the tour program in a way that aligns with both the administration’s standards and the guide service’s values.
The New York Times and University of Virginia the Cavalier Daily contributed to this report.
