Privacy Policy

The Virginia Wesleyan University (VWU) Online Privacy Policy describes the information collected from visitors to the VWU website and how that information is used. This policy applies only to websites and services operated within the University's domain and does not cover third-party websites or services that may be linked to or incorporated into the VWU website.

Information Collected and How It Is Used

Personally Identifiable Information

Personally identifiable information is collected only when you voluntarily submit it while using the VWU website.

If you choose to identify yourself or provide personal information through VWU online forms, that information may be used for internal marketing and development purposes, to respond to inquiries, to complete transactions, or to provide requested services. Information collected is maintained in accordance with the University's Records Retention Policy.

If you request information, services, or assistance, your personal information may be shared with appropriate third parties as necessary to fulfill your request.

VWU may also disclose aggregated, anonymous information regarding website traffic and usage. This information does not include personally identifiable data.

You may opt out of receiving marketing-related email communications by using the unsubscribe instructions included in any email you receive from VWU.

Behavioral Information

Virginia Wesleyan University uses Google Analytics, which relies on cookies to collect anonymous traffic data. This information is analyzed by VWU and Google Analytics to generate statistics used to guide website design decisions, improve content and structure, and identify problem areas. Google's use of this information is governed by the Google Analytics Terms of Use and the Google Privacy Policy.

You may prevent Google Analytics from recognizing you on return visits by disabling cookies in your browser settings.

When you visit the VWU website, the following information may be collected automatically:

  • The domain and host from which you access the internet
  • The IP address of the device used
  • The browser and operating system used
  • The date and time of access
  • The referring website address, if applicable

The University may also track users anonymously through various web technologies to evaluate the performance of marketing-related features. No personally identifiable information is collected during this process.

Behavioral information is collected to:

  • Improve website functionality and content
  • Determine usage patterns across website sections
  • Ensure the website operates properly
  • Enhance accessibility and usability

How Long Information Is Kept

Information collected through the VWU website is retained in accordance with the University's Records Retention Policy.

Privacy Policy Updates

Virginia Wesleyan University reserves the right to amend or update this Privacy Policy at any time. Any changes become effective immediately upon posting.

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

If you are located in the European Union, you may have rights under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), including the right to access, correct, delete, restrict, or object to the processing of your personal data, and, in certain cases, to request data portability or withdraw consent. To exercise these rights, please contact the University using the information below.

Acceptance of Terms

By using the Virginia Wesleyan University website, you consent to the collection and use of information as described in this Privacy Policy. The University reserves the right to modify this policy at any time without prior notice.

Contact

For more information, contact the Office of Information Technology Services at 757.524.5900 or helpdesk@vwu.edu. Website-related inquiries may be directed to webmaster@vwu.edu.