UVA president cancels Monday Club luncheon appearance amid controversy

University of Virginia President Teresa Sullivan has canceled her appearance at a National Press Club luncheon, which was set for Monday, Dec. 1, amid the controversy surrounding allegations of rape at a university fraternity.

"Given recent events at the University of Virginia, combined with the fact that many of our students, faculty and staff have been away for Thanksgiving break, President Sullivan is canceling her scheduled appearance before the National Press Club," Anthony P. de Bruyn, a university spokesman, said in a statement.

"During this extraordinary and difficult time for UVA, President Sullivan’s energies are best focused on our grounds, where she can speak directly to and hear directly from our university community, participate in the healing process, and work to find answers to the many questions that deserve attention," de Bruyn said.

Sullivan regrets the inconvenience caused by this short notice and hopes to reschedule her appearance at the Club in the future, de Bruyn added.

The Club will contact those who bought tickets regarding refunds.