Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff:

Today, Governor Glenn Youngkin shared his proposed budget amendments for the 2022-2024 biennium, which includes a framework and timeline for the integration of Eastern Virginia Medical School into Old Dominion University. The inclusion of this initiative in Governor Youngkin’s budget amendments is an extremely positive step for both of our institutions and our communities. Please join us in sharing our sincere appreciation with the Governor for his advocacy, interest, and support in our current work and our bold initiative to establish the Commonwealth’s largest health sciences center, which represents a critical need for Hampton Roads.



The Governor’s proposal is an important step in the overall process of creating a state budget. Each year, the Governor prepares a proposed budget bill for introduction by the General Assembly. As part of the legislative process, public hearings and legislative committee discussions typically result in proposed amendments to the Governor’s budget. As such, we will continue to work with Governor Youngkin and the General Assembly as this process evolves in the weeks to come.



As the General Assembly convenes in early 2023 to review the critical needs of our region and our actionable plans to address both the short-term and long-term challenges facing our fellow citizens, we are confident that this is just the beginning of the Commonwealth’s strong support to address growing health disparities. With the unwavering leadership of Chairman Barry Knight, Senator Louise Lucas, and their colleagues, we look forward to further discussion about the proposed integration and continued progress toward our shared vision.



Based on a strong history of collaboration and proven track record of making our community a better place to learn, live, and work, ODU and EVMS are prepared to leverage our combined expertise by increasing the pipeline of students, physicians, and healthcare providers in Hampton Roads, thereby leading to enhanced patient care and improved health outcomes. And, with the Commonwealth of Virginia’s support, as well as Sentara Healthcare’s partnership, the integration will result in our region becoming a medical and scientific hub for attracting research funding and generating high-paying jobs. Due to the long-standing support of state leaders, ODU and EVMS have provided extraordinary value to our campuses, the community, and the Commonwealth and are prepared to significantly expand in the months and years to come!



Warmest Regards,

Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D.                                                       Alfred Z. Abuhamad, M.D.

President                                                                              President, Provost, and Dean

Old Dominion University                                                      Eastern Virginia Medical School

Save the Date: ODU/EVMS Integration Forum January 30

ODU President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D. and EVMS President Alfred Abuhamad, M.D. will discuss the potential ODU/EVMS integration at a forum from 2 to 3 p.m. on January 30, 2023 in the Big Blue Room at Chartway Arena. This is an excellent chance to hear the two leaders and ask questions. Mark your calendar!

ODU and EVMS Join Forces to Provide Free Dental Care

Old Dominion University's Gene W. Hirschfeld School of Dental Hygiene recently partnered with Eastern Virginia Medical School's HOPES Clinica Esperanza to provide free services to children for whom English is a second language. Read more and watch a video.

Question of the Month

Would either ODU or EVMS change its name? Old Dominion University and Eastern Virginia Medical School each have strong brands. Any possible integration would respect that fact. Part of the integration exploration process will include an external review of the respective brands and recommendations for unifying those legacies with the goal of strengthening each and creating a greater, more influential whole.

Have other questions? Visit the integration website for FAQs or email the Integration Management Office at integration@odu.edu.

Integration Conversations: Addressing Uncertainty

In this video conversation, ODU and EVMS leaders address uncertainty surrounding a potential integration between the two institutions.

The Integration Site

Read more about the proposed partnership at the ODU/EVMS integration website.