Values, Ideas and the Arts
Values, Ideas and the Arts presentations enhance the Manchester Core program in the liberal arts through cultural exposure, artistic experience and intellectual enrichment. VIA features speakers, musicians and dramatic performers from the University community, across the country and around the globe.
The goals of the VIA program are to:
- broaden students’ cultural experiences,
- enrich students intellectually and aesthetically,
- provide opportunities to experience the arts,
- promote dialogue about ideas and values, and
- embody in its programs the values expressed in the University Mission.
Events are held at 11 a.m. in Wine Recital Hall and last about an hour unless noted otherwise. Members of the University community and the public are also invited to attend all VIA events. Admission is free unless otherwise noted.
VIA Events
Behavior at Classical Performances
Manchester University is pleased to host fine arts performances for the cultural enrichment of both the campus community and the general public.
Although VIA credit may be offered, these are not typical VIA events. When you attend a performance that includes guests from surrounding communities, you represent both the student body and the University. With this in mind, please observe the following:
- A fine arts performance is an occasion. Many in the audience will dress up, and musicians are usually in formal attire. While you don’t need to wear your best outfit, this is not a time for grubs.
- When an event is widely advertised off campus, it is more likely that there will be crowds. Arrive at least 10 minutes before the performance and find your seat quickly.
- Be respectful of the performers and fellow audience members by putting away ALL electronic devices (including phones).Â
- Refrain from talking and doing homework. Do not bring food or drink into the auditorium.
- Remember that fine arts performances are usually longer than a regular VIA, and you need to be respectful until the end of the performances.
Finally, show your appreciation with applause at the end of the piece and at the end of the performance. If you don’t know when it’s OK to applaud, take your cue from others in the audience.
We hope you enjoy the show!
The VIA Committee
VIA Graduation Requirement (Undergraduate Degree Candidates)
Students enrolled in the baccalaureate program are required to attend five VIA programs for every semester of full-time (12 semester hours) enrollment.
One-fourth (0.25) semester hour of credit is earned for every 10 programs attended.
Credit is cumulative; a minimum or 1.0 credit is required, and a maximum of 2.0 credits may be used toward graduation hours.
Attendance requirements will be waived for any semester a student is enrolled full-time but is studying off campus (i.e. student teaching, internship, field instruction, study abroad).
In extenuating circumstances, an alternative means for fulfilling this requirement can be sought from the Academic Standards Committee (see VIA Policy Exception). Further information is available in the Office of the Registrar.
VIA Policy Exception
If approved by the Academic Standards Committee, students may take one three-hour course to replace 40 VIA credits. The course will be selected in consultation with the Registrar. The course cannot:
- be related to the student’s major or minor,
- be used to fulfill another CORE requirement,
- be taken P/NP,
- be a studio class.
No more than one semester hour may be applied to the 128 semester hours required for graduation. Students who take a course to complete the VIA requirement must complete 130 semester hours to meet graduation requirements.
VIA Starts with You
Submit your idea for our next VIA. You’re input is essential to bringing strong and relevant topics, presentations, and more to the MU student body and greater community. Submit your idea for our next VIA now using our interactive form.
VIA Application Guidelines
Any individual, student group, or campus organization may submit a program application to the Values, Ideas and Arts (VIA) Committee.
Values, Ideas and the Arts presentations enhance Manchester academics and student experiences through cultural exposure, artistic experience and intellectual enrichment. VIA features speakers, musicians, dramatic performers and artists from the University community, across the country and around the globe. Members of the University community and the public are also invited to attend all VIA events. All events are free of charge unless otherwise noted.
VIA Application Due Dates
- Whenever possible, VIAs should be approved and details finalized before the end of the preceding semester.
- The committee will entertain programs for any open dates after a semester begins, as long as there is adequate time to organize and promote the event.
Incomplete applications will delay the process. Please include program details, web links and other information that will help the committee make a timely decision.
The VIA Committee does not convene during summer and January sessions.
For VIA-credit programs, sponsoring groups or individuals assume leadership and responsibilities for all arrangements regarding planning and preparations. Please see the VIA sponsor checklist for review of these responsibilities.
Two very important responsibilities include the event location and the date and time selected for the event. The VIA committee strongly recommends Cordier Auditorium for all VIA events unless there is a scheduling conflict or if the format of the program necessitates a different type of space. Room reservations should be made at the time of application. Most are at 11 a.m. on Mondays, but other times are possible. Applications from students or student organizations must be accompanied by a letter by a faculty or staff sponsor committing support and guidance throughout the process, planning, and actual event.
Direct questions to the Values Ideas Arts (VIA) Committee.