Dining locations equipped with EpiPens to improve emergency readiness

Epinephrine auto-injectors are now available in dining locations across campus, providing a critical new layer of safety for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. The initiative — a collaborative effort among the University of Richmond Police Department, emergency management, facilities, dining services, and student health — began in fall 2025 and concluded with installation in March. Access to the EpiPens ensures life-saving medication is close at hand in the event of a severe allergic reaction.

The push to install EpiPens campuswide followed several allergic reactions reported last fall.

“Having epinephrine readily available on campus is a critical step in protecting our community,” said Maribel Street, director of emergency management. “Severe allergic reactions can escalate in minutes, and immediate access to EpiPens allows bystanders and first responders to act quickly and save lives.”

Each dining location is equipped with a two-pack of EpiPens stored in a clearly labeled box near the first aid kit. Access to the pens is limited to trained dining and public safety staff, who are prepared to administer aid when needed. In the event of an emergency, community members should notify a dining staff member — in addition to URPD — and a trained responder will administer the shot to the individual in need.

For Dining Services, the initiative is both practical and reassuring.

“This initiative strengthens our ability to respond quickly in the event of a severe allergic reaction,” said Tyler Betzhold, executive director of dining services. “With EpiPens available in all dining locations and staff trained to use them, we’re taking another important step to ensure our dining spaces remain safe and supportive for our campus community.”