The University of the Virgin Islands has launched its official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/UVI.edu and asks everyone on Facebook who cares about the university to "Like" them, according to the university.

“The University’s official Facebook presence gives the UVI family a location in which to connect," said UVI Public Relations Director Patrice Johnson in a statement from UVI. "It’s a networking tool that complements the University’s image by providing timely, factual information and links that visitors to the page can use and share."

UVI will share information about UVI events and activities on its page and Facebook users can recommend news items, photos or videos they find interesting to family and friends, according to UVI’s announcement.

UVI’s page already includes select photos and the four videos created for the recent “Why UVI?” awareness campaign that aired on local TV. An associated “Welcome!” page provides a brief overview of UVI and links to the main UVI website and its major sections. Links are also provided to UVI’s various cultural resources, centers, institutes, services and research stations. Also featured is a Google Map link that provides customized views of UVI’s campuses on St. Thomas and St. Croix.

UVI also plans to use the “Events” function to promote upcoming events and activities by sending notices to its Facebook family. Among other things, the “Events” function allows viewers to send RSVPs for specific events to University organizers. The UVI Facebook page will be frequently updated and will display links to the "UVI Today" photo blog when photos are added, according to UVI.