This week
Canvas Assignments and Quizzes
Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2024 from 11 a.m. to noon
This workshop will provide an overview of the various assignment types in Canvas, as well as centrally supported tools that can be used in Canvas assignments. Register at: https://training.vcu.edu/course.aspx?processFlag=2&itemID=18310 The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/2324828315?omn=87046311162
For more information, contact Jon Reed at reedjj@vcu.edu or visit http://learningsystems.vcu.edu.
Guided Meditation
Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2024 from noon to 12:30 p.m.
Find a period of quiet reflection in the middle of your day with virtual guided meditation, suitable for all levels of practice. This session is brought to you by VCU HR and VCU RecWell. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/41xwLcj
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://ramstrong.vcu.edu/.
Visiting Artist Lecture by Marilyn Boror Bor
Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2024 at 12:15 p.m.
VCU's The Department of Sculpture and Extended Media will present a lecture by visiting artist Marilyn Boror Bor at VCU's Institute for Contemporary Art at the Markel Center, 601 W. Broad St. Marilyn Boror Bor is a Maya-Kaqchiquel indigenous artist whose body of work covers multiple media, including painting, photography, engraving, installation and performance. Her artistic projects focus on the preservation and recovery of indigenous languages through analytic and critical works.
For more information, contact Emmy Garcia at garciaem2@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/event/marilyn-boror-bor-visiting-artist-lecture/.
VCU Writing Center Workshop: Writing a Strong Introduction, Abstract or Proposal
Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024 at 11 a.m.
Learn how to establish your ideas in a strong, logical manner that will capture your audience. Click on the following URL for the Zoom link.
For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.
Mindful On Life: Mindful-Based Strategies for Managing Stress
Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
This session will address the physical signs of stress on the body. Engage the senses in anchoring the body, breath and present moment. Representatives of BareSOUL Wellness will facilitate. The session will be at the Mary and Frances Youth Center, 120 S. Linden St. Contact the following email address to register.
For more information, contact Vaughn Garland at garlandvw@vcu.edu or visit https://tockify.com/iexcel/detail/94/1706112000000.
Take Control of Your Financial Life: Managing Money and Debt
Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024 from noon to 1 p.m.
Sharpen your day-to-day financial skills and learn to manage money and balance priorities. Pick up tips to enjoy life and save for the future. This virtual financial session will be hosted by VCU HR and TIAA. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/3Nwuzfu
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://ramstrong.vcu.edu/.
Positioning Yourself To Compete for External Research Funding
Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024 from noon to 1 p.m.
VCU's Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research will present via Zoom the first session in its grant-writing series. Patricia Kinser, Ph.D., professor, Family and Community Health Nursing, will discuss strategies for developing competitive research agendas. Questions: Visit http://www.cctr.vcu.edu Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Pamela Dillon, Pharm.D., research liaison, at pmdillon@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcvduuurjstGND6eWM1L-rwM0WbFQcaTUQ2.
Graduate Research Symposium Informational Sessions
Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024 from noon to 12:45 p.m.
VCU's Graduate School will host a series of virtual informational sessions to share details regarding the 27th Annual Graduate Research Symposium. The symposium is open to graduate students of all disciplines to share research with the broader VCU community. Students who participate in the symposium will earn a digital foundational badge in Presentation of Research. Register on RamsConnect - https://vcu.campusgroups.com/events?group_ids=36748
For more information, contact Erin Brown,, Ph.D., at embbrown@vcu.edu or visit https://graduate.vcu.edu/current-students/awards-and-competitions/graduate-research-symposium/.
Students Together Assisting Refugees Spring GBM
Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024 at 7 p.m.
Students Together Assisting Refugees helps new refugees in Richmond through collaboration with the International Rescue Committee (IRC-Richmond) and raises awareness for refugee struggles. Meet the STAR@VCU officers virtually, learn more about the club and volunteer efforts. See the Zoom Link via Ramsconnect at the following URL.
For more information, contact Students Together Assisting Refugees @ VCU at staratvcu@gmail.com or visit https://vcu.campusgroups.com/STARatVCU/club_signup.
Canvas Gradebook
Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 from 11 a.m. to noon
This workshop will provide an overview of the features of Canvas Gradebook. Register at: https://training.vcu.edu/course.aspx?processFlag=2&itemID=18311 The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/2324828315?omn=84569193328
For more information, contact Jon Reed at reedjj@vcu.edu or visit http://learningsystems.vcu.edu.
Esteban Moctezuma Barragán, Mexico's Ambassador to U.S., To Give Talk
Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
VCU's Global Education Office will host the ambassador of Mexico to the United States, Esteban Moctezuma Barragán, in Room 303, James Branch Cabell Library, 901 Park Ave. The ambassador will deliver a lecture to the public and the university community regarding the interdependence and common futures of Mexico and the United States. The event is open to all and registration is not required.
For more information, contact Nicol Tinsley at nctinsley@vcu.edu or (804) 426-8053 or visit https://global.vcu.edu/media/global/pdf/strategies/Ambassador%20to%20Mexico%20flyer.pdf.
Photography in Special Collections and Archives: Open House
Friday, Jan. 26, 2024 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Visit VCU Libraries Special Collections and Archives for an open house featuring rare and unique materials related to photography. The exhibit will include items from University Archives, the Book Arts collection, rare books and more. The exhibit will be in the fourth floor Reading Room, James Branch Cabell Library, 901 Park Ave.
For more information, contact Katharine Buckley at buckleyk3@vcu.edu or visit https://www.library.vcu.edu/about/events/2023-2024/sca-open-house-2024.html.
First Auctus General Board Meeting
Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Auctus, VCU's Journal of Undergraduate Research and Creative Scholarship., will host a meeting in Room 1303, The Honors College, 701 W. Grace St. Interested students can join the STEM, social sciences, humanities, creative or news and noteworthy sections and learn about reviewing submissions. Food will be provided. Students can join in-person or virtually at the following URL.
For more information, contact Auctus at auctus@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/j/88100520677.
Coming up
The Makings and Unmakings of Americans: Indians and Immigrants in American Culture
Monday, Jan. 29, 2024 from noon to 1 p.m.
Join the Humanities Research Center for a Meet VCU Authors event with Cristina Stanciu, Ph.D. Stanciu's book, "The Makings and Unmakings of Americans," explores the ways in which new immigrants and Native Americans shaped the intellectual and cultural debates over inclusion and exclusion during the Progressive Era, challenging ideas of national belonging, citizenship, literary, and cultural production. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Rani Sisavath at sisavathr@vcu.edu or visit https://humanitiescenter.vcu.edu/events/the-makings-and-unmakings-of-americans-indians-and-immigrants-in-american-culture.html.
Massey Internship Interest Luncheon (Location Change)
Monday, Jan. 29, 2024 from noon to 2 p.m.
VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center will host a luncheon for those interested in cancer and clinical research at VCU Massey. Learn about the center's undergraduate and graduate programs. The luncheon will be held in the SGA Senate Chamber of the University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. Those who have started an application for the programs in ACS CURE, CTOSI, ACS ACCESS or WLSI are also invited to attend. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Caroline Blair at blaircp@vcu.edu or visit https://redcap.vcu.edu/surveys/?s=EYC8NMPR7XPMWYJ3.
Global Education Global Initiatives Master Class Series
Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Jane Gatewood, Ph.D., vice provost for global engagement in the Office for Global Engagement at the University of Rochester, will lead a workshop, "Utilizing Institutional Data to Drive Global Strategy, Partnerships and Profile." The session will be part of the Global Education Office's Global Initiatives Master Class Series and will be held in Richmond Salons III-IV, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Nicol Tinsley at nctinsley@vcu.edu or (804) 828-6463 or visit https://bit.ly/GlobalInitiativesMasterClassSeriesSpring.
SHRM Exam Prep
Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024 from 5:45 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
VCU's Center for Corporate Education will present Society for Human Resource Management Exam Prep. Prepare for your SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) or SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-CSP) exam with a practicing HR leader and SHRM-certified instructor. This course runs for 14 weeks, (Tuesdays) Feb. 6-May 7, 5:45–8:30 p.m. The $1,600 registration fee includes all materials and online learning software. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Katie Fauth at fauthkm@vcu.edu or visit https://business.vcu.edu/center-for-corporate-education/?post=1447.
Getting to Know Gen AI
Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 10:15 a.m.
During this online session, a repeat of the Dec. 4 in-person event, faculty will be introduced to Gen AI fundamentals. The session will include key concepts, familiarization with common tools and building a comfort level by experimenting with readily available Gen AI platforms. This session is a foundational step in creating your Gen AI literacy. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jordyn Richardson at richardsonj9@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScHMyGDBVRgMV5IWWaQQqvXL8DqoLav--1m83OEtwEBq6aagw/viewform?usp=pp_url.
State of the University
Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024 at 11 a.m.
Join VCU President Michael Rao for the State of the University Address in the lecture hall (Room 303) at James Branch Cabell Library, 901 Park Ave. Seating is limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Questions: Visit the following URL.
For more information, contact University Events at UNIVevents@vcu.edu or visit https://go.vcu.edu/sotu.
'Heart of a Woman Mini-Symposium'
Friday, Feb. 9, 2024 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
VCU's EqCHO Lab will host an event which will focus on mental, physical and cardiovascular health in women of color. The event will include an art exhibit, expert panel and fun stress-reduction activities. The event will be held at the Health Hub at VCU, 1330 N. 25th St. Questions: https://eqcho.lab.vcu.edu/ RSVP at the following URL to secure a seat and lunch.
For more information, contact Anika Hines, Ph.D., MPH, at eqcholab@vcu.edu or (804) 828-5030 or visit https://forms.gle/Yda77JX7eawCcUkT6.
American Red Cross Blood Drive
Monday, Feb. 26, 2024 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
The Pace Center will host an American Red Cross Blood Drive at 700 W. Franklin St. The U.S. is experiencing an emergency blood shortage as the nation faces the lowest number of people giving blood in 20 years. Blood donations are needed now to help alleviate the shortage and ensure lifesaving medical procedures are not delayed.
For more information, contact Jean Linnell at operations@thepacecenter.com or (804) 658-4064 or visit http://www.thepacecenter.com.
Judges Needed for Graduate Research Symposium
Wednesday, Apr. 24, 2024 from 9 a.m. to noon
VCU's Graduate School will host the 27th Annual Graduate Research Symposium to bring together nearly 100 graduate students across disciplines to highlight the important work of the university's students and faculty. Judges must be available for one to two hours on the day of the event, which will be held in the Ballrooms of the University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. Interested faculty and staff can complete a short interest form at https://forms.gle/Tx7GCpzrnEKBt5kP9.
For more information, contact Erin Brown, Ph.D., at embbrown@vcu.edu or visit https://graduate.vcu.edu/current-students/awards-and-competitions/graduate-research-symposium/.
Notices
Recreation and Well-Being Personal Training Packages
RecWell’s personal training packages are available to VCU students and RecWell members. Participants are guided through an exercise program customized to meet their specific needs and goals by a certified personal trainer. RecWell offers one-on-one and buddy training packages of three-, six-, 12- or 18-hour-long sessions. Registration information is available at the following URL.
For more information, contact Tanika Santos-MacSwain at fitness@vcu.edu or visit https://recwell.vcu.edu/thrive/personal-training/.
Recreation and Well-Being First Aid/CPR/AED Certifications
The American Red Cross Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED course is open for VCU students and RecWell members looking to learn how to recognize and care for a variety of first aid, breathing and cardiac emergencies. Participants will earn a certificate that satisfies OSHA requirements for workplace First Aid/CPR/AED training. February class dates: Feb. 7, Feb. 21 and Feb 24. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Mat Scott at aquatics@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=157236e4-f012-4926-b19a-80ba87072981.
Opt Out of Printed Solicitations
Getting too much paper mail at home? You can opt out of printed solicitations from VCU’s Development and Alumni Relations office with a few simple steps. Go to my.vcu.edu and sign in. Click on the caret (the little downward-pointing triangle) to the right of your name. Scroll down to the bottom of your profile and uncheck the box under “Mailing opt-out preference.” If you change your mind, you can go back into your account and check the box to receive solicitations from us again.
For more information, contact Jessie Pilot at brownck6@vcu.edu or visit http://pilotj@vcu.edu.
Deadline Updated for 2024 Nominations to Institutional Review Board
Diversity matters: All interested, qualified and dedicated individuals from diverse backgrounds and disciplines are invited to consider applying for membership. The deadline is March 1. The IRB seeks candidates who can contribute to a broad spectrum of expertise, fostering a rich and inclusive dialogue on ethical considerations in research. Apply at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jennifer Rice at irbeducation@vcu.edu or visit https://blogs.vcu.edu/humanresearch/wp-admin/post.php?post=2929&action=edit.
Honor Council Board Training
VCU's Office of Student Conduct and Academic Integrity is seeking volunteer board members to serve on its honor council. Membership is open to full-time faculty, staff and students. Training dates and times (allow three hours for each session) are Tuesday, Jan. 23, 9 a.m., in-person at 809 W. Broad St.; Tuesday, Jan. 23, 4 p.m., virtual; Thursday, Jan. 25, 1 p.m., in-person at 809 W. Broad St.; and Friday, Jan. 26, 9 a.m., virtual. Email Rocky Carmine at carminero@vcu.edu or Tracey Mullis at the following address.
For more information, contact Tracey Mullis at mullistd@vcu.edu or (804) 828-1963 or visit https://conduct.students.vcu.edu//.
Student Conduct Board Training
VCU's Office of Student Conduct and Academic Integrity is seeking volunteer board members to serve on its conduct board. Membership is open to full-time faculty, staff and students. Training dates and times (allow 2.5 hours for each session) are Tuesday, Jan. 23, 1 p.m., in-person at 809 W. Broad Street; Wednesday, Jan. 24, 9:30 a.m., in-person at 809 W. Broad St.; Wednesday, Jan. 24, 5 p.m., virtual; and Thursday, Jan. 25, 9:30 a.m., virtual. Email Rocky Carmine at carminero@vu.edu or Tracey Mullis at the following email address.
For more information, contact Tracey Mullis at mullistd@vcu.edu or (804) 828-1963 or visit https://conduct.students.vcu.edu//.
OMSA Seeks Participants in Planning Committee for Cultural Achievement Ceremonies
Each spring, VCU's Office of Multicultural Student Affairs hosts six cultural achievement ceremonies (graduation ceremonies for students of underrepresented communities). OMSA invites participation in the planning process and assistance in making these ceremonies truly celebratory for students who take part and their loved ones. Sign up at the following URL by Friday, Jan. 26.
For more information, contact Jair Lecky at leckyjj@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/QrJZMd6vcHepKaEk8.
Exploring Parenting and Race: VCU's AYA Research Team Needs You
Be part of VCU's AYA Research Team's ongoing study. We're discussing race-conscious parenting with expecting Black parents and those raising Black children (ages 1-5). Explore how racial factors shape parenting through five interviews every six months, involving both parents and brief check-in questionnaires. Compensation will be provided for interviews and questionnaires. To join, complete the survey at the following URL. Share this opportunity with your network as well.
For more information, contact Shawn Jones, Ph.D., at ayaresearchteam@gmail.com or visit https://forms.gle/pVCKFkT6RrMMzX249.
Silent Retreat
A silent retreat is exactly what it sounds like - a retreat spent silence. Participants will break silence at dinner each night to talk and build community. Participants will practice appreciation for nature, art and mindfulness. The event, sponsored by the Pace Center, will be March 22-24. Questions: Email the following address or simonellija@vcu.edu.
For more information, contact Aaliyah Freeman at freemanaa@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1JlaI2PYzbNHlGbrC80vnYrAP_wp6DjQqpJEsuULLVlM/edit.
Global Buddies: Spring Enrollment Is Open
Registration is open for VCU's Global Education office's Spring Semester Global Buddies Program. This program provides international and domestic students the opportunity to learn about other people, places and cultures and to make meaningful connections with people from around the world. Register at the following URL by Wednesday, Jan. 31.
For more information, contact Kelly Richard, Global Education Office, at richardkj@vcu.edu or (919) 816-5318 or visit https://global.vcu.edu/students/community/globalbuddies/.
Individuals Age 21-55 Who Both Vape and Occasionally Drink Are Invited to Participate in a Research Study
Individuals between the ages of 21 and 55 who vape electronic cigarettes daily and also occasionally drink alcohol are needed to participate in a research study that requires multiple laboratory visits. The purpose of this research study is to find out how ethanol (alcohol)-containing e-cigarettes impact ethanol breath tests, field sobriety tests and other tests of sobriety. (Ethanol is a common part of e-cigarette liquids.) Compensation may be provided. This study will be conducted at VCU’s Center for the Study of Tobacco Products at 100 W. Franklin St.
For more information, contact Alison Breland, Ph.D., Department of Psychology, at abbrelan@vcu.edu or (804) 827-3562 or visit http://cstp.vcu.edu/studies.
Examining Cardiac Effects of Hormonal Therapy in Breast Cancer Patients and Survivors (CT-STARS Study)
Do you or someone you know have/had breast cancer and received hormonal therapy (Tamoxifen, Anastrozole, Letrozole, Exemestane)? The CT-STARS study is examining the effects of this therapy with a single CT scan visit.
For more information, contact Nicole Ray at rayk2@vcu.edu or (804) 628-7774.
Participants Invited For Study Examining Sex Differences in Response to Aerobic Exercise Training
This study is seeking young females and males (18 to 35 years) to take part in nine weeks of aerobic exercise training. The purpose of this research study is to examine sex differences in cardiovascular adaptations in response to varying aerobic exercise training regimens. This study will be conducted at 500 Academic Centre on VCU’s Monroe Park Campus. The principal investigator is Ryan Garten, Ph.D., Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences.
For more information, contact Ryan Garten at rsgarten@vcu.edu.
