Connect with us: VCU Facebook link VCU Twitter link VCU youtube link VCU Social Media link

Today

In this Meet VCU Authors webinar hosted by the Humanities Research Center, Bill Newmann looks at how U.S. presidents manage the advisory process for foreign policy decision-making. He argues that what often seems like chaos has real patterns to it and advocates in favor of understanding U.S. foreign policy during this critical moment in history. Register at the following URL. For more information, contact Rani Sisavath at sisavathr@vcu.edu or visit https://bit.ly/newm0909.

Do you receive a Pell grant? Do you know you can be awarded up to $5,000 to study abroad? Join VCU Global Learning and the National Scholarship Office for the biannual Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship Writing Workshop. This workshop is designed to help maximize your chances of receiving this nationally competitive scholarship. The session will be held in the SGA Senate Chambers, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave., and will also be available via Zoom at https://vcu.zoom.us/j/87865217792 For more information, contact Alex Heyden at levya@vcu.edu or (804) 828-5794 or visit https://vcu.campusgroups.com/eduabroad/rsvp_boot?id=1933183.

Are you fascinated by creating solutions to complex problems? Have you always wanted to start a business or nonprofit? Learn about the undergraduate certificates at the da Vinci Center. Learn exactly what a certificate is and programs in product innovation and venture creation as well as classes in human-centered design and how they can fit individual academic plans. Register for this virtual session at the following URL. For more information, contact Mary Chris Escobar at escobarmc@vcu.edu or visit https://davincicenter.vcu.edu/news--events/.

Members of Katie's Art Project will make origami cranes to donate to the Children's Peace Monument in Hiroshima, Japan. Snacks and drinks will be provided. The meeting will be held in Room 1303, the multipurpose room, Honors College, 701 W. Grace St. For more information, contact Safa Saad at saads@vcu.edu.

This week

Join current students for a panel discussion of the major differences between high school and college when it comes to classes, homework, exams and everything in between. The session, hosted by VCU's Campus Learning Center's Peer Academic Coaches, will be in Room B14, Hibbs Hall, 900 Park Ave. For more information, contact Bridget Prince at bprince@vcu.edu.

Join VCU's Transfer Center for Transfer Tuesdays in Room 250, James Branch Cabell Library, 901 Park Ave. Come to this open study session to work on whatever you need to and meet other transfer students. These sessions will continue throughout the fall semester. For more information, contact Elizabeth Heck at ebheck@vcu.edu or visit http://transfer.vcu.edu.

Join the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs for a virtual session with Myung Jin, Ph.D., to learn more about the Master of Public Administration program. Register for the virtual session at the following URL. Register at the following URL. For more information, contact Ross Losapio at wsrecruit@vcu.edu or (804) 827-0364 or visit http://bit.ly/mpasept24.

Study abroad in India this winter break with VCU’s School of Social Work and Global Education Office. Join Denise Burnette, Ph.D., and Stephanie Odera, Ed.D., M.S.W., for the elective SLWK 391 in Kerala, India from Dec. 27, 2024–Jan. 11, 2025. The class is open to undergraduate students of all majors. Register for this hybrid informational session (Room 3100, Academic Learning Commons, MCALC, 1000 Floyd Ave. or Zoom). Learn more at http://bit.ly/478PM7J The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/8537362976 For more information, contact Denise Burnette at jdburnette@vcu.edu.

IBM, Bank of America and VCU Engineering will host an introduction to IBM Z Enterprise Systems to connect with employers seeking talent in enterprise computing. No prior computing knowledge is necessary. Hear from IBM clients using Z Enterprise Computing and learn how this free digital badge can boost career opportunities. The session will be held in Room 101, Engineering West Hall, 601 W. Main St. Register at the following URL. For more information, contact Anita Taylor at ahtaylor2@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.joinhandshake.com/events/1569972/share_preview.

Whether you believe it or not, you can rewire your brain to think differently. Positive thinking can dramatically affect your attitude, as well as your relationships with others. In this seminar, brought to you by VCU HR and Anthem EAP, you’ll learn how to replace negativity with positive thoughts and discuss best practices and the power of praise. These skills will allow you to make the changes that lead to greater happiness. Register for this virtual session in Talent@VCU or at https://bit.ly/3Z3h11A For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://ramstrong.vcu.edu/events/upcoming-events-for-employees/.

The Society of Human Resource Management at VCU will host an interest meeting for returning and interested members. The meeting, to be in Room B2165, Snead Hall, 301 W. Main St., will feature information regarding the group's e-board, organization and semester plans. Register at the following URL. For more information, contact Ella Henderson at hendersoner@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1933908.

Interested in learning about the multitude of careers within the Health care profession and building a community with those with the same interest? Come to the group's first general body meeting to learn how you can become involved. The meeting will be held in Virginia Rooms A and B, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. Register via Ramsconnect at the following URL. For more information, contact Tobi Ojo at Health Professions Organization or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1934863.

Carrie Peterson, Ph.D., (Biomedical Engineering) and Caitlin Martin MD, MPH, (OB-GYN) will discuss the National Institutes of Health’s Loan Repayment Program, including who is eligible and how to write a competitive application for the program. The lunch research seminar, “Got Educational Debt? Learn About the NIH Loan Repayment Programs,” will be hosted by VCU's C. Kenneth and Dianne Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research via Zoom. 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/tZ0oceCgpz8sG9YIFIODnyLQhhYaGkZNJGEO.

The Provost’s Lecture Series brings together experts for UNconventional conversations about the conflict in the Middle East. Speakers represent different viewpoints and perspectives. In the first session, "The Heart of the Matter: Jerusalem and the Struggles of Israel and Palestine," experts will examine the centrality of Jerusalem for the three Abrahamic faiths and its place in past and current conflicts. The speakers represent diverse perspectives on the question of why this land is so important to people of different faiths. Register at the following URL. For more information, contact LaToya Blizzard at vpfacaffrs@vcu.edu or visit https://provost.vcu.edu/lecture-series/.

VCU's Alumni Richmond Chapter will compete with alumni from other colleges and universities to see which school can donate the most canned goods to Feed More in the 12th annual Alumni Charity Challenge. A goal of 200,000 pounds of food donated has been set. The event, which will be at City Stadium, 3201 Maplewood Ave., is free; no registration required. Donate directly at the following URL or drop off canned goods at the VCU tent at City Stadium today, Thursday, Sept. 12. For more information, contact Joey Stemmle at stemmlejr@vcu.edu or visit https://give.feedmore.org/team/602075.

Study abroad in India this winter break with VCU’s School of Social Work and Global Education Office. Join Denise Burnette, Ph.D., and Stephanie Odera, Ed.D., M.S.W., for the elective SLWK 391 in Kerala, India from Dec. 27, 2024–Jan. 11, 2025. The class is open to undergraduate students of all majors. Register for this virtual informational session at http://bit.ly/478PM7J. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/8537362976. For more information, contact Denise Burnette at jdburnette@vcu.edu.

The ACCESS Program at the VCU School of Medicine will host the sixth annual ACCESS (Acute Care and Systems Strengthening in Low Resource Settings) Global Health Symposium. The event, to be held at the James W. and Frances G. McGlothlin Medical Education Center, 1201 E. Marshall St., will include lectures, interactive workshops, research presentations and networking opportunities. The theme will be "Advancing Global Health Education: Empowering the Next Generation.” Register at the following URL. For more information, contact ACCESS Program at accessprogram@vcu.edu or visit https://shorturl.at/PL5TR.

Coming up

This 30 minute virtual class brought to you by VCU HR and RecWell will not only give you an excellent abdominal and low back workout, but will also challenge your other major muscle groups as well. Register in Talent@VCU or at https://bit.ly/3X3HedN For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://ramstrong.vcu.edu/events/upcoming-events-for-employees/.

Join VCU's Humanities Research Center for a Humanities Week keynote lecture with Paula Krebs, executive director of the Modern Language Association, for a discussion on the present and future of the humanities. A reception will follow. The talk will be in Room 303, James Branch Cabell Library, 901 Park Ave. Register at the following URL. For more information, contact Rani Sisavath at sisavathr@vcu.edu or visit https://humanitiescenter.vcu.edu/events/why-humanities-why-now.html.

RecWell’s Mindful Ambassador Program invites students, faculty and staff who are interested in creating a mindful revolution and healthier campus community. In this workshop, participants will learn about various types of meditation, belly breathing, mindful posture and special considerations for leading meditation with others. The event will be in the SGA Chambers, Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. Register at the following URL. For more information, contact Starr Robinson at robinsonsn@vcu.edu or visit https://training.vcu.edu/course.aspx?processFlag=2&itemID=18382.

HR's Learning, Development and Organizational Culture team will facilitate “Leadership Styles and Situations” for managers. This online course is based on a situational leadership approach that emphasizes leader flexibility and management styles to meet the differing needs of team members. The course is held in two parts on Sept. 19 and Oct. 3. Attendance at both is required to receive credit for the course. Register for both parts in Talent@VCU at https://t.ly/D_Hol For more information, contact Penny McFarline at mcfarlinep@vcu.edu or visit https://hr.vcu.edu/current-employees/learning-and-development/course-catalog/.

Join this workshop from VCU HR and Social Security and learn answers to questions about Medicare A and B including eligibility requirements, enrollment periods, application process and online services. The State Retiree Health Coverage will also be discussed by VCU HR Benefits. This workshop is offered both virtually and in-person on the Monroe Park campus. Register in Talent@VCU or at https://tinyurl.com/45u2mky6 For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://ramstrong.vcu.edu/events/upcoming-events-for-employees/.

All are welcome to come to the launch of El Centro and learn about the organization's work to empower the VCU community, foster understanding and support interactions between VCU-affiliated individuals who identify as Latino/e. The group seeks to conduct research in the community through enhancing scholarship and cultural and social experience on campus. The meeting will be in Room 250, James Branch Cabell Library, 901 Park Ave. Questions: Email Oswaldo Moreno oamoreno@vcu.edu or Anita Nadal at the following email address. For more information, contact Anita Nadal at nadalaa@vcu.edu.

Join the Red Cross Club at VCU for the group's first general board meeting in the multipurpose room in the VCU Honors College, 701 W. Grace St. The discussion will include how to become involved with the American Red Cross Association and be registered as a National volunteer. Food and Red Cross merchandise will also be available. For more information, contact Red Cross at VCU at patelph13@vcu.edu.

The Mentoring Circle program will host its inaugural Black Leadership Summit this fall in the Richmond Salons, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. The afternoon will feature a series of panels, learning sessions and a resource fair designed to help students navigate college life at VCU and beyond. Those who attend will also have opportunities to learn from and connect with Black alumni and leaders. Register at the following URL. For more information, contact Sharron McDaniel, mentoring coordinator, at mcdanielst@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1934957.

Learn about graduate programs in health care leadership (Master of Health Administration and Master of Science in Health Administration) at the Department of Health Administration's virtual informational session. The discussion will include the program's mission, curriculum, administrative residency (MHA) and the application process for both programs. Register at the following URL. For more information, contact Cameron Parkins at parkinsc@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSekZHdPkFwhFOtluQojc_SJaX0r9NrQ6Dn5KNYaQOfQTekn5w/viewform.

Join VCU's Global Education Office at its annual Global Learning Fall Fair; Study Abroad Fair at the Rams Horns Plaza. Meet representatives from the office's study abroad providers and partners, talk to students who have studied abroad and connect with VCU's Education Abroad staff. Register at the following URL. For more information, contact Alex Heyden at levya@vcu.edu or (804) 828-5794 or visit https://vcu.campusgroups.com/eduabroad/rsvp_boot?id=1933253.

The HR Learning, Development and Organizational Culture team will offer this workshop via Zoom. Register in Talent@VCU at https://shorturl.at/9docj. Managers must first complete the "Leading With Emotional Intelligence eLearning" session before attending the workshop, available at https://shorturl.at/JZrjD For more information, contact Penny McFarline at mcfarlinep@vcu.edu.

Join the UNStoppable VCU Liver Team at the Liver Life Walk in Richmond's Byrd Park, 600 S. Arthur Ashe Blvd. This American Liver Foundation event provides participants an opportunity to come together and raise awareness and funds in support of the liver community. Register at the following URL and select the VCU team to walk together. For more information, contact Sarah McCall at Sarah.McCall@vcuhealth.org or visit https://liverinstitute.medschool.vcu.edu/.

VCU's Office of the University Ombudsperson will sponsor the 11th annual National Conflict Resolution Day event. "Roadmap to Peace" is this year's national theme. The purpose of National Conflict Resolution Day at VCU is to promote and encourage peaceful conflict management and resolution practices throughout the three campuses. The event will feature a keynote address from nationally known conflict resolution practitioners, strategies for managing conflict and an interactive dialogue with those in attendance. This year's event will be held at the Jonah L. Larrick Student Center, 900 Turpin St. For more information, contact Michele Murray at mmurray2@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Tq5ccHJYhHy6cDHY6BezOSPPN0Whp3jQ3sS1fGAgO78/prefill.

Notices

Aquatics Private and Semi-Private Swim Lessons

Private and semi-private swimming lessons are available to VCU students and RecWell members ages 2 and older. RecWell’s water safety instructors work with clients to create tailored, individual lesson plans that allow time to focus on specific skills. Lessons can be scheduled any time time the pool is open. Packages may be split in to 30-, 45- or 60-minute sessions. Register at the following URL. For more information, contact Mat Scott at aquatics@vcu.edu or visit https://recwell.vcu.edu/play/aquatics/private-and-semi-private-swim-lessons/.

The Queer Research Advocacy Collective (Q Collective) Interest Form

The Q Collective builds, represents and serves VCU’s intellectual and creative communities by supporting scholarly and artistic activity that centers and contributes to the diversity of VCU students, employees and the greater Richmond community. If you are a current member or are interested in participating in the Q Collective, complete the form at the attached URL. Questions: Contact Kevin Allison at kallison@vcu.edu For more information, contact Jordyn Richardson at richardsonj9@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/VDaU7DfMUr74LaFd7.

New Director of Equal Employment Opportunities/Affirmative Action Programs

Equity and Access Services welcomes Kimberly Cain, J.D., director of equal employment opportunities and affirmative action programs. Cain develops programs related to EEO/AA, leads the university's Affirmative Action Plan to enhance recruitment, retention and workplace development and ensures compliance with legal and institutional requirements related to nondiscrimination. Contact Cain at cainkc@vcu.edu. For more information, contact Equity and Access Services at equity@vcu.edu or visit https://equity.vcu.edu/about/our-team/.

New Title IX Coordinator and Director of Outreach and Support

Equity and Access Services welcomes Elizabeth Scott-Francis, Ed.d., Title IX coordinator and director of outreach and support. Scott-Francis is responsible for coordinating VCU's efforts to comply with obligations under Title IX, including response to all allegations of prohibited conduct defined in the university’s Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy - Interim and Sex-Based Misconduct Policy - Interim. Contact Scott-Francis at scottfranceh@vcu.edu. For more information, contact Equity and Access Services at equity@vcu.edu or visit https://equity.vcu.edu/about/our-team/.

El Centro at VCU Is Accepting Applications for a Federal Work Study Program Center Specialist

El Centro at VCU, within the Division of Inclusive Excellence, is accepting applications for a program center specialist to assist in various activities, support events and contribute to the mission of fostering Latino/e-focused scholarship, personal growth and professional development within an environment that values diversity and inclusivity. Questions? Email Anita Nadal at nadalaa@vcu.edu or the following email address. Apply at the following URL. For more information, contact Oswaldo Moreno at oamoreno@vcu.edu or visit http://vcu.joinhandshake.com.

The Honey Club Seeks Members

The Honey Club, VCU’s first Black-centric LGBTQ+ organization, seeks new members interested in finding community with other Black queer students at the university. The mission of the organization is to uplift one another while providing a safe, joyful space for like-minded individuals. For more information, contact Mychal Young at youngm19@vcu.edu or visit https://linktr.ee/TheHoneyClubVCU.

Upcoming TriNetX Trainings

TriNetX is a global health research network that provides access to a large-scale, real-time database of de-identified patient health records from health care systems, including hospitals, clinics and academic medical centers. Webinars will be scheduled to instruct in the use of the TriNetX platform to conduct research utilizing real-world data. For more information, contact Tamas S. Gal at tamas.gal@vcuhealth.org or (443) 527-6064 or visit https://www2.trinetx.com/webmail/882543/781758309/aac5bf68f9c9ca83768396208dc4054646db8d7cab5801c6541962da8d1bae3b.

Long COVID Study Participants Needed

VCU School of Nursing is looking for participants ages 0-25 to participate in a Long COVID study. Have you or your child experienced lingering health symptoms or behavior changes since having COVID or a virus? Participants will be paid for their time. Sign up for the study at the following URL. For more information, contact Amy Rider at recoverkidsva@vcu.edu or visit https://bit.ly/RECOVERkids.

Research Study on Stress Experiences in Young Black Women Ages 18-39

The EqCHO (Equity in Cardiovascular Health Outcomes) Lab at VCU is conducting a study on the stress experiences of young Black women. We would like to use the information gained from this study to develop a stress reduction program to improve cardiovascular health among young African American women. Resources will be provided on stress and health management. The study will take place over two consecutive weeks. Compensation is available. To check your eligibility and to sign up, visit: https://redcap.vcu.edu/surveys/?s=KYP34XPP8J7A8JJX For more information, contact Anika Hines at eqcholab@vcu.edu or (804) 828-5030 or visit https://eqcho.lab.vcu.edu/.

See a schedule of workshops and classes that teach how to use collections and databases.
Navigate a vast library of online video tutorials to supplement teaching, learning, and professional development.

This issue