Join VCU's Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence for a conversation that invites faculty to explore how to cultivate critical thinking in the classroom while ensuring a space where diverse perspectives are welcome, open dialogue is promoted and everyone feels safe and supported. Panelists and participants will explore ways in which to balance open dialogue with respectful analysis along with strategies to foster deeper reflection without imposing singular perspectives. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL. For more information, contact Jordyn Richardson at richardsonj9@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/g1YKHp96gYMU7NhU6.

Join the Commons Events Team to learn about the scheduling and events process, the Commons team and EMS WebApp support. The session will be focused on faculty/staff-specific events and meetings. The session will be held in the SGA Senate Chambers, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. This session will also be held at the same time and location on Monday, Nov. 11. RSVP at the following URL. For more information, contact Tyler Jarrett at uscaevent@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.campusgroups.com/eventservicesthecommons/rsvp_boot?id=1935380.

This is a slower 30-minute practice focused on active stretching of muscles and opening of connective tissue. Release built-up tension, prevent injury, increase blood flow to muscles and increase long-term flexibility. No equipment requirements, though a yoga mat is recommended. Brought to you by VCU HR and VCU RecWell. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/3TDTgtn For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://hr.vcu.edu/worklife-at-vcu/employee-events/.

The Institute for Sustainable Energy and Environment at VCU, the VCU Urban Studies Student Association and the VCU Urban Regional Planning Student Association, in collaboration with the Sierra Club, Falls of the James Chapter, will host a workshop featuring an educational overview panel and presentation of student research. Lunch will be provided. The session will be in Room 1107, Academic Learning Commons, 1000 Floyd Ave. Register at the following URL. For more information, contact Mary Wagner at wagnermc@vcu.edu or visit https://bit.ly/greenfuturesworkshop.

Military Student Services offers Green Zone training to members of the VCU community who want to learn more about the military student experience. The program trains faculty and staff to support veterans and their families as they transition to academic life. Lunch will be provided, options offered after registration. The session will be held in SGA Council Chambers, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. For more information, contact Stephen Ross at stross@vcu.edu or (804) 828-6563.

Multiple class sessions: Oct. 15 (Tuesday), 16 (Wednesday) and 17 (Thursday). This workshop considers common misconceptions around DEI work and ways to approach it with more vigor and authenticity. Participants will come away with strategies for making their DEI work more clear and compelling for a wider group of participants. Choose a date and register at the following URL. For more information, contact Tre Straughter at inclusive@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAqd-yorjIvE9ZaxNirLuVObT0JM-zsmKR3#/registration.

VCU Common Book Program and VCU’s Project Gabriel will host a panel discussion to explore the intersection of DEI and reparative justice. This event, to be held in Room 202, STEM Building, 817 W. Franklin St., will examine how efforts to address racial injustice have impacted historically marginalized communities, both within academia and beyond. Register at the following URL. For more information, contact Stephanie Rizzi at inclusive@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/RQ6WRaiBKaKAAArWA.

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 the VCU History Department for the annual Greer Lecture in Latin American History. Mike Amezcua, Ph.D., Georgetown University, will talk about the growth of Chicago's Mexican/Mexican-American community, its fight for political and cultural recognition and its battles with gentrification. The lecture, at the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, 428 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd., is free and open to the public. A reception will follow. RSVP required at https://forms.gle/FS2kHyzwUaXtNr6bA For more information, contact Andrea Wight at wighta@vcu.edu or visit https://history.vcu.edu/events/event-items/the-greer-lecture-in-latin-american-history-series-presents-making-mexican-chicago.html.

Rams in Recovery will partner with each school on the MCV campus for a series of lectures featuring health care professionals who are in recovery from addiction. Johnny Moore, pharmacist, will speak in the VCU School of Pharmacy, Room 103, Robert Blackwell Smith Building, 410 N. 12th St. Register at the following URL. For more information, contact Thomas N, Bannard at bannardtn@vcu.edu or (804) 366-8027 or visit http://bit.ly/MCVRecoverySeries.

Join the VCU Staff Senate in the ballrooms of the Jonah L. Larrick Student Center, 900 Turpin St., for its Employee Appreciation Fall Festival. Celebrate with games, prizes, food, resources and more. Wear your best costume for a chance to win a free massage. For more information, contact Melissa Burton at mhburton@vcu.edu or (804) 828-0008 or visit http://www.staffsenate.vcu.edu.