Faculty/staff Issue for March 13, 2026
Today
Informational Session: VCU Mass Communications Graduate Program
11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Ready to take the next step in your professional journey? Join VCU's Richard T. Robertson School of Media and Culture for a virtual informational session to explore the school's M.S. in Mass Communications, with specialized concentrations in Integrated Communication and Media Leadership, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Media and Leadership. Learn how these programs can help you lead in today's evolving media landscape. Join the meeting directly at vcu.zoom.us/my/robertsongrad.
For more information, contact Jonathan Brown at brownj64@vcu.edu or (804) 525-9425 or visit https://robertson.vcu.edu/academics/graduate/.
Enjoy a Cup of Kindness With the VCU Health Hub
9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Cup of Kindness is a two-hour, open-invitation program with a mindfulness and stress management activity followed by warm beverages and social time at 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A. Join us on the second Friday of each month for a conversation led by Leslie Stelljes Nanson, co-founder and clinical psychologist from Aspen Grove Wellness, centered on the importance of social well-being and the relationships in our lives. Explore how connection supports mental health, resilience and our sense of belonging. This conversation is designed to spark reflection, encourage curiosity and inspire us to build and strengthen the relationships in our social universe. All are welcome.
For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu.
Coming up
The Fork as a Prescription: Is Your Diet Your Greatest Risk or Your Best Medicine?
Monday, Mar. 16, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.
VCU's C. Kenneth and Dianne Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research will host a Discovery Dialogues seminar to be presented by Vi Nguyen, Ph.D. student, VCU Wright Center, via Zoom. The series is a regular event that bridges the divide between research, health care and the public. The events are open to all, and the research is presented in lay-friendly language. 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/uZgfGtF2S9msqEICmU0V-g.
VCU Writing Center Workshop: Writing a Strong Introduction, Abstract or Proposal Narrative
Monday, Mar. 16, 2026 at 2 p.m.
The VCU Writing Center will host a workshop via Zoom. Entice your audience by developing the tools necessary to establish your ideas in a logical manner. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.
Organ Donation Panel
Tuesday, Mar. 17, 2026 from 11 a.m. to noon
The Student National Pharmaceutical Association (SNPhA) will present an organ donation panel in Room 103, School of Pharmacy, 410 N. 12th St. Come learn about organ donation and the role of health care professionals in transplantation.
For more information, contact Catrina Chatman at chatmanca@vcu.edu.
Side-by-Side Exchange
Tuesday, Mar. 17, 2026 at noon
Faculty, community leaders and government practitioners will convene for a side-by-side exchange exploring collaborative solutions to food access and security challenges. Join the conversation via Zoom hosted by VCU's Division of Community Engagement as academic insight and community expertise come together. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Challen Wellington at wellingtonc@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe7bIQgfuukfLnhGyFTppj1fCLPsiqMG5QfZHIazemjvxoUzg/viewform?usp=header.
From Idea to Impact: Create Videos in Minutes With Adobe Express
Wednesday, Mar. 18, 2026 at noon
Looking for a straightforward way to design video content that connects with learners? Join LEDstudio for this workshop to explore Adobe Express and learn how to build simple, eye-catching videos that deliver your message clearly and effectively. This hands-on workshop requires access to Adobe Express. Complete the VCU Adobe License Request Form to request a license: https://go.vcu.edu/adobe/licenserequest Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Cairo Jones at jonesc34@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/JrzvCD2sSfuGX8uFBBMGVg.
Workshop: Career Development Conversations
Wednesday, Mar. 18, 2026 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Join VCU Human Resources to learn more about tools to set up consistent career development conversations as ongoing meetings, understand the role of the manager and the employee in career development, explore how career paths fit into the career development plan and career development conversations and practice conversations about career development. Sign up using the Talent@VCU link or at the following URL.
For more information, contact Shana Ryman at sryman@vcu.edu or visit https://tinyurl.com/7mxneehp.
Slimin' With The Rams
Wednesday, Mar. 18, 2026 at 7 p.m.
Join the Activities Programming Board for Slimin’ with the Rams, a hands-on DIY event where you create your own custom slime from scratch. Choose from a variety of colors, textures and fun mix-ins to design a slime that fits your style. This event offers a relaxing and creative break from classes while giving you a chance to hang out with friends and meet other students. All materials will be provided while supplies last. Thje event will be in the Richmond Salons, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave.
For more information, contact Sensiere-Yanti Thompkins-Harris at thompkinshs@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.campusgroups.com/apb/events/.
March Auctus GBM
Thursday, Mar. 19, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Are you interested in publishing your research, art or creative works in VCU's undergraduate journal? The meeting will be in the multipurpose room, Honors College, 701 W. Grace St. Would you like to be a part of the editorial team and work with peers and faculty in your field and have the opportunity to learn about the club and how you can become involved? Can't make it? Join VCU RamsConnect: https://vcu.campusgroups.com/auctus/club_signup
For more information, contact Auctus at auctus@vcu.edu.
VCU Day of Service: Serving With Purpose
Thursday, Mar. 19, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
VCU faculty and staff are invited to participate in the Day of Service – a universitywide opportunity to partner with local organizations and support meaningful work across the greater Richmond region. Join colleagues in strengthening community partnerships while contributing to shared impact beyond campus. Employees are encouraged to use their allotted community service hours to participate. Sign up for a service project at the following URL.
For more information, contact Alliannah Hamilton at hamiltonae@vcu.edu or visit https://community.vcu.edu/events/dayofservice/.
VCU Breakthroughs Fund Open Office Hours
Friday, Mar. 20, 2026 at 11:30 a.m.
Join Join the OVPRI (Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation) internal funding team via Zoom for answers to questions about the VCU Breakthroughs Fund. Registration is required. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Gianna DeMarco at demarcogb@vcu.edu or visit https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/dOtalzrvRvGIIuW5mXZHJw.
TEDxVCU Adventure: Free Yoga at RecWell
Friday, Mar. 20, 2026 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Come join a day of relaxation at the Cary Street Gym, 101 S. Linden St., for a guided yoga session led by Valarie Shcherbakov. No experience needed. Register on RAMS Connect at the following URL.
For more information, contact TEDxVCU at tedx@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1944965.
Art in Nature Retreat at Rice Rivers Center
Saturday, Mar. 21, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
VCU's Ecological Society of America SEEDS chapter (Strategies for Ecology Education, Diversity and Sustainability) will host an Art in Nature fundraising event at Rice Rivers Center. Lunch and materials will be provided with a ticket. Rain or shine. Activities will include field sketching (Debby Kaspari), ecopoetry (Catherine Hulshof) and nature journaling (Mary Larson) to support young scientists. The center is located midway between Richmond and Williamsburg. Tickets are available at the following URL.
For more information, contact Catherine Hulshof at cmhulshof@vcu.edu or visit https://www.tickettailor.com/events/virginiacommonwealthuniversity/2083698.
Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk
Saturday, Mar. 21, 2026 at 9:30 a.m.
VCU is hosting its third annual Campus Walk in Park Plaza. Community members are encouraged to register online for the walk or donate at the following URL.
For more information, contact Lynne Foreman, M.D., at lforeman2@vcu.edu or visit https://afspwalks.donordrive.com/VCU.
ACCESS Global Health Forum
Monday, Mar. 23, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
ACCESS Program at VCU will present the Global Health Forum. If you’re interested in global health and/or working in low-resource settings, come to the Global Health Forum – Global Neurosurgery. The chair of the Neurosurgery Department, David D. Limbrick, M.D., Ph.D., will speak about his experience with Global Neurosurgery. The event will be in the Learning Theater, James W. and Frances G. McGlothlin Medical Education Center (MMEC), 1201 E. Marshall St. Bring questions. The event is open to all students, faculty and residents.
For more information, contact Saumya Gupta at accessprogram@vcu.edu.
Build Smart Habits for Success
Thursday, Mar. 26, 2026 at 11 a.m.
Join VCU HR and TIAA and kick-start your financial journey. Learn to set goals, budget, manage emergencies and build lasting money habits for lifelong financial health. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/3MuATH5
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://hr.vcu.edu/worklife-at-vcu/employee-events/.
Buying a Car Without Regret
Thursday, Mar. 26, 2026 at noon
New ride or used deal? With the VCU Financial Success Center by VACU, learn how to shop smart, understand car loans and avoid mistakes that can keep you paying way longer than you planned. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Eva Waldron at waldroneb@vcu.edu or visit https://connect.business.vcu.edu/register/?id=86e9e0bc-7026-42c4-8855-43188addc49d&utm_source=telegram.
Institute for Transformative Leadership Summit 2026
Thursday, Mar. 26, 2026 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
The Institute for Transformative Leadership is gathering a community of VCU's most passionate leaders — friends, partners and champions — to co-create a more connected, collaborative leadership experience. Come to the Institute for Contemporary Art at the Markel Center, 601 W. Broad St., for high-level dialogue with university leaders, engage in thought-provoking breakout sessions and build lasting connections during our networking reception. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jen Bredehoft at ITL@vcu.edu or visit https://go.vcu.edu/itlsummit2026.
Notices
Celebrate Your Colleagues
Know someone whose dedication inspires you? Nominate them for the Dorris Douglas Budd Award before Monday, March 16, at the following URL. This award honors standout administrative support staff who strengthen our mission and community every day.
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://hr.vcu.edu/current-employees/employee-recognition/awards/dorris-douglas-budd-award/.
Keep Voting: VCU Advances in STAT Madness
VCU has made it to the second round of STAT Madness, the national bracket-style competition to determine the year’s best innovation in biomedical research. Voting is now open for the second round, which closes at 4 a.m. ET on Monday, March 16. Those interested can vote once per day and can sign up to receive updates through STAT when each new round of voting begins.
For more information, contact Mary Kate Brogan at broganm2@vcu.edu or visit https://www.statnews.com/feature/stat-madness/bracket-voting-now-open/.
Help Us Build a Fitness App That Reflects the Needs of Young Black Women
Black women ages 18-35 who have no experience with resistance exercise (e.g., lifting weights, resistance bands, body weight exercises) are invited to share their perspectives about resistance exercise and their desired features of a mobile app aimed to help guide and track their exercise regimens. Women will be invited to complete a one-time interview plus two surveys at a local library of their choice. Compensation is available. Check for eligibility at the following URL.
For more information, contact Chloe Jones, Ph.D., Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences at jonesc53@vcu.edu or visit https://redcap.vcu.edu/surveys/?s=CJCT4ELK87PHXKK3.
Healthy Habits, Better Balance, Real Results
Check out Redefining BMI – a research study designed specifically for 18-to-25 year-old women with overweight/obesity who want to create a healthier lifestyle. Visit the following URL to learn more and take a quick survey to determine if you may be eligible for this VCU study.
For more information, contact Redefining BMI at bmiproject@vcu.edu or (804) 828-5362 or visit https://www.redefiningbmi.com/.
Other resources
VCU Libraries workshops
See a schedule of workshops and classes that teach how to use collections and databases.
LinkedIn Learning @ VCU
Navigate a vast library of online video tutorials to supplement teaching, learning, and professional development.