Faculty/staff Issue for January 24, 2024
Today
Spring Speaker Series
10 a.m.
Nibir K. Dhar, Ph.D., will give a talk titled the “Future of Infrared Technology: Research, Workforce and Education” via Zoom as part of the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative’s Central Virginia Node spring speaker series. Dhar specializes in semiconductor research and electro-optic and infrared applications. Questions: Visit cci-cvn.org.
For more information, contact Zahra Ndirangu at ndiranguzw@vcu.edu.
VCU Writing Center Workshop: Writing a Strong Introduction, Abstract or Proposal
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/.
Students Together Assisting Refugees Spring GBM
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.
This week
Coffee and Chat: Meet the Financial Success Center Coaches
Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Gain some helpful personal finance tips from the Financial Success Center coaches in the atrium of Snead Hall, 301 W. Main St. Coffee and doughnuts will be provided.
For more information, contact Jessica Forrest at finsuccess@vcu.edu or visit https://connect.business.vcu.edu/register/?id=28abaea2-46fe-4f94-b10d-1ab7b82fa10b&utm_source=telegram.
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.
Virtual VCU Transform Open House
Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 from noon to 1 p.m.
VCU Transform is the living-learning program centered around leadership and service aimed at transforming your VCU experience. Join the faculty and staff of Transform for a virtual open house to learn more about the program before applications close Wednesday, Feb. 7. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/81556520986
For more information, contact Kaylynn Hill at hillk8@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.
2024 Tarumoto Prize Night - Zoë Gadegbeku
Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Zoë Gadegbeku, the 2023 winner of the Rebecca Mitchell Tarumoto Short Fiction Prize for outstanding short fiction, will read her her story “Of Flowers and Sorrows,” published in v20n3 in the spring of 2023 of VCU's Blackbird. This event is part of the VCU Visiting Writers Series in partnership with VCU Libraries, VCU Department of English and the M.F.A. in Creative Writing. The reading will be in the third-floor Lecture Hall of James Branch Cabell Library, 901 Park Ave. The event is free and open to all and will also be live streamed via Zoom at https://vcu.zoom.us/j/86438376433#success
For more information, contact Ryan Pander at rbpander@vcu.edu or visit https://www.library.vcu.edu/about/events/2023-2024/2024-tarumoto-prize.html.
How to Be an Ally to LGBTQ+ Youth and Young Adults
Friday, Jan. 26, 2024 from 10 a.m. to noon
Facilitated by SideBySide, participants learn of identities, terminology and pronoun inclusivity in the LGBTQ+ community. Reflect upon individual biases and unintentional discrimination toward the LGBTQ+ community. Recognize key celebration/remembrance opportunities as well as important figures in LGBTQ+ history. Learn to be an ally if you identify in the LGBTQ+ community. Explore how to be an ally if you do not identify in the LGBTQ+ community. Identify resources for support and education. The session will be at the Mary and Frances Youth Center, 120 S. Linden St.
For more information, contact Vaughn Garland at garlandvw@vcu.edu or visit https://tockify.com/iexcel/detail/67/1706281200000.
MegaHack@VCU
Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024 from 9 a.m. to midnight
MegaHack@VCU is a 24-hour sprint of intense innovation and problem-solving for innovative developers and makers to meet the challenges provided by event sponsors. The event is sponsored by VCU's College of Engineering and will be held at the Engineering Research Building, 401 W. Main St. Participants will address challenges through teamwork, solution ideation, programming, rapid prototyping, developing flow processes and more. Students will work in teams of up to four members. Cross-disciplinary teams are encouraged. All skill levels and all disciplines are welcome. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Laura Osborne at lmnosborne@vcu.edu or (804) 828-0349 or visit https://egr.vcu.edu/megahack/.
Coming up
Massey Internship Interest Luncheon
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 post-graduate programs. The luncheon will be held in the alumni board room 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.
Recreation and Well-Being Mindful Ambassadors
Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024 from 10 a.m. to noon
RecWell’s Mindful Ambassador Program aims to identify students, faculty and staff interested in creating a mindful revolution and healthier campus community. Participants learn about various types of meditation, belly breathing, mindful posture and special considerations for leading meditation with others. Those who complete the workshop will receive additional resources to lead meditation in the community along with a campus leadership sticker. No registration necessary. The session will be held in the SGA Senate Chambers, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave.
For more information, contact Starr Robinson at robinsonsn@vcu.edu or visit https://recwell.vcu.edu/lead/leadership-programs/mindful-ambassador-program-/.
Kaltura Overview
Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024 from 11 a.m. to noon
This workshop will cover how to record videos using Kaltura, managing Kaltura channels and embedding Kaltura into Canvas. Register at: https://training.vcu.edu/course.aspx?processFlag=2&itemID=18314 The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/2324828315?omn=82367739911
For more information, contact Jon Reed at reedjj@vcu.edu or visit http://learningsystems.vcu.edu.
TriNetX: Using a Cohort Discovery Platform for Clinical Research
Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024 from noon to 1 p.m.
VCU's C. Kenneth and Dianne Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research will present a seminar via Zoom. Patrick Shi and Brian Cassel, Ph.D., both Wright Center clinical research informatics, will provide an overview of TriNetX, a HIPAA-compliant, real-world data platform that facilitates cohort discovery and helps answer research questions by leveraging analytics tools. Questions: 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/tZEvdumhrjMvGtP3iWsgTBjdmCFQqQh95sm4.
HRPP/IRB Research Community Training: Updated NIH Data-Sharing Policies
Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
VCU's Human Research Protection Program is collaborating with the National Institutes of Health Science Policy and Extramural Research divisions to provide updated information to the research community about NIH data-sharing policies and requirements that are relevant to human subjects research. Registration is required. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jennifer Rice at irbeducation@vcu.edu or visit https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYsfuuqpz4uHtRwVYwiEEK7vUx4weChQK6x.
Chopin, Ravel, Jazz and More, Featuring Magdalena Adamek, Piano, With Eri Nakamura and Dimitrije Vasilievic
Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024 at 7 p.m.
VCU piano professor Magdalena Adamek, DMA, will perform in the W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts, 922 Park Ave. Adamek will be joined by fellow piano professors Eri Nakamura, Master of Music, and Dimitrije Vasilievic, DMA. Tickets are $5 for VCU students and $10 for general admission.
For more information, contact Jessica Casey at music@vcu.edu.
Research Administration Back to School Spring Meeting
Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024 from 10:30 a.m. to noon
Join VCU's Office of Research and Innovation for the spring Research Administration Back to School meeting where timely research and compliance-related updates will be presented and discussed. All members of the VCU community are welcome to attend. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Cathy Short at cfshort@vcu.edu or visit https://controller.vcu.edu/training/events/.
Seeking Your Organization's Problems of Practice
Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024 at noon
VCU centers, departments, units, offices and leaders are invited to submit requests for help with organizational challenges from doctoral student teams in the School of Education Department of Educational Leadership EdD program. To be considered for a match in the 2024-25, you are invited to attend an optional informational session via Zoom. Register at https://bit.ly/496Q8ve The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/85174441257 Those interested can also directly submit a Request for Partnership (RFP) form at https://bit.ly/3vIZw9X
For more information, contact Kim Bridges, Ed.L.D. at bridgeskm@vcu.edu or visit https://soe.vcu.edu/academics/doctoral-programs/edd-leadership/capstone/.
'Reading Is More Than Phonics: Practice With Sortegories,' a Web-Based App
Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024 at 7 p.m.
The Ruth Harris Professorship at VCU's School of Education will present a free reading instruction focused professional development opportunity. Register for the the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Sabrina Wright at ruthharrisprofessorship@gmail.com or visit https://soe.vcu.edu/about-us/ruth-harris-professorship/harris-professor/.
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. For more information please visit https://go.vcu.edu/sotu.
For more information, contact University Events at UNIVevents@vcu.edu.
National and International Recognition Awards
Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024 from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
VCU's Office of the Provost will host a National and International Recognition Awards reception to celebrate the 2023 NIRA honorees in the Virginia Rooms of the University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact LaToya Blizzard at lblizzard@vcu.edu or (804) 828-6162 or visit https://forms.gle/QJiBo9x9yjCz7obq5.
Revisiting Pedagogy - Its Vital Role in the Classroom
Monday, Feb. 12, 2024 from noon to 1:15 p.m.
While ‘pedagogy’ is a term frequently embedded in academic discussions on teaching and learning, a reassessment of its meaning and utility would be helpful for us all. Join your colleagues as panelists provide perspectives and discuss integrating pedagogy into your curriculum. The series will be held in Room 303, James Branch Cabell Library, 901 Park Ave. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jordyn Richardson at richardsonj9@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/EdW58ccQGw5audpW6.
DEI Education Lunch and Learn Series- Diversity in Action: Seeing Ourselves in the Diversity Space
Friday, Feb. 23, 2024 from noon to 1 p.m.
Kevin Harris, Ph.D., Senior Associate Dean of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, and various Department DEI Leaders will cohost a series of discussions with colleagues/learners at VCU to come to a common understanding of what diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging is and how it functions within work, academic and clinical environments at the university. The event will be in-person (James W. and Frances G. McGlothlin Medical Education Center, 1201 E. Marshall St.) and via Zoom. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Ashli Phillips at ashli.phillips@vcuhealth.org or visit https://vcuhealth.libcal.com/event/11759321.
Notices
W2 Forms Are Now Available
VCU employees who have given their eConsent may view and print their 2023 W-2 statements online. Log on to VCU e-services. Click the "Employee" tab, followed by "Tax Forms, Electronic W-2 Earnings Statement." Consent remains in effect until revoked by the employee. Paper W-2 statements have been printed and are being mailed. For assistance understanding your W2, consult the W-2 Explanation 2023 document.
For more information, contact Veronica B, King at vbking@vcu.edu or (804) 827-1807 or visit https://hr.vcu.edu/current-employees/payroll/.
Bundle Up and Tidy Up
Winter has arrived; Bundle up and declutter your Google Workspace account while you stay cozy.
For more information, contact Doctor Gee at drgee@vcu.edu or visit https://blogs.vcu.edu/drgee/2023/12/19/bundle-up-and-tidy-up/.
Interested in Clinical Research?
VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is taking applications for current juniors and seniors for the Clinical Trials Office Summer Internship. This is a paid six-week in-person learning experience in the Clinical Trials Office from June 3-July 12. Interns receive exposure to the operational units of the Clinical Trials Office, participate in clinical trial activities alongside Massey leadership and much more. Questions: Email mcccrtec@vcu.edu Apply at the following URL.
For more information, contact Caroline Blair at blaircp@vcu.edu or (804) 836-2378 or visit https://redcap.vcu.edu/surveys/?s=DRXC9KMHDCXEEHLD.
Accepting Submissions for Black History in the Making Awards
VCU's Department of African American Studies is soliciting submissions for the 2024 Black History in the Making Awards. Recipients are typically chosen based on criteria such as academic excellence, community service or excellence in their field. The deadline to submit is Wednesday, Jan. 31. All information on the submission process can be found at the following URL.
For more information, contact Grace D. Gipson, Ph.D., at bhitm@vcu.edu or visit https://afam.vcu.edu/program/scholarships-and-awards/black-history-in-the-making-awards/.
Important Upcoming Changes for Those Sending Bulk Mail From Third-Party Systems
Google and Yahoo have recently announced an important change that will be enforced starting in February regarding requirements for sending bulk mail from third-party mail systems. In this post we cover these new requirements and how to make sure you won't experience disruptions when using these systems. View the details at the following URL.
For more information, contact Doctor Gee at drgee@vcu.edu or visit https://blogs.vcu.edu/drgee/2024/01/19/important-upcoming-changes-for-those-sending-bulk-mail-from-third-party-systems/.
Applications Close Feb. 7 for VCU Transform
VCU Transform is the living-learning program centered on developing participants as community change agents. Through courses, community-wide programs and a specialized support team, VCU Transform provides space for participants to transform their VCU experience. Transform students enjoy guaranteed placement in West Grace Street Student Housing – North, early course registration for all semesters they are in the program and, upon graduation, receive a certificate of leadership studies. Apply at the following URL by Wednesday, Feb. 7.
For more information, contact Kaylynn Hill at hillk8@vcu.edu or visit https://lead.vcu.edu/transform-llp/.
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.
Participants Invited For Study Examining Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Exercise
This study is seeking individuals between the ages of 18 and 35 years who have PTSD or symptoms of PTSD. The purpose of this research study is to examine the effect of PTSD symptoms on blood vessel function during acute exercise and following exercise training. 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.
Individuals With Blood Pressures Between 120/80 - 130/90 mmHg Invited to Participate in a Research Study
We are inviting male and female participants with elevated blood pressure between the ages of 18-45 years to participate in a study to examine how the time of day that you eat affects your blood pressure, blood vessel function and kidney function. This study involves a screening visit to determine eligibility; two single-day interventions where you will eat a meal that we provide in the morning or late at night; and two visits to our laboratory. The study involves collection of blood, saliva and urine samples, in addition to blood pressure, blood vessel and body composition assessments. The study is conducted at VCU Kinesiology and Health Sciences Building on the Monroe Park Campus. Participants will be compensated for their time completing the study. Questions: Email Natalie Bohmke at the following address or Danielle Kirkman at dlkirkman@vcu.edu.
For more information, contact Natalie Bohmke at bohmkenj@vcu.edu.
Participants Invited for a Concussion Research Study
Recruiting adolescents between the ages of 10 and 19 years old who are active participants in organized sports and have 1) never had a diagnosed concussion or 2) sustained a recent concussion and have been cleared to go back to sports in the last 10 days. This non-invasive study is investigating sex differences in the acoustic startle reflex in relationship to subsequent injury following concussion.
For more information, contact Laura Boylan at Laura.Williams1@vcuhealth.org.
The Research Institute for Social Equity Invites You to Participate
Are you a college/university student who has experienced housing instability while enrolled in classes (e.g., eviction, termination of room and board package, having trouble paying rent, overcrowding, moving often or spending the bulk of household income on housing)? In this study, you will be asked to participate in a survey about your experience.
For more information, contact Chelsie Dunn, Ph.D., at dunnce@vcu.edu or (804) 827-1892 or visit https://vcupsych.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bC86dhZzC0mT16m.
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.