Faculty/staff Issue for October 29, 2024
Today
Last Flu immunization Clinic on the Monroe Park Campus Is Today
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
As a convenience to university faculty and staff working on campus, VCU Human Resources has arranged for Walgreens, a participating pharmacy with the COVA health plans, to conduct flu immunization clinics on campus. The COVID vaccine will also be available this year, upon request. Appointments are preferred; however, walk-ins will be accepted. Today is the last clinic, on Monroe Park, in Room 115, HR Training Room, 922 W. Grace St.
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://hr.vcu.edu/worklife-at-vcu/flu-clinics/.
CVN Speaker Series
10 a.m.
Join Commonwealth Cyber Initiative's Central Virginia Node and Ahmet Sonmez, Ph.D., for the group's speaker series via Zoom. Click on the link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Zahra W. Ndirangu at ndiranguzw@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYuc-yuqDgtGNIar7owTKbuilJCoEUQ7sTo.
Canvas Overview: Mid Semester Edition
11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
This workshop will cover components of Canvas useful for the mid to end of semester, such as assignment and grading configuration. Register on training.vcu.edu by searching keyword "Canvas." Sponsored by Academic Affairs and Technology Services. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/2324828315?omn=86514801655
For more information, contact Jon Reed at reedjj@vcu.edu or visit http://learningsystems.vcu.edu.
Honors College and Survivor Support Present the Safe Dating Movement
11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
If you have a Tinder, Snap, Insta or FB account and want to stay safe, this talk is just for you. Food will be available and door prizes will be awarded to the first five people who arrive and anyone who brings a friend. Register at the following URL. The session will be in Room 1303, Honors College, 701 W. Grace St.
For more information, contact Deanie Barrion at barrionk@vcu.edu or (804) 828-6200 or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1935877.
NSO General Informational Session
3:30 p.m.
This general informational session is geared toward all undergraduates who are new to VCU this fall, first-year and transfer students. Learn about the National Scholarship Office, the (inter)nationally-competitive awards for which the office advises and how to make yourself a viable candidate. The session will be held in person (NSO Conference Room, Room 1210, 701 W. Grace St.) or via Zoom. Links will be emailed the morning of the session to all who have registered. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jeff Wing at jawing@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetQFpr40lu2rvaVy4HqT6zbbf7EwP4R9vpEYmWoSZfBdqKqw/viewform.
VCU Writing Center Workshop: Paraphrasing
6 p.m.
Learn to feel comfortable with the process of paraphrasing in academic writing. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.
Pack Up for Foreign Study: A Tote Bag Design Night With VCU Education Abroad
6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Ready to pack up to study abroad? Come to Rodney's Lounge (first floor of Shafer Court Dining Center, 810 Cathedral Place) for a night of creativity with VCU Education Abroad. Returning students will share their study abroad experiences and you can learn more about how YOU can study abroad at VCU. Materials will be provided, but this event is first-come first-served while limited supplies last. Feel free to bring your own bag to decorate, too. 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=1935558.
This week
Students Caring About Cancer Head Drive to Assemble Chemo Care Packages
Monday, Oct. 28, 2024 at 10 p.m.
Students Caring About Cancer at VCU is hosting a chemo care package drive until Monday, Dec. 2. Donation boxes can be found at 806 W. Franklin St./Psychology Reception and 830 E. Main St./One Capital Square, Ninth Floor reception area. Materials being collected include art supplies, books, tissues, lip balm, puzzles, pens/pencils, adult coloring books and new/unopened socks. A wish list on Amazon can be found at the following URL.
For more information, contact Gabrielle Maldonado at siricagt@vcu.edu or visit https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3TP7YHR63AFHT/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_2.
Transformative Learning Panel: Every Ram Connects; Every Ram Creates; Every Ram Contributes
Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
The Office of the Provost will host an interactive panel discussion on the four areas of transformative learning in Academic Affairs: undergraduate research, REAL, service-learning, and vertically integrated projects. This event is open to all members of the VCU and Richmond communities. Registration recommended; walk-ins welcomed. Register at the following URL. Refreshments will be served. The event will be in the SGA Senate Chambers, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave.
For more information, contact Shanza Isom at isomsa@vcu.edu or visit https://academics.provost.vcu.edu/transformative-learning/.
SSI Research Seminar
Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024 at noon
The speaker for the Stravitz-Sanyal Institute for Liver Disease and Metabolic Health's online research seminar will be Guarav Gupta, M.D., co-medical director of kidney and pancreas transplantation at Hume-Lee Transplant Center; chief, Division Nephrology Co-medical director of kidney and pancreas transplantation at Hume-Lee Transplant Center; and chief, Division Nephrology. Register and watch at https://vcuhealth.zoom.us/j/97907029777
For more information, contact Emily Wigginton at emily.wigginton@vcuhealth.org or (804) 828-5066 or visit https://liverinstitute.medschool.vcu.edu/.
Wilder School Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration Informational Session
Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024 at noon
VCU's L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs will hold a virtual informational session via Zoom for its Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration program. An overview by the program director and a review of application procedures will be presented. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Ross Losapio at losapior@vcu.edu or (804) 827-0364 or visit http://bit.ly/wilderphd1030.
'Tales of Koehler Hollow: An African American Family in Rural Virginia'
Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Naomi Hodge-Muse, working with Christopher A. Brooks, Ph.D., recounts stories from her family history, starting with her great-great-grandmother, Amy, through her extended family and their rural life. This family story represents a microcosm of the African American experience in southern Virginia from the mid-19th century to the present. The event will be in the Academic Learning Commons (MCALC), Room 1102, 1000 Floyd Ave. RSVP at the following URL.
For more information, contact Christopher A. Brooks at inclusive@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/PXpnc9AiR9AP3mkK8.
Informational Session: Study Abroad LGBTQ+ South Africa - Spring Break
Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
VCU School of Social Work and the Global Education Office present a study abroad opportunity for spring break 2025: Camp Qmunity Cape Town and Johannesburg; LGBTQIA+ Intersectional Experiences of Post Colonial South Africa. Learn more at the information session in the Academic Learning Commons (ALC), 1000 Floyd Ave., Room 3100 or via Zoom.
For more information, contact Maurice Gattis, Ph.D., at gattism@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.studioabroad.com/_portal/tds-program-brochure?programid=11568.
RecWell Halloween Climbing at Cary Street Gym
Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
RecWell’s Outdoor Adventure Program will host its annual Halloween Climbing Event at the Cary Street Gym, 101 S. Linden St. Students and RecWell members are invited to dress in Halloween costumes and try out the new Cary Street Gym Climbing Wall. During this event, OAP staff will give out prizes, host micro competitions and conduct other activities.
For more information, contact Sam Albert at outdoors@vcu.edu or visit https://recwell.vcu.edu/play/outdoor-adventure/climbing-and-bouldering/.
Virtual Open Forum - P&T Task Forces Reports
Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
The Office of the Provost will host a virtual open forum to discuss the Promotion and Tenure task force reports. During this open forum, faculty will have an opportunity to provide input and insights on the final P&T reports submitted by the task force committees. Register at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdzav-SZCPJm6duNvbsiirCECtaifsQ4a6tQAGo_A4o_47pdA/viewform The Zoom link will be provded upon registration.
For more information, contact LaToya Blizzard at lblizzard@vcu.edu or visit https://faculty.provost.vcu.edu/task-forces--committees/promotion-and-tenure-task-force/promotion-and-tenure-task-force-reports/.
VCU Staff Senate Fall Festival
Friday, Nov. 1, 2024 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
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.
Experience Day: Master of Decision Analytics Weekend Program
Friday, Nov. 1, 2024 at 11:30 a.m.
VCU School of Business will host a Master of Decision Analytics Experience Day in Room B3106, Snead Hall, 301 W. Main St. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the weekend format master’s program, sit in on a class and share lunch with current students. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Rachel Kaeser at rekaeser@vcu.edu or visit https://connect.business.vcu.edu/register/event-expday-dapt-110124?program=DAPT.
Experience Day: Executive MBA
Friday, Nov. 1, 2024 at 11:30 a.m.
VCU Business will host Executive MBA Experience Day in Room B3106, Snead Hall, 301 W. Main St. Learn more about the hybrid weekend schedule, program details, tour the school and sit in on a class. Lunch will be provided. Click on the URL below to register.
For more information, contact Butch Sarma at mksarma@vcu.edu or visit https://connect.business.vcu.edu/register/event-expday-emba-110124?program=EMBA.
Community Engagement Connect Conference
Friday, Nov. 1, 2024 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Join community members, organizations and VCU faculty, staff, students and alumni for a day of learning, networking and skill-building. Connect 2024 offers insights into community engagement approaches to health equity and features interactive design activities to inspire future collaborations that address community needs. The event will be in James Branch Cabell Library, 901 Park Ave. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Shari Garmise at garmiseso@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/E1kHN95pQLmDoevv6.
Coming up
Upper Body Strength Training
Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024 from noon to 12:30 p.m.
This 30-minute virtual upper body circuit training session, brought to you by VCU HR and VCU RecWell, will target the muscles in your chest, back and arms. Option to add weights or just your body-weight. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/3YpOani
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://hr.vcu.edu/worklife-at-vcu/employee-events/.
Attend Experienced Supervisors Institute, a Professional Development Course
Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024 at 9 a.m.
VCU Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute's Experienced Supervisors Institute is open for registration until Nov. 1. This three-day course will help participants build the necessary competencies to move beyond the role of a managing supervisor and become an influential leader. ESI focuses on advanced supervision tools and tips and an introspective look at what it takes to succeed in challenging climates. The session will be held at Westover at Maymont.
For more information, contact Deb Taminger at dktaminger@vcu.edu or visit https://pmg.vcu.edu/professional-development/esi/.
Gen AI and Teaching and Learning Series, Session #5; Gauging the Landscape: Current Faculty Perspectives on Gen AI in the Classroom
Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.
Join VCU's Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence for an interactive session in which faculty are invited to share their current thoughts and experiences regarding the impact of Gen AI on teaching and learning in their classrooms. As Gen AI continues to evolve, so do faculty experiences. Hear from your colleagues about how it is shaping classroom dynamics, influencing student learning and affecting course design. The session will be held in Room 4100, Academic Learning Commons (MCALC), Room 4100, 1000 Floyd Ave.
For more information, contact Jordyn Richardson at richardsonj9@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/GBypB9LP6Mfy39Ef8.
Notices
RecWell Personal Training Fitness Consults
The Fitness Consult is a flexible session that allows participants to work one-on-one with a certified personal trainer to ask questions, run assessments specific to goals and develop a fitness program. The 60-minute session is for those who might not need full guidance from a trainer but want to learn more about equipment, progressions or their general health status. Consults are available at the Cary Street Gym and MCV Campus Rec Center. Registration is ongoing at the following URL.
For more information, contact Abbas Sherazi at fitness@vcu.edu or visit https://recwell.vcu.edu/thrive/personal-training/.
RecWell’s Unlock Your Fitness: A Journey Through Equipment Orientation
Embarking on a fitness journey can feel a bit overwhelming, but RecWell’s nationally accredited personal trainers are ready to make that first step exciting and achievable. Learn about the equipment available at the Cary Street Gym fitness center, 101 S. Linden St., and how RecWell members work with trainers to develop programs that help them reach their fitness goals. Questions are encouraged to ensure the experience is as enjoyable and open as possible. Orientations are held Mondays and Thursdays, 1-2 p.m.
For more information, contact Abbas Sherazi at fitness@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/Program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=d8977fb0-3866-4059-8fca-230ea0d54380.
Sign Up for the VCU Discounts Marketplace
As an employee of VCU, you have access to the VCU Discounts marketplace. This newly re-envisioned compilation of all VCU employee discounts is your one-stop shop for exclusive savings on products, services and experiences, with new deals added when available. Make the most of your money and enjoy the many rewards that come from your employment at VCU. Within 24 hours after registering the employee will receive an email with a promo code to save even more. And it's free. Register today.
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at worklife@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.savings.workingadvantage.com/.
VCU Leadership Development Program
Are you a VCU or VCU Health professional eager to elevate your leadership skills? Learn more about VCU and join the Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute in its immersive program designed to enhance your leadership capabilities through assessments, mentorship, team projects and direct interaction with university and state leaders. Deepen your understanding of higher education challenges while expanding your network and connecting with senior leaders across VCU. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Ron Jones at jonesre22@vcu.edu or visit https://gehli.vcu.edu/programs/vcu-leadership-development-program/.
Empower VCU’s Mission With a Recurring Gift
Did you know there’s an easy, budget-friendly way to support VCU’s students, patients and community? Here’s how: Set up a recurring gift. Your recurring gift — of any amount — provides dependable and reliable support that empowers VCU’s mission. You can support the initiatives you care about most, including student scholarships, patient care and medical research, or your favorite college, school or center. Enroll to give a gift at the collorinw URL.
For more information, contact Jessie Pilot at pilotj@vcu.edu or visit http://support.vcu.edu/bgy.
Certificate in Clinical Research
Earn VCU's Certificate in Clinical Research using the employee tuition benefit. The two-year, part-time 12-credit hour program is geared for individuals seeking first-time entry into clinical research, transition career paths or obtain professional development. Contact: Catherine Brown, Program Manager at crbrown@vcu.edu for more information.
For more information, contact Catherine Brown at crbrown@vcu.edu or visit https://bulletin.vcu.edu/graduate/office-research/center-clinical-translational-research/clinical-research-cert/#degreerequirementstext.
Apply Now for VCU Demo Days - Seed Funding Available
VCU Demo Days is kicking off this fall, offering a prime opportunity to pitch your venture, gain visibility and secure seed funding. Whether you’re in the early stages of developing an idea, pre-launch or already actively operating in the market, this competition is for you. Pitch your idea and compete for seed funding and support in front of judges at SHIFT Retail Lab’s Feedback Friday event. Apply at the following URL.
For more information, contact Cael Parker at parkerc10@vcu.edu or visit https://davincicenter.vcu.edu/programs/vcu-demo-days/.
VCU Student Album Call for Music
VCU's Media Entrepreneurship class has formed The 410Collective and the students will be producing and releasing (the first week of December) an original album featuring music from past and current VCU students. Music should be submitted by Wednesday, Oct. 30. Email entries to 410artcollective@gmail.com Follow on IG at @410artcollective
For more information, contact Robert Milazzo at milazzor@vcu.edu or (917) 478-1808 or visit https://linktr.ee/410collective.
VCU Child Development Center Now Enrolling
The VCU School of Education's Child Development Center is currently enrolling children ages 16 months-5 years old.
For more information, contact Tessa NeSmith at nesmithtr@vcu.edu or (804) 828-7377.
Participants Are Invited for Study Examining the Impact of Acute and Chronic Stress on Cardiovascular Health
Individuals between the ages of 18 and 30 who identify as Black or African American are invited to participate in a research study examining the effect of acute and chronic stress on cardiovascular and inflammation responses to an acute mental challenge. Raffle drawings for financial compensation will be conducted. This study will take place at 500 Academic Centre on VCU’s Monroe Park Campus. Principal Investigator: Lee Franco, Ph.D., Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences.
For more information, contact Jeremy Via at healthyheart@vcu.edu.
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.