Faculty/staff Issue for August 20, 2024
Today
Register To Vote
1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Are you registered to vote? If not, meet the Ladies of the Eta Tau Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. on the first day of classes to be registered on the spot. Chapter members will be in the lobby of the University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave., ready to help register voters and answer questions.
For more information, contact Sanaa Banks at etatauchapter@gmail.com.
This week
VCU Writing Center Workshop: Informational Session and Writing With Confidence
Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2024 at 2 p.m.
Learn to break writing into manageable chunks and how to avoid procrastination. 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/.
VCU Writing Center Workshop: Informational Session and Writing With Confidence
Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024 at 1 p.m.
Learn to break writing into manageable chunks and how to avoid procrastination. 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/.
Ingenuity Pathway Analysis
Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Join the Bioinformatics Core at Massey Cancer Center and C. Kenneth and Dianne Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research for a hands-on Ingenuity Pathway Analysis training session. Learn to perform pathway analysis on omics and user-provided data, compare different groups and generate networks. Explore IPA's database to make discoveries, leveraging and modifying public data for in-depth analysis. Bring a laptop to follow along. The session will be held in Court End A, Jonah L. Larrick Student Center, 900 Turpin St. Lunch will be provided. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Hillary Connolly at connollyh@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdm6qX3xzhlV7EJvUmzFOtFJfUjC3DWLDzgS5z1ok-TFEsk0g/viewform?usp=sf_link.
Canvas Overview
Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024 from 11 a.m. to noon
This workshop will provide a general overview of course functions in Canvas. Register in talent.vcu.edu by searching the keyword "Canvas." The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/2324828315?omn=82175694204
For more information, contact Jon Reed at reedjj@vcu.edu or visit http://learningsystems.vcu.edu.
Total Body Strength
Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024 from noon to 12:30 p.m.
This 30-minute virtual session, hosted by VCU HR and RecWell, features a variety of strengthening exercises using your own body. Build muscular strength and endurance in every major muscle group. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/4cXN7j8
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://ramstrong.vcu.edu/events/upcoming-events-for-employees/.
Undergraduate Informational Session
Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024 from noon to 12:45 p.m.
Are you fascinated by creating solutions to complex problems? Have you always wanted to start a business or nonprofit? Learn about undergraduate certificates at the daVinci Center. Learn about certificates and then explore programs in product innovation, venture creation, as well as classes in human-centered design and how they can fit into individual academic plans. Register at https://connect.business.vcu.edu/register/Undergrad-Info-Aug-22
For more information, contact Mary Chris Escobar at escobarmc@vcu.edu or visit https://davincicenter.vcu.edu/news--events/.
Volunteer for the VCU Free Store Grand Opening
Friday, Aug. 23, 2024 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sign up to volunteer during the Free Store Grand Opening (930 W. Grace St.) for the fall semester. Faculty and staff help manage and assist students visiting the store. This volunteer opportunity is eligible for Community Service leave. See the Free Store website at the following URL for additional volunteer opportunities throughout the semester.
For more information, contact Parker Long at longpj@vcu.edu or visit https://signup.com/go/JBcpOCd.
Audition for First Love's Dance Team
Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024 from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The campus organization First Love is having tryouts for its dance group in the Alumni Board Room, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave., and 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 1 in Room 1165, T. Edward Temple Building, 901 W. Main St.
For more information, contact Jianna John at johnj5@vcu.edu.
Coming up
Health Sciences Library Open House
Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Health Sciences Library, 509 N. 12th St., invites all new and returning students and new faculty to visit and explore the library, Makerspace and Special Collections and Archives at their open house. Learn about library resources and services available in the building and virtually from anywhere you’re working or studying. Meet the staff and librarians assigned to your health sciences schools and programs.
For more information, contact Sue Moss at mosssr2@vcu.edu or (804) 838-3737.
Avaya Workplace and MyE911 Overview
Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Elevate your workplace communication with the convenience of the Avaya Workplace mobility app. Whether you are in the office, teleworking, have a hybrid schedule or on the move, it’s easy to take your office phone number wherever you go; seamlessly using it on your mobile device or computer. With the app, outbound calls display your work phone number, ensuring a professional and consistent communication experience. All inbound calls from the app will display Avaya Workplace and have a distinct ring. Attend a session to also learn how your other departments are taking advantage of cost savings measures in using the Avaya Workplace mobility app. Sessions are opened to VCU and VCU Health associates.
For more information, contact Wayne L. Johnson at wljohnson@vcu.edu or visit https://training.vcu.edu/.
2024 Faculty Convocation
Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024 at 3 p.m.
President Michael Rao, Ph.D., and Provost Fotis Sotiropoulos, Ph.D., invite the VCU community to the 42nd annual Faculty Convocation at the W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts, 922 Park Ave. During the event, faculty members will be welcomed, and this year’s distinguished faculty award recipients will be honored. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact University Events at UNIVevents@vcu.edu or visit http://go.vcu.edu/vcuconvocationguests.
Brandcenter Virtual Informational Session
Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Want to learn more about the No.1 graduate program for advertising and branding in the U.S.? Join us for a virtual informational session — like a Brandcenter 101 — to learn about how we develop the most prominent thinkers and creatives in the industry. We’ll chat about our program, our five concentrations (Art Direction, Copywriting, Creative Brand Management, Experience Design and Strategy), the admission process and more. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Brandcenter at brandcenter@vcu.edu or visit https://connect.business.vcu.edu/register/VirtualInfoSessionAug?utm_source=TelegRam.
Dialogue to Action: Community-Building Circles to Foster a Culture of Respect and a Shared Sense of Belonging
Friday, Sep. 6, 2024 from noon to 1 p.m.
The goal of this series, open to faculty, staff and students over the next few months, is to create a sense of belonging through sharing stories and active listening and build and strengthen relationships and connections. Sessions will be held in Room 6-101, James W. and Frances G. McGlothlin Medical Education Center, 1201 E. Marshall St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Ashli Phillips at ashli.phillips@vcuhealth.org or visit https://vcuhealth.libcal.com/event/12733769.
Meg and Me: An Evening With Writer Meg Medina
Tuesday, Sep. 17, 2024 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Richmond-based writer Meg Medina is a nationally known author and a voice for representation of all children in literature. For the program, Medina will be in conversation with VCU's SJ Sindu, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the Department of English and a novelist and short story writer. They will discuss creative strategies for storytelling that shares element of culture. The talk will be in the lecture hall of James Branch Cabell Library, 901 Park Ave. Seating is limited. Purchase tickets at the following URL.
For more information, contact Sue Robinson at srobinson26@vcu.edu or visit https://www.library.vcu.edu/about/events/2024-2025/meg-medina-event.html.
Liver Life Walk - Join the UNStoppable VCU Team
Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Join the UNStoppable VCU Liver Team for the Liver Life Walk at William 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. Registration is free through Wednesday, Aug. 28. On Aug. 29, a $20 fee will be implemented for walkers 18+ and up. Register or donate at the following URL. Select to join the VCU team as you register.
For more information, contact Sarah McCall at Sarah.McCall@vcuhealth.org or visit https://liverlifewalk.org/virginia/.
Notices
Come Play in the VCU Band
University Band (APPM 357) is open to all VCU students and faculty. The band meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 2-2:50 p.m. The band performs one concert each semester.
For more information, contact Duane Coston at costonpd@vcu.edu or (804) 240-7974.
Inclusive Excellence Is Accepting Applications for Its Student Fellows Program
VCU Division of Inclusive Excellence is now accepting applications for the Inclusive Excellence Student Fellows program. This program aims to empower students to actively contribute to campus-wide inclusion initiatives, enhance their leadership skills and promote inclusive excellence throughout the university and the broader Richmond community. Apply at the following URL by Friday, Aug. 30.
For more information, contact Brooke Berry at inclusive@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/RHjUPUqH7oMCDDKr6.
RecWell Group Exercise Classes
RecWell’s group exercise program offers free classes at Cary Street Gym, 101 S. Linden St., and MCV Campus Recreation Center, 900 Turpin St., for VCU students and RecWell members. RecWell classes cover a variety of exercise formats and are designed to increase cardio endurance, strength, flexibility and are appropriate for individuals of all fitness levels. Enjoy a wide variety of classes in a supportive, inclusive and fun environment. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Nadine Madison at groupexprgm@vcu.edu or visit https://recwell.vcu.edu/play/group-exercise/.
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/.
RecWell Intramural Sports Flag Football and Volleyball Leagues
VCU RecWell Intramural Sports runs leagues and tournaments for all experience levels. Registration is currently open for September 7v7 football and 6v6 volleyball leagues. No prior experience or skill with the sport is required. Make new friends while going for bragging rights in friendly competition with other Rams. Players may join with friends or as free agents. Purchase a $10 intramural semester pass, which covers participation in any and all Intramural tournaments and leagues for the semester.
For more information, contact Alex Bruman at intramurals@vcu.edu or visit https://recwell.vcu.edu/play/intramural-sports/.
Rights of Students Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
FERPA affords students the rights to inspect and review educational records; request that records which they believe to be inaccurate or misleading be corrected; provide written consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent; and to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education.
For more information, contact The Office of the University Registrar at rar@vcu.edu.
Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act: FTC Safeguards Rule
The Office of the University Registrar is responsible for notifying the university community that it does not release nonpublic information about VCU students. This information is used and shared in a limited and carefully controlled manner. It is not disclosed, except as permitted by law, unless authorized by the student.
For more information, contact The Office of the University Registrar at rar@vcu.edu.
Calling All Singers
Want to perform Mozart’s Requiem? VCU's Choral Arts is open for enrollment — no audition is required. Sign up using APPM359 CRN29766 and join us for an unforgettable musical journey.
For more information, contact Christopher Hansen, Ph.D., director of choral activities, at hansenc3@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/academics/departments/music/ensembles/vocal-ensemble/.
Applications Open for Minority Political Leadership Institute
The Minority Political Leadership Institute is designed for individuals interested in issues important to minority communities including community economics, political climate, civic engagement and equity. It has been crafted to support emerging leaders to hone their skills, expand their networks and advance their professional journey. The program kicks off with a trip to Washington, D.C., on Sept. 11 for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Conference. Apply at the following URL.
For more information, contact Ron Jones at jonesre22@vcu.edu or visit https://gehli.vcu.edu/programs/minority-political-leadership-institute/.
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.
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/.
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.