Faculty/staff Issue for January 13, 2025
Today
Navigating Market Volatility
10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Join VCU HR and Fidelity and learn about the importance of having a plan and staying the course, investing best practices and common pitfalls to avoid during volatile markets. The goal is for you to establish a plan if you don’t have one, feel comfortable with your plan and know where to get help. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/4j3fFeL
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://ramstrong.vcu.edu/events/upcoming-events-for-employees/.
This week
Brandcenter Virtual Informational Session
Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025 from 1 p.m. to 2 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 Emma Barone at brandcenter@vcu.edu or visit https://connect.business.vcu.edu/register/VirtualInfoSessionJan25?utm_source=TelegRam.
Canvas Overview, Jan. 14
Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025 from 11 a.m. to noon
This workshop will cover the components of Canvas LMS and a course shell. Register at: https://training.vcu.edu/course.aspx?processFlag=2&itemID=18457. Sponsored by Academic Affairs and Technology Services. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/2324828315?omn=81666374188
For more information, contact Jon Reed at reedjj@vcu.edu or visit http://learningsystems.vcu.edu.
Becoming a Science Teacher With RTR Teacher Residency Program | Informational Session
Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025 from noon to 1 p.m.
Apply to the RTR Teacher Residency Program by Feb. 1 to gain hands-on experience, a fully funded master’s degree and a stipend. Join a one-year apprenticeship, work with a mentor teacher and prepare to teach in high-need Virginia schools. Register at https://connect.soe.vcu.edu/register/RTRSpring25Science Sign up for the informational session at the following URL.
For more information, contact Sabrina Evans at evanssl4@vcu.edu or visit http://teachrtr.org.
That (Difficult) Patient Is Me: Health Care Professionals In Recovery From Addiction
Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025 from noon to 1 p.m.
Rams in Recovery's speaker series will host Peter Coleman, M.D., founder of the Coleman Institute for Addiction Medicine, who has dedicated his career to treating addiction patients. Beyond his medical experience, he understands firsthand the struggle with overcoming substance use disorder and healing the mind, body and spirit. The session will be held in the James W. and Frances G. McGlothlin Medical Education Center (MMEC), Room 7-101, 1201 E. Marshall St. Questions: Email recovery@vcu.edu 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.
Wilder School Lunch and Learn: The Next Mayoral Vision for Richmond
Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025 from noon to 1 p.m.
VCU's L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs will host a Lunch and Learn presentation via Zoom which will feature a member of the executive leadership team of Richmond Mayor Danny Avula (M.D.’03, H.S.’07). Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact David Slipher at slipherd@vcu.edu or (480) 686-6606 or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PzytUQIQRdifpoOo55nFEQ?utm_source=Test+list&utm_campaign=156c642a04-Wilder-LunchandLearn2-01%2F11%2F25&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_d9dd0bf910-156c642a04-#/registration.
Audition To Be a Ramette
Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The Ramettes, VCU's dance team for women's basketball, will hold auditions on Wednesday, Jan. 15 and Thursday, Jan. 16 at the VCU Dance Center, 10 N. Brunswick St. Five to seven dancers are sought. See the flyer on Instagram @ramettesatvcu
For more information, contact Gary Hare at harego@vcu.edu.
Creating a Sense of Belonging for Youth
Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
This workshop will provide participants with the opportunity to explore specific features to create inclusive climates. Participants will explore their own experiences and use those experiences to identify practices for fostering a sense of belonging. The session will be led by Amanda Hurwitt, Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities and presented at the Mary and Frances Youth Center, 120 S. Linden St. Register at the following email address.
For more information, contact Vaughn Garland at garlandvw@vcu.edu or visit https://tockify.com/iexcel/detail/187/1737050400000.
Canvas Overview, Jan. 16
Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025 from 11 a.m. to noon
This workshop will cover the components of Canvas LMS and a course shell. Register at: https://training.vcu.edu/course.aspx?processFlag=2&itemID=18458. Sponsored by Academic Affairs and Technology Services. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/2324828315?omn=88671406931
For more information, contact Jon Reed at reedjj@vcu.edu or visit http://learningsystems.vcu.edu.
Become an Math Teacher With RTR Teacher Residency Program | Informational Session
Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025 from noon to 1 p.m.
Apply to the RTR Teacher Residency Program by Saturday, Feb. 1, to gain hands-on experience, a fully funded master’s degree and a stipend. Join a one-year apprenticeship, work with a mentor teacher and prepare to teach in high-need Virginia schools. Register at https://connect.soe.vcu.edu/register/RTRSpring25Math Sign up for an informational session at the followintg URL.
For more information, contact Sabrina Evans at evanssl4@vcu.edu or visit http://teachrtr.org.
Recharge
Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025 at noon
Have you noticed that even when you get enough sleep, you’re still not feeling rested? Ready for a new concept? Sleep and rest are not the same thing, and sleep doesn’t provide all of the different kinds of rest we need. In this virtual session brought to you by VCU HR and CommonHealth, you will learn a new way to think about what is needed to make you the best you can be. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/4gJwnhv
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://ramstrong.vcu.edu/events/upcoming-events-for-employees/.
Become an History Teacher With RTR Teacher Residency Program | Informational Session
Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Apply to the RTR Teacher Residency Program by Feb. 1 to gain hands-on experience, a fully funded master’s degree and a stipend. Join a one-year apprenticeship, work with a mentor teacher and prepare to teach in high-need Virginia schools. Register at https://connect.soe.vcu.edu/register/RTRSpring25History Apply at the following URL.
For more information, contact Sabrina Evans at evanssl4@vcu.edu or visit http://teachrtr.org.
Becoming a PreK-12 Teacher Informational Session With RTR Teacher Residency Program
Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Have a passion for children? Want a high-impact career? Want to champion social justice? Fuel dreams? Dedicate your life to making a difference while getting a fully paid degree? RTR is for you. RTR is a teacher residency program in the VCU School of Education that equips passionate future teachers with the tools to teach for change. Learn more at this virtual informational session. Register at https://tinyurl.com/RTRInfoSession2425
For more information, contact Sabrina Evans at teachrtr@vcu.edu or visit http://teachrtr.org.
'The Dream … We Almost Never Heard'
Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
“The Dream … We Almost Never Heard” a presentation on the Rev. Martin L. King Jr. by Arthur T. Broady will be available live (Mary and Frances Youth Center, 120 S. Linden St.) and via Zoom. Gospel soloist Daphne Jackson will perform. A student-led discussion will follow the presentation. The event will be part of VCU's MLK Jr. celebration events.
For more information, contact Vaughn Garland at garlandvw@vcu.edu or visit https://tockify.com/iexcel/detail/190/1737070200000.
Fatherhood Mix and Mingle: Engage, Educate, Empower
Friday, Jan. 17, 2025 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Join the Mary and Frances Youth Center, 120 S. Linden St., for a celebration of fatherhood. Connect with other fathers in a safe and supportive space to explore meaningful ways to engage with your children, educate them beyond traditional schooling and empower them to thrive. Build trust, share strategies and create lasting connections for a brighter future. This event is part of VCU's MLK Jr celebration events. Register at the following email address.
For more information, contact Vaughn Garland at garlandvw@vcu.edu or visit https://tockify.com/iexcel/detail/171/1737154800000.
Write-On-Site
Friday, Jan. 17, 2025 from 8 a.m. to noon
Write-on-Site is back for Spring 2025. Come to the Humanities Research Center for informal writing sessions in Room 201, the Valentine House Conference Room, 920 W.Franklin St., every Friday, from 8 a.m.-noon this semester. Coffee and snacks will be provided.
For more information, contact Rani Sisavath at sisavathr@vcu.edu or (804) 828-4714 or visit https://humanitiescenter.vcu.edu/.
Coming up
PennyAppeal x P.R.I.M.E. Pack-A-Bag
Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Join PennyAppeal and P.R.I.M.E. (Professional Health and Related Interests Mentoring Experiences) for the first Pack-A-Bag event of the semester in the Honors College Multipurpose Room, 701 W. Grace St., to help make care kits for the local homeless population. Can't make it? Join the PennyAppeal Instagram (@pennyappealatvcu) or the PennyAppeal RamsConnect to keep up to date on future events and collaborations.
For more information, contact PennyAppeal at officialpennyappealatvcu@gmail.com.
Massey Dialogues
Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025 from noon to 1:15 p.m.
Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center will present a facilitated discussion on the themes of the “Memory Wars” podcast, the 2024-2025 VCU Common Book. This session via Zoom will focus on the story of Bruce Tucker and the first heart transplant in the South. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Sam Burns at burnss3@vcu.edu or visit https://web.cvent.com/event/a108f249-9108-4ec5-9421-b8ec309592e0/summary.
Unlocking Synergy Session: Strengthening Professional Connections
Friday, Jan. 31, 2025 from noon to 1 p.m.
VCU's Health Sciences Career Community will host a virtual session for health care professionals to build common ground, share experiences and foster meaningful connections. Explore ways to strengthen professional ties and work in unity to support the well-being of those we serve. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Kim Ivey at ksivey@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=Zjgf0saPJ0WGIs76R_6WMl3HG9sLJXJCq87StyspAltUN0tFQlhDT01OOVpQVERCUlVNQzhJRlI4MC4u&origin=QRCode.
RecWell's Annual Cary Street Crux Top Rope Competition
Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025 at 9 a.m.
The annual Cary Street Crux top rope climbing competition will be held Saturday, Feb. 1 at the Cary St. Gym climbing wall, 101 S. Linden St. Multiple heats are available and participants can sign up for Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced categories. A free T-shirt is guaranteed with each registration before Saturday, Jan. 18.
For more information, contact Sam Albert at outdoors@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=634a397a-b67a-41d0-bf5b-3322e71ea392.
Spring 2025 Global Initiatives Master Class Series: Global Engagement Strategies
Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Global Education Office will hold its Master Class Series in the University Student Commons, Virginia Rooms C-D, 907 Floyd Ave. Hilary Kahn, associate vice chancellor for international affairs at Indiana University Indianapolis, will facilitate the workshop "Preparing Globally Ready Learners," designed to help prepare faculty to be more intentionally global in their classrooms. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Nicol Tinsley at nctinsley@vcu.edu or (804) 828-6463 or visit https://global.vcu.edu/outreach/facultydevelopment/master-class-series/.
Homecoming Makers Market Vendor Application
Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Showcase your business and products, connect with alumni, staff and students and engage with the broader VCU community at the 2025 VCU Homecoming Makers Market. Complete the application at the following URL by today, Monday, Jan. 13 to secure your spot as a vendor. Spaces are limited. The event will be at the SHIFT Retail Lab, 1235 W. Broad St.
For more information, contact Breydon Duncan Horton at hortonb2@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdo6InkVK7woU134WX0afCuU-CIGzCEsVyCxHLurrZKjXGVrg/viewform.
Virginia Executive Institute
Monday, Apr. 28, 2025 at 9 a.m.
The Virginia Executive Institute is now accepting applications. This program offers a forum for current and emerging leaders to connect with a network of state executives dedicated to strengthening their leadership skills and driving positive change for Virginia's future. Questions: Visit https://pmg.vcu.edu/professional-development/vei/
For more information, contact Mandy Fowler at afowler3@vcu.edu or visit http://GEHLI.vcu.edu.
Notices
Seventh Annual Awards of Excellence - Nomination Period Extended
The nomination deadline for the VCU Staff Senate Awards for Excellence has been extended. These awards provide well-deserved exposure and recognition of the hard work and extraordinary achievements of VCU and VCU Health staff. Submit a nomination by Friday, Jan. 17 at the following URL.
For more information, contact Maya Rogers at staffsenate@vcu.edu or visit https://staffsenate.vcu.edu/initiatives/awards-for-excellence/.
Join the VCU Band: Bring Your Passion to Life
It’s not too late to join one of VCU's dynamic bands this spring. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just looking to connect with others who share your love of music, there is a band for you. Experience the thrill of live performances, connect with a vibrant community of talented musicians and expand your musical skills and repertoire. Register for University Band (APPM 356) today.
For more information, contact Duane Coston at costonpd@vcu.edu or (804) 240-7974.
RecWell OAP February Trips
RecWell’s Outdoor Adventure Program will host trips to western Virginia for VCU students and RecWell members in February. The trips include Valentine’s caving, day caving and a day hike. Spaces for all trips are limited. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Emily Philpott at outdoors@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/Program?classificationId=d722033b-3a3d-44c6-a639-491797a4b9a2.
RecWell OAP January/February Climbing Clinics
RecWell’s Outdoor Adventure Program will offer a variety of climbing clinics at the Cary Street Gym Climbing Wall, 101 S. Linden St. January and February clinics include belay, intro to rock climbing, sport climbing, rappelling and gym to crag. Registration closes the day of the clinic. See details at the following URL.
For more information, contact Sam Albert at outdoors@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/program?classificationId=d722033b-3a3d-44c6-a639-491797a4b9a2.
RecWell OAP January Belay Clinic
Learn belaying, or climbing with a partner, a fundamental skill for all rock climbers. VCU's Outdoor Adventure Program staff will teach current best practices for belaying and answer any and all questions about climbing. The session will be in the Cary Street Gym, 101 S. Linden St. Registration opens the day before the clinic. A belay clinics will be held Tuesday, Jan. 21. See times and registration at the following URL.
For more information, contact Sam Albert at outdoors@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/Program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=cd4e0a05-814b-415e-9ef8-43e49fe1f7fb.
RecWell Intramural Sports Early Spring Leagues
VCU RecWell Intramural Sports runs leagues and tournaments for all experience levels. No prior experience or skill with the sport needed. Make friends while going for bragging rights in friendly competition with other Rams. Players may join with others or as free agents. One $10 IM semester pass covers individual participation in any/all Intramural tournaments and leagues for the semester. Early Spring features 5v5 Indoor Soccer League and 6v6 Volleyball League. Register at the following URL through Thursday, Jan. 23.
For more information, contact Delaydia Frink at intramurals@vcu.edu or visit https://recwell.vcu.edu/play/intramural-sports/.
2025 Women's Health and Healing Trip to Guatemala
Join the VCU Institute for Women’s Health and Highland Support Project. Spend a week in partnership with indigenous midwives and community leaders, learn about traditional Maya medicine and explore the history of health care and healing in Guatemala. Trip dates are May 11-18. The cost is $1,650 plus airfare. Informational sessions via Zoom will be offered Thursday, Jan. 16 at noon and Wednesday, Jan. 22 at 6 p.m. Or email janett.forte@vcuhealth, ashtonhr@vcu.edu or agreed@vcu
For more information, contact Heather Ashton at ashtonhr@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.studioabroad.com/_portal/tds-program-brochure?programid=11474.
Join the RAMS-2-RAMS Peer Support Program
Are you experiencing food insecurity and looking for support at VCU? The RAMS-2-RAMS program is here for you. Connect with peers who understand and gain access to essential resources right here on campus.
For more information, contact Youngmi Kim, Ph.D., at ykim@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/2abrc3h2pyBdN2gC7.
Hygiene Kits for Youth
VCU's Division of Community Engagement, Student Affairs, VCU Engaged Learning are coordinating donations for hygiene kits for youth in the city of Richmond. Items should be dropped off at the Mary and Frances Youth Center 120 S. Linden St., no later than Friday, Jan. 17. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Misti Mueller at muellermr@vcu.edu or visit https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040F4DAAAE2FABFB6-54104885-youth.
OB MOTIVATE Clinic's Winter Wishes Initiative
To provide wholistic care, OB MOTIVATE aims to help families address social determinants of health through support for basic needs that promote mental and physical wellness for parent and baby. Visit https://give.chfrichmond.org/OB-MOTIVATE-Clinic to donate and learn more about the initiative.
For more information, contact Michelle C. at OBMotivate@vcuhealth.org or (804) 314-5651 or visit https://www.vcuhealth.org/services/womens-health/our-services/substance-use-disorder-treatment.
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
VCU's 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.
VCU Bands: Come Play With Us
It’s not too late to join one of VCU's dynamic bands this spring. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just looking to connect with others who share your love of music, there is a band for you. Experience the thrill of live performances, connect with a vibrant community of talented musicians and expand your musical skills and repertoire. Register for University Band (APPM 356) today.
For more information, contact Duane Coston at costonpd@vcu.edu or (804) 240-7974.
Start Your Semester Off Strong
Undergraduate students, schedule an appointment with a coach at the Campus Learning Center to discuss your goals for the semester and create an action plan. The center specializes in time management, study strategies and goal setting and can support you as you work toward your goals. Start by filling out the questionnaire at https://forms.gle/BJiLBh9FVNkRREm98
For more information, contact Bridget Prince at bprince@vcu.edu or visit https://clc.vcu.edu/academic-coaching/.
First-Year Students: Elevate Your Academic Performance
First-year students, elevate your academic performance with Peer Academic Coaching. Work with an upperclass student who can personalize a plan to help you level up your academic performance this semester. Peer Academic Coaching provides personalized guidance in time management techniques, study strategies and effective goal setting. Sign up at https://forms.gle/2jAmQaRUo2twpp7u9
For more information, contact Ian Anderson at andersoni2@vcu.edu or visit https://clc.vcu.edu/academic-coaching/.
Da Vinci Center Classes
VCU da Vinci Center for Innovation is reimagining higher education. Whether you’re into design, engineering, business or even social sciences, the programs blend creativity, experimentation and real-world problem-solving. If you think differently, dream big and yearn to turn ideas into action, this is your sign to join the da Vinci Center. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact VCU da Vinci Center for Innovation at davincicenter@vcu.edu or visit https://davincicenter.vcu.edu/programs/all-classes/.
ACE-IT in College Student Volunteer Opportunity- Peer Mentoring
Do you have students who are interested in becoming more connected on campus or are looking for volunteer opportunities? ACE-IT in College, a VCU program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, is looking for Peer Mentors to support inclusion at VCU. The mission of peer mentors is to help ACE-IT students make authentic friendships and connections during college and beyond. Students can reach out to aceit@vcu.edu for more.
For more information, contact Hannah Carignan at ramseyhe@vcu.edu or visit https://aceitincollege.vcu.edu/.
Community-Engaged Data Dissemination Grant Deadline Extended
In light of recent events, the application deadline for the Community-Engaged Data Dissemination Grant has been extended to Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 5 p.m. This grant provides funding for projects that creatively share research findings with community stakeholders and within communities. Apply at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1a4VsLAn7ie46cMHpkOfjjKjdExEIapN-/view?usp=sharing For more information, or to submit an application, please contact dcegrantsinfo@vcu.edu.
For more information, contact Lorielle Bouldin at bouldinln@vcu.edu.
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. The principal investigator is Lee Franco, Ph.D., Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences. Questions: Email the KHS Healthy Heart Lab at healthyheart@vcu.edu.
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.