11 a.m.

Learn to feel comfortable with 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/.

2 p.m.

Learn how AI can be an innovative learning tool if used properly. 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/.

5:30 p.m.

Share your thoughts about federal directives targeting DEI, such as the Dear Colleagues Letter, and your thoughts on VCU's response to them. Free pizza will be provided. The session will be in the University Student Commons, Metro Room, 907 Floyd Ave. RSVP at the following URL.

For more information, contact Summer Neil at neilsd@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1938489.

Monday, Apr. 21, 2025 from 10 a.m. to noon

The VCUarts Department of Communication Arts will host artist Iain McCaig for a guest lecture at the VCU Student Commons Theater, 907 Floyd Ave. As of 2025, McCaig has worked for 45 years in the entertainment industry. Many of his creations have become pop-culture icons, like his cover for Jethro Tull’s "Broadsword and the Beast" or his "Star Wars" designs for Queen Amidala and Darth Maul. He has created art for games, from LucasArts "The Secret of Monkey Island" to Respawn’s "Titanfall," and for many films, among them "Terminator 2," "Interview With the Vampire," "Bram Stoker’s Dracula," "Hook," "Peter Pan," "Charlotte’s Web," "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire," "Guardians of the Galaxy," "The Avengers," "Avengers: Infinity War," "Avengers: Endgame," Disney’s live-action "The Jungle Book" and the ongoing "Star Wars" movies, as well as designs for the "Star Wars: The High Republic" graphic novels and "Star War: Galaxy’s Edge" theme parks.

For more information, contact Jason Bennett at jebennett@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/event/iain-mccaig-on-visual-storytelling/.

Wednesday, Apr. 23, 2025 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The VCU Police Department will host a Start by Believing campaign event for the VCU community, which encourages everyone to pledge to end the cycle of silence and change the way we respond to sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking and child sexual abuse. Resource organizations across VCU and Central Virginia will be on hand at theCommons Plaza to answer questions and spread awareness. Those who attend can enjoy games and community building.

For more information, contact Cierra Eldridge at eldridgeci@vcu.edu or visit https://police.vcu.edu/sexual_violence/victim_witness_program.html.

Wednesday, Apr. 23, 2025 at noon

Learn more about the flexibility of VCU's Evening MBA program at a webinar hosted by the School of Business. This online presentation will provide an overview of program formats (which include online, on-campus or a blend of both), curriculum and the admissions process. No registration is required – join via Zoom link at https://vcu.zoom.us/j/85044330937

For more information, contact Hawley Smyth at smythh@vcu.edu or visit https://business.vcu.edu/graduate-programs/evening-mba-flexible-format/.

Wednesday, Apr. 23, 2025 from noon to 2 p.m.

Celebrate the passionate efforts of social justice and service student organizations at VCU. Connect with groups dedicated to positively impacting the university's campus and beyond. The event will be in the Underground, Room 015, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. Refreshments will be provided. RSVP at the following URL.

For more information, contact Raine Harris at studentorgs@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1938623.

Wednesday, Apr. 23, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Graduate Student Association and Graduate School will present the 28th Annual Graduate Research Symposium in the University Student Commons, Commonwealth Ballrooms, 907 Floyd Ave. More than 100 graduate students from 11 schools/colleges will be sharing their research with the university community. Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to stop by and see the transformative work graduate students are doing. The event will be in the Commonwealth Ballrooms over two sessions from 9:30-11 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

For more information, contact Erin Brown at embbrown@vcu.edu or visit https://graduate.vcu.edu/current-students/awards-and-competitions/graduate-research-symposium/.

Thursday, Apr. 24, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

VCU Undergraduate Research and Creative Inquiry invites students, faculty, staff, community members and friends and family to attend and support undergraduates when they present their current research endeavors. The event will take place in the University Student Commons, Commonwealth Ballrooms, 907 Floyd Ave. Submit a poster abstract at the following URL. The event will take place over three sessions.

For more information, contact Herb Hill, Director of Undergraduate Research and Creative Inquiry, at urop@vcu.edu or visit https://academics.provost.vcu.edu/transformative-learning/undergraduate-research/poster/.

Thursday, Apr. 24, 2025 at noon

Join the Community Engagement Impact Collaborative for a panel hosted by the Division of Community Engagement on how institutions define and assess community engagement impact. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.

For more information, contact Lorielle Bouldin at bouldinln@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/6jD1aucX5VznqE268.

Friday, Apr. 25, 2025 from noon to 1:30 p.m.

Come join VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Alzheimer's Organization for a discussion about the effects of smoking on the brain. The session wil be at the VCU Health Hub, 1330 N. 25th St.

For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu.

Friday, Apr. 25, 2025 at noon

Come to the Donate Life Month Expo, an afternoon of impactful conversations, expert panels and meaningful connections. Hear from transplant surgeons, organ recipients and health care professionals, and explore opportunities in research, clinical experience and community service. The event will be in the Jonah L. Larrick Student Center, Jackson Ward Room, 900 Turpin St. All who attend will receive a free Roots bowl and Starbucks gift card. RSVP at https://forms.gle/XYQW34Yg37qqHHb59

For more information, contact Ria Mohan at mohanr3@vcu.edu or visit https://www.canva.com/design/DAGg-GZ3ZHM/_LAMQkp5nnuepu16itGgPQ/view?utm_content=DAGg-GZ3ZHM&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h82423c70eb.

Saturday, Apr. 26, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Join the Philosophy of Medicine and Bioethics 4 Students clubs for our first-ever conference on the intersections of ethics, philosophy, public health and medicine. All are invited to join; hear from speakers like Michael Fine, M.D., founder of Primary Care for All Americans, network with community organizations and professionals and learn more about the applications of philosophy and bioethics in health care and beyond. Lunch will be provided and attendance is free. Students are encouraged to submit an abstract to present during the poster session. The session will be held at the STEM Building, 817 W. Franklin St.

For more information, contact Riya Bajpai at bajpair2@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScUQn69LwwoMkWpdGJG80osulkx3oVrznDxUob1PqMMlBSDPQ/viewform?usp=header.

Monday, Apr. 28, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 10:15 a.m.

The Office of the Provost announces Convergence Labs @VCU - Sustainable Societies. The lab will address critical issues of sustainability amid a growing world population, increasing standard of living in developing countries and finite natural resources. All interested full-time faculty members are invited to complete the following form to engage in lab development. The session will be held in the University Student Commons, Virginia Rooms A-D, 907 Floyd Ave. Complete the form at the following URL by Thursday, April 24.

For more information, contact LaToya Blizzard at vpfacaffrs@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/H19j7bXn3Nnij9K99.

Tuesday, Apr. 29, 2025 from 11 a.m. to noon

This workshop will cover final gradebook configuration, submitting final grades and configuring Incomplete sections. Please use VCU eID and password to enter Zoom meeting. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/2324828315?omn=83636800541 Register at https://training.vcu.edu/course.aspx?processFlag=2&itemID=18497

For more information, contact Jon Reed at reedjj@vcu.edu or visit https://learningsystems.vcu.edu/.

What do pasticcio, moussaka, spanakopita and hummus have in common with VCU Libraries? Answer: Bell Greek restaurant. On Giving Day, Tuesday, April 22, Bell Greek is supporting VCU Libraries. Mention VCU Libraries when you order and 25 percent of your purchase goes to the Friends of VCU Libraries Scholarship fund and the Affordable Course Content Initiative – vital funds that help VCU students. Valid for dine-in or takeout, only at the Village Shopping Center, 7011 Three Chopt Road.

For more information, contact Sue Robinson at srobinson26@vcu.edu or visit https://www.library.vcu.edu/about/news/2025-news/giving-day-2025.html.

Stay connected to the many supportive programs and resources provided by VCU HR by following their social media platforms. Daily posts share important reminders and updates that can enhance your workplace experience and strengthen your connections to the VCU community. Follow on Facebook (vcuhumanresources), Instagram (vcuhumanresources) and X (@VCUHR)

For more information, contact VCU Human Resources at askhr@vcu.edu or visit https://www.hr.vcu.edu.

Today is Giving Day. Support one of 90-plus causes that make possible student scholarships, comprehensive patient care, life-changing research and more. Amplify your impact with matches and challenges that help your favorite cause earn more money. When you make a gift, you make a difference.

For more information, contact Melanie Irvin, assistant vice president, Strategic Marketing and Engagement, at irvinms@vcu.edu or visit https://give.vcu.edu/giving-day-2025/?a=9726411.

Looking for a fun and welcoming way to become involved on campus? Join a VCU choir this fall. Make music, make friends and be part of something meaningful. You do not need to be a music major. Choral Arts Society (APPM 359, CRN 29766) is open to students. No audition is required. Commonwealth Singers (APPM 358, CRN 29770) is an advanced mixed choral ensemble. An audition is required. Vox Concordia (APPM 378, CRN 32996) is an advanced treble choral ensemble. An audition is required. The choirs are sponsored by VCU's Department of Music. Apply at the following URL.

For more information, contact Christopher Hansen, Ph.D., at hansenc3@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/music/ensembles/.

April showers do indeed bring May flowers and a promise of new beginnings. It’s also a great time to pause and reflect on how we are feeling from an emotional perspective. Have the winter doldrums followed you into this new season? If so, please consider Timelycare. This free, 12-session program is for VCU staff, faculty and students who need a moment and an ear to listen as they process their feelings and contemplate our turbulent world. Questions: https://app.timelycare.com/auth/login Set up an appointment to meet with the Wellness Team at the following URL.

For more information, contact Susan Richards MSN RN at richardss@vcu.eduy or (804) 499-0687 or visit http://go.vcu.edu/employeewellness.

One in four college women and 7 percent of college men experience sexual assault, while 21 percent face dating violence. Although colleges are required to address these issues, many programs fail to engage students effectively. I’m Adrienne Baldwin-White, Ph.D., and I’ve created “Once Upon a Party,” a text-based, choose-your-own-adventure game designed to spark critical thinking about gender-based violence. In this game, you’ll navigate real-world situations that could lead to sexual or dating violence by responding to friends' text messages. Join my study to help test the game’s impact and get a chance to win one of five $100 gift cards. Click the following URL to participate.

For more information, contact Adrienne Baldwin-White, Ph.D., at baldwinwhia@vcu.edu or visit https://vcuportal.questionpro.com/t/AXMyuZ5Ir0.

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.

This study is inviting individuals between the ages of 18 and 30 who identify as LGBTQ. We are also inviting individuals between the ages of 18 and 30 who identify as cis-gender heterosexual for the control group. The purpose of this research study is to examine the effect of chronic psychosocial stress and vascular inflammation to an acute mental challenge. This study will be conducted 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.

The Equity in Cardiovascular Health Outcomes (EqCHO) 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. Questions: https://eqcho.lab.vcu.edu/ Check your eligibility and sign up at the following URL.

For more information, contact Anika Hines at eqcholab@vcu.edu or (804) 828-5030 or visit https://redcap.vcu.edu/surveys/?s=KYP34XPP8J7A8JJX.

VCU Psychology invites you to participate in two studies. Compensation is available. 1. A study on including video materials in school teaching to make classes more engaging, 2. A study on how people react to fictional characters. You will fill out a 10-minute online questionnaire and then complete both studies in one lab session that will take about an hour. Find out if you are eligible at the following URL. New sign-up dates are available. If you have already completed the eligibility survey but the listed times did not work for you, contact the researchers to schedule a different session time.

For more information, contact VCU HSS at vcuhss@gmail.com or (804) 554-0584 or visit https://redcap.vcu.edu/surveys/?s=3AJY3KMHN7NF87TY.