8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

VCU Benefits will host TIAA for an On-Campus Day dedicated to helping you plan for your financial future. Meet with a TIAA representative for a personalized consultation at Lindsey House, 600 W. Franklin St., to discuss your retirement goals, investment options and more. Reach out directly to TIAA at the following URL to set up your one-on-one consultation.

For more information, contact Kelvin Allen at allenkt@vcu.edu or visit https://www.tiaa.org/public/tcm/vcu.

Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

In preparation for implementation of the new IRB system (VIRBs), the Human Research Protections Program (HRPP)/IRB will hold a VIRBs open lab for the research community. The labs will include VIRBs real-time practice and Q&A sessions. Several lab sessions will be held through August. A complete schedule has been posted on the New IRB Review System: VIRBs (VCU IRB System) webpage. Registration is not required. Labs will occur in real time. Recordings will not take place during the sessions. A Zoom meeting link will be opened at each date and time specified on the labs schedule. Join the lab at this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89679536817

For more information, contact Jennifer Rice at irbeducation@vcu.edu or visit https://research.vcu.edu/human-research/hrppirb/virbs/.

Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025 from noon to 1 p.m.

The Graduate School will host a virtual workshop for new graduate students to share best practices, tips and strategies for effectively completing a graduate program. This session is geared for first-generation graduate students. Register on RamsConnect at the following URL.

For more information, contact Erin Brown at embbrown@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1939621.

Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025 at 11 a.m.

Discuss the services provided by the Writing Center and learn to break your writing process into manageable chunks. 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/.

Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

VCU's Office of Alumni Relations will present "Design Your Way Forward: Innovate, Adapt, Solve" via Zoom. Are you an entrepreneur thinking about starting your own business or just interested in learning more about design thinking? Wherever you are in your journey, "Design Your Way Forward" can help reframe challenges and develop innovative ideas and strategies that create real value. Through interactive activities and real-world case studies, participants will learn to identify customer pain points and transform obstacles into opportunities. This workshop is in partnership with the VCU da Vinci Center for Innovation. Participants will earn an Introduction to Design Thinking digital credential through Credly. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Tiera Byrd at mcguiretj@vcu.edu or visit https://bit.ly/4le3Cew.

Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Take a look behind the scenes of VCU's grad program in advertising and branding. The session will break down the application process, the program's four creative concentrations (art direction, copywriting, creative brand management and strategy) and give participants a look at what life is really like as a Brandcenter student. The session will also include the industry careers Brandcenter grads go on to and how the program can help you get there. Register for the session at the following URL.

For more information, contact Emma Barone at brandcenter@vcu.edu or visit https://connect.business.vcu.edu/register/info-session-august-2025?utm_source=TelegRam.

Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

The HR Learning, Development and Organizational Culture team will facilitate a one-hour Appreciative Approach to Feedback workshop. While designed for managers, anyone interested in learning about ways to share feedback that focuses on appreciation and strengths is welcome to attend. Register in Talent@VCU at the following URL by Tuesday, Aug. 19. If you are a VCU Health employee and would like to attend, please complete this form: https://forms.gle/EvkgUtGHXWKxQMiL8

For more information, contact Penelope McFarline at mcfarlinep@vcu.edu or visit https://tinyurl.com/yc2k3hu6.

Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025 from 11 a.m. to noon

This workshop will cover the various functions within Canvas and in a course shell. Authenticate into a Zoom meeting using your eID and password. Register at: https://training.vcu.edu/course.aspx?processFlag=2&itemID=18527 The session is sponsored by Academic Affairs and Technology Services. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/2324828315?omn=85327778666

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

Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025 at 6 p.m.

The Weeks of Welcome workshop will feature examples of strong, successful personal statements, as well as less successful ones, to give you the tools you need to write your best statement. 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/.

Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025 at 7 p.m.

VCU Men's Soccer will host the nationally ranked University of Akron at Sports Backers Stadium for faculty and staff appreciation night. Walk-up tickets will be available for $5 at the Sports Backers Stadium ticket office, 100 Avenue of Champions, with a valid VCU ID.

For more information, contact Will Hunker at hunkerw@vcu.edu or visit https://vcuathletics.com/sports/mens-soccer/schedule.

Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025 from 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

VCU Athletics will celebrate all things black and gold and kick off the 2025-26 VCU Athletics season with its annual block party at the Stuart C. Siegel Center.

For more information, contact Will Hunker at hunkerw@vcu.edu or visit https://vcuathletics.com/sports/2025/7/8/RamFest%202025.aspx.

Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025 from 11 a.m. to noon

This workshop will cover the various functions within Canvas and in a course shell. Authenticate into Zoom meeting using your eID and password. Register at: https://training.vcu.edu/course.aspx?processFlag=2&itemID=18528 Sponsored by Academic Affairs and Technology Services.

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

Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

VCU HR and Equity and Access Services are facilitating a Leadership in Action workshop for managers of university and academic professionals and classified staff. The session via Zoom is on the topic of understanding the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the manager's role in supporting employees. Register by Monday, Aug. 25 at the following URL.

For more information, contact Penelope McFarline at mcfarlinep@vcu.edu or visit https://tinyurl.com/mufz3ys.

Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025 from 11 a.m. to noon

This workshop will cover the various functions within Canvas and in a course shell. Authenticate into zoom meeting using your eID and password. Register at: https://training.vcu.edu/course.aspx?processFlag=2&itemID=18529 Sponsored by Academic Affairs and Technology Services.

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

Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025 at 6:05 p.m.

Rep VCU as the Flying Squirrels take on the Akron RubberDucks at The Diamond, 3001 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd. After the game, enjoy fireworks from inside the fences. Take advantage of this special ticket offer exclusively for the Ramily. Get your discounted tickets at the following URL. The event is sponsored by VCU's Office of Alumni Relations.

For more information, contact Sarah Ramkey at ramkeysm@vcu.edu or visit https://www.gofevo.com/event/Vcualumni7.

Tuesday, Sep. 2, 2025 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Get ready to expand your understanding of what appreciation truly means. To support VCU’s culture of care and appreciation, VCU HR has developed "Appreciation at Work" training sessions based on the book “5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace” by Gary Chapman and Paul White. Those who attend will learn about the languages of appreciation in the workplace; understand the core concepts of meaningful appreciation; and be able to use those skills to build and maintain good working relationships. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.

For more information, contact VCU HR Learning, Development, and Organizational Culture at learndev@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.csod.com/samldefault.aspx?returnUrl=%252fDeepLink%252fProcessRedirect.aspx%253fmodule%253dlodetails%2526lo%253d60cd0c5a-816d-4c53-833e-68963d01f171.

Thursday, Sep. 18, 2025 from 9 a.m. to noon

VCU Career Services will host its next VCU Career Champions training session on the Monroe Park Campus. This program provides faculty and staff with tools, theories and resources to draw upon when supporting students through their career development, experiential learning and job search process. Participants will be recognized as a VCU Career Champion and will receive a certification sticker, digital badge and email signature icon. Space is limited to 50 participants. Registration is required. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Samara Reynolds at sreynolds4@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/Ji57RNoaQtDoBGhu6.

Increase your technical skills and become more marketable to employers with Fundamentals of Computing, a four-course certification program. This program introduces programming, web development, data analytics and cybersecurity. Earn a Capital CoLab Digital Credential as well. If you want more in-depth technical skills, consider adding a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science to your degree program. It complements most degree programs and may not add any time to your degree program: https://egr.vcu.edu/future-students/first-year/undergraduate-degrees/computer-science-bachelors/. Apply at the following URL.

For more information, contact Caroline Budwell at ccbudwell@vcu.edu or (904) 937-8111 or visit https://egr.vcu.edu/departments/computer-science/academics/cs-fundamentals/.

Looking for a welcoming way to become involved on campus? Join a VCU Choir this fall. Make music, make friends and be part of something meaningful. Open to all majors. Choral Arts Society (APPM 359, CRN 29766) No audition required. Commonwealth Singers (APPM 358, CRN 29770) is an advanced mixed choral ensemble. Audition required. Vox Concordia (APPM 378, CRN 32996) is an advanced treble choral ensemble. Audition required.

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

Vox Concordia, VCU's treble choir, is open to all VCU students who sing soprano or alto. Auditions will be held Tuesday, Aug. 19 and Wednesday, Aug. 20. Questions: Visit the following URL.

For more information, contact Lisa Fusco at fuscolc@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/music/ensembles/ensembles-auditions/.

Want to see your day at VCU at a glance, reserve space, track your meal plan, see your employee pay stub, join a group and receive related notifications and more? VCU Technology has the perfect tool. Download the VCU Mobile app with a new look, feel and functionality, for all things VCU. Download VCU Mobile at the following URL. Questions: Email VCU IT Support Center at itsc@vcu.edu.

For more information, contact Gary Garbett at garbettgl@vcu.edu or visit https://mobile.vcu.edu/.

The American Red Cross Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED course is open for VCU students and RecWell members looking to learn how to recognize and care for a variety of first aid, breathing and cardiac emergencies. Participants will earn a certificate that satisfies OSHA requirements for workplace First Aid/CPR/AED training in non-health care settings. Upcoming class dates are Saturday, Aug. 30; Wednesday, Sept. 10; Wednesday, Sept. 17; Saturday, Sept. 20 and Saturday, Sept. 27.

For more information, contact Mat Scott at aquatics@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/Program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=157236e4-f012-4926-b19a-80ba87072981.

VCU's Outdoor Adventure Program will host free Weeks of Welcome trips. Join OAP trip leaders for “Rodney’s Whitewater Raft RAMpage," Tuesday, Aug. 19; “Level Up and Let Go: Mindfulness Stand-Up Paddleboard," Wednesday, Aug. 20; “Rodney’s Rock Quest: RVA Rock Climb, Tuesday," Aug. 26 and “RodneyKart - River Tubing," Wednesday, Aug. 27. All trips run 2-6 p.m. and leave from campus. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Emily Philpott at outdoors@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=c7170552-f6b2-4ea1-92f0-686ea7f7cc32.

VCU HR Benefits will host on-campus days for retirement plan providers at the Lindsey House, 600 W. Franklin St. TIAA will be onsite Monday, Aug. 18; Fidelity on Thursday, Aug. 21; and Voya on Friday, Aug. 22. Contact your provider directly at the following URL to schedule your one-on-one appointment.

For more information, contact Kelvin T. Allen at benefits@vcu.edu or (804) 827-1723.

VCU Health Hub VCU,1330 N. 25th St., Suite A, is seeking a motivated student worker to support its mission in collaboration with different stakeholders to address social determinants of health. This position involves administrative responsibilities. Applicants must be eligible for the Federal Work-Study Program. Questions: Visit the following URL.

For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.joinhandshake.com/jobs/10113908/share_preview.

The Federal Work-Study Program will process work-study Fall hiring requests (ePAFS) only up until Friday, Aug. 29, and all FWS postings in Handshake will close on Friday, Aug. 22. This is to successfully manage the limited work-study funds VCU has been allocated from the federal government, considering both high program usage in recent years and the goal to allow for hiring in Fall and Spring. If you anticipate additional needs within your unit/department beyond that date, you are encouraged to consider alternative funding sources with your fiscal administrator(s).

For more information, contact Federal Work-Study at VCU at workstudy@vcu.edu.

The Global Education Office's Teaching English as a Foreign Language Certificate Program (TEFL) is accepting applications. The TEFL certificate program is an intensive course designed for individuals interested in teaching English to students. In this program, participants will gain work experience, travel abroad and earn money simultaneously. The next program start date is Tuesday, Aug. 19. Apply at https://global.vcu.edu/outreach/specialprograms/tefl/

For more information, contact Nicol Tinsley at nctinsley@vcu.edu or visit https://global.vcu.edu.

Peer Career Advisers (PCAs) assist and advise students during weekly drop-in advising hours with résumé and cover letter writing, job and internship searching and more. They also host presentations for classes and on-campus organizations. Participants must be eligible for the Federal Work-Study Program and able to commit to the 2025-2026 school year. Apply on Handshake at the following URL.

For more information, contact Ashley Worthington at worthingtonar@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.joinhandshake.com/jobs/9984702/share_preview.

Come to Weeks of Welcome events at Shafer Court Dining Center, 810 Cathedral Place. Events include a Snack Attack (Monday, Aug. 18: noon-2 p.m.); free Kona Ice (Tuesday, Aug. 19: noon-while supplies last); Wellness Wednesday (Aug. 20: noon-1:30 p.m.); Back-to-School Cookout (Thursday, Aug, 21: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.); Coffee With Commuters (Monday, Aug. 25, 10 a.m.-midnight); Ice Cream Social (Wednesday, Aug. 27: 4-6 p.m.) and Trivia Night (Thursday, Aug. 28: 5:30-8 p.m.). For details and more events, follow @VCU_Dining on Instagram.

For more information, contact Margaret Massie at dining@vcu.edu or (804) 828-1148 or visit https://vcu.campusdish.com/.

This learning community is designed for both staff and faculty (tenure track and term) to come together to discuss opportunities, strategies and techniques for addressing First-Gen and AAPI inclusiveness in their courses and programs. The learning community will explore ways to develop awareness about and generate strategies to support First Gen and AAPI students through their scholarship, teaching, service and/or programming activities. Regular attendance and engagement in learning community efforts will earn each participant $500 in professional development. The group will meet in person on the following Wednesdays from 2-3 p.m.: Sept. 3, Sept. 17, Oct. 8, Oct. 29, Nov. 19 and Dec. 3. Register at the following URL. Questions: Contact Ellen Carpenter at the following email address or Michelle Yee at yeem@vcu.edu.

For more information, contact Ellen Carpenter at emcarpenter@vcu.edu or (757) 581-9262 or visit https://forms.gle/eT8dr8EnCwTPMv946.

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.

For more information, contact Karen Gorgey at healthyheart@vcu.edu.

Black parents, caregivers and their children (ages 8-12) are invited to share their experiences with race, family mealtimes and health through small group conversations in the Richmond area. This feedback will inform future community programming that promotes family discussions about race, nutritious meals and more. Participating caregivers and youth will receive compensation for their time and insights. If you are still interested, please contact the AYA Collective at ayaresearch@vcu.edu or complete the study screener at the following URL.

For more information, contact Shawn C.T. Jones, Ph.D., at scjones4@vcu.edu or visit https://vcupsych.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2o4YLtcFE7mVnkq.