Faculty/staff Issue for August 28, 2025
Today
VIRBs (VCU IRB System) Research Community Open Lab
1 p.m. to 2 p.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/.
Blood Drive
11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Alpha Phi Omega and the American Red Cross will host a blood drive in the second-floor ballroom of the University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. All donors will receive a giveaway, plus a $15 E-Gift card to their merchant of choice. Appointments are recommended. Sign up at the following URL.
For more information, contact Johanna Adams at adamsjc4@vcu.edu or visit https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=vcu.
Aug. 28 Canvas Overview
11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
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 The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/2324828315?omn=82041491388 Sponsored by Academic Affairs and Technology Services.
For more information, contact Jon Reed at reedjj@vcu.edu or visit https://learningsystems.vcu.edu.
Canvas Under Construction: An Introduction to UDOIT and Quick Accessibility Fixes
12 p.m.
This hands-on workshop via Zoom hosted by LEDstudio will introduce UDOIT and strategies to identify and fix accessibility issues in your Canvas course. Bring a Canvas course to test and improve. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Cairo Jones at jonesc34@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/JryDyKptR8OWqllKEdZZ-A.
VCU DCE Presents: Reimagining Impact - Measuring What Matters in Community Engagement With Community Stakeholders
12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Join the VCU Division of Community Engagement for a virtual workshop with community members and partners to share their insights and lived experiences around working with VCU. The Zoom link is vcu.zoom.us/j/82913646047
For more information, contact Verenda Cobbs at s2vkcobb@vcu.edu or visit https://community.vcu.edu.
VCU Writing Center To Present the Weeks of Welcome: Writing Center Informational Session and Writing With Confidence Workshop
2 p.m.
Discuss the services provided by the Writing Center and learn to break your writing process down 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/.
PennyAppeal First on Scene: Pediatric Edition
7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Join PennyAppeal for the group's first event of the semester in Virginia Rooms A-B on the second floor of the University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. Get to know the group, learn basic first aid skills with hands-on practice and make first aid kits to donate to a local elementary school. The first 10 people to arrive will receive a free first aid kit. Can't make it? Join the group on Instagram (@pennyappealatvcu) or RamsConnect to keep up to date on future events.
For more information, contact PennyAppeal at pennyappealatvcu@gmail.com.
First General Body Meeting of Vietnamese Student Association (VSA@VCU)
7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
VSA@VCU is holding its first general body meeting of the year in the theater of the University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. Get to know the members of the organization and the new board members. The meeting will consist of organizational updates, games and culture lessons.
For more information, contact Gracie Tran at trangr@vcu.edu.
This week
Transfer Con: Transfer Students Assemble
Friday, Aug. 29, 2025 from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Calling all transfer heroes. Whether you're arriving from a community college or another university galaxy, VCU Transfer Con is the ultimate welcome event at which you are the main character. Come for a jam-packed event filled with games, power-up stations (food and drink) and an opportunity to connect with fellow transfer crusaders. So gear up and get ready to unlock your full Ram potential. This is your origin story - make it legendary. The event will be in the University Student Commons Richmond Salons III and IV, 907 Floyd Ave. RSVP at the following URL.
For more information, contact Transfer Center at transferinfo@vcu.edu or (804) 827-1349 or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1939592.
Coming up
Sept. 2 Canvas Assignments and Quizzes
Tuesday, Sep. 2, 2025 from 11 a.m. to noon
This course will cover the various assignments configurable in Canvas, as well as an overview of the Canvas quiz engine. Register at: https://training.vcu.edu/course.aspx?processFlag=2&itemID=18531 The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/2324828315?omn=84009666535 Sponsored by Academic Affairs and Technology Services.
For more information, contact Jon Reed at reedjj@vcu.edu or visit https://learningsystems.vcu.edu.
Sept. 3 Kaltura Overview
Wednesday, Sep. 3, 2025 from 11 a.m. to noon
This workshop will provide an overview of how to create, edit and manage Kaltura media inside and outside a Canvas course. Register at: https://training.vcu.edu/course.aspx?processFlag=2&itemID=18535 The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/2324828315?omn=81840766456
For more information, contact Jon Reed at reedjj@vcu.edu or visit https://learningsystems.vcu.edu.
OnePrint Informational Session
Wednesday, Sep. 3, 2025 from noon to 1 p.m.
Join Telecommunications Services for an informational session on OnePrint, VCU’s university-wide managed print program. The session will feature an overview of the available systems, highlight key features and answer questions. This session is geared for anyone who has questions about printing or wants to make the most of the OnePrint program. Authenticate into the Zoom meeting using your eID and password. Register at https://training.vcu.edu/.
For more information, contact Warren Mays at wemays@vcu.edu.
Wilder School Session on Master of Urban and Regional Planning Program
Thursday, Sep. 4, 2025 at noon
Join the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs for a virtual session with Meghan Gough, Ph.D., and Sarah Raskin, Ph.D., to learn more about the Master of Urban and Regional Planning program. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Ross Losapio at losapior@vcu.edu or (804) 827-0364 or visit https://bit.ly/murp0904.
Community Engagement Networking Social for Faculty and Staff
Thursday, Sep. 4, 2025 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
The VCU Division of Community Engagement will host a networking social at Triple Crossing Beer, 5203 Hatcher St. Join colleagues for an evening of networking, refreshments and lively conversation. Be prepared to purchase your own food and drinks.
For more information, contact Verenda Cobbs at s2vkcobb@vcu.edu or visit https://community.vcu.edu.
ACCESS Seventh Annual Symposium
Saturday, Sep. 6, 2025 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The seventh annual ACCESS Global Health Symposium will be hosted by Edgar Rodas, M.D., and the Acute Care and Systems Strengthening in Low Resource Settings Program (ACCESS) at the VCU School of Medicine. The event will take place in the James W. and Frances G. McGlothlin Medical Education Center (MMEC), 1201 E. Marshall St. ACCESS is a longitudinal, academic curriculum-based acute care program aimed to prepare medical students to become leaders in global health care delivery and systems strengthening in low resource settings. The full-day event will include lectures, interactive workshops, research presentations and networking opportunities. The theme of the event is "Sustainable and Resilient Global Health: Strategies for Thriving in an Uncertain World.” Register for the symposium at the following URL.
For more information, contact Sarah Baig at baigsa@vcu.edu or (571) 243-5870 or visit https://www.tixtree.com/e/7th-access-global-health-symposium-f030c2aac765.
Auctus September GBM
Sunday, Sep. 7, 2025 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Join Auctus' September GBM to learn how to get your research, art and creative works published in VCU's undergraduate journal. Learn how you can join the editorial team and work with peers and faculty and about officer position openings for this year. Learn how you can be a section editor. Join RamsConnect to receive Auctus updates: https://vcu.campusgroups.com/auctus/club_signup The session will be in the Honors College multipurpose room, Room 1303, 701 W. Grace St.
For more information, contact Auctus at auctus@vcu.edu or visit https://auctus.vcu.edu.
Sept. 10 Kaltura Overview
Wednesday, Sep. 10, 2025 from 11 a.m. to noon
This workshop will provide an overview of how to create, edit and manage Kaltura media inside and outside a Canvas course. Register at: https://training.vcu.edu/course.aspx?processFlag=2&itemID=18536. Authenticate into meeting using your eID and password. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/2324828315?omn=89975807619
For more information, contact Jon Reed at reedjj@vcu.edu or visit https://learningsystems.vcu.edu.
Sept. 11 Canvas Gradebook
Thursday, Sep. 11, 2025 from 11 a.m. to noon
This workshop will cover the various configurations of Canvas Gradebook, as well as how to use Speedgrader within Canvas. Register at: https://training.vcu.edu/course.aspx?processFlag=2&itemID=18534 Authenticate into workshop with eID and password. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/2324828315?omn=89479731516 Sponsored by Academic Affairs and Technology Services.
For more information, contact Jon Reed at reedjj@vcu.edu or visit https://learningsystems.vcu.edu.
Fall 2025 Global Initiatives Master Class Series: International Student Success
Tuesday, Sep. 23, 2025 from 11 a.m. to noon
The Global Education Office will hold the first workshop of the Fall 2025 Global Initiatives Master Class Series: International Student Success in the Richmond Salon IV, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. Register at http://events.riseagainsthunger.org/VCUAugust26 Vivian Wang, Ph.D., vice provost for global engagement of the University of Tulsa, will present the workshop, "From Students to Global Ambassadors: A Strategic Approach to International Alumni Engagement." Wang will present a comprehensive approach for supporting international students.
For more information, contact Nicol Tinsley at nctinsley@vcu.edu or (804) 426-8053 or visit https://global.vcu.edu/master-class-series.
Research Administrator Day 2025
Friday, Sep. 26, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
VCU Research Administrator Day will feature presentations, activities and roundtable discussions focusing on the research administrator profession and community. Register via Talent@VCU or at the following email address. Lunch will be provided. Learn more and view the detailed agenda at the following URL.
For more information, contact Cathy Short at cfshort@vcu.edu or visit https://controller.vcu.edu/training/events/.
Research Administration Back to School Meeting (RABTS)
Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
The fall RABTS meeting, hosted by the Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation's (OVPRI) Sponsored Programs and Grants and Contracts Accounting, will include speakers and updates centered around disseminating information related to research administration and compliance issues. All individuals involved in research administration or interested are welcome to attend. Register via Talent@VCU at the following URL.
For more information, contact Cathy Short at cfshort@vcu.edu or visit https://controller.vcu.edu/training/events/.
National Conflict Resolution Day
Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025 from 9 a.m. to noon
The Office of the University Ombudsperson will sponsor the 12th annual National Conflict Resolution Day event. "Navigating Difficult Situations in a Moving Landscape" is this year's theme. The event will feature a keynote address from nationally known conflict resolution practitioners, strategies for managing conflict and an interactive dialogue with those in attendance. The event will be held in the Virginia Rooms of the University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Michele Murray at mmurray2@vcu.edu or visit https://ombudsperson.vcu.edu/events/national-conflict-resolution-day/.
Notices
RecWell Certification: Lifeguard Training
Learn how to prevent, recognize, respond to and care for aquatic and breathing/cardiac emergencies that may occur in or around the water. Learn critical thinking and communication skills that are crucial to an effective emergency response. This course meets the requirements for lifeguard employment at many pool facilities but may not meet requirements for waterfront, waterpark or specialty facilities. The class runs Friday, Sept. 12 through Sunday, Sept. 14 at Cary Street Gym Aquatic Center, 101 S. Linden St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Mat Scott at aquatics@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/program?classificationId=2ce927aa-e031-40e6-b64c-d3a8ac5d6876.
RecWell American Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED Course
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. September class dates are Sept. 14, Sept. 18 and Sept. 28. Register at the following URL.
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 at Your Fingertips - VCU Mobile
Want to see your day at VCU at a glance, reserve space, track your meal plan, see your employee paystub, join a group and receive related notifications, and more? Visit VCU Technology Services at the following URL to download the VCU Mobile app.
For more information, contact Gary Garbett at garbettgl@vcu.edu or visit https://mobile.vcu.edu/.
2025 Health Hub Community Ambassador Applications Open
The Community Ambassador Program connects East End residents with the VCU Health Hub at 25th. Ambassadors serve as liaisons and leaders, helping to build trust, encouraging community engagement and uplifting the needs of residents. Apply by Friday, Aug. 29 at the following URL. Limited spots are available.
For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfDI1rm-ANeE4nLQDE3a-vxycFN6qjDChr2IC1w_WE7trsVKw/viewform?usp=header.
Ethics of AI Course
Join VCU Continuing and Professional Education for an asynchronous online, noncredit Ethics of AI course designed for faculty, staff, students, researchers, ethics and compliance officers, technology professionals and anyone with an interest in AI. Learn more and register at ocpe.vcu.edu/ai. VCU alumni/staff/faculty discounts are available. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Laura Wilson at baxterl@vcu.edu or visit http://ocpe.vcu.edu/ai.
Translational Science Pilot Grant Webinar
Wright Regional Center for Clinical and Translational Science at VCU will host a webinar (Wednesday, Sept. 3 at 5-6 p.m.) to discuss their Translational Science Pilot Grant funding mechanism. Faculty researchers are eligible and may apply for up to $25,000 to fund their projects. Applications are due by Monday, Nov. 3. Register at the following URL: https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/cYzAn7PWSyCpjZ78GePKnw
For more information, contact Jennifer Economy at japhifer@vcu.edu or visit https://cctr.vcu.edu/support/funding/translational-science-pilot-grants/.
VCU Parking and Transportation to Implement Cashless Payment Effective Oct. 1
Effective Wednesday, Oct. 1, VCU customer service offices will be transitioning to fully cashless payment. All payments must be made via card - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, mobile (tap) or check.
For more information, contact Olivia Truban at parking@vcu.edu.
Pickleball Open Court Fall 2025
The doors of the Mary and Frances Youth Center, 120 S. Linden St., will be open starting Monday, Sept. 15 for open court Pickleball play for the fall semester. Come to the center on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5-8 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2-5 p.m. and on the weekends from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Courts are open to all VCU students, staff and faculty as well as members of the community. No equipment is needed. Questions: Visit https://mfyc.vcu.edu/
For more information, contact Misti Mueller at muellermr@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/10Vo05USr8hQJ2C4oZDrFOygOeuaD8WXs9OgacJs6z5w/edit?usp=sharing.
Are You an Expecting Parent of a Black Child? Participants Invited for a Study on Parenting and Race (Compensation Provided)
Be part of VCU's AYA Collective Research Team's ongoing study called ROOTED Endeavor. We're discussing racial socialization with romantically involved couples who are expecting (e.g., pregnant) a Black child. Explore how racial factors shape parenting through five virtual interviews every six months involving both parents and brief online questionnaires every three months. Compensation will be provided for every interview and every questionnaire. Ready to join? Complete the eligibility 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_3k4TWXvqDDvYd9A.
Participants Invited for a Study Examining Psychosocial Stress and Cardiovascular Health in Sexual and Gender Minority Adults
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.
Risk-Taking in Eating Disorders Study
The Translational Research on Eating and Affect (TREAT) Lab is recruiting adolescents and young adults assigned female at birth (aged 12 to 25 years) for a brain imaging study to understand risky decision-making in individuals who have concerns about their body shape/weight, or overeat, purge, use laxatives, diet severely or exercise excessively. We are also investigating these processes in individuals without a psychological disorder. There will be compensation for participation. See the survey at the following URL.
For more information, contact Kelsey Hagan, Ph.D., PI, at treatlab@vcuhealth.org or (804) 827-4174 or visit https://redcap.vcu.edu/surveys/?s=48YEAYT8MK33E8EJ.
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.