1 p.m.

James Branch Cabell Library will join organizations around the world to observe Geographic Information Systems Day and maps and their ability to connect people, regions and systems. A program will be held in the lecture hall of the library (Room 303, 901 Park Ave.) Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Ryan Larson at rbpander@vcu.edu or visit https://www.library.vcu.edu/about/events/2025-2026/gis-day.html.

10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Students and faculty of Craft/Material Studies and Painting + Printmaking will host their annual pop-up sales from Wednesday, Nov. 19 through Friday, Nov. 21. The sale will be held each day in the lobby of the Murry N. DePillars Building (1000 W. Broad St). Paintings, prints, jewelry, mugs, vases, bowls and more will be available for purchase. Only Venmo or exact cash will be accepted. No change will be available.

For more information, contact Emmy Garcia at garciaem2@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/event/painting-printmaking-ceramics-and-metals-pop-up-sale/.

10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The VCU Metalsmithing Club is hosting the Pedal to the Medal Sale on Nov. 19-21 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. in the lobby of the Murry N. DePillars Building, 1000 W. Broad St. The event celebrates the creativity of VCU craft students and their learning to create ethical jewelry as informed metalsmiths.

For more information, contact Acacia Olander at olanderaa@vcu.edu.

12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Have you ever thought about leading a study abroad program for first-year students before they come to campus in the fall? Representatives from VCU's Global Education Office will discuss the benefits of these types of programs and how GEO can provide support in planning. The Honors College will share information on their pre-freshman study abroad program, which has been held the last two summers in collaboration with Sant'Anna Institute. Carrie Connolly, associate dean of the Honors College, will review the logistical considerations when working with first-year programs and their positive impact. Join the session in person (James Branch Cabell Library, Room 250, 904 Park Ave.) or virtually (https://bit.ly/BrownBagLunch11-19).

For more information, contact Alex Heyden at levya@vcu.edu or (804) 828-5794 or visit https://global.vcu.edu/international-ed-week/.

12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Join the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs for a timely conversation via Zoom with political scientist Bob Holsworth, Ph.D., to examine the outcomes of Virginia’s 2025 election and their implications for Virginia and the nation. The event will be moderated by Robyn Diehl McDougle, Ph.D. (M.S.’00, Ph.D.’03), Wilder School associate professor and associate dean of research and outreach. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact David Slipher at slipherd@vcu.edu or visit https://wilder.vcu.edu/news-and-events/event-posts/november-2025-lunch-and-learn.html.

12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Join the Staff Senate’s Accessibility and Inclusion Working Group for a virtual lunch and learn session focusing on mental health in the workplace. The session will be led by Jennifer Kell, executive director of Robin’s Hope and a licensed clinical social worker with more than 20 years of experience. Kell will share practical tools and strategies to help navigate and support mental health in the workplace — both for ourselves and for those with whom we work. Register at https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/nXHO4h3JR5y08TffLOBxhQ

For more information, contact Abigail Zaremba at apzaremba@vcu.edu or visit https://staffsenate.vcu.edu/committees/accessibility--inclusion/.

2 p.m. to 2:45 p.m.

The FAO Schwarz Fellowship is an intensive, transformative two-year experience designed for recent college graduates who wish to deepen their knowledge of social equity, pursue careers in social impact and lead the change. Hear directly from current Fellows and fellowship executives and learn how Fellows have used their experience to launch careers in social impact. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.

For more information, contact National Scholarship Office at natlscholar@vcu.edu or visit https://www.faoschwarzfellowship.org/infosessions/?utm_source=emailsml&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=applications_are_open_details_on_the_new_fellowship_positions_november_2025&utm_term=2025-11-05.

3 p.m.

This online workshop, led by a previous McNair Scholar, will equip researchers with strategies to effectively communicate their work to diverse audiences, from academics to the public. 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/.

4 p.m.

Join Amy Rector, Ph.D., (World Studies) and Andrew Crislip, Ph.D., (History) as they share their work on scientific, archeological, historical and spiritual perspectives on human origins and its relevance to contemporary culture. The event will be in the STEM Building, Room 202, 817 W. Franklin St. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Alexis Finc at alfinc@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdnGxDQFeyTjf915FJmdnDHlJgtYYgRCcxzUWvTCigHqw-auA/viewform?usp=dialog.

5:30 p.m.

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 the following URL.

For more information, contact Evan Torpy at torpyec@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/j/84194635932.

5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Virginia Credit Union (VACU) will host a free financial education seminar at the VCU Health Hub, 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A. Learn effective strategies for retirement that can benefit you now and prepare you for your future.

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

7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

VCU's School of Education will host educators and students from around the world at the third annual International Joint Research Symposium - Innovation in Education: Preparing Educators for the Future in Global Contexts. The virtual event will be held Wednesday, Nov. 19 from 7–9:30 p.m. and Thursday, Nov. 20, from 8–10:30 a.m. Register for the first session at https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/MnT110xQSlKE7CevVnqG0A Register for the second session at https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/RO2acgAYQJ6vjfTABe3iIw

For more information, contact Nichole Dorton at nldorton@vcu.edu or (804) 387-3319.

Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Those who attend this virtual session will learn about the Brandcenter experience, its concentrations, admissions and more. Micah Berry, associate director of technical training, will discuss generative AI tools and how Brandcenter approaches new technology. Register at the following URL.

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

Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025 from 11 a.m. to noon

This overview will cover tips for wrapping up your Fall 2025 and starting your Spring 2026 courses. Register at: https://training.vcu.edu/course.aspx?processFlag=2&itemID=18548 Authenticate into the workshop using eID and password. Sponsored by Academic Affairs and Technology Services. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/2324828315?omn=85353886479

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

Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025 from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m.

VCU's Department of Graphic Design will host visiting artists Basel Abbas and Ruanne Abou-Rahme, who work together across a range of sound, image, text, installation and performance practices. Their work is engaged in the intersections between performativity, political imaginaries, the body and virtuality. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.

For more information, contact Luiza Dale at oliveiramal@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/j/87302825915.

Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025 at 12:30 p.m.

Ready to take the next step toward a rewarding career in the legal profession? Join Continuing and Professional Education for our upcoming Certificate in Paralegal Studies informational session to learn how this program can equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed. Register for the Zoom session at the following URL.

For more information, contact Nancy Lowe at nalowe@vcu.edu or visit https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/19a93df906e9409e80a9cb6b9277e218.

Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Painting + Printmaking at VCUarts will present a lecture by visiting artists Daniel Wickerham and Malcolm Lomax at the Murry N. DePillars Building, Room 301 (1000 W. Broad St). Working together since 2009, the duo explores how digital technologies, social spaces and cultural production shape identity, collectivity and the body.

For more information, contact Emmy Garcia at garciaem2@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/event/wickerham-lomax-visiting-artist-lecture/.

Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The Health Hub now holds weekly Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings on Thursdays at 1330 N. 25th St. Meetings may include readings from AA literature, personal stories of recovery and open discussion guided by the Twelve Steps. All who have a desire to stop drinking are welcome, regardless of background or length of sobriety.

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

Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The Science Hub and the Office of Undergraduate Research will host the semester's third Undergraduate Research Series panel in the STEM Building, Room 110, 817 W. Franklin St. Those who attend will have the opportunity to engage and learn from student researchers about their work, their experiences and how they connected with their faculty advisers. Register to attend at https://forms.gle/inj2FrkDRoFYQLrn8

For more information, contact Sunauz Moezzi at moezzis@vcu.edu or visit https://clc.vcu.edu/science-hub/.

Friday, Nov. 21, 2025 from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Preview Day is a limited-capacity event that allows prospective students to see what life is like as a Brandcenter student. Those who atend will tour Brandcenter (103 S. Jefferson St.), attend a forum speaker series and observe a workshop with Google Creative Lab at which Brandcenter students will present work experimenting with Google Gemini and AI storytelling. Register at the following URL.

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

Friday, Nov. 21, 2025 from noon to 1 p.m.

VCU's Division of Community Engagement in the Office of the Provost will host weekly open consultations for faculty, staff and partners to receive guidance and explore how to make the most of Collaboratory: VCU's Database for Community and Civic Engagement Activities and Partnerships in their work. Bring your questions or simply join the event to explore the database. Sessions will be held every Friday. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/81793039272?jst=2

For more information, contact Tani Washington at washingtot8@vcu.edu or visit https://community.vcu.edu/community/collaboratory/.

Friday, Nov. 21, 2025 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center will present Facts and Faith Fridays via Zoom. In a world in which headlines, hashtags and AI-generated content flood our screens, discerning what's true has never been more important - or more complex. In this session Lisa Mangenello will discuss how we can be better equipped to navigate today's digital landscape with wisdom, integrity and a commitment to truth. The Zoom link is https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAlce6sqT8rEtSnqo4cYE4eHJwca-NghmLM#/registration

For more information, contact Rachel Pierce at piercer2@vcu.edu or visit https://www.masseycancercenter.org/facts-and-faith-fridays/.

Monday, Dec. 1, 2025 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The annual university-wide Holiday Open House is hosted by President Michael and Mrs. Monica Rao as an opportunity for the university community to come together and celebrate the holidays prior to winter closing. It is an informal gathering, with food and drink provided in the Commonwealth Ballroom at the University Student Commons. VCU parking subscribers may receive the reciprocal parking for this event and street parking is available for non-subscribers. RSVP using the following URL.

For more information, contact University Events at univevents@vcu.edu or visit http://go.vcu.edu/holidayopenhouse.

The Campus Learning Center's Academic Coaches are here to help undergraduate students tackle their to-do list and get organized for final exams. Set up an appointment at https://forms.gle/GSNMQpBx94bf94MXA

For more information, contact Bridget Prince at bprince@vcu.edu or (804) 827-8108 or visit https://clc.vcu.edu/academic-coaching/.

VCU's new AI policy "Acceptable Use of Generative AI Technology" was officially approved on Nov. 12. This policy aims to ensure that VCU uses GenAI tools ethically, securely and in alignment with the institution's mission to promote real-world learning, innovative research and community engagement. Technology Services encourages all members of the VCU community to review the policy carefully and consider its impacts on your use of Generative AI. Questions: Contact emergingtech@vcu.edu

For more information, contact Peyton Burgess, Ph.D., at emergingtech@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.public.doctract.com/doctract/documentportal/08DE25FC31398F5D486E7414FA311446.

Stay connected to the many supportive programs and resources provided by VCU HR by following their social media platforms. Daily posts share 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 http://www.hr.vcu.edu.

In partnership with VCU, the National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR) will take place at the Greater Richmond Convention Center April 13-15, 2026. NCUR is dedicated to promoting undergraduate research, scholarship and creative activity in all fields of study by sponsoring an annual conference for students. For VCU undergraduates interested in presenting at NCUR in Richmond: abstracts are due no later than Friday, Dec. 5; the Office of Undergraduate Research with University College will cover registration costs, including lunch, for the first 400 VCU students accepted to present at NCUR; and our office will print your poster for you, free of cost, if received by the deadline of April 1, 2026. For undergraduates who are interested in presenting, please review the submission page (https://ncur.secure-platform.com/2026/page/abstract-guidelines) and FAQs (https://ncur.secure-platform.com/2026/page/faqs) in advance of the deadline. The following video (https://tinyurl.com/NCUR2026prep) provides a guide on preparing your abstract for submission. Participants should also check the timeline for important dates.

For more information, contact VCU Office of Undergraduate Research at urop@vcu.edu.

Due to the University closure and the holiday break, the RamsXpress will not run from Wednesday, Nov. 26 through Friday, Nov. 28. Regular operation will resume on Monday, Dec. 1.

For more information, contact Olivia Truban at parking@vcu.edu.

The Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute is offering virtual informational sessions for the 2026 VCU Leadership Development Program. If you are interested in a program and/or have a question, we highly suggest you come to hear from the Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute staff. The 30-minute sessions will highlight learning objectives and program logistics. RSVP on the following URL.

For more information, contact Ron Jones at jonesre22@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSefPBrM6APFGQ7W1rswhBCqusfZ-CfWHX-6-t0LZjdYHr_LfQ/viewform?usp=header.

New Episode: "Inside the Scholar’s Journey – Transition to Scientific Independence" is now available. There’s a moment in every researcher’s journey when the training wheels come off — when the ideas, the direction and the drive must come from within. In this new episode that is now availaable, Caitlin Martin, M.D., M.P.H., and Peter Hamilton, Ph.D., share their experiences stepping into independence, building confidence in their scientific vision and discovering what it truly means to lead their own research. Whether you’re a trainee, a K Scholar or an established investigator reflecting on your own path, this conversation offers honest insight into the freedom, uncertainty and growth that define the journey toward research independence. Tune in to "Inside the Scholar’s Journey" — available now through the Wright Talk podcast channel (via VCU's C. Kenneth and Dianne Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research) on Spotify: (https://open.spotify.com/episode/4RGTojR1bi0IhPZnjJ4PML?si=1z-6WV4oQemi4-jG2tGuDg) and YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGGh0oBhALQ)

For more information, contact Brad Williams at williamsb12@vcu.edu.

Visit the Mary and Frances Youth Center, 120 S. Linden St., during open court times daily to play pickleball or other sports activities. All skill levels are welcome. Weekly open hours are Mondays and Wednesdays, 5-8 p.m.; Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2-5 p.m.; Fridays, noon- 3 p.m.; and Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Questions: Visit the following URL.

For more information, contact Misti Mueller at muellermr@vcu.edu or visit https://mfyc.vcu.edu/events/.

Nominations and applications for Service-Learning Teaching Assistants (SLTAs) for the upcoming semesters are being accepted. SLTAs are undergraduate students who assist an instructor in their service-learning course. If you are interested in having an SLTA, please contact servelearn@vcu.edu or complete an application. You can nominate a student or have one assigned to you by our office.

For more information, contact Antonio Harris at harrisad6@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/EAieBab2ZGz4R1cR6.

Black parents, caregivers and their children (ages 8-12) are invited to share their experiences with race, family meal times and health through a small group conversation 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. Interested? Complete the study screener at the following URL.

For more information, contact AYA Research Team at ayaresearch@vcu.edu or visit https://vcupsych.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2o4YLtcFE7mVnkq.