Student Issue for January 21, 2026
Today
Kidney Health Screening (KARE-RVA) at the VCU Health Hub
1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Free kidney health screening event with simple tests and education. Learn about kidney health and connect with resources to support your well-being. The event will be at the VCU Health Hub, 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A, and will be hosted by VCU Health's Kidney Awareness Risk Screening and Education.
For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at 25th at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu.
Wednesday Walks With the Health Hub
12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Looking for a group that offers participants the space to connect with others, nature and improve your health? Look no further. The Health Hub will host Wednesday Walks in Church Hill, which will begin and end at the Health Hub, 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A. Each walk will highlight different parts of the neighborhood.
For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at 25th at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu.
Lecture by Visiting Artist Chloë Bass
3 p.m.
VCU's Department of Sculpture + Extended Media will present a lecture by visiting artist Chloë Bass at the Institute for Contemporary Art at the Markel Center, 601 W. Broad St. Bass is a multiform conceptual artist who works in performance, situation, conversation, publication and installation. Her work uses daily life as a site of deep research to address scales of intimacy: where patterns hold and break as group sizes expand.
For more information, contact Emmy Garcia at garciaem2@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/event/chloe-bass-visiting-artist-lecture/.
VCU Writing Center Workshop: AI Prompt Crafting Workshop
3 p.m.
Join the VCU Writing Center online via Zoom to learn the basics of AI and prompt crafting by developing effective strategies for understanding Large Language Models (LLMs). Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.
France Study Abroad Informational Session
6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Want to live la vie en rose? Join the Department of Political Science for a Zoom informational session on "Women in Global Politics" – a Summer Study Abroad course in Aix-en-Provence, France. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jessica Trisko Darden at triskodardj@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/zzgXc4zrDiyxnxDD9.
Study Women in Global Politics in Provence, France
6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
VCU's Department of Political Science and Jessica Trisko-Darden, Ph.D., will host an informational session via Zoom to explore studying women in global politics this summer (May 30-June 20) in Aix-en-Provence, France. Learn more about the cultural opportunities this trip will provide, in addition to studying women's political and historical experiences in France and beyond. Take day trips to nearby beaches, visit Marseille, have the option to spend the weekend in Paris, take an indigo fabric dyeing workshop, and more, all while learning about how women's complex role in global politics. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/5165149487?omn=89453388887
For more information, contact Professor Trisko-Darden at triskodardj@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.studioabroad.com/_portal/tds-program-brochure?programid=11756.
This week
Objects + Methods Lecture Series
Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026 at 12:30 p.m.
Join the Department of Graphic Design in kicking off the Spring 2026 Objects + Methods lecture series. The semester’s first lecture will be held via Zoom, and will be a presentation on GDES faculty research. The lecture series focuses on expansive conversations around design practices.
For more information, contact Luiza Dale at oliveiramal@vcu.edu or visit https://objectsandmethods.net/.
Study Abroad Program in South Korea (SU26)
Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Register for the VCU School of Social Work’s summer study abroad program in South Korea, May 26–June 6 (SLWK 391 and SLWK 770: Korea in Transition, 3 credits). Open to students of all majors, with a $2,000 scholarship available. Students will experience an immersive journey exploring Korean society, culture, and emerging social issues through on-site visits, lectures, and hands-on learning. Informational sessions will be today, Thursday, Jan. 22; Thursday, Jan. 29, and Tuesday, Feb. 3 at 2 p.m. (Academic Learning Commons, Room 3100, 1000 Floyd Ave.); Jan. 22 and Tuesday, Feb. 3 at 7 p.m (online). Learn more and apply: https://vcu.studioabroad.com/_portal/tds-program-brochure?programid=11759. Questions? Contact Youngmi Kim at ykim@vcu.edu or Alex Heyden at levya@vcu.edu.
For more information, contact Youngmi Kim, Ph.D., at ykim@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.studioabroad.com/_portal/tds-program-brochure?programid=11759.
Cookies and Cocoa: School of World Studies Welcome-Back Gathering
Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Join the School of World Studies to celebrate the beginning of the Spring semester. All students and faculty are welcome and hot chocolate and cookies will be provided. The session will be held in the STEM Building, Room 112, 817 W. Franklin St.
For more information, contact Katie Taguchi at katiet@vcu.edu or visit https://worldstudies.vcu.edu/events/event-items/sws-welcome-back-gathering.html.
Celebrate the Legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. at VCU's Keynote Celebration
Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026 at 5 p.m.
Celebrate the life and legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. along with VCU faculty, staff, students and community partners at the Institute for Contemporary Art at the Markel Center, 601 W. Broad St. The evening will feature conversations with community leaders, opportunities for connection and a blend of art, music, food and more. The event is free but registration at the following URL is required.
For more information, contact Alliannah Hamilton at hamiltonae@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfiYkenUpq_n2RYdnDcjBlb8j_t1K7StY2Pit2UlutrZz1e5Q/viewform.
Taste of Jewish Richmond Networking Event and Dinner
Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Students and recent alumni have the opportunity to connect with Jewish professionals in the Richmond community over a complimentary dinner sponsored by the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond. Hear from Jewish young professionals about why they chose to stay in Richmond or return after college — and the benefits of building a career and life here. The event will be at Weinstein JCC, 5403 Monument Ave. Come for the food, stay for the connections and insights. Register on the Hillel website at the following URL.
For more information, contact Sheri at info@hillelatvcu.org or visit https://www.hillelatvcu.org/calendar.
Sorority Formal Recruitment Interest Meeting
Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026 at 7 p.m.
The College Panhellenic Council with Fraternity and Sorority Life will host an event at which students interested in joining a sorority through spring formal recruitment can learn about and register for the upcoming formal recruitment from Friday, Jan. 30 to Sunday, Feb. 1. The session will be held in the SGA Senate Chambers, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. Questions: Contact Keila Vanda at the following email address or cpcvprecruitment1@gmail.com
For more information, contact Keila Vanda at vandake@vcu.edu or (813) 944-8674.
Industry Talks Webinar: Real Estate Market Forecast
Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
The Kornblau Real Estate Program will host Industry Talks: 2026 Market Forecast webinar. This panel discussion will focus on the Richmond market, overall, with some specific touches to the real estate industry. Registration is required. Join online or in-person at our Watch Party in Snead Hall, Room B2165, 301 W. Main St. A virtual link will be emailed following registration.
For more information, contact Jaclyn Witthoefft at witthoefftjh@vcu.edu or (804) 357-5105 or visit https://connect.business.vcu.edu/register/?id=e3cc4088-728c-4023-b401-bec2a27a3b39.
Ladies Leading Legacy (L3): Protect Your Crown Event
Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026 from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Join Ladies Leading Legacy (L3) and Cultured Crowns Studio (721 W. Broad St.) for a hands-on tutorial featuring protective styles to keep your hair healthy and styled for success. After the education portion of the event, those who attend will be able to workshop some of the styles presented with the help of members of the group's e-board and the founder of Cultured Crowns. Participants will receive a gift bag of hair care essentials. Register on RamsConnect at the following URL.
For more information, contact Niya Shorts at shortsna@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.campusgroups.com/ladiesleadinglegacy/rsvp_boot?id=1943780.
Coming up
Third Annual Sankofa Pinning Ceremony
Monday, Jan. 26, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Join VCU Alumni and the Black Alumni Council Mentoring Circle for the Third Annual Sankofa Pinning Ceremony in the University Student Commons, Richmond Salons, 907 Floyd Ave. The evening will feature a formal pinning ceremony and a networking reception catered by Family Secrets with music provided by DJ Smook. Open to VCU students, staff, faculty and alumni, this celebration brings together the VCU community to honor mentorship, achievement and the spirit of Sankofa, looking back to move forward together.
For more information, contact Sharron McDaniel at mcdanielst@vcu.edu or visit https://www.givecampus.com/schools/VirginiaCommonwealthUniversity/events/2026-sankofa-pinning-ceremony.
Confident Public Speaking for Researchers
Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.
This workshop, facilitated by the Graduate School's Office of Professional Development, is designed to move participants beyond simply reading slides and into becoming a truly confident and compelling communicator. Participants who attend this workshop have the opportunity to receive the Introduction to Public Speaking for Graduate Students badge. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Hali Massey at dayberryhj@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1942893.
Academic Community Planning Partnership Grant
Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.
The Division of Community Engagement invites faculty interested in community-engaged research to register for an informational session on the Academic–Community Planning Grants. Learn how this opportunity supports meaningful partnerships with community collaborators, advances engaged scholarship, and ask questions about applying. Register at the following URL. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/88414126359
For more information, contact Challen Wellington at wellingtonc@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeLzZXtKj_d9uSPq3KXK5HTyW1gFrS37Mrye6TdRbEl3O1ktQ/viewform?usp=header.
Evaluating and Synthesizing Research Evidence in Systematic Reviews: Process and Tools
Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026 from noon to 1:30 p.m.
VCU Center for Rehabilitation Science and Engineering will present the Rehabilitation Research Grand Rounds, featuring Ron Seel, Ph.D., via Zoom. Learn processes and tools for synthesizing research evidence and identifying effective health interventions. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Joshua Hahn at hahnj2@vcu.edu or visit https://pmr.vcu.edu/research/cerse-grand-rounds/.
Navigating How to Communicate With Your Supervisor to Help You Achieve Success at Work
Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Are you a working student? Don’t miss this month’s professional development workshop on communication. In this interactive session, student staff will participate in discussion surrounding your communication style and how to leverage it. Join a guided reflection and conversation to demystify what it means to "Manage Up" in current and future roles, as well as other practical tips for effective communication. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Aimee Selleck at selleckap@vcu.edu or visit https://tinyurl.com/JanStuSesh.
TEDxVCU Adventure: Tour Hollywood Cemetery
Friday, Feb. 6, 2026 at 2 p.m.
TEDxVCU will sponsor a guided walk through Hollywood Cemetery led by Amy Tudor, Ph.D., a VCU assistant professor and past TEDx Bloom speaker. The tour will take 45 minutes to an hour and is a short walk from campus. Meet at the James Cabell Library. Follow the TEDxVCU instagram for more information.
For more information, contact TEDxVCU at tedx@vcu.edu.
Central VA SOCRA Chapter Meeting: The AI Research Assistant: Ethical, Efficient, Everyday Use
Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026 from 11 a.m. to noon
The Central Virginia Society of Clinical Research Associates and the C. Kenneth and Dianne Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research will host a virtual meeting via Zoom. A previously held webinar sponsored by the Trial Innovation Network will be viewed followed by discussion. CE will be provided to SOCRA members. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Shirley Helm at shelm@vcu.edu or (804) 241-7340 or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/B6B8tlImSYGCzEEyHPGGkQ.
Notices
Preparing for an Upcoming Career Fair? Drop-in Advising Is Available at Career Services
VCU has career fairs coming up today, Thursday, Jan. 22 and Wednesday, Feb. 4. Learn more about how to register, questions to ask employers, or update your résumé. Stop by the VCU Career Services Office in the University Student Commons, Room 143, 907 Floyd Ave. During drop-in hours. A Peer Career Adviser will be available to answer questions (no appointment needed) weekly Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
For more information, contact Ashley Worthington at worthingtonar@vcu.edu or visit https://careers.vcu.edu/about/contact-us/.
Open Pickleball Is Back
Starting this weekend, the Mary and Frances Youth Center, 120 S. Linden St., will be opening the pickleball courts for open play. Hours are Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m.-4 p.m. When the weather moderates, hours will be extended and some weekday options will be offered.
For more information, contact Misti Mueller at muellermr@vcu.edu or (804) 305-1134.
Email Delivery Ending to Former @mymail.vcu.edu Email Addresses
On Jan. 30, 2026, delivery of emails addressed to former @mymail.vcu.edu addresses will end. Accounts affected have been notified directly. Learn more at the following URL.
For more information, contact Doctor Gee at drgee@vcu.edu or visit https://go.vcu.edu/kb/mymail.
RecWell OAP New Mexico Mountain-Desert Ramble Spring Break 2026
Travel with VCU's Outdoor Adventure Program for a week of hiking and skiing in the rugged mountains of the New Mexico Rockies, from sunny desert landscapes to the powdery slopes of Taos Mountain Resort. No camping, hiking or ski experience is necessary, but comfort in cold weather is a must. $1,000/students, $1,500/RecWell members, $2,000/nonmembers. Price does not include airfare or ski/snowboard rentals. Ski lessons will be available for purchase. Email outdoors@vcu.edu for an interest packet or to attend a trip meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 27.
For more information, contact Christina Spohn at outdoors@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/Program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=64f1bff4-83dd-4b86-a3a8-f6b67a1c17d5.
RecWell Small Group Training: Weights of Wellness Session 1
Participants will work in a small group with a certified personal trainer to learn the foundational methods of resistance training and workout design. Starting with basic movements, the class will progress to more advanced exercise. Each week, participants will learn about new equipment and exercises to increase confidence in the weight room using strength machines, resistance bands, cable stacks and free weights to build skill and knowledge of proper technique and progressions. Sessions run Monday, Jan. 26, through Wednesday, March 4, M/W 4:30-5:30 p.m. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Abbas Sherazi at fitness@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/Program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=411621d2-6c5d-4d48-a32f-b4d2a940ac0e.
Be an Orientation Leader This Summer
VCU's Office of Orientation and Transition Programs is hiring Orientation Leaders. This is a paid position with additional benefits including competitive pay, on-campus summer housing available, meals during orientation sessions and transferable leadership skills for your résumé. The priority deadline is Sunday, Feb. 1. Apply at the following URL. Questions: Contact newrams@vcu.edu
For more information, contact Andy Riddler at riddlerap@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/7HDKZRPe9SYzHmya8.
Looking for Experienced Editors to Join an SGA Caucus
The Documentary Filmmaking and Student Government Association History Preservation Caucus seeks new members who have experience with video editing software, particularly Adobe Premiere Pro. Time commitment is minimal. If interested, please contact Natalie Bowen at the following email address.
For more information, contact Natalie Bowen at bowennm@vcu.edu.
Participants Are Invited for Study Examining the Impact of Exercise on Cardiovascular Health
This research study is inviting individuals between the ages of 20 and 24 with poor sleep quality. The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of aerobic and resistance exercise on cardiovascular responses and vascular inflammation. 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 The KHS Healthy Heart Lab at healthyheart@vcu.edu.
For more information, contact Garrett Oehlert at healthyheart@vcu.edu.
Don’t Let Your 'Some Day' Turn Into Never'
Redefining BMI is a research study at the VCU School of Public Health. Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to receive one of two programs to help manage their weight by making changes to eating and physical activity. Both programs involve attending virtual group-based sessions led by a trained lifestyle coach over the course of 12 months. This study also asks participants to attend in-person data collection visits before beginning the program, and then again at four, eight and 12 months after beginning the program. Visit the following URL to learn more and take a quick survey if you may be eligible.
For more information, contact Redefining BMI at bmiproject@vcu.edu or (804) 828-5362 or visit https://www.redefiningbmi.com/.
Other resources
VCU Libraries workshops
See a schedule of workshops and classes that teach how to use collections and databases.
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