Student Issue for February 10, 2026
Today
Workshop: AI Prompt Crafting
1 p.m.
The VCU Writing Center will host a workshop via Zoom. 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/.
Hub Club: A Mental Wellness Circle Presents: Self Love
12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Learn more about yourself and the way you love while diving into self-care activities at the Hub Club, 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A. Join VCU Health Hub's community health worker Ivy Bell and Massey Cancer Center in this program dedicated to the best kind of love.
For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu.
Fulbright Scholarship Informational Session
2 p.m.
Join the National Scholarship Office to learn about the Fulbright U.S. Student Program, which provides funding for recent graduates and graduate students to spend an academic year abroad pursuing an independent project or a year of postgraduate study, or teaching English. The session will be in person (701 W. Grace St., Room 1210) and via Zoom. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact VCU National Scholarship Office at natlscholar@vcu.edu or (804) 828-6868 or visit https://forms.gle/j5JPAHwtWMxjiLFq9.
Lecture by Visiting Artist Dean Moss
3 p.m.
VCUarts Kinetic Imaging will host a lecture by visiting artist Dean Moss in the auditorium of the Institute for Contemporary Art at the Markel Center, 601 W. Broad St. A Q&A hosted by Kinetic Imaging Assistant Professor, Shawné Michaelain Holloway will follow. Moss is an interdisciplinary choreographer and video artist
For more information, contact VCUarts Kinetic Imaging at kineticimage@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/event/visiting-artist-lecture-dean-moss/.
Beyond the Paycheck: Understanding Benefits Before Your First Job
6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Your first job offer is exciting, but benefits can be confusing. Come to Beyond the Paycheck: Understanding Benefits in Your First Job Offer with Abby Benson, HR Generalist and Benefits Administrator at GRTC. Learn what benefits to look for, how to evaluate compensation beyond salary and what to ask before accepting an offer. The session will be held in Room B2165, Snead Hall, 301 W. Main St. The sponsor is Shamyra Hoggard-Wilkerson. Questions: Email vcu.shrm@gmail.com
For more information, contact Cooper Meidinger at meidingerca@vcu.edu.
This week
Wednesday Walks With the Health Hub
Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.
Looking for a group to provide you the space to connect with others, nature and improve your health? The Health Hub hosts Wednesday Walks. Each Wednesday from noon-1 p.m. participants have the opportunity to join the Health Hub on a walk in Church Hill. Each walk will begin and end at the Health Hub, 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A. and will go through different parts of the neighborhood.
For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu.
Tap In: Game Night Live
Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Join VCU's Office of Multicultural Student Affairs (OMSA) for a game night with mini-games, catered food from Jamaica House and a raffle with prizes. Show up, play games, earn raffle tickets and tune in as the event is livestreamed on Instagram with live hosting and chat engagement. Three raffle winners will be announced at the end. Raffle prizes will include an Amazon Echo Show 5, air humidifier with essential oils, room LED lights and a mini zen garden kit. The event will be in Richmond Salons III-IV, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. Attendance at all OMSA events is open to VCU students, faculty and staff. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jair Lecky at leckyjj@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1944467.
Host Badge Training
Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Learn hospitality. Build deeper connections. College is easier when you find a place where you belong. The Pace Host Badge Training will give you practical ways to create that sense of belonging for yourself and others. Over dinner at the Pace Center, 700 W. Franklin St., you’ll learn how to welcome people into a space, guide conversations and form deeper connections with the people you meet. Open to all VCU students – come as you are, leave with tools to make community wherever you go.
For more information, contact the Rev. Russ Kerr at kerrr@vcu.edu or (804) 658-4064 or visit https://www.thepacecenter.com/.
Becoming a PreK-12 Teacher Informational Session With RTR Teacher Residency Program
Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Have a passion for children? Want a high-impact career? Want to champion social justice? Fuel dreams? Dedicate your life to making a difference while getting a fully paid education? RTR Teacher Residency is for you. RTR is a teacher residency program in the VCU School of Education that equips passionate future teachers with the tools to teach for change. Learn more at our informational session. Questions: Visit https://connect.soe.vcu.edu/portal/soeinfosessions Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Sabrina L. Evans at evanssl4@vcu.edu or (571) 294-4115 or visit https://connect.soe.vcu.edu/register/RTRFeb11th.
Hillel Basketball Watch Party
Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.
VCU alumni and students come together for a basketball watch party at Pizza and Beer of Richmond, 2553 W. Cary St. Connect with Rams new and old, cheer on the team and build Jewish community together. RSVP at the following URL.
For more information, contact Sheri Rodman at info@hillelatvcu.org or visit https://www.hillelatvcu.org/calendar.
Kidney Health Screening (KARE-RVA) at the VCU Health Hub
Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026 from 9 a.m. to noon
Free kidney health screening with simple tests and education will be offered at the VCU Health Hub, 1330, N. 25th St., Suite A. Learn about kidney health and connect with resources to support your well-being.
For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu.
State of the University
Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026 at 11 a.m.
Join President Michael Rao, Ph.D., for the State of the University Address in the James Branch Cabell Library, Lecture Hall, Room 303, 901 Park Ave. Doors will open at 10:30 a.m. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information please visit https://go.vcu.edu/sotu.
For more information, contact University Events at UNIVevents@vcu.edu or visit https://go.vcu.edu/sotu.
Funding for Community Engaged Research
Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.
Interested in community-engaged research and building equitable partnerships? Join the Community Engagement Research Series to examine the role of funders in community-engaged research – from project design to partnership development. The next session, to be held via Zoom, will feature speakers Frannie Noble, Suzannah Stora and Ariana Bracalente. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Challen Wellington at wellingtonc@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeBI298g_D1yH9kSCp9dXnwcq1zU54RPx3-xDXiox8421G2iw/viewform?usp=header.
Pack with a Purpose: A Care Kit Party
Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026 from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Join Hillel for a hands-on service event at Hillel House, 918 W. Grace St., to pack care kits with sanitary and toiletry items to support community dignity. RSVP at the following URL.
For more information, contact Sheri Rodman at info@hillelatvcu.org or visit https://www.hillelatvcu.org/calendar.
The Undergraduate Research Series
Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The Science Hub and the Office of Undergraduate Research will present the first Undergraduate Research Series panel of the semester in Room 112, STEM Building, 817 W. Franklin St. Want to become involved in research but not sure how? This panel will feature undergrad student researchers who share about their work, their experiences and how they connected with their faculty advisers. To register to attend and to submit questions for panelists, visit https://forms.gle/z6xELi9XSTXYgmeA6
For more information, contact Sunauz Moezzi at moezzis@vcu.edu or visit https://clc.vcu.edu/science-hub/.
Bicycle Repair Workshop: Fix-a-Flat
Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026 from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Fix-a-Flat is a class for every bicycle rider of any skill level. Come get your hands dirty, where everyone will get the experience of swapping out and patching a tube. Discover the difference between a flat caused by debris in the road and a flat caused by low air pressure. Register at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd_Pf-LobARYwQQt_CMYfwlzjq_NgSeJZOzwsCLyw6FtZnR2Q/viewform?usp=sf_link
For more information, contact Taylor Welch at welchto@vcu.edu or (804) 828-2453 or visit https://bikes.vcu.edu/events/.
From Poland With Love (and Detours) Magdalena Adamek Faculty Recital
Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026 at 7 p.m.
Pianist Magdalena Adamek, doctor of music, will present an evening celebrating Polish piano music, performed alongside young promising guest artists. The program explores both tradition and experimentation, featuring works by Chopin, Bacewicz, Szymanowski, Zarębski and others. The performance will take place in the W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts, 922 Park Ave. Tickets are $5 for VCU students and $14 for the general public. VCU Music students attend for free. Tickets: arts.vcu.edu/music-tickets
For more information, contact Natalie Hale at halene@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/event/from-poland-with-love-and-detours-magdalena-adamek-faculty-recital/.
Coming up
East End Heart Health Fair at VCU Health Hub
Monday, Feb. 16, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Join the Pauley Heart Center in celebrating Heart Health Month at the East End Heart Health Fair at VCU Health Hub, 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A. Enjoy free screenings, actifities, lunch and giveways.
For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu.
AI and the Future of Patient Care – A VCU Common Book Event and Lunch
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The VCU College of Health Professions will present "AI and the Future of Patient Care," featuring Gabriel Alain, PT, DPT, Ph.D., of The Ohio State University. A keynote address will precede lunch and a panel discussion. The event will be in the College of Health Profesions auditorium, 900 E. Leigh St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Ashley Joiner at joinera@vcu.edu or visit https://chp.vcu.edu/student-success/common-book/.
Service Learning Informational Session
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Curious about service-learning? Come to this informational session to learn how service-learning enhances student learning through real-world experience, supports faculty with high-impact teaching and community partnerships and creates meaningful, reciprocal service that benefits the community. Participants will explore available resources, course options and designations and ways to become involved in service-learning and experiential education across the institution. The informational session will be held in Room 4100, Academic Learning Commons (MCALC), 1000 Floyd Ave. Sessions will be held throughout the semester. RSVP at the following URL for a suitable date, time and location.
For more information, contact Antonio Harris at harrisad6@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/fnkgEiYh4zbDvcYz6.
Historically VCU: Generations in Conversation
Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Historically VCU: Generations in Conversation is VCU Alumni Relations’ signature Black History Month experience, bringing alumni together to honor legacy, share stories and build meaningful intergenerational connections. Come for an evening of fireside conversations, community dialogue and celebration to uplift Black excellence at VCU and explore the lessons shaping our future. Food will be available, as will a performance by the VCU Black Awakening Choir, making this a night to connect, reflect and celebrate together. The event will be at the Institute for Contemporary Art at the Markel Center, 601 W. Broad St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Tiera Byrd at mcguiretj@vcu.edu or visit https://bit.ly/49IXzvN.
Danielle Wiebe-Burke Faculty Viola Recital
Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026 at 7 p.m.
VCUarts Music will present a viola recital by Adjunct Professor of Viola Danielle Wiebe-Burke at the W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts, 922 Park Ave. Praised for “highly idiomatic, richly varied” playing, Mexican-Canadian Wiebe-Burke is an internationally recognized performer and educator. Tickets: $5 for VCU students, $14 for the general public amd free for VCU Music students.
For more information, contact Natalie Hale at music@vcu.edu or (804) 828-1166 or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/event/danielle-wiebe-burke-faculty-viola-recital/.
History's Double Edge: Lunch and Learn
Friday, Feb. 20, 2026 at noon
Join the history department for a lunch-and-learn session with Rabbi Shai Held at 811 S. Cathedral Place. Explore the double edge of memory. See how it can sustain worshippers in hope and how, sometimes, it can deepen their despair. Rabbi Held is president and dean at the Hadar Institute. Lunch will be served to those who register at the following URL. The event will be sponsored by the Lyons Chair in Judaic Studies.
For more information, contact Andrea Wight at wighta@vcu.edu or visit https://history.vcu.edu/events/event-items/historys-double-edge-lunch-and-learn.html.
SHIFT Retail Lab's Feedback Friday
Friday, Feb. 20, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
The VCU da Vinci Center hosts Feedback Friday at the SHIFT Retail Lab, 1235 W. Broad St. Come support students and community members as they pitch their product and business ideas to the public, and help give them feedback to grow. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Ashley Wenger at wengeran@vcu.edu or visit https://connect.business.vcu.edu/register/?id=31b02a71-21c6-452f-a799-10fa3ebe4353.
VCU Gerontology's Geriatric Care Manager Program: Learn More
Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026 from noon to 12:30 p.m.
Older adults deserve compassionate, informed care – and you can be part of the workforce that makes it possible. Join VCU Gerontology for a virtual deep-dive session about the Geriatric Care Manager Program to explore the curriculum, career opportunities and the real-world impact graduates make every day. Register for this informational session at https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/sf0CGlX8RAWDYs8Y-ZbEfQ
For more information, contact Kim Ivey at ksivey@vcu.edu or visit https://gerontology.chp.vcu.edu/programs/information-sessions/.
Graduate Student Career Readiness Institute
Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
This interactive workshop, hosted by VCU Graduate School's Office of Professional Development, will help graduate students master strong cover letters and résumés, practice interviewing techniques and understand the crucial role of AI in today's hiring landscape. Students can choose to attend in-person (912 W. Grace St., lunch provided) or virtually. This workshop will be co-facilitated by Megan Hollis from Career Services. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Hali Massey at dayberryhj@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1943005.
Advancing Scholarship Through Community Engagement
Thursday, Mar. 5, 2026 from noon to 1:30 p.m.
This virtual panel will feature five tenured faculty members who will share how they have leveraged community-engaged teaching, research and partnerships into peer-recognized scholarship. The session will include small breakout conversations in which those who attend can learn from one another and share experiences. The event will be hosted by VCU's Division of Community Engagement in partnership with Faculty Affairs in the Office of the Provost.
For more information, contact Challen Wellington at wellingtonc@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfMmr86AExgSwx3alK90cfJUEekl6kcxc4pApl-OF_bqmnwVw/viewform?usp=header.
Notices
Full Test of VCU Alert System on Wednesday, Feb. 11
VCU Emergency Management will conduct a full test of the emergency alert system on Wednesday, Feb. 11, at noon. This test includes activation of outdoor sirens on both Monroe Park and MCV campuses and Alertus boxes and signage across both campuses. VCU Alert subscribers will receive a text message and email 10 minutes before, at the beginning of and at the conclusion of the tests. For more information, visit alert.vcu.edu.
For more information, contact Jake Burns at burnsjh2@vcu.edu or visit https://police.vcu.edu/emergency-management/.
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. Earn a certificate that satisfies OSHA requirements for workplace First Aid/CPR/AED training in non-health care settings. February class dates are Wednesday, Feb. 11; Wednesday, Feb. 19; and Saturday, Feb. 21. See registration deadlines 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.
Nominations Open for the 2026 Burnside Watstein Awards
Nominations are being accepted for the 2026 Burnside Watstein Awards, which honor faculty, staff, students and alumni/community members whose work has had a positive impact on the LGBTQIA+ community at VCU. Submit a nomination at the following URL by the end of the day on Friday, Feb. 27. The awards ceremony and a reception will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday, March 26.
For more information, contact Ron Jones at equality@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScPKqzZRmaVy_NJ2Yk3ndLRw140ZWp5HSV8w1ZPyZHvvxyOBA/viewform?pli=1.
Thinking About Summer 2026 Internships? Drop By Career Services
Now is a great time to start looking for and applying to summer 2026 internships, and the Career Services Peer Career Advisers are here to help. Stop by the VCU Career Services Office during drop-in hours (no appointment needed) every week from Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. PCAs can offer suggestions on where to look for jobs and internships, how to apply, updating your résumé and more. The office is located in the University Student Commons, Room 143, 907 Floyd Ave.
For more information, contact Ashley Worthington at worthingtonar@vcu.edu or visit https://careers.vcu.edu/about/contact-us/.
2026 Women's Health and Healing Trip to Guatemala: May 23-30
Join the VCU Institute for Women’s Health and Highland Support Project to spend a week in partnership with indigenous midwives and community leaders learning about traditional Maya medicine. Explore the history of health care and healing in Guatemala by learning about traditional medicine and midwifery practices. The cost is $1,900 (plus air fare). Questions: Contact Andrea Reed at agreed@vcu.edu or Heather Ashton at the following email address. Apply at the following URL by Sunday, Feb. 15
For more information, contact Heather Ashton at heather.ashton@vcuhealth.org or visit https://vcu.studioabroad.com/_portal/tds-program-brochure?programid=11474.
2026 Burnside Watstein Awards Nominations Open
Nominations are being accepted for the 2026 Burnside Watstein Awards, which honor faculty, staff, students and alumni/community members whose work has had a positive impact on the LGBTQIA+ community at VCU. Nominations may be made by the end of the day on Friday, Feb. 27 at the following URL.
For more information, contact Ron Jones at jonesre22@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScPKqzZRmaVy_NJ2Yk3ndLRw140ZWp5HSV8w1ZPyZHvvxyOBA/viewform.
Ready To Focus on Your Health and Help Other Women Do the Same?
Check out Redefining BMI – a research study designed specifically for 18-to-25 year-old women with overweight/obesity who want to create a healthier lifestyle. Visit www.RedefiningBMI.com to learn more and take a quick survey if you may be eligible for this VCU study.
For more information, contact Redefining BMI at bmiproject@vcu.edu or (804) 828-5362 or visit https://www.redefiningbmi.com/.
An Exercise App for Young Black Women: Tell Me, What Would You Want?
Black women ages 18-35 who have no experience with resistance exercise (e.g., lifting weights, resistance bands, body weight exercises) are invited to share their perspectives about resistance exercise and their desired features of a mobile app aimed to help guide and track their exercise regimens. Women will be invited to complete a one-time interview plus two surveys at a local library of their choice. Compensation is available. Check your eligibility using the link below.
For more information, contact Chloe Jones, Ph.D., at jonesc53@vcu.edu or visit https://redcap.vcu.edu/surveys/?s=CJCT4ELK87PHXKK3.
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.
RamsConnect events
View all of the student events happening on campus and register for events that interest you.