10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Do you have a question about setting up your Top Hat course(s) for Spring? Join one of Top Hat’s drop-in virtual Office Hour sessions. Each session will run for 90 minutes – join at any time. Participants will be admitted one-by-one to ask questions individually. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.

For more information, contact VCU Instructional Computing Services at tophat@vcu.edu or visit https://tophat.zoom.us/meeting/register/0-mjeK18QYyLxxGjiE5qmA.

12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Now that you’ve created your vision, learn how to implement it. Join the Hub Club, 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A, for part two of a new year series. If you did not attend part one, why wait? Start now with part two. The event is in collaboration with Massey Cancer Center.

For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at 25th at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu.

12 p.m.

Get up and running with Lucid in Canvas in just one hour in this workshop hosted by LEDstudio. From sign-in to grading, you’ll master navigation, choose between Lucidspark and Lucidchart, create a collaborative activity, build a Canvas assignment and copy it forward for next term. Using Lucid, students can co-create in real time, visualize complex concepts and engage in ways that enhance learning. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Cairo Jones at jonesc34@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/fknf4xTrT-Wk_BV3FdEyYQ#/registration.

2 p.m.

This interactive Zoom workshop will offer examples of strong, successful personal statements, as well as less successful ones, and give you the tools you need to write your best statement. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.

2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

The VCU Women in Science, Dentistry and Medicine (WISDM) Faculty Organization will host a Professional Development Seminar with Richmond Mayor Danny Avula. Moderated questions will focus on leadership and communication during challenging situations. Open to the VCU medical, dental and science communities. The event will be in Bruce Oliver Tucker Auditorium, James W. and Frances G. McGlothlin Medical Education Center, MMEC, Room 3-101, 1201 E. Marshall St. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Jody Hedstrom at hedstromj@vcu.edu or visit https://vcuhealth.libcal.com/event/14929077.

Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026 from 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, Jan. 21, 2026 from 11 a.m. to noon

This workshop will cover the features and functionality of Canvas. Register at: training.vcu.edu. Sponsored by Academic Affairs and Technology Services. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/2324828315?omn=84343668877

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

Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026 from noon 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.

Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026 at 12:30 p.m.

Ready to take the next step toward a rewarding career in the legal profession? Enroll in CPE’s Certificate in Paralegal Studies. Class begins Thursday, Feb. 5. Join the informational session via Zoom to learn how this program can equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to prepare for paralegal opportunities. Sign up at the following URL.

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

Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Join the VCU history department to welcome the Human Resources Center's new Indigenous Elder in Residence, Robert Gray, chief of the Pamunkey Indian tribe from 2015 through 2024. The program brings Indigenous elders to campus each spring semester to foster cultural, academic, social and spiritual support for students and the broader campus community. The event will be in Shafer Dining Hall, Compass Room, 810 Cathedral Place. Space is limited. Register at the following URL. Refreshments will be served.

For more information, contact Andrea Wight at wighta@vcu.edu or visit https://history.vcu.edu/events/event-items/indigenous-elder-in-residence-welcome-reception.html.

Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026 at 6 p.m.

Cheer for the VCU Women's Basketball team as they play George Washington University at the Stuart C. Siegel Center, 1200 W. Broad St. Secure your seats at the following URL.

For more information, contact Tavian Elliott at elliottt2@vcu.edu or visit https://vcutickets.evenue.net/event/WB25/WB08.

Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

The Pace Center, 700 W. Franklin St., will host Morning Prayer. This is a shorter spoken prayer service which will take place on Monday, Wednesday and Friday in the sanctuary. The session will feature a light discussion of Bible excerpts and meditation on Psalms.

For more information, contact Russ Kerr at kerrr@vcu.edu or (804) 658-4064 or visit https://www.thepacecenter.com/.

Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026 from 11 a.m. to noon

This workshop will cover the features and functionality of Canvas. Register at: training.vcu.edu. Sponsored by Academic Affairs and Technology Services. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/2324828315?omn=82667415584

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

Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.

This workshop, co-facilitated by the Graduate School's Office of Professional Development and Alumni Relations, delivers concrete strategies to help you identify the three crucial types of mentors you need, overcome self-doubt and establish lasting professional connections. Leave the session equipped with a specific, polished outreach approach ready for immediate use. 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/r1943002.

Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.

The Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research and Department of Biostatistics will present a lunch research seminar via Zoom. Roy Sabo, Ph.D., professor, Biostatistics, will discuss the most common study designs used in health sciences research; the characteristics, goals, benefits and limitations of each design; and possible adaptations of these designs. Register at https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/5kbcwDl_SamOSMq7vxWNbA

For more information, contact Pamela Dillon, Pharm.D., research liaison, at pmdillon@vcu.edu or visit https://cctr.vcu.edu/.

Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026 from 3:15 p.m. to 4 p.m.

VCU's Department of Political Science and Douglas Kimemia. Ph.D., will host an informational session to explore studying development and democracy in Ethiopia, Tanzania and Kenya (May 19-June 5). Learn more about the cultural opportunities this trip offers, such as dialogues with key policymakers, visiting museums, communities and historical landmarks, all of which allow you to witness firsthand the transformative power of progress in the region. The session will be in Founders Hall, Room 328, 827 W. Franklin St.

For more information, contact Douglas Kimemia at kimemiadk@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.studioabroad.com/_portal/tds-program-brochure?programid=11302.

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.

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.

Friday, Jan. 23, 2026 at noon

The School of Public Health will host a Master of Public Health virtual informational session via Zoom. Join to learn more about the MPH program, now offered both online and in-person. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Katherine Peterman at petermankb@vcu.edu or visit https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/752NAvULTwObk8PQauXU0g.

Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Mindful Mornings is a free monthly series that pairs mindfulness practices with the architecture, landscape and exhibitions of the Institute for Contemporary Art at the Markel Center, 601 W. Broad St. Guided by designer and mindfulness practitioner Thurmond Alford Jr. and Michael Lease, Institute for Contemporary Art Director of Facilities + Experience Design, the series explores the link between nature, art and individual well-being. This month, participants will learn to use writing to increase awareness and reduce tension. All programs will begin in the ICA’s Abby Moore Café.

For more information, contact Michael Lease at leasemk@vcu.edu or (804) 200-8859 or visit https://icavcu.org/.

Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

VCU alumni and students come together for a basketball watch party. Connect with Rams new and old, cheer on the team and build Jewish community together. The event will be at Pizza and Beer of Richond, 2553 W. Cary St. Register on the Hillel website at the followiong URL.

For more information, contact Sheri at info@hillelatvcu.org or visit https://www.hillelatvcu.org/calendar.

Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026 from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

VCU HR will host Crucial Conversations for Mastering Dialogue, a five-part series designed to strengthen communication skills and confidence ahead of performance review season. This interactive workshop will help participants navigate tough conversations with clarity and respect. The series will be delivered virtually via Zoom Tuesday, Jan. 27 through Tuesday, Feb. 10. The course cost is $300, which can be covered by your department with approval from your manager. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Jeremy Bost at jbost2@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.csod.com/samldefault.aspx?returnUrl=%252fDeepLink%252fProcessRedirect.aspx%253fmodule%253dlodetails%2526lo%253dfe074423-2b11-46ae-9b53-f34df1d83589.

Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026 from noon to 1:30 p.m.

Join VCU's Global Education Office for its third Globe Speakers Series. This series features professionals who bring a global perspective. Each event includes a talk followed by a Q&A. This event's speaker will be Arturo Saavedra, M.D., Ph.D., MBA, dean of the School of Medicine and interim provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. Lunch will be served. The event will be at James Branch Cabell Library, Room 303, 901 Park Ave. Register at https://bit.ly/JoinVCUGlobe. VCU GEO will raffle off two $500 study abroad vouchers for those who attend who check in and are registered for VCU Globe. The event is open to all VCU students.

For more information, contact Alex Heyden at levya@vcu.edu or (804) 828-5794 or visit https://vcu.campusgroups.com/eduabroad/rsvp_boot?id=1943008.

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.

Friday, Jan. 30, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.

VCU's Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence will host a session via Zoom about captioning and Title II. This session will present a practical guide to VCU’s main captioning tools. The focus will be on scenarios to help participants manage course videos, make smart captioning choices and know when to request professional captioning support from additional VCU resources. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Michele Murray at mmurray2@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdZP2Tw5e0wKb1cxr8w-WjCStKzPyLHBZwBQ4qZNV21JqG8Pw/viewform?usp=publish-editor.

Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.

Do you receive a Pell grant? Are you interested in studying abroad? Join VCU Global Learning at its bi-annual Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship Writing Workshop. This workshop will cover award eligibility (this award is for Pell grant recipients only), application requirements, essay tips and tricks and study abroad options at VCU. This workshop is designed to help maximize your chances of receiving this nationally competitive scholarship. The workshop will be in the SGA Senate Chambers, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave., or onlilne. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Alex Heyden at levya@vcu.edu or (804) 828-5794 or visit https://vcu.campusgroups.com/eduabroad/rsvp_boot?id=1943004.

Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

The Office of the Provost - Faculty Affairs has opened registration for the 2026 Non-Tenure Track Faculty Conference. This conference brings together non-tenure track faculty to recognize their essential contributions, explore topics and strategies for professional development and build networks to support career planning and faculty success. This annual event is geared toward non-tenure track faculty, however, all faculty, department chairs, associate deans and deans are welcome to attend. The session will be at James Branch Cabell Library, Room 303, 904 Park Ave. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Tiffany Freitas at freitast@vcu.edu or visit https://faculty.provost.vcu.edu/professional-development/conferences/non-tenure-track-faculty-conference/2026-ntt-conference/.

Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026 at 3 p.m.

As part of VCU Music’s Mary Anne Rennolds Chamber Concert Series, Grammy-winning orchestra Apollo’s Fire will perform in the Sonia Vlahcevic Concert Hall of the W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts, 922 Park Ave. Apollo’s Fire has performed sold-out concerts at Carnegie Hall, the BBC Proms, the Royal Theatre of Madrid, the Tanglewood Festival and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Email music@vcu.edu for more information. Tickets: Contact arts.vcu.edu/music-tickets

For more information, contact Natalie Hale at halene@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/event/mary-anne-rennolds-chamber-music-concert-series-apollos-fire-baroque-orchestra/.

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/.

It’s time for faculty to submit Progress Reports for undergraduate students that need a nudge to improve their performance. It’s especially important for faculty to submit reports for students with attendance issues since attendance is strongly related to class grades and GPA. Check your VCU email for instructions on how to submit Progress Reports as well as tips on best practices. Questions: Visit the following URL.

For more information, contact Student Success at success@vcu.edu or visit https://semss.vcu.edu/for-faculty-and-staff/early-notification-programs/.

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.

Learn to prevent, recognize, respond to and care for aquatic and breathing/cardiac emergencies that may occur in or around the water, as well as 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, water park or specialty facilities. Classes will be held Feb. 6-8, 2026 at Cary Street Gym, 101 S. Linden St. Register by Friday, Jan. 30.

For more information, contact Mat Scott at aquatics@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=8f04eb94-8b05-4785-bfc5-8f1060041199.

The 29th Annual Graduate Research Symposium is looking for faculty and staff to serve as judges to support graduate student research. The symposium will be held Wednesday, April 22 from 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Commonwealth Ballrooms, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave., over two sessions. Judges can sign up using the judge interest form at the following URL.

For more information, contact Erin Brown at embbrown@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/suSeXy1THbcV7sRn8.

Ever wondered why the Mediterranean diet is one of the healthiest in the world? This summer, you can experience it firsthand – in Italy. This study abroad course will explore how food, culture, and science come together to promote health and longevity. You’ll have the opportunity to visit local farms, olive groves, markets, and/or wineries while learning how traditional Italian food practices sustain healthy living. Eat, explore and learn your way through Italy while earning academic credit and lifelong memories. Apply at the following URL by Sunday, Feb. 15. Seats are limited. Find out more at the Study Abroad Recruitment Fair Tuesday, Jan. 20 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. in the Shafer Dining Hall, 810 Cathedral Place, and watch a short video.

For more information, contact Jill Reid at jdreid@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.mediaspace.kaltura.com/media/Study+Abroad+-+Sorrento+Italy+Summer+2025/1_bifdml9w.

Shafer Court Dining Center, 810 Cathedral Place, will offer special events in January. They include Dining Around the World (today, Jan. 20: 11 a.m.-close); National Chocolate Cupcake Day (Tuesday, Jan. 27: 11 a.m.-close) and National Croissant and Hot Chocolate Day (Friday, Jan. 30: 11 a.m.-close).

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

VCU Work+ and the Student Employment Action Team and Advisory Group are accepting nominations for VCU’s 2026 Student Employee of the Year Award, recognizing some of the 3,000-plus student staff. Submissions will be accepted at the following URL until Friday, Jan. 30 at 5 p.m. Nominators can be staff, faculty or student coworkers. All student employees nominated will receive a digital certificate of recognition. The top nominees will be submitted at the national level with the chance to win up to $600, and the overall winner will be announced during National Student Employment Week, April 13-17.

For more information, contact Aimee Selleck at selleckap@vcu.edu or visit https://tinyurl.com/VCUSEOTY2026.

The VCU Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research offers the Research Design Studio, a 90-minute, no-cost consultation for investigators developing grant applications. The session provides early, multidisciplinary scientific input to help clarify scientific direction, strengthen study design and methodology and address key considerations for high-quality clinical and translational research. Apply at the following URL.

For more information, contact Rose Williams at cctrdesign@vcu.edu or visit https://cctr.vcu.edu/support/consultation/research-design-studio/.

VCU has career fairs coming up on Thursday, Jan. 22 and Wednesday, Feb. 4. Learn more about how to register, questions to ask employers or ow to 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/.

Lavender Mic will take place on March 17 as part of VCU’s 50th anniversary celebration of the Gay Alliance of Students – the university’s first LGBTQ+ student organization. This event will feature storytelling from members of the VCU community and is themed “Celebrating Queer Voices.” Applications to be a featured speaker are now open and will close friday, Jan. 30. Apply at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf0LzlAHH0kxxEausS_1SCfQwLPA7FUGLPIp0aIyDYlWf-0VA/viewform.

For more information, contact Josh Leidy at leidyjw@vcu.edu or visit https://www.support.vcu.edu/areas-to-support/affinity-engagement-and-philanthropy/rams-for-pride/gas-anniversary-event-/.

This is an open call for all faculty/staff/students interested in reading for the VCU Cabell First Novelist Award. The award honors a debut novel written during the preceding calendar year. Your help is needed to read and review submissions. Get your hands on new and exciting work and contribute your voice to the judging process. Reviews are submitted via Google Survey/ The final deadline for submitting reviews is Sunday, March 15. Questions: Email cabellfn@vcu.edu

For more information, contact Hana Rehman at cabellfn@vcu.edu or visit https://firstnovelist.vcu.edu/.