Faculty/staff Issue for March 12, 2026
Today
A New Way of Life (AA Meeting)
12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Join A New Way of Life, held every Thursday. This program is a weekly Alcoholics Anonymous meeting that provides a supportive and confidential environment. Everyone is welcome regardless of background or length of sobriety. Meetings are held at 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A.
For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu.
'DAIR' (Disability Advocates in Research) to Engage: Trust and Tailored Recruitment Strategies for Inclusive IDD (Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities) Research
12 p.m.
You are invited to the next session in the Division of Community Engagement’s Community Engaged Research Series, which will highlight inclusive and disability-affirming approaches to research with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. See the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Challen Wellington at wellingtonc@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfPNzwbLujL7y2EhhfqAgEMaMLgPWQJhV0LZMU9mtc9LswazA/viewform?usp=header.
Professional Skill-Building Day
9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Richmond Youth Development Network at the Mary and Frances Youth Center in the Division of Community Engagement will host a professional skill building day at the Boys and Girls Club of Metro Richmond Teen Center, 1830 Creighton Road. The session is open to professionals in youth services, health, education and more. The event will feature interactive workshops on bio writing, social media networking, AI-powered writing tools, plus free professional headshots and opportunities to connect with Richmond leaders. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Vaughn Garland at garlandvw@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfYx8mfxLG6wUyK-siC3MUkp4T189EIKwxvW4tMnnBrjwaHVw/viewform.
This week
Informational Session: VCU Mass Communications Graduate Program
Friday, Mar. 13, 2026 from 11 a.m. to noon
Ready to take the next step in your professional journey? Join VCU's Richard T. Robertson School of Media and Culture for a virtual informational session to explore the school's M.S. in Mass Communications, with specialized concentrations in Integrated Communication and Media Leadership, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Media and Leadership. Learn how these programs can help you lead in today's evolving media landscape. Join the meeting directly at vcu.zoom.us/my/robertsongrad.
For more information, contact Jonathan Brown at brownj64@vcu.edu or (804) 525-9425 or visit https://robertson.vcu.edu/academics/graduate/.
Enjoy a Cup of Kindness With the VCU Health Hub
Friday, Mar. 13, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Cup of Kindness is a two-hour, open-invitation program with a mindfulness and stress management activity followed by warm beverages and social time at 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A. Join us on the second Friday of each month for a conversation led by Leslie Stelljes Nanson, co-founder and clinical psychologist from Aspen Grove Wellness, centered on the importance of social well-being and the relationships in our lives. Explore how connection supports mental health, resilience and our sense of belonging. This conversation is designed to spark reflection, encourage curiosity and inspire us to build and strengthen the relationships in our social universe. All are welcome.
For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu.
Coming up
Monthly Forum for Department Chairs – Navigating Difficult Conversations: Practical Approaches for Constructive Dialogue
Tuesday, Mar. 17, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
From the Office of the Provost – Faculty Affairs: This monthly forum provides department chairs with tools and strategies for managing conflict and navigating challenging conversations with clarity and confidence. Using example scenarios, chairs will learn how to prepare effectively, facilitate productive dialogue and stay focused on solutions. The session will be in Room 4100, Academic Learning Commons (MCALC), 1000 Floyd Ave. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Tiffany Freitas at freitast@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/e6rkASpbYQaVsghj6.
Side-by-Side Exchange
Tuesday, Mar. 17, 2026 at noon
Faculty, community leaders and government practitioners will convene for a side-by-side exchange exploring collaborative solutions to food access and security challenges. Join the conversation via Zoom hosted by VCU's Division of Community Engagement as academic insight and community expertise come together. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Challen Wellington at wellingtonc@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe7bIQgfuukfLnhGyFTppj1fCLPsiqMG5QfZHIazemjvxoUzg/viewform?usp=header.
Social Security 101 – Everything You Wanted to Know
Tuesday, Mar. 17, 2026 at 2 p.m.
Join VCU HR for this informational session presented by our representative from Social Security. In this workshop from Social Security you will learn answers to questions such as: When are you eligible to receive benefits? How does early retirement affect your benefits? How do you get the most from your benefits? And more. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/46rNPUQ
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://ramstrong.vcu.edu/.
Women’s Health Month – Let’s Talk Menopause: Understanding What’s Happening (Part 1)
Wednesday, Mar. 18, 2026 at noon
Menopause is a natural life stage that can bring physical, emotional and lifestyle changes. In this virtual introductory session brought to you by VCU HR and Employee Health, a nurse will provide an overview of menopause, including what to expect, common symptoms and how hormonal changes may impact overall well-being, helping participants build knowledge and confidence as they navigate this transition. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/40AGVsN
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://hr.vcu.edu/worklife-at-vcu/employee-events/.
Get Your Hands Dirty: Spring Landscaping Workshop at the Institute for Contemporary Art
Wednesday, Mar. 18, 2026 at 9 a.m.
Come to the Institute for Contemporary Art at the Markel Center, 601 W. Broad St., to help with landscaping for spring. Work alongside experts from VCU’s Sustainability and Grounds teams. Learn professional techniques for natural landscape management, including trimming and weeding native grasses to promote healthy growth and identifying sustainable plant care practices.
For more information, contact Michael Lease at leasemk@vcu.edu.
Service-Learning Informational Session
Thursday, Mar. 19, 2026 from 11 a.m. to noon
Join 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 easy ways to become involved in service-learning and experiential education across the institution. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Antonio Harris at harrisad6@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/fnkgEiYh4zbDvcYz6.
Peer Career Advisers Tabling at Honors College - Learn About Internship Funding
Thursday, Mar. 19, 2026 from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Do you have questions about jobs and internships, or what the Career Services office has to offer? Come chat with the Peer Career Advisers (PCAs) at the Honors College. PCAs will be tabling and ready to answer your questions or direct you to helpful resources. You can also ask about the VCU Internship Funding Program, which provides undergraduate students with up to $5,000 in funding to support summer internships. The event will be in the lobby of the Honors College, 701 W. Grace St.
For more information, contact Ashley Worthington at worthingtonar@vcu.edu or visit https://careers.vcu.edu/resources/internshipfundingprogram/.
The Fourth Annual Accounting Expo
Thursday, Mar. 19, 2026 from 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
VCU's Department of Accounting will host its fourth annual Accounting Expo in the School of Business atrium in Snead Hall, 301 W. Main St. The expo will include free food, free VCU swag, free professional headshots, a balloon artist and a whole lot of career paths you've probably never considered. The carnival-style event is designed for every VCU student, whether you're studying engineering, political science, medicine, the arts, business or anything in between. This is not a career fair. Think of it more like a backstage pass to some of the most interesting careers you didn't know existed.
For more information, contact Alisa Brink at busaccounting@vcu.edu.
VCU Day of Service: Serving With Purpose
Thursday, Mar. 19, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
VCU faculty and staff are invited to participate in the Day of Service – a universitywide opportunity to partner with local organizations and support meaningful work across the greater Richmond region. Join colleagues in strengthening community partnerships while contributing to shared impact beyond campus. Employees are encouraged to use their allotted community service hours to participate. Sign up for a service project at the following URL.
For more information, contact Alliannah Hamilton at hamiltonae@vcu.edu or visit https://community.vcu.edu/events/dayofservice/.
Just Write! Data Stories: Communicating Clearly With Charts and Graphs
Friday, Mar. 20, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
At this workshop for graduate students, learn how to help your audience better understand your quantitative information, including picking the right chart type, how to draw viewer attention to important points and a big emphasis on how (and why) to declutter your your visualizations. The workshop will be in Room 205, James Branch Cabell Library, 901 Park Ave. The Writing Center will also offer consultations from 11 a.m.-noon and 1-2 p.m. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Hali Massey at dayberry@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1942946.
SMART Goals and You Workshop
Tuesday, Mar. 24, 2026 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
VCU HR is facilitating a SMART Goals and You workshop via Zoom. The course clarifies SMART goals, how to use them for both performance and career development and includes practical application. HR encourages attendance for anyone who wants to learn more about SMART goals for themselves and/or their team; or is in a position to educate others about SMART goals. Workshops are offered throughout the year. Register in Talent@VCU at the following URL.
For more information, contact Penny McFarline at mcfarlinep@vcu.edu or visit http://bit.ly/4m0vbbm.
Faculty Development Workshop
Wednesday, Mar. 25, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Do you value learning that is engaging and meaningful for your students? Do you have experience with or an interest in experiential learning and high-impact teaching practices? Join VCU's Transformative Learning for an interactive workshop designed for instructors at all levels and across disciplines. You will be introduced to experiential learning concepts and other high-impact teaching practices you can use right away. You’ll explore how to “make it real” through hands-on learning and critical reflection, and leave with practical tools, examples and materials to support student success. The workshop will be held on the fourth floor, Academic Learning Commons (MCALC), 1000 Floyd Ave. RSVP by Friday, March 20 at the following URL.
For more information, contact Antonio Harris at harrisad6@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/ivJxqavi9DbNWWvb9.
Women’s Health Month – Let’s Talk Menopause: What Helps & What Works (Part 2)
Wednesday, Mar. 25, 2026 at noon
Building on Part 1 (March 18), this VCU HR and Employee Health session will feature a Women’s Health nurse practitioner who will provide deeper clinical insight into menopause care. Participants will learn about evidence-based treatment options, symptom management strategies and ways to partner with health-care providers to support comfort, health and quality of life throughout this stage. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/3ZS6mWJ
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://ramstrong.vcu.edu/events/upcoming-events-for-employees/.
Stack The Deck: The Entrepreneurship Edition
Wednesday, Mar. 25, 2026 at 7 p.m.
Join the Activities Programming Board to explore the parallels between the game of Spades and the world of entrepreneurship. Whether you’re a seasoned Spades player or a novice, this event will teach you how to think ahead, strategize, partner effectively and take calculated risks; all essential skills for successful entrepreneurship. The event will be in the ballrooms of the University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Sensiere-Yanti Thompkins-Harris at thompkinshs@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.campusgroups.com/apb/events/.
Shabbat Dinner With VCU President and Mrs. Michael Rao
Friday, Mar. 27, 2026 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Jewish Life at VCU will host a shabbat dinner with VCU President and Mrs. Michael Rao at Chabad House, 1003 Grove Ave., for an evening of fine food, community, connection and celebration. An RSVP is required. Text President to (804) 735-1070.
For more information, contact Rabbi Menachem Lessoff at Rabbi@vcu.edu or visit https://student.chabadoncampus.org/vcu/rsvp/events/47054.
What’s Realy in Your Cart? Understanding Food Labels Made Simple
Tuesday, Mar. 31, 2026 at noon
Food packaging can be confusing – but it doesn’t have to be. Join VCU HR, Employee Health and their dietetic interns for a supportive session that simplifies food labels and shares tips to help you shop smarter and feel confident about your choices. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://tinyurl.com/muez76u3
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://hr.vcu.edu/worklife-at-vcu/employee-events/.
'AI Literacy: Teaching and Assessment in a GenAI World'
Friday, Apr. 10, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.
Leo Lo, Dean of Libraries and Adviser for AI Literacy at the University of Virginia, will give a presentation titled “AI Literacy: Teaching and Assessment in a GenAI World.” The session will take place in commUNity and examine pedagogical approaches and assessment strategies in the context of generative AI. A moderated Q&A will follow. Prior to the event, Faculty need to join commUNity at https://ledstudio.vcu.edu/who-we-are/community/ to join commUNity to participate in the discussion.
For more information, contact Ginny Thompson at vthompson5@vcu.edu or visit https://ledstudio.vcu.edu/who-we-are/community/.
Notices
Nominate a Star
The President’s Awards for Professional and Administrative Distinction are now open for nominations. Know someone whose leadership, creativity, or service makes VCU and VCU Health exceptional. Tell their story — nominations are open through Monday, March 16 at the following URL.
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://hr.vcu.edu/current-employees/employee-recognition/awards/presidents-awards-for-professional-and-administrative-distinction/.
Keep Voting: VCU Advances in STAT Madness
VCU has made it to the second round of STAT Madness, the national bracket-style competition to determine the year’s best innovation in biomedical research. Voting is now open for the second round, which closes at 4 a.m. ET on Monday, March 16. Those interested can vote once per day and can sign up to receive updates through STAT when each new round of voting begins.
For more information, contact Mary Kate Brogan at broganm2@vcu.edu or visit https://www.statnews.com/feature/stat-madness/bracket-voting-now-open/.
Help Us Build a Fitness App That Reflects the Needs of Young Black Women
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 for eligibility at the following URL.
For more information, contact Chloe Jones, Ph.D., Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences at jonesc53@vcu.edu or visit https://redcap.vcu.edu/surveys/?s=CJCT4ELK87PHXKK3.
Collaborating for a New Kind of Health
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.
For more information, contact Redefining BMI at bmiproject@vcu.edu or (804) 828-5362 or visit https://www.redefiningbmi.com/.
Spotlight on National Brain Injury Awareness Month: Participants Sought for the VCU HERO Study
March marks National Brain Injury Awareness Month, a time to acknowledge the ongoing challenges faced by individuals living with the long-term effects of brain injury and the continued need for innovative research to support their recovery. In recognition of this, the VCU HERO Study is currently enrolling veterans and active-duty service members to help researchers better understand how Heart Rate Variability (HRV) biofeedback may support recovery from persistent symptoms after concussion mild traumatic brain injury. The study involves noninvasive assessments and guided HRV biofeedback or educational sessions, conducted at the VCU Medical Center West Hospital, located at 1200 E. Broad St. Compensation is available for eligible participants. We are seeking individuals who meet the following criteria: You are a veteran or active-duty service member. (Civilians may become eligible in the future and can request placement on a wait list.) You experienced a mild traumatic brain injury (concussion) at least one year ago. You continue to experience ongoing symptoms from that injury (e.g., headaches, dizziness, difficulty concentrating, fatigue). You live within driving distance of Richmond. If you or someone in your network may be eligible, contact our study team at the following telephonenumber or email address.
For more information, contact Urenna Orazulike at HEROStudy@vcu.edu or (804) 827-9692 or visit http://www.hero-study.org/.
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.