Faculty/staff Issue for April 17, 2026
Today
VCU Writing Center Workshop: Structuring Your Writing for Your Audience
4 p.m.
The VCU Writing Center will host a workshop via Zoom. Develop the tools necessary to meet the needs of your audience by writing strong, logical, structurally sound work. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.
Late Breaking | VCUarts 2026 First Year MFA Candidacy Exhibition Opening Reception
5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The Anderson and VCUarts present Late Breaking, the 2026 MFA Candidacy Exhibitions featuring the work of 21 artists across the disciplines of Craft/Material Studies, Graphic Design, Kinetic Imaging, Painting + Printmaking, Photography + Film and Sculpture + Extended Media. The exhibitions will be on view Friday, April 17 through Saturday, April 25 at The Anderson (907 1/2 W. Franklin St.).
For more information, contact The Anderson at theanderson@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/event/late-breaking/.
VCU Emergency Medicine Club: EMC x SOM EMSA Networking Event
6 p.m.
VCU Emergency Medicine Club will hold a networking event with the VCU School of Medicine Emergency Medicine Student Association (EMSA) for Day 5 of EMS week at the Honors College Multipurpose Room, 701 W. Grace St. This event will be a skill workshop and networking opportunity with VCU medical students for mentorship. To be eligible to apply for the mentorship program EMC students must have attended at least two EMC events this semester, The sponsor is Christina Spohn (spohncl@vcu.edu).
For more information, contact Arjun Modi at modia@vcu.edu.
Enjoy a Cup of Kindness With the VCU Health Hub
9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Cup of Kindness is a two-hour, open-invitation program at the VCU Health Hub, 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A, with a mindfulness and stress management activity followed by warm beverages and social time.
For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu.
This week
Volunteers Needed for VCU SOE Monument Avenue 10K Spirit Team
Saturday, Apr. 18, 2026 from 8:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
VCU School of Education is joining Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10K Spirit Contest in front of Scott House, 909 W. Franklin St. We're looking for volunteers from any school to join our team, help cheer on the runners, dress in theme and enjoy some good vibes and sunshine. We'll be there from 8:15 a.m. until the end of the race around noon to 12:30 p.m. Questions: https://soe.vcu.edu/ If you are interested in getting some volunteer hours, sign up at the following URL.
For more information, contact Shreya Patel at patelss14@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1dq6pnGcMsjDTd_xh2B29iGhRWnH3SMqxKzl7Pwrrt1k/edit?usp=sharing.
Coming up
Think‑a‑thon: Spit for Science Research Meeting
Tuesday, Apr. 21, 2026 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Spit for Science will host an interactive idea‑exchange with Matthew Rossheim, Ph.D., associate professor at the University of North Texas Health Science Center, focusing on measuring cannabis use behaviors, understanding and assessing alternative alcohol products and developing new research questions and survey items for Spit for Science. This virtual session invites collaborative thinking around emerging substance use trends and how we can better capture them in our research. Join at https://zoom.us/j/98775074030?pwd=SngzSFoxL2w4UzJLV2dPUUdCNGpDdz09
For more information, contact Spit for Science at spit4science@vcu.edu or visit https://spit4science.vcu.edu/.
Folded Florals: Make Your Own Paper Flowers
Tuesday, Apr. 21, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.
Join the Health and Wellness Library (1200 E. Marshall St., Gateway Building, Room G-112) in-person for a spring craft program. VCUarts graduate Bee Chambers will guide participants in making their own paper flowers and bouquets. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jackson Wright at wrightjc4@vcu.edu or (804) 828-2432 or visit https://vcu.libcal.com/event/16653345.
Spit for Science: Research Insights and Bites
Tuesday, Apr. 21, 2026 from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Matthew Rossheim, Ph.D., associate professor at the University of North Texas Health Science Center, will present his research insights on the evolving landscape of THC products in a talk titled "The Changing THC Product Landscape: Risks for Young Adults and Policy Implications for College Campuses." Catering will be proided at 3 p.m. followed by the presentation from 3:30-4:30 p.m. The event will be available in person (Room 4100, Academic Learning Commons, MCALC, 1000 Floyd Ave.) and online. Join virtually via the URL: https://zoom.us/j/98775074030?pwd=SngzSFoxL2w4UzJLV2dPUUdCNGpDdz09
For more information, contact Spit for Science at spit4science@vcu.edu or visit http://spit4science.vcu.edu/.
Go Abroad: Real Stories, Real Opportunities
Wednesday, Apr. 22, 2026 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Interested in traveling abroad or pursuing an international career? Come to a session in Founders Hall, second floor, Sociology Conference Room, 827 W. Franklin St., to explore a range of opportunities, hear how other students have turned their experiences abroad into career paths and have all your questions answered. The undertaking is a research project via Billions World's Lab, VCU Sociology Department.
For more information, contact Emma Badach at emmabadach@gmail.com or (757) 778-7378.
Agency by Design
Wednesday, Apr. 22, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 10:50 a.m.
Do you supervise or support student staff? Don’t miss this month’s workshop on leadership, presented by Roy Roach III (Director, Health Sciences – Office of Student Engagement). In this interactive session, supervisors will participate in dialogue on how to rethink leadership as environmental design. Join for guided conversations via Zoom to learn how instead of focusing on oversight and control, leaders can intentionally build clarity, trust and ownership within their teams. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Aimee Selleck at selleckap@vcu.edu or visit https://tinyurl.com/AprSupSesh.
Graduate Research Symposium
Wednesday, Apr. 22, 2026 at 10:30 a.m.
VCU's Graduate School, in collaboration with the Graduate Students Association, will host the 29th annual Graduate Research Symposium in the ballrooms of the University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. The event will feature the work of over 140 graduate students.
For more information, contact Ronald Byamungu at ronaldb@vcu.edu or visit https://graduate.vcu.edu/current-students/professional-development/graduate-research-symposium/.
Informational Session: Certificate in Paralegal Studies
Wednesday, Apr. 22, 2026 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Ready to take the next step toward a rewarding career in the legal profession or advance your knowledge in your current role? Learn how Continuing and Professional Education’s Certificate in Paralegal Studies can equip you with the tools you need to build essential legal and transferable skills. Register here for the virtual informational session: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/19a93df906e9409e80a9cb6b9277e218
For more information, contact Laura Wilson at wilsonl14@vcu.edu or visit https://ocpe.vcu.edu/what-we-offer/interest/paralegal/.
Bicycle Commuter Basics: A Thrift Store Tour
Wednesday, Apr. 22, 2026 from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Commuter Basics workshops are for anyone who'd like to commute by bike but isn't sure how to get started. The workshop, hosted by VCU RamBikes, 1106 W. Broad St., will include review aspects of riding in traffic in a city while we navigate to different thrift stores. We'll ride for about 5 miles at a beginner's pace. Bring your bike if you have one. Commuter Basics workshops are offered in collaboration with VCU Sustainability to encourage thrifting before buying new in effort to divert items from the waste stream.
For more information, contact Taylor Welch at welchto@vcu.edu or (804) 828-2453 or visit https://bikes.vcu.edu/events/.
AI Design Jam – The Caregiver Challenge
Thursday, Apr. 23, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The VCU Office of Innovation and Strategic Design (in collaboration with VCU Partnership for People With Disabilities) will host a Design Jam titled "Reimagining the Future of Care" using LEGO Serious Play. The event will explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can support people with intellectual disabilities and their caregivers. The event will be at SHIFT Retail Lab, 1235 W. Broad St. All students, faculty and community members are encouraged to come share their ideas and experiences. Seating will be limited. Lunch will be provided. RSVP by Monday, April 20. Questions: Email https://innovation.vcu.edu/ Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Stephanie Danis at sdanis@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScDTg97UjG6GzWzj52e-u96XD8CriLgzBKnNrcsDCa4glTFEQ/viewform?usp=header.
HPO: Study and Snack
Thursday, Apr. 23, 2026 from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Health Professions Organization presents HPO: Study and Snack in Room 2105, Grace E. Harris Hall, 1015 Floyd Ave. As the semester winds down and the push for finals is underway, HPO offers space to study while enjoying some free food. Join the group for productive and fun studying.
For more information, contact Tobi Ojo at ojote@vcu.edu.
VCUarts Communication Arts Senior Expo
Saturday, Apr. 25, 2026 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Join the 2026 Communication Arts Senior Class at the annual Communication Arts Senior Expo. Over 100 seniors will have a variety of art on display and handmade merchandise such as stickers, key chains and prints for sale. The Expo, to be in the University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave., is free to attend and open to the public. Please note that this is a cashless event.
For more information, contact Communication Arts at commarts@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/event/communication-arts-senior-expo-2/.
The Drive Against Hunger Charity Flag Football Tournament
Sunday, Apr. 26, 2026 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Graduate students from VCU’s Center for Sport Leadership will host a 5v5 flag football tournament dedicated to making a difference in Central Virginia. This event involves a canned food drive and the proceeds from the event will benefit Feed More and their ongoing efforts to combat food insecurity across the region. The tournament will be at Cary Street Field. Admission will be three canned goods (non-expired only).
For more information, contact Tavian Elliott at elliottt2@vcu.edu or visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-drive-against-hunger-charity-flag-football-tournament-tickets-1984627562464?aff=ebdssbdestsearch.
20th Annual Women's Health Research Day, Presented by the Institute for Women's Health
Tuesday, Apr. 28, 2026 from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Last chance to submit an abstract for the 20th Annual Women's Health Research Day. The deadline to submit is today, Friday, April 17. Women's Health Research Day is a celebration and promotion of research activities in women’s health at VCU, presented by the Institute for Women's Health. This year’s symposium, “Midlife Matters: Integrating Menopause Research, Innovation and Impact,” begins at 1 p.m. and will be followed by a poster session and reception from 3-4:30 p.m. in the Jonah L. Larrick Student Center, 900 Turpin St. Abstract submissions are welcome from all fields that incorporate elements of women’s health and/or sex and gender differences. Awards will be presented for outstanding posters in Basic Science, Clinical/Translational Science and Community Science, as well as monetary awards for the Early Career Investigator Award and the Building Bridges in Interdisciplinary Women’s Health Research Award. Register and submit an abstract at the following URL.
For more information, contact Molly Hyer at molly.hyer@vcuhealth.org or visit https://womenshealth.vcu.edu/research/womens-health-research-day-2026/.
Informational Session: Disability Studies Undergraduate Certificate, Special Education Minor, and Early Intervention and Early Childhood Special Education Minor
Tuesday, Apr. 28, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.
Interested in learning how to better support students and individuals with disabilities? VCU's Special Education faculty invite you to join an information session highlighting minors in special education and undergraduate certificate in disability studies. During this session via Zoom, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with program faculty and department staff, explore the minor and certificate pathways and learn about upcoming elective course options offered through the Special Education program. Register at the followoing URL.
For more information, contact Patrick Mullen at mullenpr@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/qGf8I4eKTam84k5aT8-lWA#/registration.
Notices
Nominations Close April 24 for School of Medicine Staff Distinction Awards
The Staff Distinction Awards recognize outstanding contributions made by School of Medicine staff members. They consist of five awards: Four Individual Excellence Awards, presented to a single recipient each, and one Excellence in Collaboration Award, presented to a team of two or more staff members. Nominate an eligible staff member by Friday, April 24 at the following URL. An awards ceremony will be held Wednesday, May 20.
For more information, contact Breydon Horton at breydon.horton@vcuhealth.org or visit https://forms.office.com/r/xfKrYPxqwb.
Celebrate National Student Employment Week (Through Friday, April 17): Events, Resources, Bingo and Prizes
VCU celebrates all working learners (student employees) and their supervisors during National Student Employer Week. Working learners perform invaluable services with enthusiasm, dedication and initiative. This week is an opportunity to celebrate and recognize the 4,000+ VCU student staff and their supervisors who contribute in critical and valuable ways to our community. Check out the week’s happenings, which include a bingo card and prizes for students, at the following URL.
For more information, contact Aimee Selleck at selleckap@vcu.edu or visit https://tinyurl.com/VCUNSEW26.
VCU Band: Come Play With Us
Registration is underway for The University Band (APPM 357), which is open to all VCU students and faculty regardless of experience. The band meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 3-3:50 p.m. and performs one to two concerts each semester. Questions: Contact band director Duane Coston at the following email address.
For more information, contact Duane Coston at costonpd@vcu.edu or (804) 240-7974 or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/music/ensembles/#bands.
Join a VCU Choir This Fall
VCU Department of Music invites students to register for choir for the upcoming academic year. Three ensembles are available: Commonwealth Singers, Choral Arts Society and Vox Concordia. All choirs are open to all students, regardless of major, and meet during the day for course credit. Students may register through eServices during enrollment. Learn more at the following URL.
For more information, contact Christopher Hansen, Ph.D., at hansenc3@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/music/ensembles/#vocal-ensembles.
Deadline Extended: 2026 Excellence in Community Engagement Award Nominations
The 2026 Excellence in Community Engagement Awards nominations deadline has been extended to Friday, April 24. These awards recognize individuals, teams and partners who exemplify community engagement, collaboration and a commitment to addressing real-world challenges. Nominees demonstrate meaningful partnerships that bridge the university and community, creating impactful, reciprocal learning across teaching, research and service. The five award categories are Excellence in Community Engaged Teaching, Excellence in Community Engaged Research, Excellence in Community Engagement (Faculty or Staff), Excellence in Community Engagement (Students or Postdocs) and Outstanding University Community Partner. Nominations should be submitted with a letter of support by Friday, April 17 at the following URL.
For more information, contact Misti Mueller at muellermr@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/Wp1BnVGyaYY5EoB27.
Research Study – Call for Volunteers to Donate Blood (<50ml)
Individuals are invited to donate whole blood for a research study investigating a new IV fluid and how it may affect (1) inflammation and coagulation responses, and (2) routine clinical lab tests in human blood. Participants will not receive any drugs or fluids. Participants will be asked to donate up to 100 ml of whole blood in normal blood collection tubes such as is done at a doctor’s office. Participants must be aged 18-68, not currently pregnant or ill and on minimal medications. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria will be discussed between volunteer and study staff. Compensation ($10 cash) may be offered for your time and participation. This study is sponsored by the Zoll Foundation nonprofit organization and the VCU SOM Department of Surgery. For more information and to set up a screening call and/or blood draw appointment, contact Loren Liebrecht at the following email address or leave a messasge at the following telephone number.
For more information, contact Loren Liebrecht at liebrechtlk@vcu.edu or (804) 628-3753.
Ankle Sprain Research Study (Ages 14–30)
The Research in Athlete and Military Health Sciences (RAMHS) group is seeking participants ages 14-30 years to complete a research study assessing hip muscle function following ankle sprains. You may participate if you either have a first-time lateral ankle sprain or have no ankle sprain history and are healthy (control group). This study will require one in-person study visit at our research laboratory at Biotech 8, electronic questionnaire about your health and sport participation, ultrasound imaging assessments of your hip at rest (lying down) and during light activity (squatting, treadmill walking) and hip muscle strength assessments. Participants with ankle sprains will also be asked to complete remote, electronic surveys at three and six months after the in-person visit.
For more information, contact Crystal Figueroa at crystal.figueroa@vcuhealth.org or (804) 827-0871.
Risk-Taking in Eating Disorders Study
VCU's Translational Research on Eating and Affect (TREAT) Lab is recruiting adolescent girls and young adult women (aged 12 to 25 years) for a brain imaging study to understand risky decision-making in individuals who have concerns about their body shape/weight, or overeat, purge, use laxatives, diet severely or exercise excessively. We are also investigating these processes in individuals without a psychological disorder. There will be compensation for participation. See the survey at the following UIRL.
For more information, contact TREAT Lab (Kelsey Hagan, Ph.D., PI) at treatlab@vcuhealth.org or (804) 827-4174 or visit https://redcap.vcu.edu/surveys/?s=48YEAYT8MK33E8EJ.
Research Study: Understanding the Best Strategy for Estrogen Administration To Optimize Bone Health in Young Women With Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea
VCU and UVA seek females ages 14–30 for a research study. If you are low weight, lost significant weight or exercise heavily and have missed or irregular periods (FHA), you may qualify. FHA can harm bone health due to low estrogen. This study tests estrogen and progesterone to improve bone health. Includes four visits over 14 months (exams, questionnaires, nutrition/exercise review, bone scans) at no cost. Up to $875 compensation and travel support. Contact: misralab@uvahealth.org
For more information, contact Alexandra Lempke at alexandra.lempke@vcuhealth.org.
Other resources
VCU Libraries workshops
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