Faculty/staff Issue for June 9, 2026
Today
VCU Writing Center Workshop: Developing Voice in the Age of AI
10 a.m.
As new technologies continue to shape how we write, it’s important to ensure that our individuality still shines through. We’ll explore practical and creative ways to strengthen your voice, while taking into consideration the impact of AI and how we can make intentional choices about how and when we use it. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jess Rogers at rogersjp2@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.
Teaching Children About Money
12 p.m.
Surveys repeatedly show that many teenagers do not understand even basic financial concepts. This virtual class, brought to you by VCU HR and Anthem EAP, will review how we look at and communicate our money values so we can effectively instruct our children. We will discuss parental attitudes toward allowances and working, as well as how to set goals and create spending and saving strategies. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/4a4B97Z
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://ramstrong.vcu.edu/.
Evening MBA Informational Session
12 p.m.
Learn more about the flexibility of VCU's Evening MBA program at a webinar hosted by the School of Business. This online presentation will provide an overview of program formats (which include online, on-campus, or a blend of both), curriculum and the admissions process. No registration is required – join via the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Evan Torpy at torpyec@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/j/82138254094.
VCU Writing Center Workshop: Writing Center Informational Session and Writing With Confidence
6 p.m.
In this Zoom informational session and workshop, we will discuss the services provided by the VCU Writing Center and help you build confidence in your writing by breaking down the process into manageable chunks. Start your academic writing career off right by exploring the Writing Center and finding out why you write the way you do and how to become a more confident writer. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jess Rogers at rogersjp2@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.
This week
Planning Your Family’s Finances
Thursday, Jun. 11, 2026 at noon
Keeping your finances in order can be challenging. Add in other people’s needs and habits, and it might be time to consult the experts. This seminar, brought to you by VCU HR and Virginia Credit Union (VACU), teaches you how to maintain and grow your family’s money while making a solid plan for the future. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/4uTLkEk
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://ramstrong.vcu.edu/.
Coming up
VCU HR Manager Town Hall
Wednesday, Jun. 17, 2026 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
VCU Human Resources invites all staff managers of one or more staff members to attend a virtual VCU HR Manager Town Hall via Zoom. Join HR colleagues and fellow managers to discuss engaging, developing and retaining early, mid and later Late career professionals. Register in Talent@VCU at the following URL.
For more information, contact Penny McFarline at mcfarlinep@vcu.edu or visit https://tinyurl.com/2fmk8dxs.
Let's Be Bold Together: Scaling Impact Through Academic Internships
Wednesday, Jun. 17, 2026 from 10 a.m. to noon
Come to a special event with VCU internal partners to explore what hosting an intern within your unit could look like. Learn about ways to create on-campus, credit-bearing internships that can support both student learning and your unit's goals. The event will be in Room 1105, Academic Learning Commons, 1000 Floyd Ave. RSVP at the following URL.
For more information, contact Antonio Harris at harrisad6@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/HYnvRNmyZtrCQ36W9.
The Science of Summer Wellness – Mind, Body and Energy
Thursday, Jun. 25, 2026 at 11 a.m.
Susan Richards, R.N. from VCU Employee Health and VCU HR, will explore simple, science-backed strategies to help you feel your best this summer. In this engaging session, participants will learn how seasonal changes can impact physical and emotional well-being, energy levels, sleep, stress and overall health. Those who attend will leave with practical tips to boost resilience, stay energized and support their well-being throughout the summer months. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/4tOI5NI
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://hr.vcu.edu/worklife-at-vcu/employee-events/.
VCU CPE: Paralegal Studies Informational Session
Thursday, Jun. 25, 2026 at 6 p.m.
Paralegal skills are in high demand at law firms but also across industries like tech, healthcare, finance and education. Whether you're a recent graduate looking for a competitive edge or a professional ready for a change, the VCU Paralegal Studies Certificate Program is designed to fit your goals and your schedule. VCU's next cohort begins this summer. Join a program informational session to learn about the university's course schedules, curriculum, registration process, career opportunities, VCU staff and alumni discounts. You’ll also have the chance to connect with program instructor Nicole Terry during the meeting. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Laura Wilson at wilsonl14@vcu.edu or visit https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/19a93df906e9409e80a9cb6b9277e218.
Attend Supervisors and Managers Boot Camp, a Professional Development Course
Monday, Jul. 27, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The Grace E. Harris Leadership Development Institute’s Supervisors and Managers Boot Camp is open for registration. This five-day course is a highly interactive sequence of topics, tips and tools focused on developing leadership skills while increasing knowledge and confidence in solving some of the challenges that come with supervising others. The course will be held at the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, 428 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Victoria Carter-Johnston at carterjohnsva@vcu.edu or visit https://gehli.vcu.edu/trainings-and-institutes/supervisors-and-managers-bootcamp-smb/.
Notices
Concussion Research Study
Recruiting adolescents between the ages of 13 and 19 years old who have 1) never had a diagnosed concussion OR 2) sustained a concussion within the last 14 days. This non-invasive study is investigating the acoustic startle reflex and acoustic startle potentiation in relationship to subsequent injury following concussion. Participants will be compensated for their time. See the interest form at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jessie Oldham at oldhamjr@vcu.edu or visit https://redcap.vcu.edu/surveys/?s=YKDWLNYWDNK7M7KX.
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 $925 compensation plus travel support. Contact: misralab@uvahealth.org
For more information, contact Alexandra Lempke at alexandra.lempke@vcuhealth.org.
Participants Are Invited For Study Examining the Impact of Cold Water Immersion on Symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
This study is seeking individuals between the ages of 18 and 35 years who have GAD or symptoms of GAD. The purpose of this research study is to examine the effect of cold water immersion on GAD symptoms with specific focus on blood vessel function. This study will be conducted at 500 Academic Centre on VCU’s Monroe Park Campus. Principle Investigator: Ryan Garten, Ph.D., Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences.
For more information, contact Ryan Garten at rsgarten@vcu.edu.
Participants Are Invited For Study Examining the Impact of Heat Therapy on Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
This study is seeking individuals between the ages of 18 and 55 years who have PTSD or symptoms of PTSD. The purpose of this research study is to examine the effect of heat therapy (infrared sauna) on PTSD symptoms with specific focus on blood vessel function. This study will be conducted at 500 Academic Centre on VCU’s Monroe Park Campus. Principle Investigator: Ryan Garten, Ph.D., Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences.
For more information, contact Ryan Garten at rsgarten@vcu.edu.
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.