Student Issue for September 15, 2026
Today
VCU Writing Center Workshop: Professional Communication
10 a.m.
Learn the tools necessary to professionally communicate in a positive, skillful and confident manner. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.
VCU Writing Center Workshop: Crafting a Strong Introduction, Abstract or Proposal Narrative
12 p.m.
Learn the tools necessary to establish your ideas in a logical way to hook your audience. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.
Data Dissemination Informational Session
12:30 p.m.
Want to make research data more accessible and meaningful to the community? Learn about VCU’s Data Dissemination Grant, which supports creative, community-co-created approaches to sharing research data and findings with communities. Register for 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/1FAIpQLSdu9cnVOECrf7J5VcyYjh-pDzQ6WBEWbCZkGe-Mt6GdWfYdqg/viewform?usp=header.
This week
VCU Police and Regional Partners To Host Pedestrian Safety Fair Near Medical Center Campus
Wednesday, Sep. 16, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
VCU Police and regional partners are bringing interactive education to VCU students and community members on the MCV Campus as part of the “Heads Up, Rams! Pedestrian Safety Fair.” Safety organizations and advocates from across the region will engage with VCU community members through interactive educational exhibits and giveaways. The event will be in the 300 block of North 12th Street.
For more information, contact Jake Burns at burnsjh2@vcu.edu.
Majors Fair
Wednesday, Sep. 16, 2026 from noon to 3 p.m.
Are you exploring majors or considering adding a minor? Or just wanting to learn more about the major you are in? Come check out the annual Majors Fair, hosted by the Discovery Advising team. This is your opportunity to connect with students, faculty and staff from all of the majors VCU has to offer as well as various campus resources. The event will be in the University Student Commons, Commonwealth Ballroom, 907 Floyd Ave.
For more information, contact Patrick White at whitepm@vcu.edu.
Study Buddy Socials – Semester Kickoff
Wednesday, Sep. 16, 2026 at 3 p.m.
VCU's Science Hub will present a series of Study Buddy Socials through Thursday Sept. 17, in the STEM Building, Room 201E, 817 W. Franklin St. Are you interested in meeting students in your class? Curious about forming a study group but don't know where to start? Kick off the semester by connecting with your peers, learning study skills and forming a study group in your STEM courses. Questions: https://clc.vcu.edu/science-hub/ Register at the following URL for the full Study Buddy Social schedule.
For more information, contact Sunauz Moezzi at moezzis@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/Gr8jspBrdCPw6xXM8.
Student Civic Engagement Microgrants Virtual Informational Session
Wednesday, Sep. 16, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The Mary and Frances Youth Center and the VCU Division of Community Engagement are offering up to 12 microgrants, ranging from $500 to $1,000, to turn student-led ideas into community action that benefits a community partner. Register for the virtual informational session at the following URL.
For more information, contact Shari Garmise at garmiseso@vcu.edu or visit https://community.vcu.edu/community/students/microgrants/.
GBM Set for Association of Students With Disabilities and Chronic Conditions
Wednesday, Sep. 16, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
The Association of Students With Disabilities and Chronic Conditions will hold a general body meeting in the Student Accessibility and Educational Opportunity Office. SAEO is located in the basement of the University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. The event will include games, food, non-alcoholic drinks and a short presentation on the club.
For more information, contact Kyle Hull at asdcc@vcu.edu.
Political Science Alumni and Student Mixer
Thursday, Sep. 17, 2026 from 5:45 p.m. to 7 p.m.
The Department of Political Science will hold its annual Alumni and Student Mixer in the STEM Building, Room 112, 817 W. Franklin St. All past and present students and faculty are welcome to attend. Contact Hollie Sue Mann, Ph.D., a the following email address to sign up.
For more information, contact Hollie Sue Mann at mannhs2@vcu.edu or (919) 357-8942.
Sikh Student Association @ VCU First GBM
Thursday, Sep. 17, 2026 at 7 p.m.
Kick off the semester with the Sikh Student Association at the organization's first GBM in the Academic Learning Commons (MCALC), Room 1100, 1000 Floyd Ave. Stop by for free pizza, a game of Jeopardy and a fun night connecting with the Sikh student community. RSVP at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jasmine Khurmi at khurmij@vcu.edu or visit https://ramsconnect.vcu.edu/ssaofvcu/rsvp_boot?id=1948416&rel=title.
Fall 2026 Just Write Series: What a Dissertation Looks Like
Friday, Sep. 18, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Research Data Librarian Nina Exner will cover "What a Dissertation Looks Like" at noon during lunch, which is free. During this session, in Room 205, James Branch Cabell Library, 901 Park Ave., you will also learn how to use tools to simplify formatting and ensure the published work is accessible. In this session, you will learn to find examples of dissertations from your department to understand what the expectations are, use Microsoft Word’s formatting tools to simplify the creation of tables of contents and the document-wide formatting, and understand VCU’s requirements for dissertation formatting and ADA accessibility and how to use Microsoft Word and Adobe to make your document accessible. The Writing Center will also offer consultations from 11 a.m.-noon and 1-2 p.m.
For more information, contact Hali Massey at gradprofdev@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1945983.
Depth of Field: Adam Newport-Berra
Friday, Sep. 18, 2026 at 3 p.m.
Introducing: Depth of Field, an original discussion series in which production meets profession. VCU Cinema Program Director and Associate Professor Yossera Bouchtia and Assistant Professor of Media Production and Sequence Coordinator Robert Milazzo are collaborating on a monthly guest Zoom conversation series designed to bring students across all VCU moving-image disciplines –– media production, cinema, photo/film, kinetic imaging – closer to professional practitioners working at the front lines of the industry. The first participant will be Adam Newport-Berra, award-winning cinematographer of “The Bear,” “Euphoria” and Apple TV’s “The Studio.” The event will be at The Depot, 814 W. Broad St.
For more information, contact Robert Milazzo at milazzor@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/event/depth-of-field-adam-newport-berra/.
Shelfie Feedback Friday
Friday, Sep. 18, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Come to Feedback Friday at the da Vinci Center's Retail Lab, 1235 W. Broad St., to hear our Shelfies present their ideas and give feedback to help them grow. This event is free and open to all community members. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Ashley Wenger at wengeran@vcu.edu or visit https://shiftretail.vcu.edu/events/attend-events/.
Coming up
Aging Studies for Undergraduates: Accelerated Master's and Undergraduate Certificate
Monday, Sep. 21, 2026 from noon to 12:30 p.m.
VCU's Department of Gerontology offers two programs for undergraduates. Accelerated Master's: In five years, you can earn your bachelor’s degree and MS in Gerontology. This program is in partnership with the following undergraduate programs: Health Services; Health, Physical Education, and Exercise Science; Sociology, and Philosophy. Undergraduate Certificate: Undergraduates in any program can earn an Undergraduate Certificate in Aging Studies in only nine credits. Join this virtual informational session to learn more about these programs and how to apply. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Kim Ivey at ksivey@vcu.edu or visit https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/kF_rUNHPRuWb89-eb24a-Q.
Algorithms and Ecosystems (Convergence Café)
Tuesday, Sep. 22, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
The Office of University Convergence Initiatives (VCU Convergence) will hold a Convergence Café on AI and the environment. Artificial Intelligence is transforming society, but at what cost to our physical world? Join VCU scholars from engineering, policy and environmental science for a conversation on AI's massive resource demands and its potential to drive sustainable solutions. The event wil be at the SHIFT Retail Lab, 1235 W. Broad St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jen Allen at jallen25@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc5IBUrOZzE2QHHvOSNDwZAh6e9G2yk0V6XeJdrddiuPdxIBg/viewform?usp=header.
Partner Climbing Route Night
Tuesday, Sep. 22, 2026 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Team up and take on the wall together. In this collaborative climbing event, partners must work together to ascend designated routes at the same time at the Cary Street Gym climbing wall, 101 S. Linden St. Participants must rely on communication, problem-solving and teamwork skills while tackling unique climbing challenges with a partner. Prior climbing experience is recommended. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact outdoors@vcu.edu at outdoors@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/Program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=80fa3b6a-e489-440e-be9a-c49ff4b884dc.
Data Analysis With Excel
Wednesday, Sep. 23, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This course offered by Continuing and Professional Education builds advanced Excel skills for professionals who need to manage, analyze and report on data with greater accuracy and efficiency. Through hands-on exercises and real-world applications, participants will work with complex datasets, apply advanced formulas and create dynamic reports. Early registration ends Wednesday, Aug. 26, but registrations will be accepted through Monday, Sept. 21 at the following URL. The class will be held in the VCU HR Learning Center Conference Room, 922 W. Grace St.
For more information, contact Shelly Schuetz at ssschuetz@vcu.edu or visit https://www.continuingstudies.vcu.edu/CourseStatus.awp3?&course=27-SS-148.
Pups on the Plaza Save the Date
Thursday, Sep. 24, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Center for Human-Animal Interaction invites you to Pups on the Plaza at the James W. and Frances G. McGlothlin Medical Education Center (MMEC), 1201 E. Marshall St. The first 200 meals will be complimentary (limit one per those in attendance). Pre-sales will be on Thursday, Sept. 17 and Monday, Sept. 21 on the first floor of Main Hospital, 1250 E. Marshall St. Support the Dogs on Call program by purchasing a Dogs on Call T-shirt or securing a meal ticket in advance (recommended if you may not be among the first 200 or would like more than one ticket).
For more information, contact Center for Human-Animal Interaction at CHAI@VCUHealth.org or (804) 628-2532 or visit https://chai.vcu.edu/.
ReFashioned Runway Fabric Selection Event
Friday, Sep. 25, 2026 from noon to 2 p.m.
In collaboration with Pop Up Stop, The Anderson will present ReFashioned Runway, a fashion exhibition created by student designers using materials sourced from Pop Up Stop. Stop by the interest meeting on the fifth floor of the Pollack Building, 325 N. Harrison St., any time between noon and 2 p.m. to choose your fabric. This opportunity is open to all arts, costume and fashion merchandising majors.
For more information, contact Antoinette McDade at mcdadeai@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/event/refashioned-runway-upcoming-open-call-fall-2026/.
AI Learning Series: From Foundations to Practical Application
Friday, Sep. 25, 2026 at 9 a.m.
Whether you're looking to understand machine learning or figure out how to integrate AI into your workflow ethically, the Graduate School has you covered. Join a two-part online learning series designed to navigate the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence. Foundations of AI from 9-10:3 a.m. and Applications of AI Tools from 11 a.m.-noon. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Erin Brown at gradprofdev@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1946011.
Fall Group Exercise Schedule
Wednesday, Sep. 30, 2026 at 9 a.m.
VCU RecWell offers free group exercise classes for VCU students and RecWell members throughout the fall semester. The Fall 2026 group exercise schedule runs through Sunday, Dec. 6 and features a variety of classes for different interests and fitness levels. Registration opens 24 hours before each class and closes 30 minutes before the class begins. Drop-ins are permitted when space is available. View the current schedule and register through RecWell's online portal.
For more information, contact groupexprgm@vcu.edu at groupexprgm@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/program?classificationId=9cae168f-1f3a-4f14-a777-ce5844c767e0.
National Conflict Resolution Day
Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026 from 9 a.m. to noon
The Office of the University Ombudsperson will sponsor National Conflict Resolution Day at VCU, which promotes and encourages peaceful conflict management and resolution practices throughout the three campuses. The event will feature a keynote address from Linda Brothers, Georgetown University Ombuds. The event will be at the University Student Commons, Virginia Rooms C-D, 907 Floyd Ave. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Michele Murray at mmurray2@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/AC7xDv5uAH54V7Ys5.
Notices
TEDxVCU Planning Team Application
Join the TEDxVCU planning team and help share ideas. More information about each position and the application can be found here: Team Lead Application (https://forms.gle/6eUqcynY7ta1QhEW8) by Tuesday, Sept. 8 and Planning Team Application (https://forms.gle/R5UiPTeuuoyyTP2X9) by Tuesday, Sept. 15.
For more information, contact TEDxVCU at tedx@vcu.edu.
Study Abroad in South Korea (May 24-June 4, 2027)
Explore Korean society, culture and emerging social issues with the VCU School of Social Work’s summer program, SLWK 391/770: Korea in Transition (3 credits). Open to all undergraduate and graduate majors. Experience an immersive journey featuring cultural visits, hands-on learning and expert lectures. Funding: $2,000, scholarships are available. Virtual informational sessions via Zoom will be Wednesday, Sept. 30 at 6 p.m.; and Thursday, ay, Oct. 15 at 6 p.m.; Tuesday, Nov. 17 at 6 p.m. and Thursday, Jan. 21 at 7 p.m. Apply at the following URL.
For more information, contact Youngmi Kim, Ph.D., at ykim@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.studioabroad.com/_portal/tds-program-brochure?programid=11759.
Three-Minute Thesis Competition Accepting Applications
The VCU Graduate School is hosting the annual Three-Minute Thesis Competition. This competition is open to all graduate students from any discipline. The in-person competition challenges students to share their research in three minutes using one static slide. This year’s competitors will be provided with resources and support from the Office of Professional Development and Writing Center. The deadline to submit is Friday, Sept. 18. Preliminary heats will be held in-person on Friday, Oct. 2 and the final competition will be held Friday, Oct. 9. Learn more at the following URL.
For more information, contact Erin Brown at gradprofdev@vcu.edu or visit https://graduate.vcu.edu/current-students/professional-development/3mt-competition/..
National Sickle Cell Awareness Month
To learn more about this genetic condition, register at the following URL for "Introduction to Sickle Cell Disease," a collaboration between VCU’s Sickle Cell Disease Program, CPE and LEDstudio. This online, asynchronous course is designed to introduce community health care workers and others in the field to sickle cell disease and review the types of disease, its complications, the pain, treatments and how patients move from pediatric to adult services. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Laura Wilson at wilsonl14@vcu.edu or visit https://cpe.catalog.vcu.edu/courses/introduction-to-sickle-cell-disease.
Google Updates Recap: September 2026
Welcome to the Fall 2026 semester. This month's Google Updates Recap includes improvements in Google Calendar and Google AI, quality-of-life features for charts in Google Sheets, an improved homepage in Google Meet and more.
For more information, contact Doctor Gee at drgee@vcu.edu or visit https://blogs.vcu.edu/drgee/2026/09/09/google-updates-recap-september-2026/.
Seeking Full-Time Postdoctoral Scientist
Do you currently hold a Ph.D. and have experience working with NIH-funded clinical research? The VCU Institute for Alcohol and Alcohol Studies (VCU IDAS) is currently looking for an enthusiastic and highly motivated post-doctoral scientist to join the multidisciplinary research team of Caitlin E. Martin, M.D., MPH. VCU IDAS conducts research across the translational science spectrum related to substance use disorders, from population-level epidemiologic studies to mechanistic neuroimaging studies. An ideal candidate will currently have a Ph.D. in a related scientific discipline and an interest in both biological mechanisms and psychological drivers of substance use disorders. Apply at the following URL.
For more information, contact Caitlin E. Martin at caitlin.martin@vcuhealth.org or visit https://vcujobs.com/jobs/full-time-postdoctoral-scientist-mcv-main-campus-virginia-united-states.
Virginia Capitol Semester Internship Program – Apply by Thursday, Oct. 1
The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs is accepting applications for the Virginia Capitol Semester program, a spring semester internship that connects students directly with the office of a Virginia delegate or senator during the General Assembly session. No matter what your major is, this internship experience is for you. It is an opportunity to better understand how policy is developed and to witness the legislative process as it impacts every area of public service. Apply by Thursday, Oct. 1 at the following URL to register for an upcoming infomational session.
For more information, contact Adrienne K. Jones at wsinternship@vcu.edu or (804) 827-2791 or visit https://wilder.vcu.edu/student-support-resources/internships-and-experiential-learning-/virginia-capitol-semester/.
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.
For more information, contact Ryan Garten at rsgarten@vcu.edu.
Still Serving Through Science: Join VCU’s HERO Concussion Study
If you have worn the uniform and now call VCU home, this is for you. Whether you are student, faculty or staff, we want you to be a part of the HERO Study – a clinical trial funded by the Department of Defense. We are studying a noninvasive technique that may help people with a history of concussion or mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) who still suffer from lingering effects. Be part of a federally funded initiative to transform care for military service personnel. Get financial compensation for your time and commitment. Your best interests will be at the forefront of all study obligations, including flexible scheduling and confidential participation. Help shape the future of brain health – for yourself and for others. See if you qualify at the following URL:
For more information, contact HERO Study at hero-study.org or (804) 827-9692 or visit http://hero-study.org.
Participants Needed for Brain Imaging Study
The Research on Excessive, Persistent and Emotion-Based Actions and Traits (REPEAT) Lab at VCU is conducting a brain imaging study to understand decision-making processes in adults with anorexia nervosa. Participants will be compensated for participating in this study.
For more information, contact REPEAT Lab at repeat@vcu.edu or (804) 828-2658 or visit https://tinyurl.com/25wnkh7z.
Participants Are Invited for Study Examining the Impact of Exercise on Cardiovascular Health
This study is inviting individuals between the ages of 18 and 24 with poor sleep. Compensation is up to $50. The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of aerobic and resistance exercise on cardiovascular responses and vascular inflammation. This study will be conducted at 500 Academic Centre on VCU’s Monroe Park Campus. Principal Investigator: Lee Franco, Ph.D., Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences.
For more information, contact Garrett Oehlert at healthyheart@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.
RamsConnect events
View all of the student events happening on campus and register for events that interest you.