Student Issue for September 16, 2026
Today
VCU Police and Regional Partners To Host Pedestrian Safety Fair Near Medical Center Campus
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.
Bioinformatics Bites: From Experiment to Insight – Streamlining Omics and Bioinformatics
12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Massey's Bioinformatics Shared Resource presents and Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research sponsors Bioinformatics Bites at Goodwin Research Laboratory, Thalhimer Conference Room (GRL-131), 401 College St., with with Adam Hawkridge, Ph.D., Proteomics Core and Brien Riley, Ph.D., Genomics Core. See how the Bioinformatics Core now works directly with the Genomics and Proteomics Cores, giving researchers streamlined, coordinated workflows from data generation through analysis. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Christiane Carter at morecockcm@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/qQQvgJRaTfeqOPEvaX48VQ.
Majors Fair
12 p.m. 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.
Emerging Researchers Academy and VCU Writing Center Workshop: The Research Question
3 p.m.
Learn to feel comfortable when beginning a research project and developing a clear, focused and complex research question. 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 To Present Résumé Workshop
6 p.m.
This introductory workshop is designed to guide students through the résumé writing process, from what to include and how to say it. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.
'Baby Doe' Film Screening
6 p.m.
The VCU College of Humanities and Sciences will host a screening of the film "Baby Doe." A panel discussion with the director, Jessica Earnshaw, and others will follow. The screening will be in the theater of the University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Amy Bailey at baileyal8@vcu.edu or (804) 828-8498 or visit https://forensicscience.vcu.edu/events/event-items/baby-doe-film-screening-.html.
This week
Art and Politics in Chile Informational Session
Thursday, Sep. 17, 2026 at 1 p.m.
The Global Education Office and the Department of Focused Inquiry in the College of Humanities and Sciences at VCU will offer an opportunity to study on site in Santiago and Valparaiso, Chile, over spring break. Join program leader Hilary Levinson for a virtual information session. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/84715346064.
For more information, contact Julia Wells at wellj7@vcu.edu or (804) 827-7882 or visit https://vcu.studioabroad.com/_portal/tds-program-brochure?programid=11753.
VCU Birthday Celebration
Thursday, Sep. 17, 2026 from noon to 2 p.m.
Join the Student Alumni Council in celebrating VCU's 58th birthday at the Commons Plaza with games, cupcakes and more. Questions: Visit the following URL.
For more information, contact Sarah Ramkey at sac@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1948149.
Constitution Day 2026
Thursday, Sep. 17, 2026 from 2 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.
The format for Constitution Day 2026 will be "Ask an Expert. The Road to Democracy: From the Declaration of Independence to the United States Constitution." Bring your questions to this Constitution Day event, wherein John Aughenbaugh, Ph.D., a professor in the Political Science Department, will answer questions and give context to the pressing Constitutional questions of the day. The event is free, open to the public and will occur both in person at James Branch Cabell Library, Room 250, 901 Park Ave., and live-streamed via Zoom. The link is available at the following URL.
For more information, contact Ryan Larson at rbpander@vcu.edu or visit https://www.library.vcu.edu/about/events/2026-2027/constitution-day-.html.
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.
Coming up
Master of Public Health Virtual Informational Session
Monday, Sep. 21, 2026 at noon
Join the School of Public Health for a virtual informational session for its online and residential Master of Public Health Programs. Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/qB5KNZj9QSyOhRjUAAp9PQ
For more information, contact Katherine Peterman at petermankb@vcu.edu or visit https://sph.vcu.edu/programs/mph/.
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.
Evening MBA Current Student Panel
Wednesday, Sep. 23, 2026 at noon
Come to a brief informational overview of the Evening MBA and a live student panel featuring current Evening MBA students sharing what it’s really like to balance career, coursework and life. Hear why they chose the Evening MBA, what surprised them most and how the program is supporting their goals. If you’re considering an MBA or want an inside look at what it’s really like to be in the program, this is your chance to hear directly from those living it. The Zoom link is at the following URL.
For more information, contact Evan Torpy at torpyec@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/j/89783238050.
Process Consultation
Wednesday, Sep. 23, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
This online-synchronous course offered by Continuing and Professional Education introduces participants to the foundations of process consultation and the consultant mindset. Over six weeks, learners will explore how to respond effectively to requests for help, identify the right stakeholders, establish clear agreements and clarify roles, expectations, scope and desired outcomes at the start of a consulting engagement. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Shelly Schuetz at ssschuetz@vcu.edu or visit https://cpe.catalog.vcu.edu/courses/process-consultation.
Family F(r)eud Night
Wednesday, Sep. 23, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Are you smarter than a psychology student? Come to Grace E. Harris Hall, Room 2117, 1015 Floyd Ave., for the Family F(r)eud event for a test of your psychology knowledge. Bring a friend; this event is open to any and everyone, both psychology and non-psychology students. Food will be provided and prizes may be won if you prove to be smarter than a psychology student.
For more information, contact Madisyn Feliciano at felicianome2@vcu.edu or (540) 783-8757.
VCU Healthcare Opportunities and Professional School Fair
Thursday, Sep. 24, 2026 from noon to 3 p.m.
Come to the Healthcare Opportunities and Professional School Fair at the University Student Commons, Richmond Salons, 907 Floyd Ave. Connect with healthcare and community based organizations offering opportunities that unite your academic goals to real-world experiences, including volunteer and service hours, that advance your career development. Whether you are already on a track designed to help you pursue a specific healthcare focus or you are still exploring healthcare and adjacent careers, this fair is for you. The event is co-sponsored by VCU P.R.I.M.E. (Pre-Health and Related Interest Mentoring Experiences)
For more information, contact Danielle Pearles at ddpearles@vcu.edu.
CPR/AED and First Aid Classes
Saturday, Sep. 26, 2026 from 9 a.m. to noon
This course will prepare you to recognize and care for a variety of first aid, breathing and cardiac emergencies until emergency medical personnel arrive. This course meets OSHA requirements for workplace CPR/AED and first aid training in most non-healthcare settings. The class will be held Saturday, Sept. 26 from 9 a.m.-noon. (Registration closes Friday, Sept. 18.) The class will also be offered Wednesday, Sept. 30 from 5-8 p.m. (Registration closes Wednesday, Sept. 23.) The clas will be held in the wet classroom at Cary Street Gym, 101 S. Linden St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact aquatics@vcu.edu at aquatics@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/Program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=157236e4-f012-4926-b19a-80ba87072981.
Virtual Informational Session: Learn About the Ph.D. Program in Health Services Organization and Research
Wednesday, Sep. 30, 2026 at 5 p.m.
Join the VCU Department of Health Administration for a virtual informational session to learn about the Ph.D. program in Health Services Organization and Research's curriculum, assistantship opportunities, and post-graduation outcomes. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Cameron Parkins at parkinsc@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/Rof6SdWfn3i438jt8.
TEDxVCU Open House
Friday, Oct. 2, 2026 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Want to learn more about TEDxVCU or become a speaker? Join the open house. Meet the TEDxVCU team, learn about the speaker selection process, discover what makes a great TEDx talk and explore ways to become involved. The session will be in the SGA Senate Chambers, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave.
For more information, contact TEDxVCU at tedx@vcu.edu.
Volunteers Needed for Fall Open House
Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026 from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.
VCU's Office of Admissions seeks volunteers to assist with its largest event for prospective Rams. Volunteers will welcome guests, answer questions and direct guests around campus. Sign up at the following URL or direct questions to the following email address.
For more information, contact Kevin-Allen Harris at harriskv2@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfFQuVCBYL19XyHSDzeyWBXVM_ZV1hDrAiIb0cOpjUb4swRVw/viewform?usp=dialog.
Adult Beginner Swim Class
Monday, Oct. 5, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Adult beginner lessons are designed for older teens and adults to build fundamental swimming and water safety skills. Participants will learn basic swimming and water safety skills including floating, breath control and basic movement in the water. Classes will be in the aquatic center of the Cary Street Gym, 101 S. Linden St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact aquatics@vcu.edu at aquatics@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=cf8f4caa-89df-40ea-8176-1f6f14815527.
Adult Fitness Swimming Class
Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026 from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m.
Adult Intermediate swim classes are intended for older teens and adults who are comfortable in the water and wish to improve their swimming skills. Participants will learn to improve their swimming technique on their front and back as well as safety skills such as treading water. Classes will be in the aquatic center of the Cary Street Gym, 101 S. Linden St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact aquatics@vcu.edu at aquatics@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/Program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=e9401580-e161-45db-9b79-9ef3ddebb02a.
Lifeguard Training
Friday, Oct. 9, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
This class will prepare you to prevent, recognize, respond to and care for aquatic and breathing/cardiac emergencies that may occur in or around the water. You will also learn 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, waterpark, or specialty facilities. Classes will be in the aquatic center of the Cary Street Gym, 101 S. Linden St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact aquatics@vcu.edu at aquatics@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/Program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=8f04eb94-8b05-4785-bfc5-8f1060041199.
Saturday Swim Class: Parent and Child
Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 from 10:15 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.
Parent and Child Aquatics is designed for children ages 6 months up to 3 years old to begin getting comfortable in the water with the help of their parents/guardians. An adult must be in the water at all times with their child. Classes will be in the aquatic center of the Cary Street Gym, 101 S. Linden St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact aquatics@vcu.edu at aquatics@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=d12c8cc5-0fb0-41d3-802b-345c56ec78d1.
Parent and Child Aquatics
Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 from 9:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Parent and Child Aquatics is designed for children ages 6 months to 3 years old to begin getting comfortable in the water with the help of their parents/guardians. An adult must be in the water at all times with their child. Classes will be in the aquatic center's leisure pool of the Cary Street Gym, 101 S. Linden St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact aquatics@vcu.edu at aquatics@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=d12c8cc5-0fb0-41d3-802b-345c56ec78d1.
Preschool Aquatics
Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 from 9:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Preschool Aquatics Level 1 is designed for children ages 3 to 6 years old to begin learning fundamental water safety and swimming skills. All skills in this class are performed with hands-on support from instructors. Classes will be in the aquatic center of the Cary Street Gym, 101 S. Linden St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact aquatics@vcu.edu at aquatics@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/program?classificationId=805d477a-53f7-4a08-8d31-2c0fb96d6ee0.
Lifeguard Recertification
Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
This class is for currently certified lifeguards seeking recertification. Participants must have a current American Red Cross Lifeguard (including deep water) certificate or be within 30 days of expiration. Proof of eligibility must be provided prior to participation in this class. Email your certificate to aquatics@vcu.edu for verification prior to the first day of class. Classes will be in the aquatic center of the Cary Street Gym, 101 S. Linden St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact aquatics@vcu.edu at aquatics@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/Program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=ef0b1e7e-d080-4a9d-bfb9-361ee9c303cc.
Notices
Join the Shelfie Program
Have a business idea you want to test or interested in learning how to become an entrepreneur? Join the da Vinci Center's Shelfie Program, a four-week, co-curriculuar program that uses design thinking to help you develop a product, service or business idea! This program is free to join and open to all VCU students. The next cohort begins Saturday, Sept. 26. Apply at the following URL.
For more information, contact Ashley Wenger at wengeran@vcu.edu or visit https://shiftretail.vcu.edu/programming/shelfie-program/.
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.
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.