Faculty/staff Issue for September 22, 2026
Today
VCU Writing Center Workshop: The Research Writing Process
10 a.m.
This virtual workshop is designed to help you map your research writing into a cohesive and manageable step-by-step process. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.
Canvas Overview
11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
This workshop via Zoom will provide an overview of Canvas settings and the various components to create content for your class. Register at training.vcu.edu (keyword search: Canvas). Choose a workshop and log in using your VCU eID and password.
For more information, contact Jon Reed at reedjj@vcu.edu.
RVA Street Singers
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The RVA Street Singers meet to build community through song. Enjoy lunch and conversation at the VCU Health Hub, 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A, while rehearsing and performing.
For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu.
Community Chat and Chew
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Come to the VCU Health Hub, 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A, for food, conversation and community resources that promote resilience, mental wellness and stronger connections for individuals and families.
For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu.
VCU Writing Center Workshop: Professional Communication
12 p.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/.
The Path to Employment: Career Exploration Before and After Graduation for F-1 Students
12:45 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Navigating the path to employment requires pre-planning and an understanding of the various visa types available for students interested in working in the United States, both before and after graduation. This event brings together immigration advisers from VCU's Global Education Office and local immigration attorneys to discuss the legal pathways to employment, including F-1 OPT, H-1B work visas and more. This workshop is open to F-1 students enrolled in programs in the College of Engineering. The session will be in the College of Engineering, Engineering West Hall, 601 W. Main St.
For more information, contact GEO Immigration Services at geois@vcu.edu.
Algorithms and Ecosystems (Convergence Café)
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 will 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..
This week
Canvas Assignments and Quizzes
Wednesday, Sep. 23, 2026 from 11 a.m. to noon
This workshop via Zoom will cover the various assignment and quiz configurations, as well as weighted groups. Authenticate into the workshop with your eID and password. Register at training.vcu.edu (keyword search: Canvas). Log in to the workshop with your VCU eID and password.
For more information, contact Jon Reed at reedjj@vcu.edu.
Breathe and Rise
Wednesday, Sep. 23, 2026 from 11 a.m. to noon
Breathe and Rise is a free weekly chair yoga class open to all ages and abilities at the VCU Health Hub, 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A. No mat, no floor work, just gentle movement and breathe to reconnect to your body and find steady ground, right where you are.
For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu.
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.
SCAN at VCU Chipotle Fundraiser
Wednesday, Sep. 23, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Join Save the Children Action Network at VCU for its Chipotle fundraiser at 810 W. Grace St. When making a purchase, tell the cashier you are supporting the SCAN fundraiser.
For more information, contact Save the Children Action Network at VCU at scanatvcu@gmail.com.
Canvas Gradebook
Thursday, Sep. 24, 2026 from 11 a.m. to noon
This workshop via Zoom will cover Canvas gradebook configurations. Register at training.vcu.edu (keyword search: Canvas). Log in to the workshop with your VCU eID and password.
For more information, contact Jon Reed at reedjj@vcu.edu.
HIIT – High Intensity Interval Training
Friday, Sep. 25, 2026 at noon
This 30-minute virtual HIIT class, brought to you by VCU HR and RecWell, will use only your body weight to raise your heart rate and get you sweating. Start with a short warm-up and close with a cool down stretch. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/3U9GMNn
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://hr.vcu.edu/worklife-at-vcu/employee-events/.
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.
Coming up
Using Epidemiologic Data and Community Engagement to Inform Strategies for Reducing Life Expectancy Gaps in Richmond's East End With Derek Chapman, Ph.D.
Tuesday, Sep. 29, 2026 at noon
VCU's Department of Epidemiology will host the Fall 2026 Epi Forum Seminar Series. This year's theme highlights epidemiology as an interdisciplinary field, showcasing the breadth of innovative research by the university faculty. Refreshments will be provided at every seminar session. This week, hear from Derek Chapman, Ph.D., professor and director of VCU Center on Society and Health. The session will be at One Capitol Square, Room 644, 830 E. Main St. Refreshments will be provided. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Maggie Christ at christmm@vcu.edu or visit https://epidemiology.vcu.edu/seminar/.
Wilder School Master of Public Administration Session With Myung Jin
Tuesday, Sep. 29, 2026 at noon
Join the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs for a virtual session with Myung Jin, Ph.D., to learn more about the Master of Public Administration program. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Ross Losapio at losapior@vcu.edu or (804) 827-0364 or visit https://bit.ly/mpa0929.
Mix and Mingle: Dance and Performance
Tuesday, Sep. 29, 2026 from noon to 1:30 p.m.
Calling all VCU performance and dance organizations. The Underground at VCU is bringing back the Mix and Mingle Series. This month's event is all about performance and dance organizations, which offer students an opportunity to meet new people, discover organizations on campus and make connections that could lead to future collaborations. The event will be in The Underground at VCU, University Student Commons, Room 015, 907 Floyd Ave.
For more information, contact The Underground at studentorgs@vcu.edu or visit https://ramsconnect.vcu.edu/theunderground/rsvp_boot?id=1948646.
Study Abroad in South Korea (May 24-June 4, 2027)
Wednesday, Sep. 30, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
VCU School of Social Work presents Korea in Transition (SLWK 391/770), a three-credit summer program exploring Korean society, culture and emerging social issues. Open to all undergraduate and graduate majors, the program offers an immersive experience featuring cultural visits, hands-on learning and expert lectures. Funding: $2,000 scholarship reflected in the listed program fee. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/87828864871 Additional informational sessions: Thursday, Oct. 15 at 6 p.m.; Tuesday, Nov. 17 at 6 p.m. and Thursday, Jan. 21, 2027 at 7 p.m. Apply at the following URL.
For more information, contact Youngmi Kim at ykim@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.studioabroad.com/_portal/tds-program-brochure?programid=11759.
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. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact TEDxVCU at tedx@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1948413 .
Native Nations and the American Revolution
Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026 at 5:30 p.m.
The VCU History Department will host Pulitzer Prize-winning author and historian Kathleen DuVal, who will discuss "Native Nations and the American Revolution" at the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, 428 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd. This is a ticketed event, free to VCU affiliates with promo code VCUHIST26. A reception will follow the lecture. The event will be sponsored by the Society of the Cincinnati in the State of Virginia in partnership with VCU History, VMHC and the Humanities Research Center. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Andrea Wight at wighta@vcu.edu or visit https://history.vcu.edu/events/event-items/society-of-the-cincinnati-lecture-featuring-kathleen-duval-phd.html.
Prototyping and Patents Workshop
Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
VCU’s da Vinci Center and VCU TechTransfer and Ventures will host a workshop on prototyping and patents. Curious about how to bring your innovation idea to life, how to protect your intellectual property or how to apply for a patent? Join the workshop to have your questions answered. This event is free and open to all VCU students, alumni, faculty and community members. It will be held at SHIFT Retail Lab, 1235 W. Broad St.
For more information, contact Ashley Wenger, da Vinci Center program manager, at wengeran@vcu.edu or visit https://shiftretail.vcu.edu/events/attend-events/.
Data Analysis With Excel
Wednesday, Oct. 7, 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. The course will be held at the Academic Learning Commons (MCALC), Room 4100, 1000 Floyd Ave. Registration will be accepted through Monday, Oct. 5 at the following URL.
For more information, contact Shelly Schuetz at ssschuetz@vcu.edu or visit https://www.continuingstudies.vcu.edu/CourseStatus.awp3?&course=27-SS-149.
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, 907 Floyd Ave. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Michele Murray at mmurray2@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/AC7xDv5uAH54V7Ys5.
From Protest to Pride: Gay Alliance of Students 50th Anniversary Gala
Friday, Oct. 16, 2026 from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
VCU Development and Alumni Relations will present From Protest to Pride: Gay Alliance of Students 50th Anniversary Gala at Studio Two Three, 109 W. 15th St. It will be a night of storytelling, live performances from local LGBTQ+ talent and community-building with some of VCU’s and Richmond’s most dedicated LGBTQ+ advocates.
For more information, contact Josh Leidy, director, affinity programs, Affinity Engagement and Philanthropy at leidyjw@vcu.edu or visit https://give.vcu.edu/events/from-protest-to-pride-gay-alliance-of-students-50th-anniversary-gala/?a=13762588.
Save the Date: School of Medicine 28th Annual Faculty Excellence Awards Program and Luncheon
Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026 at noon
VCU School of Medicine will host the 28th Annual Faculty Excellence Awards Program and Luncheon in person in Bruce Oliver Tucker Auditorium, James W. and Frances G. McGlothlin Medical Education Center (MMEC), 1201 E. Marshall St. The event will also be available via ivestream.
For more information, contact Breydon Horton at breydon.horton@vcuhealth.org.
Notices
Employee Health Introduces a New Visit Focused on Heart Health
When you sign up for a heart health assessment, a clinician will help you assess your cardio metabolic health and risk for developing pre-diabetes. The clinician can discuss strategies to help improve your heart health and will help you identify other wellness and health related VCU employee benefits that are available to you. Schedule your visit with VCU Employee Health at the following URL.
For more information, contact VCU Employee Health at EHS@vcu.edu or (804) 628-2594 or visit http://go.vcu.edu/employeewellness.
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.
Seeking Research Assistants for School-Based Study
Are you interested in research? The research lab led by Melanie Bean, Ph.D., is seeking detail-oriented, reliable research assistants to support an NIH-funded school-based research study. This role involves working directly with students, school staff and the study team to conduct study assessments during school hours (7 a.m.-3 p.m.) or performing data coding in the lab. Compensation is $20/hour; reliable personal transportation is required. To apply or learn more, contact the study team at the following URL.
For more information, contact Sarah Farthing at hlcresearch@vcuhealth.org or (804) 527-4756 or visit https://hlc.lab.vcu.edu/.
2027 VCU Leadership Development Program Informational Sessions Open for Registration!
The Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute is offering virtual informational sessions for the 2027 VCU Leadership Development Program. If you are interested in a program and/or have a question, we highly suggest you come to hear from the Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute staff. The 30-minute sessions highlight learning objectives and program logistics. Three virtual options are available: Wednesday, Sept. 23 at noon; Wednesday, Oct. 7 at noon and Wednesday, Nov. 4 at noon. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Ron Jones at jonesre22@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdYq-1HgCcYFW_jlXqgLlmsxvGgwZtqINGLJmopCwPpvWwthg/viewform?usp=header.
Seeking Full-Time Post-Doctoral 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, M.D., MPH at caitlin.martin@vcuhealth.org or visit https://vcujobs.com/jobs/full-time-postdoctoral-scientist-mcv-main-campus-virginia-united-states.
Sign Up for the Mentorship Program
VCU's Leadership Career Community is recruiting members for its 2026-2027 Mentorship Program cycle. Register by Tuesday, Sept. 22 at the following URL to become a mentor, mentee or thought partner.
For more information, contact Virginia Damron at vmdamron@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/vu7PzvbLiQhDq5Lw9.
My Path to Quit: Tobacco Research Study
Quit smoking to be there for the people who matter most. Earn up to $275 and receive free treatment as part of a seven-month study designed to support Black adults on their journey to quit smoking tobacco.
For more information, contact Angel Lewis at Angel.Lewis@vcuhealth.org.
Equal Opportunity and Title VI Office Updates Religious, Ethical or Moral Belief Accommodations Guidelines
Equity and Access Services's EO and Title VI Office published updated guidelines for student requests of religious, ethical or moral belief accommodations. The updates include guidance for how faculty members should address accommodation requests and additional resources.
For more information, contact Equal Opportunity & Title VI Office at equity@vcu.edu or (804) 828-1347 or visit https://equity.vcu.edu/equal-opportunity--title-vi/.
Participants Are Invited for Study Investigating Military and Racial Identity
This study is seeking individuals who identify as Black or African American and are currently serving in the U.S. military or have previously served in the U.S. military (including active duty, Reserves, National Guard or veterans). The purpose of this study is to examine how Black individuals understand and experience their military and racial identity. Participation involves completing a survey asking for personal and military specific demographic information, as well as questions about your racial and military identity and psychological well-being. We expect that you will be in this research study for about 15 minutes. Questions: Contact the following email address.
For more information, contact Jayda Bryant at bryantj8@vcu.edu.
Call for Participation: Share Your Family Stories
Yiwen Wei, Ph.D., associate professor of art education, is seeking 30 intergenerational pairs (two family members from different generations) living in the greater Richmond area and with family backgrounds in immigration (current or ancestry) to share their family stories and create artwork together. Each participant will receive a $25 gift card. Complete the eligibility form at the following URL by Wednesday, Sept. 30. Registration will remain open until filled.
For more information, contact Yiwen Wei, Ph.D. at weiy2@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/wCdyf7iiCtJEDLrG9.
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.