Student Issue for October 16, 2026
Today
Wellness Wind Down
12 p.m. to 2 p.m.
You made it through the week. Now take a minute for yourself. Stop by “Wellness Wind Down” to breathe, reset and ease into the weekend with simple activities designed to support your mind, body and overall well-being. Stay for a while or just drop in for a quick reset. No pressure, no forced sharing and no registration needed. Sessions will be at the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs, University Student Commons, Suite 215, 907 Floyd Ave. OMSA activities are open to all students, faculty and staff.
For more information, contact Gennese Springs at springsge@vcu.edu.
VCU Mass Communications Graduate Program Informational Session
12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Ready to take the next step in your professional journey? Join the VCU Richard T. Robertson School of Communication for a virtual informational session exploring the M.S. in Mass Communications, with specialized concentrations in Integrated Communication and Media Leadership, as well as its Graduate Certificate in Media and Leadership. Learn how the programs can help you lead in today's evolving media landscape. Join the meeting at vcu.zoom.us/my/robertsongrad. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/my/robertsongrad
For more information, contact Jonathan Brown at brownj64@vcu.edu or (804) 525-9425 or visit https://robertson.vcu.edu/academics/graduate/.
Coming up
VCU Writing Center Workshop: AI Prompt Crafting
Monday, Oct. 19, 2026 at 11 a.m.
Learn the basics of AI and prompt crafting by developing effective strategies for understanding Large Language Models (LLMs). Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.
Study Well: Social Wellbeing and Making Friends
Monday, Oct. 19, 2026 from noon to 3 p.m.
Making friends on a big campus can feel challenging, but You First peer mentors are here to help. Stop by James Branch Cabell Library, 901 Park Ave., for low stress practices on starting conversations, overcoming awkwardness and finding your herd at VCU. Open to all students. Questions? Contact youfirst@vcu.edu.
For more information, contact Zisu Liao at liaoz@vcu.edu.
SLSS Seminar Featuring Jason Rohr, University of Notre Dame
Monday, Oct. 19, 2026 at noon
VCU's School of Life Sciences and Sustainability will host the SLSS Seminar Series featuring Jason Rohr, Ph.D., Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Notre Dame. In his presentation, “Planetary Health Innovations for Disease, Agriculture, Water, Energy, Sustainability and Poverty Challenges in Africa and Beyond,” Rohr will explore how nature-based solutions can address interconnected environmental and public health challenges. The presentation will be in the Eugene P. and Lois E. Trani Center for Life Sciences, Room 253,1000 W. Cary St.
For more information, contact Joseph Ellis at ellisjt2@vcu.edu or (804) 828-1562 or visit https://slss.vcu.edu/events/event-items/slss-seminar-planetary-health-innovations-for-disease-agriculture-water-energy-sustainability-and-poverty-challenges-in-africa-and-beyond-.html.
VACU Fall Financial Series: The Why Behind Our Spending and Buying, at the VCU Health Hub
Monday, Oct. 19, 2026 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Join the VACU at the VCU Health Hub, 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A, for their Financial Success Fall Series. This week's topic is The Why Behind Our Spending and Buying. Come out, enjoy refreshments and learn something new.
For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu.
Trivia Night
Monday, Oct. 19, 2026 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
VCU's Student Alumni Council will hold a philanthropy-themed trivia night. The event will be in the Honors College Multipurpose Room, first floor, Room 1303, 701 W. Grace St. Come win prizes such as headphones, disposable cameras, Legos and more.
For more information, contact Sania Desai at desais3@vcu.edu.
Side by Side: A Community and University Exchange
Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 at noon
Join VCU's Division of Community Engagement for the next Side by Side Exchange, which will bring together a university faculty member, civic employee and community partner to discuss housing availability and accessibility. Hear via Zoom how different perspectives can add value to addressing shared societal challenges. Come join us. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Challen Wellington at wellingtonc@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfBX9QKTa6AK7jW4qaXZpmjlOBChEMVinG5twXVpiMbzSiptA/viewform?usp=header.
Uncommon Conversations, Brighter Futures With Former NFL and MLB Star Bo Jackson
Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Developing Men of Color in collaboration with VCU, Mastercard and Virginia Credit Union will host former NFL and MLB player Bo Jackson at the Altria Theater. Hear real-world advice, fresh perspectives and a chance to go further. This is a conversation that an lead to a brighter future.
For more information, contact Tyrese Perkins at vcu.dmc@gmail.com or (276) 806-5184 or visit https://www.dmcvcu.com/.
QMHP Panel With Psychology
Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
VCU Career Services and Psychology advising are collaborating to host a virtual Qualified Mental Health Professional panel for students who are interested in earning the certification. Those who attend will receive additional information on how to apply for and navigate the QMHP certification application process. A QMHP is a mental health worker (usually bachelor's level) certified to provide supervised behavioral health services in Virginia. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Araba Andrews at andrewsab2@vcu.edu or visit https://tinyurl.com/5dwufn43.
Graduate School Career Immersion Week: STEM Industry Panels
Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.
Are you a STEM graduate student exploring career paths beyond traditional academic research? Whether you're aiming for R&D, biotech, tech leadership, data science or engineering consulting, the transition from academia to industry requires a distinct set of tools and strategies. Join this virtual panel featuring advanced degree holders who have successfully built high-impact careers across the STEM landscape. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Hali Massey at dayberryhj@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1948911.
MCV- Suit Yourself Closet: Grand Reopening Celebration
Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026 from noon to 2 p.m.
The MCV-Suit Yourself Closet has re-opened for business. Mark your calendars for this special grand reopening celebration. Come to the new location in the VMI Building, Suite 103, 1000 E. Marshall St.. The Suit Yourself Closet (SYC) provides gently used professional clothing to VCU students. At this special event, VCU students can take – and keep – up to 10 items of clothing for free. Cupcakes, snacks and drinks will also be available.
For more information, contact Virginia Damron at vmdamron@vcu.edu or visit https://careers.vcu.edu/resources/suit-yourself-professional-closet/.
Fashion Futures 2026
Friday, Oct. 23, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Meet VCU's fashion alumni, hear their stories and imagine what comes next. Each year, Fashion Futures brings VCU fashion alumni back to campus to connect directly with current students. Rather than a traditional lecture or large panel, the event is built around small-format breakout sessions that provide the opportunity to hear candidly from alumni working across the fashion industry. This is your chance to ask questions, learn what happens after graduation, hear how careers actually develop and make connections with professionals who were once sitting exactly where you are now. The event will be in the Pollack Building, 325 N. Harrison St. Space is limited. Registration strictly required. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jennie Cook at cookjl@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/WuHwcbQp3fCbQ6gk8.
HPO Grad Panel
Monday, Oct. 26, 2026 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
VCU's Health Professions Organization (HPO) will host a grad panel in the Academic Learning Commons (MCALC), Room 1201, 1000 Floyd Ave.
For more information, contact Ariana Torre at torreas@vcu.edu or (571) 365-8967.
Cranial B Mode Ultrasound for Intracranial Pathology Detection (CUPID) Symposium
Friday, Oct. 30, 2026 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Cranial B-Mode (CUPID) is a free virtual course introducing clinicians to point-of-care ultrasound for evaluating intracranial pathology. The program includes sessions on image acquisition and interpretation, followed by guided review of real clinical cases involving adult and pediatric patients with closed fontanelles. No CME. Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_cfX4aHoMSSu9Zeg6B0erIQ#/registration Submit cases or lectures: https://forms.gle/xiPpKgRRRiAtqxmt7
For more information, contact Briana Garnett at briana.garnette@vcuhealth.org or visit https://neurology.vcu.edu/education/cpe/.
Volunteers Needed for Open House
Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026 from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.
The Office of Admissions is looking for volunteers to help with Open House. Duties include welcoming guests, answering questions and directing guests around campus. Please complete the form below or contact the following email address for more information.
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.
Paralegal Certificate Program Virtual Informational Session
Thursday, Nov. 12, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Join VCU Continuing and Professional Education for a virtual informational session about the Paralegal Certificate Program. The legal world is evolving, and so is the demand for skilled paralegals. Today’s paralegals don’t just work in law firms – they’re essential in education, healthcare, government, corporate offices and beyond. Register for the informational session to learn more about this six-month, online program designed for working professionals. Discounts and a payment plan are available. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Laura Wilson at wilsonl14@vcu.edu or visit https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/19a93df906e9409e80a9cb6b9277e218.
Notices
Fall Midterm Grades Are Now Available
Students are encouraged to go to eServices to learn if their professors have submitted a Midterm grade for one or more classes. Log on to Student eServices at the following URL. If you have received a Midterm grade indicating unsatisfactory academic progress, see your instructor or academic adviser. The last day to withdraw from classes or opt into Pass/Fail in the full semester is Friday, Oct. 30. For more information, contact the Office of the University Register at the following email address.
For more information, contact Office of the University Registrar at rar@vcu.edu or visit http://go.vcu.edu/eservices.
Transformative Learning Week
VCU's Transformative Learning Week, Monday, Oct. 26 through Friday, Oct. 30, is an annual initiative that highlights and encourages collaboration in transformative learning experiences. The week showcases opportunities, provides networking for faculty, staff and students and fosters cross-unit collaboration and community service.
For more information, contact Antonio Harris at harrisad6@vcu.edu or visit https://uc.vcu.edu/transformative-learning/transformative-learning-week/.
Have a Business Idea? Apply to Present at Pitch Night
Whether you’re in the early phase of a concept or an active business owner in the community, you’re invited to present at the VCU da Vinci Center's Pitch Night on Friday, Nov. 13. Participants have the chance to win sponsored awards from Capital One, Judges’ Choice awards in each category and People’s Choice awards voted on by those in attendance. All participants have the opportunity to receive up to $5,000 total in funding for their ideas.
For more information, contact Ashley Wenger at wengeran@vcu.edu or visit https://davincicenter.vcu.edu/news--events/pitch-night/.
Rising Talent: Internship Support Fund
Need help funding your internship? Apply now. The Rising Talent: Internship Support Fund helps eligible VCU students overcome financial and other barriers to participating in a credit-bearing academic internship. If you're preparing for or currently participating in an internship and need financial support, you may qualify. Not sure if you're eligible? Apply anyway. Apply at the following URL by 11:59 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30.
For more information, contact Antonio Harris at harrisad6@vcu.edu or visit https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/01a0ede1fe2276619a634f4343213e34.
TEDxVCU Is Looking for Speakers
Do you have an idea worth sharing? TEDxVCU speaker applications are now open. TEDxVCU is an independently organized TEDx event run by VCU students and is currently accepting speaker applications. Email tedx@vcu.edu for more information. Apply here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfQXQo0ZfmMb1cL6zTa1DK7N8_Ji02neNnz0kyqSPPFuIy00Q/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=101963627659439864958 Questions: Visit tedx@vcu.edu for questions.
For more information, contact Aditya Badhrayan at badhrayana@vcu.edu or visit https://ramsconnect.vcu.edu/tedxvcu/remodeled-home-/.
Ankle Sprain Research Study (Ages 14–30)
The Research in Athlete and Military Health Sciences (RAMHS) group is seeking healthy control participants ages 14-30 years to complete a research study assessing hip muscle function. You may participate if you have no ankle sprain history or other foot/leg injuries. This study will require: one in-person study visit at our research laboratory at Biotech 8, an 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.
For more information, contact Crystal Figueroa at crystal.figueroa@vcuhealth.org or (804) 827-0871.
Recruiting Participants for a Study on Understanding the Menopause Transition
Recruiting women between 45-55 years old for a study on whether diet education, lifestyle changes and medication can help women in perimenopause feel healthier. Qualifications and what to expect: https://womenshealth.vcu.edu/research/studies-currently-recruiting/ To sign up, please use the link listed in the Contact information below:
For more information, contact Brooke Foley at ocrcoordination@vcuhealth.org or (804) 628-4849 or visit https://mailxto.com/axs1fyrusn.
Opportunity To Participate in Movement Assessment Research Study
The Research in Athlete and Military Health Sciences (RAMHS) group at VCU is seeking children, adolescents and adults (ages 5-70) for participation in a research study to assess movement patterns during walking, running, and sport-related tasks among healthy and injured patients. This study will require one initial study visit at the RAMHS Laboratory lasting about two hours. an electronic questionnaire about your health and sport participation and movement assessment while you are walking, running and sport-related tasks (jumping, cutting) with and without responding to thinking tasks. Up to five total visits within about one year of the initial visit, completing the same. activities. Parking will be validated for your study visit(s). If you are interested, please complete the study screening form at the following URL.
For more information, contact Asal Aflatounian at Fatemeh.Aflatounian@vcuhealth.org or (804) 628-1981 or visit https://redcap.vcu.edu/surveys/?s=YTTMY9KNH9Y3MCT4.
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.