Faculty/staff Issue for November 6, 2026
Today
People-Based Medicine: Beyond the Diagnosis
10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Join the Bioethics 4 Students, Philosophy of Medicine and Medical Ethics Clubs at VCU and the School of Medicine for a joint conference focusing on the aspects of the healthcare experience that go well beyond clinic walls. The one-day conference will be held in the STEM Building, 817 W. Franklin St. The event will feature speakers with expertise in medicine, philosophy, policy, science and the health humanities, and spotlight student researchers. Join the day of networking, learning and collaborating on how communities can come together to make a change in the healthcare system.
For more information, contact Ria Bajpai at bajpair2@vcu.edu.
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.
Open Mic Night
4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Have anything on your mind you'd like to share? The Department of Gender, Sexuality and Women's Studies (GSWS) Advisory Board will host an open mic night at Crenshaw House, 919 W. Franklin St. Enjoy a night of singing, poetry, art and more. Treats will be available as well.
For more information, contact Kayla Hendricks at hendrickskr@vcu.edu.
Strings 'n' Things (Crochet and Knitting)
4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Love to crochet? Knit? Other fiber arts or hand crafts? Join us Fridays from 4-6 p.m. at the Pace Center (700 W. Franklin St.) for Strings 'n' Things. Connect with others who share your passion. This is a social event for crafters of all levels. Want to learn? The group is happy to teach.
For more information, contact Russ Kerr at kerrr@vcu.edu or (804) 658-4064 or visit http://www.thepacecenter.com.
Ram Pantry Food Drive
9 a.m.
Women in Science at VCU is hosting a collection drive across the MCV campus to benefit VCU Ram Pantry. Donations will be accepted through Friday, Nov. 20. Most wanted items include canned goods, pasta and rice, cereals, oils and personal hygiene products. Collection bins will be placed near the elevators of the following buildings on the MCV Campus: Sanger Hall, Molecular Medicine Research Building, Kontos Medical Science Building, Goodwin Research Laboratories and Smith Building.
For more information, contact Ally Motter at vcu.wis@gmail.com.
This week
Walk and Talk Through Hollywood Cemetery With VCU's Global Education Office and Befriend
Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Want to enjoy nature, connect with others and experience one of Richmond's most historic sites? Join VCU's Global Education Office for a walk and talk through Hollywood Cemetery with partners from Befriend, a local nonprofit dedicated to connecting people and building community through casual and compassionate community strolls. This activity is free and open to all, including family and friends. See RamsConnect page for details. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Julianna Hill at hilljk5@vcu.edu or (804) 827-7882 or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1949448.
Church Crawl – Morning Edition
Sunday, Nov. 8, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Meet a small group of students at the Pace Center (700 W. Franklin St.) at 10 a.m. to attend worship at Grace and Holy Trinity Episcopal Church (8 N. Laurel St.) for their 10:30 a.m. worship service. VCU Choirs will be singing in worship. A simple lunch (with vegetarian options) will be served after worship. All churches the church crawl group attends are LGBTQ+ affirming.
For more information, contact the Rev. Russ Kerr at kerrr@vcu.edu or (804) 658-4064 or visit http://www.thepacecenter.com.
Church Crawl – Evening Edition
Sunday, Nov. 8, 2026 from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Meet at the Pace Center (700 W. Franklin St.) at 4:30 p.m. to attend 5 p.m. Jazz Vespers Service at The Gayton Kirk Presbyterian Church (11421 Gayton Road). Because it is about a 20 minute drive, please arrive promptly. Transportation will be furnished. Dinner after worship is provided (cost is free). Those who attend will return to campus by 7 p.m. at the latest.
For more information, contact the Rev. Russ Kerr at kerrr@vcu.edu or (804) 658-4064 or visit http://www.thepacecenter.com.
Coming up
TRIO Study Abroad Informational Sessions | Dominican Republic Spring Break 2027
Monday, Nov. 9, 2026 at 1 p.m.
Join VCU TRIO Student Support Services for a virtual informational session about an upcoming eight-day service-learning experience in Las Canas, Dominican Republic, taking place March 7–14, 2027, during spring nreak. Register for the informational session at the following URL.
For more information, contact JeNae Hill at hilljc4@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc-xAj4ArIiEagBiOzkzfevJdFna73_EDMaOSO5Ee-ev5ZEaA/viewform?usp=header.
VCU Writing Center Workshop: Paraphrasing
Monday, Nov. 9, 2026 at 11 a.m.
Learn to feel comfortable with the process of paraphrasing in academic writing. 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/.
Stitched in Time: Nottoway Story Quilts and the Living Continuity of Our People
Monday, Nov. 9, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Join the Humanities Research Center for an event with Karenne Wood and Native Artist-in-Residence Denise Walters, Ph.D., to discuss how the Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia preserves history, identity and community through the art of story quilts. The event will be in the theater of the University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave.
For more information, contact Ellie Musgrave at musgraveec@vcu.edu.
General Education Study Well Event
Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026 from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Stop by the Study Well event on the first floor of James Branch Cabell Library, 901 Park Ave., to tell us about your favorite GenEd courses and experiences, the skills you’d like to learn and new courses you’d love to see at VCU. Your voice can help shape the future of General Education.
For more information, contact Hawa Stwodah at hstwodah@vcu.edu or (804) 592-8497.
Study Abroad In Italy Informational Session
Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Interested in studying abroad in Italy? There are so many ways to study in Italy, but which is right for you? Come to an informational session led by VCU’s Italy adviser, Amy Leap, to learn more. You’ll also have the chance to hear from recent study abroad returnees who have studied there, including VCU GEO’s student ambassadors Cree Taylor and Elena Black. The session is available in person (Hibbs Hall, Room 440, 900 Park Ave.) or virtually (https://vcu.zoom.us/j/88153653498?jst=2)
For more information, contact Amy Leap at leapae@vcu.edu or (804) 827-7882 or visit https://ramsconnect.vcu.edu/w/dmN1Okh1YjoyNDA1NQ==/_/events/dmN1OkV2ZW50OjE5NDk0NzI=.
First Gen Rams Go Abroad
Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Join the Global Education Office and YouFirst for a virtual workshop designed for undergraduate first-generation students interested in exploring study abroad opportunities and global experiences. This event is in celebration of First-Gen Week at VCU. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/82843399141
For more information, contact Alex Heyden at levya@vcu.edu or (804) 828-5794 or visit https://ramsconnect.vcu.edu/w/dmN1Okh1YjoyNDA1NQ==/_/events/dmN1OkV2ZW50OjE5NDk0NDA=.
VCU Office of Prior Learning Infoemational Session
Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Did you know that the skills and knowledge you have gained outside the classroom could count toward your VCU degree? Join the VCU Office of Prior Learning (OPL) for a virtual informational session to explore how Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) can help you earn college credit for learning gained through professional experience, workplace training, certifications and more. Learn about the different CPL pathways available at VCU and how the OPL supports adult and nontraditional students in reaching their educational goals. Register for the Zoom link on RamsConnect at the following URL.
For more information, contact Tori Kesling Councill at priorlearning@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1949327.
M.B.A. vs. Specialized Master’s: Which Is Right for You?
Thursday, Nov. 12, 2026 at noon
Choosing a graduate business degree is an important investment in your future – but which path is right for you? Join VCU School of Business for an interactive webinar comparing the university's M.B.A. and seven specialized master’s programs. Explore the differences between developing broad business and leadership skills through an M.B.A. and building deeper expertise in a specific field through a specialized master’s degree. Gain a better understanding of each path and the options available at VCU. 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/85056744221.
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.
Dental Hygiene Application Workshop
Friday, Nov. 13, 2026 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
University Academic Advising will host a Dental Hygiene Application Workshop via Zoom. See the link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Samantha DeShazo at deshazosc@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/j/2601676630.
Connect Conference 2026: Build Connections, Strengthen Communities
Friday, Nov. 13, 2026 at 8:30 a.m.
Come to Connect, VCU’s Community Engagement Conference. Exchange ideas, strengthen community-university and research partnerships and explore how collaboration can drive meaningful local impact. The program will be held at Midtown Green, 2401 W. Leigh St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Shari Garmise at garmiseso@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScUlZObZjtqTVClsYF8lCnBfut00PF7S5PiYbXr3Ylwb67Iug/viewform?usp=header.
An Appreciative Approach to Feedback
Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2026 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
VCU HR will facilitate an Appreciative Approach to Feedback workshop via Zoom. While designed for managers, anyone interested in learning about ways to share feedback that focus on appreciation and strengths is welcome to attend. If you are a VCU Health employee and would like to attend, please complete this form: https://forms.gle/EvkgUtGHXWKxQMiL8 Please register by Sunday, Nov. 15 in Talent@VCU at the following URL.
For more information, contact Penelope McFarline at mcfarlinep@vcu.edu or visit https://tinyurl.com/yc2k3hu6.
Virtual Guided Visualization Meditation
Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2026 at noon
Take a break to be guided through creating a peaceful, sensory-rich mental image to build concentration and lower stress. This meditation, brought to you by VCU HR and RecWell, is suitable for all levels of practice. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/4Bxwzvc
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://hr.vcu.edu/worklife-at-vcu/employee-events/.
Celebrate National Rural Health Day With VCU
Thursday, Nov. 19, 2026 at 12:30 p.m.
Join one of five celebrations across Virginia. Connect with others, hear from keynote speaker Heidi Hertz, director of Rural Health Transformation, and celebrate the people and partnerships strengthening rural health across the Commonwealth. Register at the following URL to join a celebration near you.
For more information, contact Challen Wellington at wellingtonc@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeikqLHZQZpSU0EgwZt7VOxnhD5pqWJKI1qnp5wciaOxoPZlQ/viewform?usp=header.
Objects + Methods Lecture Series To Present Molly Soda
Thursday, Nov. 19, 2026 at 12:30 p.m.
Join the Department of Graphic Design for the next installment of this fall’s Objects + Methods, VCUarts public lecture series that focuses on expansive conversations around design practices. Molly Soda (b. Amalia Soto, San Juan, Puerto Rico, 1989) is a New York-based artist working in performance, video, photography and installation. Her practice blurs the line between online user and artist to explore broader shifts in culture. Soda, who first rose to prominence on the blogging platform Tumblr, often brings her audience into her work, integrating feedback and comments into her performances. She collects digital ephemera and detritus, often combining it with her personal archives. The event will be in the theater of the University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave.
For more information, contact Luiza Dale at oliveiramal@vcu.edu or visit https://objectsandmethods.net/.
Notices
Share This Grant Opportunity With Your Community Partners
Know a community partner with an idea to make a difference? Encourage them to apply for the 2027 Community-Led Solutions Initiative. Community organizations can receive up to $10,000 to lead projects that address community-identified needs in partnership with VCU faculty or staff. Apply at the following URL.
For more information, contact Mitsuko Cedras at cedrasmd@vcu.edu or visit https://community.vcu.edu/resources/grants/communitygrant/.
VCU Student Mentors Needed for High School Mentorship Program
Personalized Exploration for College Success (PECS) will be hosting the second year of its flagship Catalyst Scholars program, which pairs RPS high school students with trained VCU student mentors. Throughout the semester, mentors work directly with students on college application essays, résumés and academic and career planning, giving students a consistent source of support as they consider their next steps after high school. The program is designed to be flexible; mentors meet with mentees for an hour every other week and follow a curriculum designed by PECS, but mentors will still have the independence to work with their mentee about the mentee's specific areas of improvement. If interested, please fill out the mentor application form and/or share with anyone who would be a good fit. See the form at the following URL.
For more information, contact Varunika Miryala at pecsatvcu@gmail.com or visit http://forms.gle/48ow929nDqnGk3EF7.
Student Organizations Spring Funding Request Deadline Extended
The Student Government Association and its Independent Finance Board have extended their Spring 2027 Funding Request Deadline to 11:55 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13. Currently registered undergraduate student organizations (RSOs) that have not yet submitted a spring request are encouraged to submit the spring funding request form before the extended deadline. The form can be accessed by emailing IFB at this email; sgafunding@vcu.edu to request the form link. Other information and form access options are found in RamsConnect.
For more information, contact Artemas Dowell at dowellam@vcu.edu or (310) 227-2320.
Calling for Artwork Donations: Annual Art Auction by the Chinese Student Association
Got extra artwork? Donate physical media for the Chinese Student Association's Annual Art Auction by Tuesday, Dec. 1. The organization is supporting the charity Tzu Chi, an international Buddhist Humanitarian Foundation. Proceeds will go toward the Home Again Family Shelter for a Christmas toy drive. Donate via the google form https://forms.gle/o6H3TiKYMyxqYXmh7 and contact Victoria Wang (wangvd@vcu.edu), Jason Phan (phanjn2@vcu.ed), or Mei Mei Wang (wangm15@vcu.edu) to arrange donation drop off.
For more information, contact Victoria Wang at wangvd@vcu.edu or visit https://www.instagram.com/csaatvcu/?hl=en.
VCU's Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies Is Looking for Healthy Volunteers To Participate in a Study Testing an Experimental Medication
You may be eligible if you are between 18 and 65 years old and available for weekly study visits for up to six weeks. Compensation is provided for participation. If you are interested, please email study4u@vcu.edu (preferred) or call (804) 827-3784 to complete a prescreening.
For more information, contact James at study4u@vcu.edu.
VCU SGA Commuter Student Mixer
The VCU Student Government Association will host a commuter student mixer for students to voice their concerns and meet peers with similar backgrounds. The event will be held in-person (University Student Commons, SGA Senate Chambers 907 Floyd Ave.) on Tuesday, Nov. 10 from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and virtually Wednesday, Nov. 11 from 3-4 p.m. Hot cocoa will be available. Please RSVP at the following URL.
For more information, contact Aditya Badhrayan at badhrayana@vcu.edu or (804) 988-2716 or visit https://forms.gle/M6bTr8DzdC1Fu26z9.
Study Recruiting Participants
A study at VCU is recruiting participants to investigate the effects of alcohol use and reaction time within friendships. You may be randomly assigned to consume alcohol; you must be at least 21 years of age to participate. The in-person portion of this study will not take longer than two hours to complete. You may earn either SONA credit or $20 USD. Your eligibility is determined by a screening survey at the following URL.
For more information, contact Wyatt Brown at brownw8@vcu.edu or visit https://vcupsych.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8rf7Q9immr4FgtU.
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.
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.