Faculty/staff Issue for June 16, 2020
Special Announcement
University Events Impacted Due to COVID-19
Events featured in TelegRAM have been moved to an online setting to avoid the spread of COVID-19. Please check with organizers for assistance in accessing the online venue. Information about the university's One VCU: Responsible Together plan for a phased return to campus is available at https://together.vcu.edu. It is the source for the latest VCU updates. You can also receive VCU Together notifications. Download "VCU Mobile" from your iOS or Android App Store, or visit https://mobile.vcu.edu with your smartphone and select the appropriate link.
Today
Informational Session on New Graduate Certificate in Health Care Innovation
10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
The Graduate Certificate in Health Care Innovation is a joint program offered by VCU’s School of Nursing and da Vinci Center for Innovation. The certificate will provide opportunities for students to advance their knowledge and skills in identifying problems and implementing solutions to foster high-quality, safe and accessible health care. Register for the online session at the following URL.
For more information, contact Lloyd Young at youngel3@vcu.edu or visit https://connect.business.vcu.edu/register/hc-info-session.
City Master Plan Review With VCU Community
12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
The draft of Richmond 300: A Guide for Growth is now available for review and comment at Richmond300.com/draft. The city's master plan outlines a vision for the physical growth and evolution of the city, including areas around both VCU campuses. The university community is invited to join City of Richmond staff for a virtual meeting for an overview of the draft document and learn about the moves from the plan. VCU's Jeff Eastman, University Planner, Facilities Management, Planning and Design Division, will participate. Register by 11 a.m. June 16 at the following URL for a link to the meeting.
For more information, contact Jeff Eastman at eastmanj@vcu.edu or visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/richmond-300-draft-plan-discussion-with-the-vcu-community-tickets-105863673096.
Intro to Canvas and Q&A Sessions
1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Introductory and question-and-answer sessions about Canvas, a Learning Management System, will be offered throughout the summer. A schedule of the sessions, hosted by VCU Learning Systems in Academic Technologies, is available at the following URL. Each one-hour session is the same.
For more information, contact Eric Harvey at canvas@vcu.edu or visit https://learningsystems.vcu.edu/canvas/.
This week
Central Virginia SOCRA Chapter Meeting
Wednesday, Jun. 17, 2020 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
James Riddle, MCSE, CIP, CPIA, vice president for institutional services for Advarra, will present on "Demystifying FDA Part 11 Regulations and Preparing Institutions for Compliance" at an online chapter meeting of the Central Virginia Society of Clinical Research Associates. RSVP at the following URL.
For more information, contact Shirley Helm at shirley.helm@vcuhealth.org or visit https://events.vcu.edu/cal_preview.asp?ID=73661.
Professional Production Techniques for Video Streaming
Wednesday, Jun. 17, 2020 from noon to 1 p.m.
VCUarts Advanced Media Production and Technology Program will co-host with In Your Ear Studios a Facebook Live stream session featuring tips and lessons to improve the production quality of video streaming and conferencing. The session will focus on using available lighting, composition rules, camera angles and creative solutions for engaging audiences.
For more information, contact Julian Pozzi at jcpozzi@vcu.edu or visit https://www.facebook.com/events/276732766699685/?active_tab=about.
Dispelling Myths Series: Performative Femininity
Wednesday, Jun. 17, 2020 from noon to 1:15 p.m.
VCU Office of Multicultural Student Affairs hosts the Dispelling Myths Discussion Series. A virtual discussion on "Performative Femininity" will be facilitated by Taylor Maloney. These virtual discussion events focus on dispelling misconceptions or lesser-know facts about cultural identity groups or general social justice issues.
For more information, contact David Brown at dgbrown@vcu.edu or visit http://omsa.vcu.edu/updates/.
Lunchtime Webinar on VCU Evening MBA Program: Employee Tuition Benefits Spotlight
Wednesday, Jun. 17, 2020 from noon to 1 p.m.
Learn more about VCU’s Evening MBA program at a webinar hosted by the School of Business. Information regarding tuition waivers and how to access education benefits will be provided to VCU and VCU Health Systems employees. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Austen Gouldman at gsib@vcu.edu or (804) 828-4622 or visit https://business.vcu.edu/about-us/events/graduate-studies/webinar/evening-mba-program-webinar-061720.html.
Increasing Mental Toughness, Especially During Tough Times
Thursday, Jun. 18, 2020 from noon to 1 p.m.
Join VCU Human Resources and Anthem EAP for the opportunity to take a positive look at negative events. The discussion will also include the topic of grit. Register in Talent@VCU.
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or (804) 828-1521 or visit https://hr.vcu.edu/current-employees/worklife/.
Handshake 101 for Career Advising Opportunities
Thursday, Jun. 18, 2020 at 2 p.m.
Handshake is VCU’s one-stop online platform for scheduling career advising appointments. Sign up for career development workshops and career fairs and apply for internships, part-time jobs, Federal Work-Study positions, research opportunities, full-time jobs, virtual roles and more. This session, hosted by VCU Career Services, will outline how to engage with the system and make the most of it. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Ash Taylor-Beierl at tayloram8@vcu.edu.
Men of Color Discussion Group: 'Achieving Goals Amidst Adversity'
Friday, Jun. 19, 2020 from noon to 1:15 p.m.
The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs hosts the virtual Men of Color Discussion Group. The discussion, "Achieving Goals Amidst Adversity," will be facilitated by Roy Roach and Monquell Middleton. The group, for students who identify as men of color, provides a safe space to discuss issues related to the social, cultural and political aspects of their identities with supportive peers.
For more information, contact David Brown at dgbrown@vcu.edu or visit http://omsa.vcu.edu/updates/.
Dipping a Toe Into Career-Related Experiences to Gain Professional Skills
Friday, Jun. 19, 2020 at noon
Before committing to a full internship, it can be a good idea to engage in shorter and less intensive ways of gaining experience and exposure related to career interests. This can include shadowing, research, project-based work and more. This session, hosted by VCU Student Success, will focus on the types of experiences to build résumés and comfort level when planning for future internships. Register for a Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Julia Bailey at baileyje@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJErceCqqjksHdwZ6bN3WtW_mLF2l1DJU8yJ.
VCUarts Kinetic Imaging Senior Show: Crown Shy and Perennial Roots
Friday, Jun. 19, 2020 at 5 p.m.
VCUarts Kinetic Imaging Presents Senior Shows: Crown Shy & Perennial Roots. The virtual exhibition will be available for view at 5 p.m. on June 19 in the Virtual Anderson. Opening virtual screenings will be hosted in the Virtual Anderson at 7 and 11 p.m. on June 20; at 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on June 21, 7 p.m. on June 26 and 10 a.m., 2 p.m., 7 p.m. and 11 p.m. on June 27. Questions, kineticimage@vcu.edu.
For more information, contact Kathryn Wirtz at wirtzkr@vcu.edu or (703) 945-4802.
HR Lunch and Learn Session on LinkedIn
Friday, Jun. 19, 2020 from noon to 1 p.m.
Want to sharpen your LinkedIn skills? Check out the most recent Human Resources Learning blog to learn how to optimize your account using features like LinkedIn Learning. The Learning, Development and Organizational Development team will host a virtual Lunch and Learn to dive deeper into the topic, create an account and become more knowledgeable about LinkedIn. Register in Talent@VCU at the following URL.
For more information, contact VCU HR Learning, Development and Organizational Culture at learndev@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.csod.com/ui/lms-learning-details/app/event/5646b191-5617-4350-ac30-30239d9a5305.
Coming up
Google Drive - Collaboration in the Cloud
Monday, Jun. 22, 2020 from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Collaboration Services presents Google Drive - Collaboration in the Cloud. Keep all your work in one secure place with online file storage in Google Drive. Learn how to share and collaborate with others and access on any computer, smartphone or tablet. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Doctor Gee at drgee@vcu.edu or visit https://go.vcu.edu/gogoogle.
Writing Center Summer Informational Session
Monday, Jun. 22, 2020 at 2 p.m.
Learn about the VCU Writing Center during an informational session on Zoom. Services include working with an experienced peer writing consultant to become a stronger, more confident writer who doesn’t procrastinate. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Brian McTague at bjmctague@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJEvfuuqqzoqHNXSYiq9Ue2gxbjp3fvVVqBD.
Writing a Successful Personal Statement
Tuesday, Jun. 23, 2020 at 11 a.m.
VCU Writing Center will host an interactive Zoom workshop on writing a successful personal statement suitable for applying to a graduate program or for a scholarship. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Brian McTague at bjmctague@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJwpc-2hqDsvH9x_Q4VZv08jk63ugxz5xJ9M.
Guided Meditation With Chelsea
Tuesday, Jun. 23, 2020 from noon to 1 p.m.
Take a break from email notifications, meetings and your to-do list to find a moment of quiet reflection in the middle of the day with mindfulness meditation. The session, hosted by VCU Human Resources, is open to all. No previous meditation experience is necessary. The guided meditation portion will last from noon-12:30 p.m. Participants will have the option to stay on the Zoom call for an additional 30 minutes to connect with each other. Register in Talent@VCU.
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or (804) 828-1521 or visit https://hr.vcu.edu/current-employees/worklife/.
Campus Learning Center Summer School Informational Session
Tuesday, Jun. 23, 2020 at noon
VCU Campus Learning Center will host an informational session for summer school via Zoom. Learn how to best use summer services, including coaching, supplemental instruction and tutoring. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Michal Coffey at mzcoffey@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJIsfuqprTIiEtVRkXDkDTprNP6CZOwuVCcs.
Campus Learning Center Summer Services Informational Session
Tuesday, Jun. 23, 2020 at 5 p.m.
VCU Campus Learning Center will host an informational session about summer services, including coaching, supplemental instruction and tutoring. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Michal Coffey at mzcoffey@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJIqcOqorj0uHdfdkIvMBHsrhVxGtZ0gv-wQ.
CTLE Workshop: Simplifying Access to Applications Using AppsAnywhere
Tuesday, Jun. 30, 2020 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
An online demonstration of AppsAnywhere will be hosted by the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence and Academic Technologies. Learn how to choose and use preferred software applications, including SAS, ArcGIS, AutoCAD, CityEngine and more on your personal or university-owned device. Register at the following URL to be sent a Zoom link.
For more information, contact Tiffany Freitas at freitast@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/AHLieCRiyQE4ZdcK9.
Online Records Management 101 Training
Thursday, Jul. 9, 2020 at 1 p.m.
VCU's Records Management Office will hold Records Management 101 training online via Zoom. Training will cover recordkeeping requirements and practices for compliance with state regulations and university policy. Register in Talent (keyword "records"). Busy but can’t make it? Try self-paced Records Management 101 training available in Blackboard.
For more information, contact Amber Peranski at aperanski@vcu.edu or (804) 828-2097.
Notices
Nominations Sought for School of Medicine Teaching Excellence Awards 2020
The School of Medicine seeks nominations for the School of Medicine Teaching Excellence Awards. Recipients will be selected for four awards: The Enrique Gerszten M.D. Faculty Teaching Excellence Award, Irby James Award for Excellence in Clinical Teaching, Distinguished Mentor Award and the Educational Innovation/Educational Research Award. The deadline for nomination packages is July 1.
For more information, contact Deborah Stewart at deborah.stewart@vcuhealth.org or (804) 828-6591 or visit https://medschool.vcu.edu/about/deans-office/facultyaffairs/.
Virtual Faculty Discussion Group Sessions
The Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence will sponsor virtual faculty discussion groups every other Wednesday (July 29 and Aug. 12) from noon-1 p.m. Constance Relihan will facilitate the sessions, which will focus on recent articles from The Chronicle of Higher Education and Inside Higher Ed. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Tiffany Freitas at freitast@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/y7sacpBkwvrCmnLd8.
Support a Service Learning Campaign
VCU biology student Samah Nor Bouyakoub, a member of MEDLIFE at VCU, is participating in a service-learning campaign to provide free medical and dental care to low-income communities in Ecuador via a mobile clinic. Money contributed will go toward hiring doctors and nurses, purchasing medicine and follow-up care. Donations may be made via the following URL.
For more information, contact Samah Nor Bouyakoub at bouyakoubs@vcu.edu or visit https://my.medlifemovement.org/campaigns/samah-nor-bouyakoub-riobamba-ecuador-may-09-20/.
Draft of Policy for Time and Leave Reporting Open for Public Comment
A draft of the revised Time and Leave Reporting policy is now open for university comment through June 23. The draft policy can be found at the following URL.
For more information, contact Angela Nicholas at anicholas@vcu.edu or visit https://policy.vcu.edu/universitywide-policies/policies-open-for-public-comment/.
Certificate in Clinical Research Program
VCU C. Kenneth and Dianne Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research announces a new post-baccalaureate Certificate in Clinical Research Program. The certificate requires 12 credits with required course work in the following: federal regulations; principles of clinical trial design; data management; ethical conduct of research; multicultural communication; and three selected elective credit hours. Fall 2020 application submission deadline is Aug. 1.
For more information, contact Catherine Brown at crbrown@vcu.edu or (804) 628-6511 or visit https://cctr.vcu.edu/education-and-training/certificate-program/.
RamTech’s Virtual Opening
RamTech is now virtually open and accepting orders online. Back-to-school bundles are available for faculty and staff who need new technology at a discounted education price. A bundle includes a laptop, protective sleeve, RamTech extended warranty plan, external hard drive and other accessories. For updates, follow @RamTechVCU.
For more information, contact Erinn Budd at budde@vcu.edu or (804) 828-8324 or visit https://ramtech.vcu.edu/.
FSA Grace Period Extends Usage of Current Year's Balance Until Oct. 31
The state health benefits program has announced a grace period for 2019-2020 flexible spending account plans. Participants who have active FSAs as of June 30 may continue using remaining balances for claims incurred from July 1-Oct. 31. All claims must be submitted by Nov. 30. See details at the following URL. Questions, https://hr.vcu.edu/current-employees/benefits/.
For more information, contact VCU Human Resources, Benefits Administration at benefits@vcu.edu or visit https://www.dhrm.virginia.gov/docs/default-source/covid-19/fsa-grace-period-until-103120.pdf?sfvrsn=9b898c59_6.
VCU IRB Seeks New Members
The VCU Human Research Protection Program is accepting applications from individuals interested in serving as members on the Institutional Review Board. Learn more about the IRB and apply to be a member at the following URL. VCU faculty, VCU/VCUHS staff, VCU students and members of the community are encouraged to apply.
For more information, contact Nyssa Towsley at ntowsley@vcu.edu or visit https://blogs.vcu.edu/humanresearch/2020/06/11/the-vcu-institutional-review-board-irb-is-seeking-new-members/.
New Support Groups for Students
University Counseling Services staff is facilitating new support groups for VCU students coping with the impacts of COVID-19, including support groups for all students, a student of color support group and a health professional student support group. Students can participate regardless of geographic location. Register using a VCU email address at the following URL.
For more information, contact Camille Rudney at rudneycm@vcu.edu or (804) 828-6200 or visit http://www.counseling.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.