Today
'African Musicians in the Atlantic World: Legacies of Sound and Slavery'
12 p.m.
Join the Humanities Research Center for a Meet VCU Authors event with Mary Caton Lingold, whose new book bridges African diaspora studies, music studies and transatlantic and colonial American literature to trace the lineage of African and African diasporic musical life in the early modern period. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Rani Sisavath at sisavathr@vcu.edu or visit https://bit.ly/lin0325.
From Parenting to Empty Nesting: Preparing Now for the Transition
12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Whether your children are 10 years old or 20, most parents will have an empty nest experience. Some will find themselves in the throes of empty nest syndrome, experiencing grief, profound sadness and loss as their children find their wings and begin to fly. Join VCU HR and VCU alum Deborah Porter to learn how to begin preparing and finding purpose. Register for the Zoom link in Talent@VCU or at https://tinyurl.com/y2y39pnu
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://ramstrong.vcu.edu/.
CPPI Seminar: Generalized Prevalence-Adjusted Willingness-to-Pay to Control for Health Equity in Cost-Effectiveness Analysis
12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Join the Center for Pharmacy Practice Innovation for its next seminar, featuring Vasco Pontinha, Ph.D., VCU School of Pharmacy. The talk will be in person (Room 545, Robert Blackwell Smith Building, 410 N. 12th St.) and via Zoom. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Sydney Weber at cppi@vcu.edu or visit https://bit.ly/CPPISeminar.
Is Christianity a Cult of the Dead?
4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Though it promises eternal life, Christianity was forged in death. Christianity is built upon the legacies of the apostles and martyrs who chose to die rather than renounce the name of their lord. In this lecture via Zoom, Professor Kyle Smith will show how a devotion to death has shaped Christianity for two thousand years. The talk via Zoom is sponsored by the School of World Studies and the College of Humanities and Sciences. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Andrew Chesnut at rachesnut@vcu.edu or visit http://bit.ly/48hoZFg.
VCU da Vinci Center Undergraduate Q&A Session
4 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.
Are you fascinated by creating solutions to complex problems? Have you always wanted to start a business or nonprofit? Learn about the da Vinci Center's undergraduate certificates and programs in Product Innovation and Venture Creation. Classes about human-centered design and how they fit into individual academic plans will also be discussed. Register for the virtual session at
https://connect.business.vcu.edu/register/Undergrad-Q&A-March-25
For more information, contact Mary Chris Escobar at escobarmc@vcu.edu or visit https://davincicenter.vcu.edu/news--events/.
This week
Cultural Awareness Day
Friday, Mar. 29, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Join the Association of Black Social Workers at VCU for this year’s Cultural Awareness Day, which seeks to build multicultural awareness and skills for working with diverse populations. This year's theme is healing justice. The meeting will be held in the Richmond Salons, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. Registration will start at 9 a.m. Guest speaker Lashawnda Singleton will begin at 9:30 a.m. Two simultaneous workshop sessions will run from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Lunch and networking will be from 11:35 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Box lunches will be provided. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Qasarah Bey Spencer at beyqd@vcu.edu or visit https://vcussw.info/CAD24.
Anniversaries, Landmarks and Reunions: How to Work With the University Archivist and Plan Great Events
Tuesday, Mar. 26, 2024 from noon to 1 p.m.
The VCU Communications Career Community will host an informal Zoom conversation “Anniversaries, Landmarks, Reunions and Event Planning Essentials.” Discussion leaders University Archivist Ruth Cody and VCU Libraries Events Manager Ryan Pander will offer tips on time lines, spaces, technology and how to work effectively with University Archives to gather information about VCU/MCV history and traditions. Bring your questions and ideas to share. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Sue Robinson at srobinson26@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.libcal.com/calendar/19582/C3discussions.
Medicare and State Retiree Health Coverage
Tuesday, Mar. 26, 2024 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
VCU Human Resources and Social Security will present an overview of Medicare basics and of the Medicare-coordinating health plans available to faculty members, University and Academic Professionals and classified staff of the university at retirement. This session will be held on Zoom. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://tinyurl.com/yc4aazkz
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://ramstrong.vcu.edu/.
VCU Writing Center Workshop: Reading and Incorporating Academic Sources Into Your Writing
Tuesday, Mar. 26, 2024 at 4 p.m.
Learn how to find, read, evaluate and incorporate academic sources into your work. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.
Morning Tai Chi
Tuesday, Mar. 26, 2024 from 8 a.m. to 8:45 a.m.
Join Richmond Youth Development Network for morning tai chi at the Mary and Frances Youth Center, 120 S. Linden St. This introductory class is intended for anyone interested in starting their day by destressing and connecting to their bodies and breath through slow, soft and rooted movement. The class will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays through May 2.
For more information, contact Vaughn Garland at garlandvw@vcu.edu or visit https://tockify.com/iexcel/detail/138/1711454400000.
Research Data Storage and Security
Wednesday, Mar. 27, 2024 from noon to 1 p.m.
The C. Kenneth and Dianne Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research and VCU Health Sciences Library will present a lunch research seminar via Zoom. Nina Exner, Ph.D., research data librarian, will discuss regulatory requirements and best practices for research data storage and security, including the development of data collection and storage plans. Questions: http://www.cctr.vcu.edu Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Pamela Dillon, Pharm.D., research liaison, at pmdillon@vcu,edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwkd-uurDkpGNWwW63snbFQPpub245cQQ4k.
High Intensity Interval Training
Wednesday, Mar. 27, 2024 from noon to 12:30 p.m.
This virtual full-body circuit training, hosted by VCU HR and RecWell, will feature a variety of strength and cardio exercises. Designed to provide you with a total body workout hitting every major muscle group as you build strength and endurance. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://tinyurl.com/52uscyhv
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://ramstrong.vcu.edu/.
'Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Video Production and Teleconferencing ... But Not Enough to Ask,' With David Morefield
Wednesday, Mar. 27, 2024 from noon to 1 p.m.
Take a peek behind the curtain at studio- and location-based production work, live event streaming and an admin's view of Zoom desktop conferencing - how far it's brought us and where it might be taking us in terms of both capabilities and challenges. Register in Talent@VCU at https://go.vcu.edu/itcc-events Join via Zoom at https://go.vcu.edu/itcc-events-remote
For more information, contact Andrew Craig at craiga3@vcu.edu.
VCU Writing Center Workshop: The Personal Statement
Wednesday, Mar. 27, 2024 at 2 p.m.
Learn how to use the tools you need to write your best statement. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.
Henry A. McGee Lecture
Wednesday, Mar. 27, 2024 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The College of Engineering Department of Chemical and Life Science Engineering will host the Henry A. McGee Lecture in Room 101, College of Engineering West Hall, 601 W. Main St. This year's speaker is LaShanda Korley, Ph.D., Distinguished Professor of Engineering at the University of Delaware and Director of the Energy Frontier Research Center – Center for Plastics Innovation.
For more information, contact Nastassja Lewinski at nalewinski@vcu.edu or visit https://egr.vcu.edu/departments/chemical/research/mcgeelecture/.
Visiting Scholar Lecture by Jenni Sorkin
Thursday, Mar. 28, 2024 at 12:15 p.m.
VCU's Department of Painting and Printmaking will present a lecture by Jenni Sorkin, Ph.D., at the Murry N. DePillars Building, Room 301, 1000 W. Broad St. Sorkin is a Professor of History of Art and Architecture at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Her expertise lies in the intersections of gender, material culture and contemporary art with a focus on women artists and underrepresented media.
For more information, contact Emmy Garcia at garciaem2@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/event/jenni-sorkin-visiting-scholar-lecture/.
Criteria for IRB Approval and the Role of Post-Approval Monitoring
Thursday, Mar. 28, 2024 from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Join the VCU Human Research Protections Program/Institutional Review Board for online training about the criteria for approval of human subjects research and the role of post-approval monitoring. This training is relevant to those who conduct or oversee research of human subjects. Registration is required. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact VCU HRPP at irbeducation@vcu.edu or visit https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcvdeqqqjMpHdcvUOzqL4NOcfAvcD6gxbAX.
Answering the Call: Thriving as Men of Color in Health Care
Thursday, Mar. 28, 2024 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
VCU School of Dentistry invites all students, faculty and staff to its health care event. Two panels will be followed by an hour of networking and mingling. Students interested in the health professions and health sciences will have the opportunity to learn from health care professionals about their challenges, successes and career trajectories. The event will be held in Room 3121, W. Baxter Perkinson Jr. Building, 1101 E. Leigh St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Ruth Bravo-Anez at bravoanezrm@vcu.edu or visit https://bit.ly/MOCHealthcare.
Avaya Workplace and MyE911 Overview
Thursday, Mar. 28, 2024 at 3:30 p.m.
Elevate your workplace communication with the convenience of the Workplace mobility app. Whether you are in the office, teleworking, have a hybrid schedule or on the move, it’s easy to take your office phone number wherever you go; seamlessly using it on your mobile device or computer. With the app, outbound calls display your work phone number, ensuring a professional and consistent communication experience. All inbound calls from the app will display Avaya Workplace and have a distinct ring. Training sessions are opened to VCU and VCU Health staff and faculty, Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Wayne L. Johnson at wljohnson@vcu.edu or (804) 828-4400 or visit https://training.vcu.edu/.
Social Work, Policy and Politics: Exploring Social Determinants of Health
Thursday, Mar. 28, 2024 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Attend a reception with hors d’oeuvres and an alumni panel discussion on the intersection of social work, policy and social determinants of health. The reception will be 5-5:45 p.m. and the discussion will be 6-7 p.m. at the VCU Health Hub, 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A. The discussion portion (6-7 p.m.) will also be streamed live via Zoom. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Rachel Zeeve at zeeverb@vcu.edu or visit https://www.support.vcu.edu/event/SSWPanel2024.
VCU Writing Center Workshop: The Artist's Statement
Thursday, Mar. 28, 2024 at 7 p.m.
This interactive Zoom workshop will break down the artist's statement, how to write one and why art students should focus on their writing skills. Register at the center's events page at the following URL.
For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.
Queer Health Care In Focus
Friday, Mar. 29, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.
Triangle Club at VCU and VCU Health will present Queer Health Care in Focus at the theater of the University Student Commons, 007 Floyd Ave. Going to the doctor can be daunting for queer, trans and/or disabled people. LGBT+ allies on the board at VCU Health will listen to your personal experiences and offer tips on how to be a strong advocate for your health as a queer patient. Refreshments will be provided. Come network and learn.
For more information, contact Aurora Britt at britta@vcu.edu.
Brandcenter Preview Day
Friday, Mar. 29, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Ever wonder who is behind your favorite Super Bowl ad? It's alumni of the Brandcenter. If you're interested in joining the creative ranks of the ad industry, attend our Preview Day and get a deep dive into the nation’s top graduate program in advertising and branding. You’ll meet current students and faculty, learn about our programs and attend our Friday Forum featuring guests from ad powerhouse Wieden+Kennedy. The session will be at the Brandcenter, 103 S. Jefferson St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Brandcenter at brandcenter@vcu.edu or visit https://connect.business.vcu.edu/register/BC-Preview-Day?utm_source=TelegRam.
Coming up
Memory Symposium
Tuesday, Apr. 2, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Have you ever wondered how (and why) our cultural memories are formed? Join the Humanities Research Center for the Memory Symposium in Richmond Salons III-IV, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave., to learn more about memory studies, commemoration and memorialization. The keynote lecture will be by Edward Ayers, Ph.D., University of Richmond. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Rani Sisavath at sisavathr@vcu.edu or visit https://humanitiescenter.vcu.edu/events/memory-symposium.html.
Career Opportunities in Government, Policy and Politics Panel - Featuring VCU Alumni
Tuesday, Apr. 2, 2024 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Join VCU Alumni who work in federal and state government to hear about their involvement in exploring experiential opportunities and navigating their career paths. There will also be an open Q&A for those who attend. The session will be held in Room 1104, Academic Learning Commons, 1000 Floyd Ave. Space is limited. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Silvana D'Ettorre at dettorres@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.joinhandshake.com/events/1511590/share_preview.
Showing Up For Change: Black People in Local Politics and Organizations
Tuesday, Apr. 2, 2024 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Join VCU's chapters of Students for Justice in Palestine and National Association for the Advancement of Colored People for a panel on getting Black people involved in local politics and organizations. The session will be in Room 1104, Academic Learning Commons, 1000 Floyd Ave.
For more information, contact Suhylah Sharif at sharifs3@vcu.edu.
RAMmalogues: Disability Equity and Ableism
Wednesday, Apr. 3, 2024 from noon to 1:30 p.m.
Whether living with or without disability, ableism affects daily life for all of us, and we need connections with diverse groups of staff, students and faculty where we can share personal experiences and understand the unique stories of others. RAMmalogues, led by trained facilitators, is a respectful space for dialogue about who we are and what matters to us. The session will be held in Room 2121, 912 W. Grace St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jan Altman at inclusive@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/KE4X13H2kLrPtzN56.
Bioinformatics Bites: Tempus Lens Demo and Discussion
Wednesday, Apr. 3, 2024 at noon
VCU's Bioinformatics Shared Resource will present an online demonstration of Tempus Lens, a self-service oncology data analytics platform that delivers on-demand access to Tempus multimodal data. Use Lens to generate or explore hypotheses, identify cohorts of interest and uncover critical research insights. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jinze Liu, Ph.D., at mccbioinfo@vcu.edu or visit https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAlcOuupz8qG9OoPlmxvueUh0sPBI5v-uqI#/registration.
Manager Orientation
Friday, Apr. 5, 2024 from 9 a.m. to noon
VCU's HR Learning, Development and Organizational Culture team invites supervisors and managers to attend a virtual three-hour manager orientation. All managers are welcome, particularly those who are new in their position. Managers will learn more about the culture of care and appreciation, expectations for their role, create a leadership vision and connect with the Leadership Career Community. Register by Monday, April 1 in Talent@VCU or at the following URL
For more information, contact Penny McFarline at mcfarlinep@vcu.edu or visit https://tinyurl.com/3t2b6vss.
Conversations About Inclusion Series, Session #4: Culture of Care
Monday, Apr. 8, 2024 from noon to 1:15 p.m.
Faculty is dedicated to fostering empathy for students in the classroom, members often neglect the equally crucial aspect of their own well-being. This session will explore faculty's biggest stressors in the classroom environment and how to meaningfully address these challenges. Explore this nuanced topic and discover options for creating a supportive and nurturing classroom environment for faculty. The session will be in the Corporate Education Room (B3187), Snead Hall, 301 W. Main St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jordyn Richardson at richardsonj9@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/uKT2Kbg7HGh4kXJu9.
Celebrating Choral Music by Black Composers
Wednesday, Apr. 10, 2024 at 7 p.m.
Experience the uplifting melodies and rich harmonies of "Anchors of the Soul: A Celebration of Black Composers" and “Soul Searching.” The evening will honor the contributions of Black composers to choral music. The concert will feature Vox Concordia, Black Awakening Gospel Choir and Commonwealth Singers. The event will be held in the Sonia Vlahcevic Concert Hall, W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts, 922 Park Ave. All students with VCU ID will be admitted for $5. General admission is $10.
For more information, contact Christopher Hansen, Ph.D., at hansenc3@vcu.edu or visit https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/94056788/spring-choral-concert-richmond-sonia-vlahcevic-concert-hallsingleton-center-for-the-performing-arts.
2024 Spring Pickleball Tournament
Sunday, Apr. 21, 2024 from noon to 4 p.m.
If pickleball is your jam, join VCU Police and GO FORWARD GIVE BACK for a tournament at Pouncey Tract Park, 4747 Pouncey Tract Road, Glen Allen. Pickleball paddle donations are requested for GO FORWARD GIVE BACK Summer youth pickleball tournament. Medals and lunch are included and registration is free; 40 players are needed with a special incentive for the first eight to register. Register at the following email address.
For more information, contact Sgt. Jasmine Merricks at jnmerricks@vcu.edu.
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
Monday, Apr. 29, 2024 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
This course begins with an in-depth description of the Six Sigma phases, roles and related statistical tools required for success. The curriculum follows both the DMAIC (Green Belt) and DMADV (Black Belt) methodologies, teaching candidates how to integrate Six Sigma into an overall approach to process improvement. Prior Green Belt course work is highly recommended. The cost is $3,300 due at registration. The class will be held at Snead Hall, VCU School of Business, 301 W. Main St.
For more information, contact Katie Fauth at corp-ed@vcu.edu or visit https://business.vcu.edu/center-for-corporate-education/?post=2039.
Notices
VCU Staff Senate Elections
VCU Staff Senate is an organization of staff from across the university’s diverse community. Are you interested in serving as a part of this representative body? VCU Staff Senate will be holding elections for new staff senators. All VCU Staff/UAP with at least one year of service are eligible to run and serve as senators. The nomination phase will be held May 28-June 14. Elections will be July 8-Aug.2.
For more information, contact Jennifer Tennison at staffsenate@vcu.edu or visit https://staffsenate.vcu.edu/elections/.
Recreation and Well-Being
The American Red Cross Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED course is open for VCU students and RecWell members looking to learn how to recognize and care for a variety of first aid, breathing and cardiac emergencies. Participants will earn a certificate that satisfies OSHA requirements for workplace First Aid/CPR/AED training. April class dates: April 17, 20, 24 and 27. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Mat Scott at aquatics@vcu.edu or visit https://recwell.vcu.edu/lead/certifications/american-red-cross-certifications/.
VCU Internship Funding Program
Did you know that VCU offers up to $5,000 in funding for undergraduate students seeking internships in the summer? Learn more about VCU's Internship Funding Program at the following email address or URL.
For more information, contact Jeanette Hickl at jwhickl@vcu.edu or visit https://careers.vcu.edu/resources/internshipfundingprogram.
This Year's Service Recognition Celebration
Each year, VCU and VCU Health recognize employees who meet a five-year milestone. This year's celebration is for those who met those milestones in 2023. Those employees received emails in February and March from C.A. Short (VCU - Virginia Commonwealth University custser@cashort.com via sendgrid.net), the university's gift vendor, with information on how to order their gift and the in-person celebration. Please search your email inbox and follow the instructions to select your gift and RSVP.
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at rewrdrec@vcu.edu or visit https://hr.vcu.edu/current-employees/recognition-and-awards/annual-service-recognition-celebration/.
Tickets Live for TEDxVCU's Yearly Live Speaker Event
Tickets are available for the April 7 TEDxVCU Ripple Event. This event will provide an interdisciplinary look at the changing world through a diverse lineup of speakers and artists from the VCU community. The event will be in the Student Commons Theater from 2-4 p.m. Reserve your free ticket at the following URL.
For more information, contact TEDxVCU at tedx@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.campusgroups.com/tedxvcu/rsvp_boot?id=1932005.
Sociology Career Fair Open to All Social Science Students
The Sociology Career Fair will be held March 25-29 and is open to all social science students. Activities include résumé-building workshops, internship opportunities, informational sessions about postgraduate programs, professional headshots and an alumni luncheon. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Sociology Department at sociology@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1zmrbWYE58y7lGqKQsJbj7tFqzgiJeIbs0WiprwQ84lk/edit.
Draft Revised Working @ VCU: 'Great Place' HR Policy Available for Public Comment
A draft of the revised Working @ VCU: "Great Place" HR Policy is available for public comment until Friday, April 5. Go to the following URL and select "Policies Open for Public Comment" to comment on the draft policy.
For more information, contact Jason Block at blockj2@vcu.edu or visit http://policy.vcu.edu.
VCU HR Two-Minute Survey
On March 22 VCU Human Resources sent a two-minute survey to all VCU staff to hear feedback on the experience of working at VCU. The survey is anonymous and will be open until 5 p.m. Friday, April 5. Check your VCU email for the survey link.
For more information, contact VCU Human Resources at askhr@vcu.edu.
SPCA Drive
Women in Science will host a drive to support the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals through Friday, April 12. New bags of dog and cat food, new toys, dental hygiene products, flea and tick preventives and treats will be collected. Bins will be located around the medical campus at Jonah L. Larrick Student Center, 900 Turpin St.; Sanger Hall, 1101 E. Marshall St.; Molecular Medicine Research Building, 1220 E. Broad St.; Health Sciences Library, 509 N. 12th St., and Robert Blackwell Smith Building, 410 N. 12th St. All bins will be located on the first floor.
For more information, contact Belle Buzzi at buzzib@vcu.edu.
Participants Are Invited For Study Examining Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Exercise
This study is seeking individuals between the ages of 18 and 35 years who have PTSD or symptoms of PTSD. The purpose of this research study is to examine the effect of PTSD symptoms on blood vessel function during acute exercise and following exercise training. This study will be conducted at 500 Academic Centre on VCU’s Monroe Park Campus. Principal Investigator: Ryan Garten, Ph.D., Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences.
For more information, contact Ryan Garten at rsgarten@vcu.edu.
Brain Health After Breast Cancer Chemotherapy and in Healthy Volunteers
Chemotherapy may impact memory, attention, processing speed, multitasking and problem-solving. We hope to improve our understanding of these difficulties and identify women who are at the most risk for having them. We are seeking healthy female volunteers (35-68 years) free of MRI contraindications. Participation involves two study visits 12-18 months apart. Visits include brain MRI and online assessments.
For more information, contact Eliza Thrall at cancerwellness@vcuhealth.org or (804) 628-8869.