10 a.m.

The session will focus on the services provided by the VCU Writing Center and help participants build confidence in writing by breaking down the process into manageable chunks. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.

12 p.m.

Examine examples of strong, successful personal statements as well as less successful ones and learn the tools needed to write your best statement at this VCU Writing Center workshop. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.

2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Play Bingo, enjoy refreshments and prizes and learn about community resources at the VCU Health Hub, 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A.

For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu.

2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Vox Concordia, VCU’s treble choir, will host “Come and Sing Day” in the Recital Hall of the James W. Black Music Center, 1015 Grove Ave. Students from any major who sing soprano or alto are welcome to attend. Meet singer classmates and the conductor, rehearse a song together, ask questions about Vox Concordia and decide if you would like to be in the class. To sign up for “Come and Sing,” and for questions, contact the instructor, Lisa Fusco, at the folllowing email address. Information about voice interviews/auditions on Aug. 18 and Aug. 19 is available at the following URL.

For more information, contact Lisa Fusco at fuscolc@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/music/ensembles/ensembles-auditions/.

8 a.m.

The Outdoor Adventure Program will host its third annual climbing endurance competition from Tuesday, Aug. 18 to Tuesday, Sept. 1 at the Cary Street Gym, 101 S. Linden St. Climbers will compete against one another to see how many vertical feet they can climb within two weeks. Top participants will be awarded prizes and posted on the Outdoor Adventure Program climbing wall leaderboard. Stop by the climbing wall front desk to register and pick up your scorecard.

For more information, contact Josh Skillman at recwell@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/Program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=cfadb3d7-05f7-40da-9fd0-49768c83d805.

Monday, Aug. 17, 2026 at 9 a.m.

If you are interested in making the most of your college experience with the support of experienced upperclassmen pre-health students at your university, Trusted Connections is a great opportunity for you. From biology to medicine and public health, mentors are available to assist you as you become a part of the healthcare professionals of tomorrow. Mentors may assist you in exploring your interest in undergraduate research, seeking out networking opportunities and finding student-led organizations that will support your growth. Additionally, mentors have experience in optimizing your class rigor tailored to your post-graduate plans and strengthening skills in areas such as leadership and advocacy. While there is structure and guidance provided by this program, mentors are largely encouraged to tailor their mentorship to your needs. Whether that means reworking your résumé or reorienting goals, Trusted Connection's mentors are here to help. Mentors are selected to match your academic, professional and personal interests, allowing you to build a meaningful connection with a fellow student who can help support your goals. Apply at the following URL by Monday, Aug. 31.

For more information, contact Saniya Chethan at chethans@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/aLgnkKGp1CiMUdsZ6.

Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Hillel at VCU will host a Welcome Week Bagel Break at the Hillel House, 918 W. Grace St. Swing by between classes for a fresh bagel and make a mezuzah to hang outside your dorm room or apartment.

For more information, contact Kayla Seabolt at kayla@hillelatvcu.org or visit https://hillel-heart.my.site.com/eventreg/s/flow/Engagement_Sign_In_URL_Launched_add_participant_flow_v2_1?EngagementId=a0oRP00000GO7SA&HillelName=Hillel_at_VCU&HillelId=0013u00001rsfBN.

Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026 at noon

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 will highlight learning objectives and program logistics. Five virtual options are available, each on Wednesday. Those who register will receive a Zoom link one to three business days before the session: Aug. 19 at noon, Sept. 2 at noon, Sept. 23 at noon, Oct. 7 at noon and Nov. 4 at noon.

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.

Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The Campus Learning Center and Writing Center will present Semester Sound Check in Hibbs Hall, Room 107 (Drop-In Tutoring Room), 900 Park Ave. Fretting about how to prep for the fall semester? Set the stage for a successful semester before the main show begins. The CLC and the Writing Center (WC) have got your back. Swing by the open house for undergrads to explore CLC and WC resources, enjoy light refreshments and participate in a crafting activity. Register at the following URL. Questions: Visit https://clc.vcu.edu/

For more information, contact Sunauz Moezzi at moezzis@vcu.edu or visit https://ramsconnect.vcu.edu/WoW/rsvp_boot?id=1946043.

Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Global Education Office (GEO) staff and health-affiliated VCU students and faculty invite students studying at VCU on an F or J visa to receive drop-in health insurance enrollment support. This is also a chance to learn more about how and where to use your health insurance card in the U.S. The sesion will be at the ELP, 912 W. Grace St, third floor, Room 3124. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Julianna Hill at hilljk5@vcu.edu or (804) 827-3437 or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1946604.

Thursday, Aug. 20, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

VCU's Office of Multicultural Student Affairs (OMSA) will present Akwaaba: OMSA Open House, its Weeks of Welcome event. This event is open to all and introduces OMSA's space in the University Student Commons, Suite 215 and Shockoe Room, 907 Floyd Ave., as a place for students to connect, recharge and find community between classes. Come for space tours, food, games and interactive activities.

For more information, contact Joshua Lockhart at lockhartjcj@vcu.edu or (804) 828-6672 or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1946364.

Friday, Aug. 21, 2026 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center will present Facts & Faith Fridays with the Boatman's and Keyur Shah. M.D., via Zoom. Learn more about Inherited Risks, Inspired Responses: Understanding Genetic Amyloidosis, Lived Experience, and a Call to Donor Advocacy. Register at https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAlce6sqT8rEtSnqo4cYE4eHJwca-NghmLM#/registration

For more information, contact the Rev. Rachel Pierce at piercer2@vcu.edu or (804) 628-9154 or visit https://www.masseycancercenter.org/facts-and-faith-fridays/.

Friday, Aug. 21, 2026 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

VCU's Office of Student Involvement will host the Student Organization and Volunteer (SOVO) Fair in Monroe Park. Explore student organizations and volunteer opportunities, meet new people and find ways to become involved on campus at the largest student organization event of the year. RSVP at the following URL.

For more information, contact Justin Raibolt at studentorgs@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1946023.

Friday, Aug. 21, 2026 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Hillel at VCU will host a Welcome Back Shabbat Dinner after the Student Organization and Volunteer Opportunities (SOVO) Fair. The dinner, the first of the year, will be at Hillel House, 918 W. Grace St.

For more information, contact Kayla Seabolt at kayla@hillelatvcu.org or visit https://hillel-heart.my.site.com/eventreg/s/flow/Engagement_Sign_In_URL_Launched_add_participant_flow_v2_1?EngagementId=a0oRP00000GOAuf&HillelName=Hillel_at_VCU&HillelId=0013u00001rsfBN.

Friday, Aug. 21, 2026 at 7:30 a.m.

The VCU Child Development Center, 1128 Floyd Ave., is seeking a passionate and dedicated kitchen manager to join its early childhood education team. The manager will be responsible for preparing nutritious, appealing and age-appropriate meals for children in the preschool program. Your culinary expertise will help foster healthy eating habits and ensure a safe, clean and welcoming dining environment. This full-time position offers the opportunity to combine culinary skills with a commitment to nurturing young minds and bodies.

For more information, contact Tessa NeSmith at nesmithtr@vcu.edu or (804) 828-7377 or visit https://cdc.soe.vcu.edu/.

Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Hillel at VCU invites new freshmen and transfer students to get to know the Jewish community. Come to Hillel House, 918 W. Grace St., for fun trips and new friends.

For more information, contact Kayla Seabolt at kayla@hillelatvcu.org or visit https://hillel-heart.my.site.com/eventreg/s/flow/Engagement_Sign_In_URL_Launched_add_participant_flow_v2_1?EngagementId=a0oRP00000GUrVV&HillelName=Hillel_at_VCU&HillelId=0013u00001rsfBN.

Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026 at 5 p.m.

Do you aspire to a leadership role in a health care organization? Join VCU's Department of Health Administration for a virtual informational session to learn about graduate programs in Health Administration (MHA and MSHA). RSVP at the following URL to receive the Zoom link.

For more information, contact Cameron Parkins at parkinsc@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/RjGRd6GJavjWCeWu8.

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 from 10 a.m. to noon

Come get to know more about Richmond. Join VCU Graduate School's Office of Professional Development and lawyer and historian Gary Flowers for a walk down memory lane exploring Jackson Ward, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. The 1.5 mile tour lasts approximately two hours. Meet at 122 W. Leigh St. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Erin Brown, Ph.D., at gradprofdev@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1946007.

Monday, Aug. 31, 2026 from 7 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.

Interested in Adult or Child Neurology residency at VCU? Join a virtual webinar to meet program directors, learn about training programs and get your questions answered. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Coronda Lee at coronda.lee@vcuhealth.org or visit https://vcuhealth.zoom.us/meeting/register/it5YAQ2vQs6SQv6ViRx-zw#/registration.

Thursday, Sep. 10, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Effective leadership starts with focus, clarity and the ability to manage stress in a demanding environment. This online course offered by Continuing and Professional Education introduces the foundational concepts of mindfulness and how they directly support leadership growth and personal effectiveness. Participants will learn practical techniques to enhance mental clarity, reduce stress and strengthen their ability to lead with intention and resilience. Register 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-100.

Wednesday, Sep. 23, 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. Early registration ends Wednesday, Aug. 26, but registrations will be accepted through Monday, Sept. 21 at the following URL. The class will be held in the VCU HR Learning Center Conference Room, 922 W. Grace St.

For more information, contact Shelly Schuetz at ssschuetz@vcu.edu or visit https://www.continuingstudies.vcu.edu/CourseStatus.awp3?&course=27-SS-148.

Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026 from 9 a.m. to noon

VCU's Office of the University Ombudsperson will sponsor National Conflict Resolution Day, the goal of which is to promote and encourage peaceful conflict management and resolution practices throughout the three campuses. The event will feature a keynote address from Linda Brothers, Georgetown University Ombuds and will be at the University Student Commons, Virginia Rooms C-D, on the Monroe Park campus. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Michele Murray at mmurray2@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/AC7xDv5uAH54V7Ys5.

Registration is underway for The University Band (APPM 357), which is open to all VCU students and faculty regardless of experience. The band meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 3-3:50 p.m. and performs one to two concerts each semester. Questions: Contact band director Duane Coston at the following email address.

For more information, contact Duane Coston at costonpd@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/music/ensembles/#bands.

The VCU da Vinci Center's Shelfie Program is a free, four-week program in entrepreneurship, innovation and design thinking. It is designed to help you figure out what works (and what doesn’t) by putting your work to the test. It’s not about being polished. it’s about showing up, getting real feedback and learning by doing. Applications are now open – the first boot camp kicks off on Saturday, Aug. 29, at noon.

For more information, contact Ashley Wenger at wengeran@vcu.edu or visit https://shiftretail.vcu.edu/programming/shelfie-program/.

VCU Department of Music invites students to register for choir for the upcoming academic year. Three ensembles are available: Commonwealth Singers, Choral Arts Society and Vox Concordia. All choirs are open to all students, regardless of major, and meet during the day for course credit. Students may register through eServices during enrollment. Learn more at the following URL.

For more information, contact Christopher Hansen, Ph.D., at hansenc3@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/music/ensembles/#vocal-ensembles.

The Rams Scholarship Hub is a centralized, searchable database in which students can view scholarship opportunities available and offered through various VCU colleges, schools and departments. Sign in with your EID, complete the general application, get matched and search for new opportunities.

For more information, contact Casey Toney at scholarships@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.academicworks.com/.

FERPA affords students the rights to inspect and review educational records; request that records which they believe to be inaccurate or misleading be corrected; provide written consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent; and to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education.

For more information, contact The Office of the University Registrar at rar@vcu.edu.

The Office of the University Registrar is responsible for notifying the university community that it does not release nonpublic information about VCU students. This information is used and shared in a limited and carefully controlled manner. It is not disclosed, except as permitted by law, unless authorized by the student.

For more information, contact The Office of the University Registrar at rar@vcu.edu.

Do you love to sing? VCU Commonwealth Singers (APPM 358) is welcoming auditions from students across the university for Fall 2026. Openings are available in all voice parts. This is an especially exciting year to join the ensemble. Commonwealth Singers has been selected to perform at the 2026 Virginia Music Educators Association Conference, representing VCU before music educators from across the Commonwealth. Commonwealth Singers is an advanced SATB (soprano, alto, tenor, bass) ensensemble for singers who are excited about challenging repertoire, meaningful music-making and being part of a strong choral community. You do not need to be a music major to audition. Rehearsals: Monday, Wednesday and Friday, noon–1:15 p.m. Auditions will be Tuesday, Aug. 18 and Wednesday, Aug. 19. Sign up at the following URL.

For more information, contact Dr. Christopher Hansen, Ph.D., at hansenc3@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/music/ensembles/ensembles-auditions/.

Recruiting individuals ages 18+ who have had chronic pain and sleep disturbance for at least three months.

For more information, contact Lara LoBrutto at inpact@vcu.edu or visit https://redcap.vcu.edu/surveys/?s=W48JM9TMYTCJEDWT.

Registration is now open for The University Band (APPM 357). University Band is open to all VCU students and faculty. The band meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 3-3:50 p.m. The band performs one concert per semester.

For more information, contact Duane Coston at costonpd@vcu.edu or (804) 240-7974.

If you have worn the uniform and now call VCU home, this is for you. Whether you are student, faculty or staff, we want you to be a part of the HERO Study – a clinical trial funded by the Department of Defense. We are studying a noninvasive technique that may help people with a history of concussion or mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) who still suffer from lingering effects. Be part of a federally funded initiative to transform care for military service personnel. Get financial compensation for your time and commitment. Your best interests will be at the forefront of all study obligations, including flexible scheduling and confidential participation. Help shape the future of brain health - for yourself and for others. See if you qualify at the following URL:

For more information, contact HERO Study at herostudy@vcu.edu or (804) 827-9692 or visit http://hero-study.org.

The Research in Athlete and Military Health Sciences (RAMHS) group is seeking participants ages 14-30 years to complete a research study assessing hip muscle function following ankle sprains. You may participate if you either have a first-time lateral ankle sprain or have no ankle sprain history and are healthy (control group). This study will require one in-person study visit at our research laboratory at Biotech Eight (737 N. Fifth St.), 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. Participants with ankle sprains will also be asked to complete remote, electronic surveys at three and six months after the in-person visit. Questions: Contact Crystal Figueroa.

For more information, contact Crystal Figueroa at crystal.figueroa@vcuhealth.org or (804) 827-0871.

This study is inviting individuals between the ages of 18 and 24 with poor sleep. Compensation is up to $50. The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of aerobic and resistance exercise on cardiovascular responses and vascular inflammation. This study will be conducted at 500 Academic Centre on VCU’s Monroe Park Campus. Principal Investigator: Lee Franco, Ph.D., Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences. For information, contact The KHS Healthy Heart Lab at healthyheart@vcu.edu.

For more information, contact Garrett Oehlert at healthyheart@vcu.edu.

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_8icpTWvtLFvjbo2.

Recruiting adolescents between the ages of 13 and 19 who have 1) never had a diagnosed concussion OR 2) sustained a concussion within the last 14 days. This noninvasive study is investigating the acoustic startle reflex and acoustic startle potentiation in relationship to subsequent injury following concussion. Participants will be compensated for their time. See the interest form at the following URL.

For more information, contact Jessie Oldham at oldhamjr@vcu.edu or visit https://redcap.vcu.edu/surveys/?s=YKDWLNYWDNK7M7KX.