12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Are you considering a career in advertising and branding, but not sure where to start? Join an upcoming virtual informational session to learn about VCU Brandcenter and how to launch your career. The session will include a discussion about the graduate program and four concentrations (Art Direction, Copywriting, Creative Brand Management and Strategy), job outcomes, the admission process and more. Register in advance at the following URL to receive the Zoom link. The session will also include a Q+A.

For more information, contact Emma Barone at baronee2@vcu.edu or visit https://connect.business.vcu.edu/register/info-session-august-2026?utm_source=TelegRam.

12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Transfer Rams, the spotlight is officially yours. Whether you're making your VCU debut or taking the next step in your journey, it's time to take center stage. Join the VCU Transfer Center during Weeks of Welcome for an afternoon of fun, games, prizes, new friends and resources to help you steal the show this semester. No rehearsals required – just bring yourself and get ready for your standing ovation. Every great performance starts with one entrance ... and yours starts here. The event will be in the University Student Commons, Richmond Salons III and IV, 900 Floyd Ave. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Transfer Center at transferinfo@vcu.edu or (804) 827-1349 or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1946093.

3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Kick off the semester with the Office of Student Engagement at its annual block party in the courtyard of Snead Hall, 301 W. Main St. Enjoy a petting zoo, snow cones, arts and crafts, games and opportunities to connect with the VCU Business community.

For more information, contact Shaheena Janmohammad at ose@vcu.edu.

3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The Pace Center will host a Connector Badge training session at 700 W. Franklin St. College can feel overwhelming – new classes, new routines and trying to meet people. Over dinner at Pace, you’ll learn simple and practical ways to introduce yourself, spark conversation and build genuine connections in your new VCU community. Open to all VCU students – come as you are, leave with confidence and new friends. If you’ve been wanting to connect but aren’t sure how to start, come to the Pace Connector Badge Training.

For more information, contact the Rev. Russ Kerr at kerrr@vcu.edu or visit https://www.thepacecenter.com/.

6 p.m.

Learn more about HyperLabs at VCU at an interest meeting in Engineering West Hall, Room W103, 601 W. Main St. This student organization hosts hands-on workshops to teach students skills in engineering and robotics from the beginner level. The group has open leadership opportunities available and a research/competition team students can join. Learn about club events, VIP team, and volunteer/community events. A fun game will be available after the meeting and food and drinks will be provided. For more information, contact HyperLabs at hyperlabs@vcu.edu or visit https://linktr.ee/hyperlabsatvcu Register for the meeting at the following URL.

For more information, contact HyperLabs at VCU at hyperlabs@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1946807.

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 from 11 a.m. to noon

Ready to take the next step in your professional journey? Join VCU's Richard T. Robertson School of Communication for a virtual informational session exploring its 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 directly at 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/.

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Hillel at VCU will host a weekly Shabbat dinner. Come every Friday to Hillel House, 918 W. Grace St., to unplug, share a meal and enjoy a welcoming community.

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=a0oRP00000GUrGz&HillelName=Hillel_at_VCU&HillelId=0013u00001rsfBN.

Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026 at 12:30 p.m.

The ladies of First Love Church will host a Pretty in Pink Brunch at the VCU Student Commons, Richmond Salon 1, 907 Floyd Ave. Come dressed in your favorite pink or floral outfit and connect with new friends. Sign up at the following URL.

For more information, contact First Love Church at firstlovechurchvirginia@gmail.com or visit https://linktr.ee/FirstLoveChurchVirginia.

Sunday, Aug. 30, 2026 at 3:30 p.m.

Don't miss out on joining First Love’s dance group. If you have the moves, bring it. The event will be in the SGA Senate Chambers, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave.

For more information, contact Jianna John at johnj5@vcu.edu.

Monday, Aug. 31, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.

Are you a Ph.D. student or postdoctoral scholar interested in a faculty position? Come learn how you can access these resources for free and develop your faculty portfolio in this informative informational session via Zoom.

For more information, contact Erin Brown, Ph.D., at gradprofdev@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1945964.

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.

Tuesday, Sep. 1, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

As Virginia and the nation commemorate 250 years, join the VCU Wilder School and VCU College of Humanities and Sciences for a conversation about leadership, democracy and the future of the commonwealth. Former Virginia governors L. Douglas Wilder and Jim Gilmore, political analyst Larry Sabato, Wilder School Interim Dean and Commonwealth Poll Director Robyn McDougle and moderator Bob Holsworth will explore what Virginia's history can teach us about democratic leadership, civic life and the choices ahead. The event will be in the W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts, 922 Park Ave. A pre-symposium reception will be held from 4:30–5 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged at the following URL.

For more information, contact Pam Cox at coxp3@vcu.edu or visit https://wilder.vcu.edu/news-and-events/signature-events/wilder-symposium/.

Friday, Sep. 4, 2026 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

VCU's School of Social Work is leading a mental health first aid training session. MHFA is an early-intervention training program that teaches people how to recognize and respond to signs of mental health or substance use challenges. Just like traditional first aid or CPR for physical emergencies, MHFA provides initial support until professional help is found or the crisis ends. The session will be held in the Academic Learning Commons (MCALC), Room 3100, 1000 Floyd Ave. Register at the following URL. A second session will be held Friday, Oct. 16.

For more information, contact Cassie DeSena-Jacobs at swmentalhlth@vcu.edu or visit https://vcussw.info/MHFA26.

Wednesday, Sep. 9, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Have questions about your career path? Wondering where your major at VCU will lead you? Looking for clarity on a big decision? Join the da Vinci Center and VCU Life Design for The Game of Life Design workshop at SHIFT Retail Lab, 1235 W. Broad St.

For more information, contact Ashley Wenger at wengeran@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfO2pKhn6lqTLBhJUCJ39bQsX8P1smYlHL_jgkn8deaV7ykNQ/viewform.

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.

Friday, Sep. 11, 2026 at noon

Approaching AI in Community Engaged Research: What happens when AI meets real-world community-engaged research? Join VCU’s next Community Engaged Research Series session to explore how education research-practice partnerships are navigating AI’s risks, benefits and possibilities. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.

For more information, contact Challen Wellington at wellingtonc@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeA1Yi5WWl0cDwH4AwpQbEDdYAV8PIBY8rYNeW_wLN_v2x7jw/viewform?usp=header.

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.

Wednesday, Sep. 30, 2026 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Volunteer for a large multijurisdictional full-scale training exercise aimed at improving the university's response to a large impact incident on the VCU campus. This exercise is beneficial for students, faculty or staff interested in homeland security and emergency preparedness, or who would like to contribute directly to improving the overall safety of the VCU community. Participants must be a minimum of 18 years old, wear clothing you don't mind getting dirty with simulated makeup and be willing to be transported via ambulance to medical centers in the downtown area for simulated triage. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Matthew Majid at MajidM@vcu.edu or (804) 837-2999 or visit https://veoci.com/v/p/form/ezm2jxm2gfu3.

VCU Recreation and Well-Being is accepting applications for lifeguard positions. Students interested in gaining professional experience, developing leadership and communication skills and helping maintain a safe and welcoming environment at the university are encouraged to apply at the following URL.

For more information, contact Mat Scott at scottm14@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.joinhandshake.com/jobs/11169405.

VCU Convergence has launched its new website which features information and resources connecting faculty, students and community partners for the common good. Become involved by clicking on "About" and "Contact" at the following URL.

For more information, contact Tim Luckritz Marquis at convergence@vcu.edu or visit https://convergence.vcu.edu/.

VCU Parking and Transportation services will be transitioning to a 24/7 controlled access operation over the fall semester. As part of this initiative, the university's parking garages will require permit access at all times. This transition will occur in phases. D Deck will be the first to have 24/7 controlled access, effective Wednesday, Aug. 26.

For more information, contact Olivia Truban at parking@vcu.edu.

Recruiting individuals ages 18+ who have had chronic pain and sleep disturbance for at least three months. Participants will be involved in weekly group therapy over the course of six weeks. Compensation provided.

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

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.

The Translational Research on Eating and Affect (TREAT) Lab is recruiting female participants (aged 12 to 20 years) for a brain imaging study to understand the development of learning and decision-making among people with body image concerns, overeating, purging, restrictive eating and/or maladaptive exercise. The TREAT Lab is also recruiting individuals without a psychological disorder for this study. There will be compensation for participation. See the survey at the following URL.

For more information, contact TREAT Lab (Kelsey Hagan, Ph.D., PI) at treatlab@vcuhealth.org or (804) 827-4174 or visit https://redcap.vcu.edu/surveys/?s=JD4YKAEPKPPWAYXR.

Researchers with the Department of Family Medicine and Population Health are looking for participants, 18-75, who may be experiencing sinus infection symptoms to participate in the NOSES study. The purpose of the study is to determine the best treatments for individuals with acute sinus infection symptoms and to identify which patient populations respond best to different treatments. You may be eligible to participate if you have sinus symptoms lasting for less than three weeks. Study participants will be compensated for their time. What’s involved? A virtual visit with a study doctor and team member, a two-minute daily symptom survey, a free saline nasal rinse kit delivered to you plus a $20 gift card at enrollment. If symptoms last longer than nine days, randomly assigned to receive antibiotics, steroid nasal spray, both or neither, with the opportunity to receive additional compensation. To learn more, contact the NOSES study team at the following telephone number or email address.

For more information, contact Gaby Villalobos at NOSES@vcu.edu or (804) 659-1287 or visit https://nosesstudy.georgetown.edu.

This study is seeking individuals between the ages of 18 and 35 years who have GAD or symptoms of GAD. The purpose of this research study is to examine the effect of cold water immersion on GAD symptoms with specific focus on blood vessel function. This study will be conducted at 500 Academic Centre on VCU’s Monroe Park Campus. Principle Investigator: Ryan Garten, Ph.D., Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences.

For more information, contact Ryan Garten at rsgarten@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 will be determined by the 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.