Student Issue for August 31, 2026
Today
Let's Talk Neuro
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.
This week
History Department's Welcome Back Open House
Tuesday, Sep. 1, 2026 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Drop by the History Department's open house at 811 S. Cathedral Place. Say hello to the professors, connect with other history students and chat with adviser Maggie Hasselbach. Refreshments will be served and those present can win some VCU history swag.
For more information, contact Andrea Wight at wighta@vcu.edu or visit https://history.vcu.edu/events/event-items/welcome-back-open-house.html.
VCU Writing Center To Present Résumé Workshop
Tuesday, Sep. 1, 2026 at 10 a.m.
This introductory workshop is designed to guide students through the résumé writing process, from what to include and how to say it. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.
Fellowships for Graduate Students Info Session
Tuesday, Sep. 1, 2026 from 11 a.m. to noon
This session via Zoom is geared for VCU graduate students in all disciplines. Learn more about external funding opportunities and how the National Scholarship Office can support you through the application process.
For more information, contact Kelly Weissberger at kbchroninger@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScO-hawD1mrCY8HCJ2SC9UIF6pByPr28qw1c3d6sXIRDge9sg/viewform.
Bridging Science and Society: Integrating Genetic Epidemiology Research With Community Perspectives
Tuesday, Sep. 1, 2026 at noon
VCU's Department of Epidemiology will host its Fall 2026 Epi Forum Seminar Series. This year's theme will highlight epidemiology as an interdisciplinary field, showcasing the breadth of the faculty’s research. This week's seminar comes from Elizabeth Prom-Wormley, Ph.D., MPH, associate professor of Epidemiology. The seminar will be held at One Capitol Square, 830 E. Main St., Room 644 and on Zoom. Refreshments will be provided at every seminar session. Register for the Zoom session at the following URL.
For more information, contact Maggie Christ at christmm@vcu.edu or visit https://epidemiology.vcu.edu/seminar/.
VCU Writing Center Workshop: Developing Your Voice in the Age of AI
Tuesday, Sep. 1, 2026 at noon
Developing and maintaining your unique voice in the age of AI. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.
Goldwater Scholarship Informational Session
Tuesday, Sep. 1, 2026 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Geared for sophomores and juniors who intend to pursue graduate research in the STEM fields, this session will provide information on the Goldwater Scholarship, which awards its scholars with up to $7,500 for educational expenses and a mentoring network. The session will be available via Zoom or at 701 W. Grace St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jeff Wing at jawing@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfDMR3VfoqiMJZUBSMjiXQnOFhYXpUxLDszwU96Ipv6FUS7SA/viewform.
School of Life Sciences and Sustainability Quad Fest
Wednesday, Sep. 2, 2026 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
VCU's School of Life Sciences and Sustainability will host Quad Fest in the courtyard of the Eugene P. and Lois E. Trani Center for Life Sciences, 1000 W. Cary St. Celebrate the start of the semester with faculty, advisers, student organizations and campus partners while enjoying hands-on activities, student research and lawn games. All are welcome.
For more information, contact Joseph Ellis at ellisjt2@vcu.edu or (804) 828-1562.
Canvas Overview for Students
Wednesday, Sep. 2, 2026 from 11:30 a.m. to noon
Join Learning Systems in VCU Academic Technologies during Weeks of Welcome for a virtual, live 30‑minute introduction to Canvas, VCU’s learning management system. This session will walk you through the essentials of navigating Canvas so you can confidently access assignments, projects, and key course materials. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/87686825912
For more information, contact Jamillah Martin at jpmartin@vcu.edu or visit https://learningsystems.vcu.edu/canvas/students/.
Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Writing Workshop
Wednesday, Sep. 2, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.
Do you receive a Pell grant? Have you thought about studying or interning abroad? Join VCU Global Learning for the biannual Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship Writing Workshop. This workshop will cover award eligibility (this award is for Pell Grant recipients only), application requirements, essay tips and tricks and study abroad options at VCU. This workshop is designed to help maximize your chances of receiving this nationally competitive scholarship. The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/83404195719
For more information, contact Alex Heyden at levya@vcu.edu or (804) 828-5794 or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1945903.
Critical Language Scholarship and Summer Language Programs
Wednesday, Sep. 2, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.
This informational session will feature a discussion about the CLS – a funded, summer intensive language study abroad program – as well as several other domestic summer language programs. These programs are open to all undergraduates and graduate students. Teh session is available via Zoom or at 701 W. Grace St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Kelly Weissberger at kbchroninger@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfWSJT-endEgoQY3-YWtJ2ndjrqLr_3rIndskgM-wxMosn9XQ/viewform.
Emerging Researchers Academy and VCU Writing Center Workshop: Overcoming Impostor Phenomenon To Write With Confidence
Wednesday, Sep. 2, 2026 at 3 p.m.
Learn to build your writing confidence by identifying and overcoming the impostor phenomenon. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.
Center for the Integration of Research, Teaching and Learning (CIRTL) at VCU Informational Session
Wednesday, Sep. 2, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Are you a PhD 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 information session.
For more information, contact Erin Brown, Ph.D., at gradprofdev@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1945966.
VCU Writing Center Workshop and Informational Session: Writing With Confidence
Wednesday, Sep. 2, 2026 at 6 p.m.
In this virtual informational session and workshop, we will discuss the services provided by the VCU Writing Center and help you build confidence in your 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/.
Faculty Open House at the VCU Health Hub
Thursday, Sep. 3, 2026 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
All faculty members are invited to an open house at the VCU Health Hub, 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A., to explore current programming and collectively envision how VCU’s teaching, research and resources can align with community-identified needs for mutual benefit. RSVP at the following URL.
For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScrB3mY6n51tvDbCBsX_mICjnSuXyGlfsjFVSDtcl6IttG0dQ/viewform?usp=header.
Coming up
Graduate School Lunch and Learn, Goal-Setting for Academic Success: Preparing for a SMART Start
Tuesday, Sep. 8, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.
Tailored for graduate students navigating heavy academic workloads, this interactive workshop via Zoom helps participants combat common challenges by reconnecting with their foundational motivations. Those who attend will learn to transform their academic milestones into actionable targets using the SMART goals framework and apply the "Big Rocks" prioritization method to protect their weekly schedules. By the session's end, participants will establish three to five strategic goals for the semester while discovering vital campus resources to support well-being and success
For more information, contact Erin Brown, Ph.D., at gradprofdev@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1945954.
Three-Minute Thesis Informational Session
Tuesday, Sep. 8, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Come learn about the benefits and logistics of participating in this research dissemination event via Zoo,/
For more information, contact Erin Brown, Ph.D., at gradprofdev@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1945971.
Community Engaged Research Series
Thursday, Sep. 10, 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.
Bioethics 4 Students Kick-Off Meeting
Thursday, Sep. 10, 2026 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Bioethics 4 Students will host its first meeting of the school year at 701 W. Grace St. in the multipurpose room (1303). Meet new people, learn about upcoming meetings and events, how to become involved and hear about membership benefits from the organization's new Kaplan partner.
For more information, contact Ria Bajpai at bajpair2@vcu.edu or (571) 206-7262.
Twin Casting Call for VCU Uncommon Hero Video
Monday, Sep. 21, 2026 at 10 a.m.
VCU's Enterprise Marketing and Communications team is looking for twins to be a part of one of its Uncommon Hero videos. The videos highlight special members of the VCU community and for this subject, sets of twins are needed. Only reach out if both of you are able to participate. The production will take place within the last two weeks of September. The casting call will be at the Scott Carriage House, 909 W. Franklin St. If you are or know any set of twins or triplets in the greater Richmond area, reach out to gendronrt@vcu.edu or vcumultimedia@gmail.com.
For more information, contact VCU EMC at vcumultimedia@gmail.com.
Process Consultation
Wednesday, Sep. 23, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
This online-synchronous course offered by Continuing and Professional Education introduces participants to the foundations of process consultation and the consultant mindset. Over six weeks, learners will explore how to respond effectively to requests for help, identify the right stakeholders, establish clear agreements and clarify roles, expectations, scope and desired outcomes at the start of a consulting engagement. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Shelly Schuetz at ssschuetz@vcu.edu or visit https://cpe.catalog.vcu.edu/courses/process-consultation.
Notices
Free Passport-Style Photos With the Global Education Office
Looking to apply for your first U.S. passport or renew your current passport? Need a 2-inch by 2-inch photo for your Visa or OPT application? Get your free passport-style photograph taken at VCU's Global Education Office, 912 W. Grace St., fourth floor. Passport-Style Photo Services are offered on the first Tuesday of each month from 1-3 p.m. and the third Wednesday of each month from 9-11 a.m. Register at the following URL for a 15-minute time slot.
For more information, contact Julianna Hill at hilljk5@vcu.edu or (804) 827-7882 or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSejLHsHb1Q3lapB5hNPwQiMxVs8-YfY1IWQ5OPVp5zVVmGscQ/viewform?usp=header.
VCU Alumni Virtual Book Club
Go behind the scenes to learn how iconic film critics Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert influenced film criticism and pop culture in Matt Singer’s “Opposable Thumbs: How Siskel & Ebert Changed Movies Forever.” Grab a copy of our latest VCU Alumni book pick, pop some popcorn and discover how Siskel and Ebert’s iconic thumbs-up and thumbs-down format transformed how we watch and talk about movies. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Tiera Byrd at mcguiretj@vcu.edu or visit https://www.pbc.guru/vcu.
VCU at Your Fingertips
Want to see your day at VCU at a glance, reserve space, track your meal plan, see your employee paystub, join a group and receive related notifications and more? Download the VCU Mobile app, with a new look, feel and functionality, for all things VCU.
For more information, contact Molly Case at casems@vcu.edu or visit https://mobile.vcu.edu/.
VCU Winter Break: Cross-Cultural Roots of Care: A Guatemalan Highlands Immersion Experience
The VCU School of Nursing is offering ite annual service-learning trip to Guatemala as a 3-credit elective. This program has a longstanding history of providing opportunities for mutual learning as students and community members share conversation on health promotion topics, take part in demonstrations of traditional Mayan practices and use of medicinal herbs and participate in local women's empowerment projects. This program offers a life-changing experience that will help develop undergraduate students into responsible global citizens.
For more information, contact Mary Falk at mfalk@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.studioabroad.com/_portal/tds-program-brochure?programid=11647.
New Convergence Website
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/.
Parking Decks To Be Controlled 24/7
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.
InP-ACT: Cognitive-Behavioral Treatment Study for Chronic Pain and Insomnia
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.
TEDxVCU Planning Team Application
Join the TEDxVCU planning team and help share ideas. More information about each position and the application can be found here: Team Lead Application (https://forms.gle/6eUqcynY7ta1QhEW8) by Tuesday, Sept. 8 and Planning Team Application (https://forms.gle/R5UiPTeuuoyyTP2X9) by Tuesday, Sept. 15.
For more information, contact TEDxVCU at tedx@vcu.edu.
Belay Climbing Clinics
Participants will learn and practice the basics of belaying and climber safety in these clinics at the Cary Street Gym, 101 S. Linden St. Ideal for new climbers and those wanting to add to their knowledge and skill sets. Belay clinics also provide the needed background for the climbing wall belay approval test. Clinics run from through Thursday, Nov. 19. Sign up at the following URL.
For more information, contact Josh Skillman at recwell@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/Program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=cd4e0a05-814b-415e-9ef8-43e49fe1f7fb.
RecWell Intramural 6v6 Volleyball Registration
VCU RecWell is accepting registration for Intramural 6v6 Volleyball through Sept. 7. League play begins Sept. 15 at the Cary Street Gym, 101 S. Linden St. Participants of varying skill levels are welcome. Register and view league information at the following URL.
For more information, contact VCU RecWell at recwell@vcu.edu or visit https://recwell.vcu.edu/play/intramural-sports/.
RecWell Intramural 7v7 Flag Football Registration
VCU RecWell is accepting registration for Intramural 7v7 Flag Football through Monday, Sept. 7. League play begins Sept. 13 at Cary Street Field. Participants of varying skill levels are welcome. Register and view league information at the following URL.
For more information, contact VCU RecWell at recwell@vcu.edu or visit https://recwell.vcu.edu/play/intramural-sports/.
Participants Needed for Brain Imaging Study
The Research on Excessive, Persistent and Emotion-based Actions and Traits (REPEAT) Lab at VCU is conducting a brain imaging study to understand decision-making processes in adults with anorexia nervosa. Participants will be compensated for participating in this study.
For more information, contact REPEAT Lab at repeat@vcu.edu or (804) 828-2658 or visit https://tinyurl.com/25wnkh7z.
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.
RamsConnect events
View all of the student events happening on campus and register for events that interest you.