1 p.m.

The VCU Alcohol Research Center will host the next seminar in the Foundations of Alcohol Research Seminar Series. The lecture, by Brien Riley, Ph.D., is part of a a monthly informal series for predoctoral and postdoctoral fellows and others interested in alcohol research. The stand-alone lectures focus on the human disease of alcoholism and will briefly introduce animal models. The seminar will be screened in the Molecular Medicine Research Building, Room 1220, 1220 E. Broad St. Click on the Zoom link at the following URL.

For more information, contact Jennifer T. Wolstenholme at jwolstenholme@vcu.edu or (804) 739-3756 or visit https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84562387648?pwd=GfZxaNUXbbpyl5ionlKG29s6LXp6to.1.

11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Hillel at VCU hosts a weekly bagel break at 1003 Grove Ave. Stop by and grab a bagel to go or stick around to connect. RSVP at the following URL.

For more information, contact Kayla 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=a0oRP00000HPUfR&HillelName=Hillel_at_VCU&HillelId=0013u00001rsfBN.

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

This class, brought to you by VCU HR and RecWell, is the perfect combination of strength and flexibility training. There will be 20 minutes of challenging every muscle in your body followed by a 10-minute-deep stretch to enhance recovery and maximize your workout. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/4rA5xyP

For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://ramstrong.vcu.edu/.

12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Ready to take the next step in your professional journey? Join the Richard T. Robertson School of Communication for a virtual informational session exploring the M.S. in Mass Communications, with specialized concentrations in Integrated Communication and Media Leadership, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Media and Leadership. Learn how the programs can help you lead in today's evolving media landscape. You can join the meeting directly at vcu.zoom.us/my/robertsongrad. Questions: Visit https://www.google.com/search?q=https://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/.

3 p.m.

Learn to practice annotation mindfully and effectively. Register at the following URL.

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

5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Good food is enhanced when it is shared. Pull up for a free bite, real conversation and a chance to connect with people across campus at the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs, University Student Commons, Suite 215, 907 Floyd Ave. Each week will bring a different menu and cultural connection to the table. Bring a friend or show up solo. No registration needed as long as food lasts. OMSA events are open to all students, faculty and staff.

For more information, contact Thailon Wilson at wilsont15@vcu.edu.

6 p.m.

Learn about the tools necessary to meet the needs of your audience by writing strong, logical, structurally sound work. Register at the following URL.

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

6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Come write letters to politicians with Save the Children Action Network at VCU. Participants will be writing postcards to local legislators. Letters will also be written to low propensity voters, encouraging them to vote in the upcoming election. The activity will take place in Grace E. Harris Hall, Room 2125, 1015 Floyd Ave. Free food will be available.

For more information, contact Save the Children Action Network at VCU at scanatvcu@gmail.com.

9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Protect yourself and those around you this season. VCU Human Resources is partnering with Walgreens to offer convenient flu and COVD immunization clinics for VCU employees. Today’s clinic will take place on the Monroe Park campus. Visit the following URL for details and to schedule your appointment.

For more information, contact Cindi Phares at worklife@vcu.edu or visit https://hr.vcu.edu/worklife-at-vcu/flu-clinics/.

Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.

VCU Interdisciplinary Studies hosts a monthly informational session via Zoom for their custom Masters of Interdisciplinary Studies. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Samantha Weed at weedsj@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/K71cWZZ5X3YqPmCT7.

Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026 at noon

Join Dina Garcia, Ph.D., a community-engaged researcher, educator and faculty mentor, for a conversation about how our identities, experiences and institutional roles shape community-engaged research relationships and the knowledge we create together. Drawing on experiences in community-grounded research, teaching and mentorship, Garcia will explore how reflexive practice can strengthen relationships, inform research decisions and support accountable approaches to research, teaching and mentorship. Visit the following URL for the Zoom link.

For more information, contact Challen Wellington at wellingtonc@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe_Hk7IApY5JuqrBN47VXx_klLAY4XhcZop2iA6nVqjZnMquQ/viewform?usp=header.

Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

VCU's Office of Multicultural Student Affairs will present "Your Brain Deserves a Break, Too." Each Thursday session will feature a different project ranging from painting and bracelet-making to journaling, vision boards and more. Sessions will be at the OMSA, University Student Commons, Suite 215, 907 Floyd Ave. No experience or artistic talent is required. All supplies will be provided and no registration is needed. OMSA activities are open to all students, faculty and staff.

For more information, contact Jaymes Elentrio-Pitt at elentriopijn@vcu.edu.

Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026 at 6 p.m.

Interested in studying abroad in South Korea this summer? Join a virtual informational session to learn about Korea in Transition — Summer 2027. Open to all undergraduate and graduate majors, with a $2,000 scholarship for VCU students. Informational sessions will also be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17 and Sunday, Jan. 21 at 7 p.m. Register for the informationa session at https://forms.gle/eFiisA2zDTAybFVj9 The Zoom link is https://vcu.zoom.us/j/87828864871 Learn more and apply at the following URL.

For more information, contact Youngmi Kim, Ph.D., at ykim@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.studioabroad.com/_portal/tds-program-brochure?programid=11759.

Friday, Oct. 16, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Scholarly Communications Librarian Katharine Miller will cover how to Develop your Research Elevator Pitch at noon during lunch, which is free. During this session via Zoom, you will learn techniques to craft a concise and compelling research pitch you can use in any professional setting, from conferences to job interviews. The session will include hands-on activities to develop and practice your pitch. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Hali Massey at dayberryhj@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1945984.

Friday, Oct. 16, 2026 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center will host Chief Deputy Director Liz Dervan of the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services for Facts and Faith Fridays via Zoom. Hear firsthand about the changes coming under H.R. 1 and what they could mean for Virginia's Medicaid program and healthcare access in 2026 and beyond. Learn about key provisions of the legislation, anticipated impacts on communities across the Commonwealth and what individuals, families, providers and community leaders should know as Virginia prepares for implementation. See the Zoom link at https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAlce6sqT8rEtSnqo4cYE4eHJwca-NghmLM#/registration Register at the following URL.

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

Friday, Oct. 16, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Get ready to unleash your inner strength at RecWell’s Ram Power Challenge. This event will have you conquering the three main power lifts: squat, bench press and deadlift. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll have two attempts to showcase your power on each lift. Don’t miss this chance to push your limits and step up to the bar. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact fitness@vcu.edu at fitness@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/Program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=8ee0c83c-0246-469b-84fe-6e484ddb3ace.

Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 at noon

Join VCU's Division of Community Engagement for the next Side by Side Exchange, which will bring together a university faculty member, civic employee and community partner to discuss housing availability and accessibility. Hear via Zoom how different perspectives can add value to addressing shared societal challenges. Come join us. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Challen Wellington at wellingtonc@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfBX9QKTa6AK7jW4qaXZpmjlOBChEMVinG5twXVpiMbzSiptA/viewform?usp=header.

Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Research Administration Back to School (RABTS) meetings are held twice a year to convey updates in research administration and are open to all. Join us via Zoom for a series of updates on timely topics with speakers from OVPRI, Sponsored Programs and Grants and Contracts Accounting. Registration is via Talent@VCU or at the following URL.

For more information, contact Cathy Short at cfshort@vcu.edu or visit https://controller.vcu.edu/training/events/.

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 at noon

For many, working remotely is no longer new. But the joys of working in sweatpants from the comfort of home has given way to some unexpected challenges. From video call fatigue to social isolation, the topic explores strategies to implement consistent work from home success for employees and organizations alike. Join VCU HR and Anthem EAP for this informative session. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/3VZCM2B

For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://ramstrong.vcu.edu/.

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research and VCU Health's Office of Clinical Research invites you to participate in Clinical Research Town Hall via Zoom. Please join Jennifer Economy, Wright Center ClinicalTrials.gov administrator, and Richard K. Sterling, M.D., VCU Hepatology Professor and School of Medicine Assistant Dean for Clinical Research, as they present “PI Training Tools (PITT Stop): A Wright Center Resource for Investigators and Research Support Teams,” and answer questions from participants. PITT Stop provides easily accessible support and training resources to help guide researchers at all stages of their career, and their teams, through the research cycle from idea development to publication of results. Register for the event at the following URL.

For more information, contact Lauren Harris at harrisl4@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/8EY0INv9R1eB-Vf6NEz_NA.

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

VCU Alumni will host a mixer for first-generation students and alums in the Commonwealth Ballroom, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. If you’re interested in connecting with first-generation students or sharing your experience, RSVP at the following URL to join for an evening of connection, conversation and community. Enjoy food, giveaways, an interactive networking activity and an alumni panel featuring first-generation VCU graduates sharing their experiences, lessons learned and advice.

For more information, contact Tiera Byrd at mcguiretj@vcu.edu or visit https://give.vcu.edu/events/first-generation-alumni-and-student-mixer?a=13758347.

Friday, Oct. 23, 2026 from noon to 1:30 p.m.

Join VCU Global Education Office (GEO) for its Globe Speakers Series. This series features accomplished professionals who bring a global perspective through their lived, studied or professional experiences across cultures. Each event is designed to inspire leadership, intercultural agility and career-ready skills valuable across all disciplines. This event's speaker will be Richmond Mayor Danny Avula, M.D., MPH, in a conversation moderated by Jatia Wrighten, Ph.D., assistantpProfessor in the Department of Political Science. The event will be in James Branch Cabell Library, Room 303, 901 Park Ave. Lunch will be provided. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Kelly Richard at richardkj@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1948971.

Friday, Oct. 23, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

VCU's da Vinci Center will host its second Shelfie Feedback Friday of the semester. Hear students, alumni and community members pitch their businesses and innovative ideas to the community. Provide your feedback to help them grow. Strengthen your network and develop entrepreneurship at VCU. The event will be in the 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/1FAIpQLSf_RqzGISTPepjI8-X4ZgVqARaaEVHQLW7tQhfN_zf6amoOCg/viewform?usp=send_form.

Monday, Oct. 26, 2026 at noon

Want to make research data more accessible and meaningful to the community? Learn about VCU’s Data Dissemination Grant, which supports creative, community-co-created approaches to sharing research data and findings with communities. 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/1FAIpQLSdu9cnVOECrf7J5VcyYjh-pDzQ6WBEWbCZkGe-Mt6GdWfYdqg/viewform?usp=header.

Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

VCU Academic Technologies will host Top Hat representatives on campus for a series of interactive sessions. All sessions will be held in the James Branch Cabell Library, Room B-41, 901 Park Ave. Please use the form linked below to indicate which sessions you’d like to attend. Refreshments will be provided. Register Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSffWdIGIrjRUfCMwWMvWKrkKwVqgMSS0cQGWCdBMH6e_jhVCw/viewform

For more information, contact VCU Top Hat at tophat@vcu.edu or visit https://blogs.vcu.edu/classroomtechnology/2026/10/06/top-hat-open-house-at-vcu/.

Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2026 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Join VCU TechTransfer and Ventures for a faculty and staff webinar introducing the Research First Industry Engagement Strategy. Learn about the ways VCU is connecting research expertise with industry needs, building partnerships and creating new opportunities for collaboration and impact. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Thomasine Isler at islert@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf8PGonKuFLL1hHE30r32kgxwFeVoHK0ffUU0SGscYuVRiOuA/viewform?usp=header.

Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Join a cross-disciplinary dialogue with researchers, healthcare providers, program leaders and policy experts to address evolving approaches and challenges in the battle against opioid addiction. Come ready to connect across fields, learn about new types of opioids and delivery systems and help shape the future of prevention and recovery. Coffee and snacks will be available. The event will be at the SHIFT Retail Lab, 1235 W. Broad St. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Alison Breland at abbrelan@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfdlHeVl_m6ykG1S8TGyl_uOIvSqiuy7_c-SuGYZqO73eAVig/viewform.

Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026 from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Massey Pride Employee Resource Group will host a virtual screening of the award-winning short documentary "Trans Dudes With Lady Cancer," followed by a panel discussion with filmmaker Brooks Nelson, filmmaker and strategist Yee Won Chong and Richard Brown, Ph.D., associate professor of social and behavioral sciences. The film follows the experiences of two transmasculine individuals, their families and communities as they navigate breast and ovarian cancer within the medical system. The screening and discussion will explore cancer care, patient experiences, disparities in cancer outcomes and the importance of ensuring research and clinical practice meet the needs of all patients. This session is open to all. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Courtney Rose at masseypride@vcu.edu or visit https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/PWu1LB6DRhitFb-LLyF25w.

Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026 at 11 a.m.

You can thrive in retirement. Join VCU HR and TIAA to explore strategies and tips to get you there. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/4za37tn

For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://ramstrong.vcu.edu/.

Friday, Oct. 30, 2026 at 8 a.m.

Cranial B-Mode (CUPID) is a free virtual course introducing clinicians to point-of-care ultrasound for evaluating intracranial pathology. The program includes sessions on image acquisition and interpretation, followed by guided review of real clinical cases involving adult and pediatric patients with closed fontanelles. No CME. Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_cfX4aHoMSSu9Zeg6B0erIQ#/registration Submit cases or lectures: https://forms.gle/xiPpKgRRRiAtqxmt7

For more information, contact Briana Garnett at briana.garnette@vcuhealth.org or visit https://neurology.vcu.edu/education/cpe/.

Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026 from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

All VCU faculty and staff engaged in youth-focused work in any capacity are invited to a networking session sponsored by the Mary and Frances Youth Center. The goal of this event is to bring together university professionals across disciplines and campuses to share current initiatives and lay the foundation for an ongoing, collaborative network of youth-focused faculty and staff at VCU. The session will be in James Branch Cabell Library, Room 303, 901 Park Ave. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Misti Mueller at muellermr@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/WGNYxojvK3rGtXpQ7.

Thursday, Nov. 12, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Join VCU Continuing and Professional Education for a virtual informational session about the Paralegal Certificate Program. The legal world is evolving, and so is the demand for skilled paralegals. Today’s paralegals don’t just work in law firms – they’re essential in education, healthcare, government, corporate offices and beyond. Register for the informational session to learn more about this six-month, online program designed for working professionals. Discounts and a payment plan are available. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Laura Wilson at wilsonl14@vcu.edu or visit https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/19a93df906e9409e80a9cb6b9277e218.

Scams are becoming harder to spot. Scammers will try to gain your trust by sending fraudulent emails, text messages, phone calls, social media messages or even fake job offers that appear to come from organizations you trust, like VCU, banks, delivery services or employers. Be careful when opening messages and links, check contact information to make sure to check the sender is real. Report any suspicious emails, texts, calls and screenshots to phishing@vcu.edu. Check out VCU’s current scam alerts at the following URL.

For more information, contact VCU Information Technology at phishing@vcu.edu or visit https://blogs.vcu.edu/phishing/.

This class is for currently certified lifeguards seeking recertification. In order to participate, you must have a current American Red Cross Lifeguard (including deep water) certificate or be within 30 days of expiration. Proof of eligibility must be provided prior to participation in this class. Please email your certificate to aquatics@vcu.edu for verification prior to the first day of class. Classes will be in the aquatic center of the Cary Street Gym, 101 S. Linden St. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact aquatics@vcu.edu at aquatics@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/Program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=ef0b1e7e-d080-4a9d-bfb9-361ee9c303cc.

Are you Interested in hosting a group exercise class for your organization or department? RecWell offers private group exercise classes, led by our team of group exercise instructors. Classes can be conducted in person (in one of our spaces or we can come to you) or virtually (via Zoom). To help us customize your class experience, please read our private group exercise class guidelines and fill out our RecWell programs request form. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact groupexprgm@vcu.edu at groupexprgm@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeGQUeYL50ui1vDvtsUCWkTksSWHOmJmlZuAENWjl5FX7V84A/viewform.

VCU RecWell offers personal training and fitness consultations to help participants build confidence, improve their fitness knowledge and work toward individual health and wellness goals. Certified personal trainers provide personalized support based on each participant’s experience, needs and goals, whether they are looking to build strength, improve overall fitness, learn how to exercise independently or return to activity after an injury. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact fitness@vcu.edu at fitness@vcu.edu or visit https://recwell.vcu.edu/thrive/personal-training/.

CVC is the only annual workplace giving program for the Commonwealth’s workforce and provides employees with a selection of approximately 700 carefully screened charities you can support. The campaign will run through Thursday, Dec. 31. All monetary donations through the CVC are 100 percent tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. You can give by credit card (until Thursday, Dec. 31) or payroll deduction (until Wednesday, Dec. 15). Learn more about CVC at the following URL. Questions: Contact worklife@vcu.edu

For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://hr.vcu.edu/worklife-at-vcu/commonwealth-of-virginia-campaign.

Did you know Employee Health offers wellness screenings at its Monroe Park location (800 W. Broad St.)? You can review wellness concerns with a nurse, get your cholesterol and blood sugar checked (optional) and get a customized list of resources that will help you reach your wellness goals. Schedule your appointment up to two months in advance at the following URL.

For more information, contact VCU Employee Health at EHS@vcu.edu or (804) 628-2594 or visit http://go.vcu.edu/employeewellness.

VCU's stationery eCatalog will be taken down for server migration on Thursday, Oct. 15 at 8 a.m. The eCatalog will be unavailable for orders until it comes back online, which is anticipated by end of day Monday, Oct. 19. Questions: Contact stationery@vcu.edu.

For more information, contact Eric Hart at hartet@vcu.edu.

The MCV-Suit Yourself Closet (SYC) has reopened for business at its new location in the VMI Building, Suite 103 on the first floor, 1000 E. Marshall St. The SYC provides gently used professional clothing to VCU students. Looking for a new outfit, or want to spruce up your wardrobe for that next interview? The items you select are free and yours to keep. Fall 2026 hours: Thursdays and Fridays, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

For more information, contact Virginia Damron at vmdamron@vcu.edu or visit https://careers.vcu.edu/resources/suit-yourself-professional-closet/.

VCU's Transformative Learning Week, Monday, Oct. 26 through Friday, Oct. 30, is an annual initiative that highlights and encourages collaboration in transformative learning experiences. The week showcases opportunities, provides networking for faculty, staff and students and fosters cross-unit collaboration and community service.

For more information, contact Antonio Harris at harrisad6@vcu.edu or visit https://uc.vcu.edu/transformative-learning/transformative-learning-week/.

Recruiting women between 45-55 years old for a study on whether diet education, lifestyle changes and medication can help women in perimenopause feel healthier. Qualifications and what to expect: https://womenshealth.vcu.edu/research/studies-currently-recruiting/ To sign up, please use the link listed in the Contact information below:

For more information, contact Brooke Foley at ocrcoordination@vcuhealth.org or (804) 628-4849 or visit https://mailxto.com/axs1fyrusn.

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 cold water immersion on PTSD 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.

Associate Professor of Art Education, Yiwen Wei, Ph.D., is seeking 30 intergenerational pairs (two family members from different generations) living in the greater Richmond area and with family backgrounds in immigration (current or ancestry) to share their family stories and create artwork together. Each participant receives a $25 gift card. Open until filled.

For more information, contact Yiwen Wei, Ph.D. at weiy2@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/wCdyf7iiCtJEDLrG9.

The Research in Athlete and Military Health Sciences (RAMHS) group at VCU is seeking children, adolescents and adults (ages 5-70) for participation in a research study to assess movement patterns during walking, running, and sport-related tasks among healthy and injured patients. This study will require one initial study visit at the RAMHS Laboratory lasting about two hours. an electronic questionnaire about your health and sport participation and movement assessment while you are walking, running and sport-related tasks (jumping, cutting) with and without responding to thinking tasks. Up to five total visits within about one year of the initial visit, completing the same. activities. Parking will be validated for your study visit(s). If you are interested, please complete the study screening form at the following URL.

For more information, contact Asal Aflatounian at Fatemeh.Aflatounian@vcuhealth.org or (804) 628-1981 or visit https://redcap.vcu.edu/surveys/?s=YTTMY9KNH9Y3MCT4..