10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Join VCU Dine and the School of Business to celebrate the official grand opening of Saxbys in the atrium of Snead Hall, 301 W. Main St. The ceremony will begin with speeches from leadership and the café will open at 10:45 a.m., featuring complimentary samples, games and a chance to win prizes. After the ceremony concludes, the café will be open to the VCU community. For hours of operation, please visit vcu.mydininghub.com.

For more information, contact Margaret Massie at dining@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.mydininghub.com/en.

10 a.m.

Join the VCU Writing Center online via Zoom to learn the basics of AI and prompt crafting by developing effective strategies for understanding Large Language Models (LLMs). Register at the following URL.

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

10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The Global Education Office (GEO) and the Global Learning team welcome all Rams back to campus. Stop by their table on the VCU Compass (199 N. Linden St.) to learn more about how you can go beyond the compass while at VCU. This event is part of Weeks of Welcome 2026.

For more information, contact Alex Heyden at levya@vcu.edu or (804) 828-5794 or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1946032.

11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

VCU Health Hub, 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A, will host the RVA Street Singers, a group that meets to build community through song. The group shares lunch and converation, rehearses and performs.

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

12 p.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/.

3 p.m.

Alpha Phi Omega is a gender inclusive service fraternity with a focus on leadership, friendship and service. Meet new people during two weeks of rush. Activities include: Tuesday, Aug. 25, Capital trivia, 3:30-5 p.m. (James Branch Cabell Library, 901 Park Ave., Room 153); Wednesday, Aug. 26, mockingjay melodies, 7-8:30 p.m. (dm for addy day of); Thursday, Aug. 27, District 11 harvest, 3:30-5 p.m., (Library Room 153); Monday, Aug. 31, The games! 4-5:30 p.m. (Monroe Park), Wednesday, Sept. 2, decorate tote bags for donations, 4-5 p.m., (TBD); Thursday, Sept. 3, capital fashion show and chariot presentation, 3-4:30 p.m.; Friday, Sept. 4, Capital feast and watch party, 7-9 p.m., (DM for addy day of) Add the fraternity Instagram for more information @APO_ADI

For more information, contact Julia Meagher at meagherja@vcu.edu.

4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

The Financial Success Center will host guest speaker Nia Adams. The goal of this interactive session is to help students make confident financial decisions early in their college careers to create meaningful outcomes over time. No prior financial knowledge needed. The event will be in Snead Hall, Rooms B3187, B3189, 301 W. Main St.

For more information, contact Eva Waldron at waldroneb@vcu.edu.

7 p.m.

You are invited to Hillman Then: A Look at "A Different World" in the 1990s and Its Cultural Impacts, an evening of television, conversation, community and reflection on the lasting influence of one of the most significant representations of Black college life in popular culture. "A Different World" introduced millions of viewers to Hillman College and used the fictional HBCU as a setting to explore Black identity, relationships, education, politics, gender, race and social responsibility. Nearly four decades after the series premiered, its influence continues to shape how audiences understand and imagine the Black college experience. "A Different World" was so iconic Netflix has created a rebooted series that will air in September. The discussion will center on the guiding question: How does "A Different World" imagine Black college life, identity, community, belonging and social responsibility, and how has that culture changed between then and now? Selected episodes of "A Different World" will be screened, along with a discussion about how the series represented the cultural and political issues of its era while considering what has changed and what remains relevant for college students today. The discussion will include culture, race, gender, art, fashion, community and social responsibility. Pizza and snacks will be provided. This event is sponsored by the VCU Humanities Research Center and the Department of Gender, Sexuality and Women’s Studies. The session will be in the Academic Learning Commons (MCALC), Room 1105, 1000 Floyd Ave.

For more information, contact Brooke Taylor at taylorbl6@vcu.edu or visit https://humanitiescenter.vcu.edu/.

Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2026 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is an option for F-1 students whose program of study requires participation in an experiential learning activity like an internship or who wish to take an internship-type class to satisfy a degree requirement. This workshop will cover the regulatory framework for engaging in academically aligned practical training, eligibility criteria and the process for requesting CPT authorization. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Gkobal Education Office Immigration Services at geois@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/INSfLDoYQmiIGfVkL4RFSw.

Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

VCU's Department of Political Science will hold its Fall internship informational session for students interested in pursing an internship this semester or later this year. The event will be in the STEM Building, 817 W. Franklin St. Room TBD.

For more information, contact Hollie Sue Mann at mannhs2@vcu.edu.

Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026 from 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 brandcenter@vcu.edu or visit https://connect.business.vcu.edu/register/info-session-august-2026?utm_source=TelegRam.

Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026 from 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.

Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Come together with the Kornblau Real Estate and Risk Management and Insurance Programs, current students, alumni and industry partners to celebrate the start of the academic year. Refreshments provided. Free street or deck parking. Attire: Business Casual. The event will be at the Chesterfield Economic Development Authority Office-Rooftop, 7053 Celebration Park Ave., Apt. 500. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Jaclyn Witthoefft at witthoefftjh@vcu.edu or visit https://connect.business.vcu.edu/register/?id=210f0c1a-61c9-466c-b9d6-af18b416c874.

Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026 at 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 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.

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.

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/.

Thursday, Sep. 3, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.

Graduate school is more than the next step in your education. It's a new way of learning, thinking and managing your time. This interactive session via Zoom is designed to help new graduate students coming directly from undergraduate studies to navigate the transition with confidence. Explore the differences between undergraduate and graduate expectations, develop strategies to overcome common challenges and create a plan for long-term success. Through reflection, discussion and practical activities, participants will connect with peers, identify campus resources and leave with a personalized road map for balancing academics, research, work and personal well-being. Register at the following URL.

For more information, contact Erin Brown, Ph.D., at gradprofdev@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1946009.

Wednesday, Sep. 9, 2026 at 6 p.m.

Join Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center and Gregory Abel, M.D., MPH, at the next edition of the Director's Distinguished Visiting Scholars Seminar Series, which will cover the "Ethics of AI in Cancer Research and Practice." The event will be at the Valentine Museum. 1015 E. Clay St. This event is open to the public and will feature remarks from Abel, an outcomes researcher and hematologic oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) and Harvard Medical School, where he is a Professor of Medicine. He serves as Co-Chair of the DFCI Ethics Advisory Committee, Director of Clinical Research for the Division of Population Sciences, and Research Director for Dana-Farber’s new Center for Cancer and Aging.

For more information, contact Courtney Rose at rosec2@vcu.edu.

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.

Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026 at noon

VCU School of Medicine will host the 28th Annual Faculty Excellence Awards Program and Luncheon in person in Bruce Oliver Tucker Auditorium, James W. and Frances G. McGlothlin Medical Education Center (MMEC), 1201 E. Marshall St. The event will also be available via ivestream.

For more information, contact Breydon Horton at breydon.horton@vcuhealth.org.

The VCU da Vinci Center's Shelfie Program is a free, four-week program in entrepreneurship, innovation and design thinking. It’s 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/.

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/.

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.

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 the REPEAT Lab at repeat@vcu.edu or 804-828-2658, or follow this link:https://tinyurl.com/25wnkh7z.

For more information, contact REPEAT Lab at repeat@vcu.edu or (804) 828-2658 or visit https://tinyurl.com/25wnkh7z.

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/ Sign up here: https://mailxto.com/axs1fyrusn

For more information, contact Maggie Christ at christmm@vcu.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.