Faculty/staff Issue for February 4, 2026
Today
Rollator Repair Clinic at the VCU Health Hub
1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Rollator Repair Clinic at the VCU Health Hub, 1330 N. 15th St., Suite A. Free rollator (four-wheeled walker) safety checks and basic repairs, including: tightening brakes, adjusting handles and replacing worn nuts/bolts. Some part replacements (wheels, seats) may be available.
For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu.
'Brain Stew' Exhibition
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The VCUarts Photography + Film Undergraduate Exhibition Committee will present an exhibition of short films at the Seipel Gallery, Murry N. Depillars Building, 1000 W. Broad St. The exhibition explores weird, dreamy surreal and abstract topics and will feature work by Coen March, Ruby Carmela, Kyle Rodrigue, Karina Achico, Katie Werner, Tommy Smith, Saige Richardson, Elizabeth Murphy, Poppy Snyder, Asher Love and Erica Leia. An opening reception will be held on Friday, Feb. 6 from 5–8 p.m. in the gallery. The exhibition will be on view from today, Wednesday, Feb. 4–Wednesday, Feb. 11.
For more information, contact Photo + Film Undergraduate Exhibitions Committee at pfexhibitions@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/event/brain-stew-exhibtion/.
Workshop: The VCU Writing Center's Introduction to AI
11 a.m.
The VCU Writing Center will present a workshop via Zoom. Learn more about AI and explore how it can be an innovative learning tool if used properly. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar.
Wednesday Walks With the Health Hub
12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Looking for a group to provide you the space to connect with others, nature and improve your health? The Health Hub hosts Wednesday Walks. Each Wednesday from noon-1 p.m. participants have the opportunity to join the Health Hub on a walk in Church Hill. Each walk will begin and end at the Health Hub, 1330 N. 25th St., Suite A. and will go through different parts of the neighborhood.
For more information, contact VCU Health Hub at vcuhealthhub@vcu.edu.
Workshop: The Research Writing Process
3 p.m.
The Emerging Researchers Academy and VCU Writing Center will host a workshop via Zoom. Learn to map your research writing in a cohesive and manageable step-by-step process. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Trey Burnart Hall at hallbr@vcu.edu or visit https://writing.vcu.edu/calendar/.
Study Abroad With UNIV 200 and 299 at Christ’s College, Cambridge, This Summer
4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Meet Prof. Michaux Dempster and students from last summer’s Christ’s College, Cambridge study abroad program to hear how the experience can earn you six credits in three weeks, build your confidence, autonomy in new situations and increase your global literacy and possibilities for the future. Click on the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Michaux Dempster at Dempsterm@vcu.edu or (804) 387-3981 or visit https://vcu.studioabroad.com/_portal/tds-program-brochure?programid=11672.
This week
Continuity and Change: Navigating the New Virginia Voter
Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026 at 4 p.m.
As Virginia solidifies its role as the nation’s political bellwether, the rules of the game are changing as fast as the players. Come for a chat with John C. Fortier, senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and an expert on election administration and the Electoral College. Following the historic turnout of the 2025 Virginia elections, we dive deep into the data: Is the Gen Z surge a temporary wave or a permanent realignment? From the logistics of no-excuse absentee voting to the philosophical debate over the Electoral College, Fortier will pull back the curtain on how the mechanics of our democracy are being tested by a new generation of voters. The talk will be in the theater of the University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave.
For more information, contact Kelsey Jones at jonesk66@vcu.edu.
Center for the Integration of Research Teaching and Learning Informational Session
Friday, Feb. 6, 2026 at noon
The Graduate School will host a virtual informational session for graduate students and postdoctoral scholars interested in learning more about the Center for the Integration of Research Teaching and Learning (CIRTL) at VCU. This network of 40-plus institutions across the nation is committed to preparing the next generation of faculty members. Participants in the program have the opportunity to earn a digital badge and participate in workshops and professional development to learn best practices of teaching and learning. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Erin Brown at embbrown@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1943532.
Beyond the Mask: Unlocking Imposter Syndrome
Friday, Feb. 6, 2026 at 6 p.m.
Join the Radical Alliance for Anti-Racism, Change and Equity for an interactive workshop exploring imposter syndrome and the vital role of intersectionality and interdisciplinary collaboration in fostering culturally grounded and responsive practices. The session will be in Room 3100, Academic Learning Commons (MCALC), 1000 Floyd Ave. Register at https://cglink.me/2dV/r1943609
For more information, contact VCU RAACE at raace@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.campusgroups.com/RAACE/rsvp_boot?id=1943609.
Coming up
Build Trust and Engagement With Youth: Strengthening Youth-Adult Relationships for Authentic Growth
Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026 from 10 a.m. to noon
This workshop equips youth development professionals and health service professionals with facilitative leadership techniques to build authentic, trusting relationships with youth. Participants will leave with a variety of ways to expand the opportunities for youth to express themselves and participate in two-way dialogue that feels safe and inclusive to promote reflection, critical thinking, and stronger connection in both program and care settings. The session will be at the at the Mary and Frances Youth Center, 120 S. Linden St. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Vaughn Garland at garlandvw@vcu.edu or visit https://tockify.com/iexcel/detail/230/1770735600000.
Self-Love Somatic Yoga
Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026 from noon to 12:30 p.m.
This self-love somatic yoga class, brought to you by VCU HR and RecWell, combines mind-body practices like stretching, meditation, tapping and breath work to foster a compassionate relationship with oneself. This class uses gentle movements and body awareness to release stress, soften self-judgment and cultivate inner trust and self-acceptance. Register in Talent@VCU or at: https://bit.ly/3ZaCdBH
For more information, contact Cindi Phares at cphares@vcu.edu or visit https://ramstrong.vcu.edu/.
Budgeting for Graduate Students
Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.
Participants will learn how to build a realistic budget, avoid common financial pitfalls and use money-saving strategies such as smart meal planning, leveraging campus resources and maximizing student discounts. Gain confidence and practical tools to reduce financial stress and support your success throughout grad school. This session will be facilitated by the VCU Financial Success Center. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Hali Massey at dayberryhj@vcu.edu or visit https://cglink.me/2dV/r1942895.
Lecture by Visiting Artist Dean Moss
Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026 at 3 p.m.
VCUarts Kinetic Imaging will host a lecture by visiting artist Dean Moss in the auditorium of the Institute for Contemporary Art at the Markel Center, 601 W. Broad St. A Q&A hosted by Kinetic Imaging Assistant Professor, Shawné Michaelain Holloway will follow. Moss is an interdisciplinary choreographer and video artist
For more information, contact VCUarts Kinetic Imaging at kineticimage@vcu.edu or visit https://arts.vcu.edu/event/visiting-artist-lecture-dean-moss/.
Central VA SOCRA Chapter Meeting: The AI Research Assistant: Ethical, Efficient, Everyday Use
Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026 from 11 a.m. to noon
The Central Virginia Society of Clinical Research Associates and the C. Kenneth and Dianne Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research will host a virtual meeting via Zoom. A previously held webinar sponsored by the Trial Innovation Network will be viewed followed by discussion. CE will be provided to SOCRA members. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Shirley Helm at shelm@vcu.edu or (804) 241-7340 or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/B6B8tlImSYGCzEEyHPGGkQ.
Boundaries and Backlash: Resegregation and Recent Political Trends in Virginia’s Public Schools
Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.
Join the Humanities Research Center for a Curriculum Conversations event with Dennis Williams, Research Associate at the University of Virginia. Register for the Zoom webinar at the following URL.
For more information, contact Ellie Musgrave at musgraveec@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_t1wvp5e_S0yBzMk_GGYxjQ.
Social Science Research Working Group: 'Detecting Election Fraud in Venezuela's Authoritarian Regime'
Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026 from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Join VCU Political Science for the first meeting of the Social Science Research Working Group. Natasha Romero Moskala ('25) will present on her research. The session will be held in Room 2107, Academic Learning Commons (MCALC), 1000 Floyd Ave.
For more information, contact Alex Keena at keenaja@vcu.edu.
School of Education: International Joint Research Symposium
Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
VCU's School of Education will host educators and students from around the world at the third annual International Joint Research Symposium – Innovation in Education: Preparing Educators for the Future in Global Contexts. The virtual event will be held Wednesday, Feb. 11 from 7–9 p.m. and Thursday, Feb. 12 from 8–10 a.m. Register at https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/SnRG3onbRNWuscd5OSC4uw
For more information, contact Nichole Dorton at nldorton@vcu.edu or (804) 827-9331 or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/SnRG3onbRNWuscd5OSC4uw.
State of the University
Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026 at 11 a.m.
Join President Michael Rao, Ph.D., for the State of the University Address in the James Branch Cabell Library, Lecture Hall, Room 303, 901 Park Ave. Doors will open at 10:30 a.m. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information visit https://go.vcu.edu/sotu.
For more information, contact University Events at UNIVevents@vcu.edu.
Funding for Community Engaged Research
Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.
Interested in community-engaged research and building equitable partnerships? Join the Community Engagement Research Series to examine the role of funders in community-engaged research – from project design to partnership development. The next session, to be held via Zoom, will feature speakers Frannie Noble, Suzannah Stora and Ariana Bracalente. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Challen Wellington at wellingtonc@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeBI298g_D1yH9kSCp9dXnwcq1zU54RPx3-xDXiox8421G2iw/viewform?usp=header.
Brandcenter Virtual Application Workshop
Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Considering a career in advertising, marketing or branding? Join Brandcenter admissions to learn about the center's application requirements, prerequisites and what to keep in mind when completing the application. Learn the qualities and skills that Brandcenter looks for in a successful applicant. A Q&A session will be included. Participants are welcome to come with specific questions about the application prompts or individual progress on the application. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Emma Barone at brancenter@vcu.edu or visit https://connect.business.vcu.edu/register/app-workshop-feb-2026?utm_source=TelegRam.
The Kabbalistic Tree: Visual Interface of Jewish Mysticism
Monday, Feb. 16, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Join the VCU history department for a lecture featuring the preeminent authority on kabbalah, J.H. Chajes, Ph.D. He will speak on Jewish mysticism, framed around his book "The Kabbalistic Tree." The event is free and open to all. Light refreshments will be served. The event, sponsored by the Lyons Chair in Judaic Studies, will be in Room 202, the STEM building, 817 W. Franklin St.
For more information, contact Andrea Wight at wighta@vcu.edu or visit https://history.vcu.edu/events/event-items/the-kabbalistic-tree-visual-interface-of-jewish-mysticism.html.
Global Zone Intercultural Agility Training
Monday, Feb. 16, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Participants will gain a basic understanding of intercultural agility and communication skills by considering how their own cultural experiences and values impact their intercultural agility practices. Upon completion of this training, participants will attain a micro-credential digital badge. The session, at the Mary and Frances Youth Center, 120 S. Linden St., will be facilitated by Kelly Richard, VCU Global Education Office. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Vaughn Garland at garlandvw@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeo5CxUFe9GXfNMXsBurHESIqeo68UBv_DoSpDgN_5aQeppWg/viewform.
Where Brandcenter Takes You – Internship Stories From Current Students
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.
Interested in a career in advertising, marketing or branding? Learn about the Brandcenter's graduate program where you can earn a master’s, build a professional portfolio and stand out to recruiters. The session will also be joined by current second-year students from every concentration (art direction, copywriting, creative brand management and strategy) who spent last summer interning for teams at such companies as Amazon, Callen, Ammunition and Leo. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Emma Barone at brandcenter@vcu.edu or visit https://connect.business.vcu.edu/register/info-session-feb-2026?utm_source=TelegRam.
Service Learning Informational Session
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Curious about service-learning? Join this informational session to learn how service-learning enhances student learning through real-world experience, supports faculty with high-impact teaching and community partnerships and creates meaningful, reciprocal service that benefits the community. Participants will explore available resources, course options and designations and easy ways to become involved in service-learning and experiential education across the institution. Sessions will take place throughout the semester. RSVP at the following URL.
For more information, contact Antonio Harris at harrisad6@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/fnkgEiYh4zbDvcYz6.
History's Double Edge: Lunch and Learn
Friday, Feb. 20, 2026 at noon
Join the history department for a lunch-and-learn session with Rabbi Shai Held at 811 S. Cathedral Place. Explore the double edge of memory. See how it can sustain worshippers in hope and how, sometimes, it can deepen their despair. Rabbi Held is president and dean at the Hadar Institute. Lunch will be served to those who register at the following URL. The event will be sponsored by the Lyons Chair in Judaic Studies.
For more information, contact Andrea Wight at wighta@vcu.edu or visit https://history.vcu.edu/events/event-items/historys-double-edge-lunch-and-learn.html.
AI Accelerator Workshop - Hosted by VCU Enterprise Convergence Labs
Friday, Feb. 20, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
How will AI reshape your field — and how can VCU lead that transformation? Join colleagues for a day of interactive, cross-disciplinary panels and hands-on breakout sessions as VCU Enterprise Convergence Labs hosts its inaugural workshop, designed to move AI from concept to impact. Participants will have the opportunity to forge strategic partnerships within VCU and beyond, shape the future of AI skills in individual disciplines and to learn about relevant AI resources and opportunities available through the Provost’s Office and the Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation. Bring ideas, find collaborators and accelerate VCU’s AI future. The event will be in the Richmond Salons, VCU University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Tim Luckritz Marquis at tluckritzmarq@vcu.edu or visit https://bit.ly/aiworkshopvcu.
Attend Fundamentals for Supervisors, a Professional Development Course
Tuesday, Mar. 3, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The Grace E. Harris Leadership Development Institute’s Fundamentals for Supervisors is open for registration. This three-day course provides essential skills required by those new to supervising others, leading project teams or who have not received prior supervisory training. The goal of the course is to increase an individual’s performance as a supervisor and to provide practical tools to enhance staff performance. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Victoria Carter-Johnston at carterjohnsva@vcu.edu or visit https://gehli.vcu.edu/trainings-and-institutes/fundamentals-for-supervisors-ffs/.
'Destiny' Revisited: Inclusions and Erasures of Indigeneity in K-12 U.S. History Standards, 10 Years Later
Wednesday, Mar. 4, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.
Join the Humanities Research Center for a Curriculum Conversations event with Sarah Shear, PH.d., Associate Professor of Social Studies and Multicultural Education at the University of Washington-Bothell. Register for the Zoom link at the following URL.
For more information, contact Ellie Musgrave at musgraveec@vcu.edu or visit https://vcu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_NXcj3KatS-qUumzFYqf_aQ.
Notices
RecWell Aquatics Log Rolling Clinics
Join RecWell Aquatics for Friday log rolling clinics on Feb. 13 and Feb 27, 7:30-8:45 p.m. Participants will practice balancing and staying atop the strategically placed log in the pool's shallow end. Enjoy friendly competition and get a great workout. Registration is open through the start of the clinic. Beginners welcome; intensity level is medium. Sign in at the following URL.
For more information, contact Mat Scott at aquatics@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/Program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=273c61cc-6561-4f46-b99d-c5c80a0a4062.
Global Impact Awards and Global Initiatives Leadership Awards Information Sessions
The Global Education Office has opened a call for proposals for the 26-27 Global Impact Awards and a call for nominations for the Global Initiatives Leadership Awards. Information sessions will be held in person and virtually at 912 W. Grace St., Room 3124, on Monday, Feb. 9, 3-4 p.m. and Wednesday, Feb. 11, 10-11 a.m. Register at the following URL.
For more information, contact Nicol Tinsley at nctinsely@vcu.edu or (804) 426-8053 or visit https://global.vcu.edu/outreach/facultydevelopment/global-impact-awards/.
Now Open – Registration for Mosaic Celebration
VCU's Office of Multicultural Student Affairs (OMSA) will host a Mosaic Celebration, a gathering that honors all graduating students. OMSA invites graduates and their families for the free celebration on Wednesday, May 6 or Friday, May 8 in the Commonwealth Ballrooms, University Student Commons, 907 Floyd Ave. Register by noon on Wednesday, March 4 at the following URL.
For more information, contact Jair Lecky at leckyjj@vcu.edu or visit https://forms.gle/agoNWjsMrqYW2pJ29.
RecWell Strength and Conditioning
This program is open to beginner, intermediate and advanced athletes who want to become more competitive within a specific sport. Open to VCU students and RecWell members. Class will be held M/W 7:30-8:30 a.m. at Cary Street Gym, 101 S. Linden St.
For more information, contact Abbas Sherazi at fitness@vcu.edu or visit https://portal.recwell.vcu.edu/Program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=e6b088c9-f2e7-4f16-b82e-3984e7870ffb.
Share Your Experience Regarding Time and Student Finances With the SCHEV Student Advisory Committee
The State Council of Higher Education of Virginia (SCHEV) Student Advisory Committee (SAC) is interested in how students who attend institutes of higher education in Virginia delegate their time. This brief survey (2-5 minutes) is designed to understand time constraints that impact student finances to develop statewide programs to better serve students and ease these time burdens. Results of the survey will remain anonymous and be used to determine policy recommendations from SAC to SCHEV and the Commonwealth of Virginia. See the survey at the following URL.
For more information, contact Anne Skelton, subcommittee chair, at skeltonam@vcu.edu or visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeket0yrl0Z28KODC6Q5qmxjyMiF-T4F-DbitSxqOxdl8T7KQ/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=115786471217624730627.
Empower a Healthier You
Check out Redefining BMI – a research study designed specifically for 18-to-25 year-old women with overweight/obesity who want to create a healthier lifestyle. Visit the following URL to learn more and take a quick survey if you may be eligible for this VCU study.
For more information, contact Redefining BMI at bmiproject@vcu.edu or (804) 828-5362 or visit https://www.redefiningbmi.com/.
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.