VCU news

By Brian McNeill

New and returning students will be welcomed to Virginia Commonwealth University with Weeks of Welcome — a series of numerous events that will help them explore campus, find and connect with friends, learn about programs, traditions and resources at VCU, and celebrate the start of the semester.

Starting Aug. 15, this year’s Weeks of Welcome will feature a wide variety of events, including a flatwater paddling excursion with the Outdoor Adventure Program; a farmer’s market at The Commons; a part-time job fair; a workshop on advocating for inclusive communities; a DIY herb garden seminar taught by VCUDine’s registered dietician; tours of key campus places like James Branch Cabell Library and the Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU; special programs for first-generation college students, as well as adult learners and non-traditional students; and a birria taco tasting event in Shafer Court Dining Center.

“Our 2022 Weeks of Welcome schedule includes more than 170 events designed to help students make friends, find clubs and connect with VCU’s vast resources and programs,” said Carole Dowell, director of University Student Commons and Activities. “We are immensely excited to warmly welcome all of our new students to campus by connecting them with these inclusive and accessible WoW events.”

The full list of Weeks of Welcome events can be found on RamsConnect, a platform that enables students to view the entire schedule and register for events, as well as access a student directory, a live feed and a directly of student organizations.

A few of the marquee Weeks of Welcome events this year include:

MCV Campus Welcome Fair

Friday, Aug. 19, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Larrick Student Center (900 Turpin St.)

All graduate, professional and MCV Campus students are invited to the MCV Campus Welcome Fair in Larrick Student Center to learn about opportunities for involvement in campus life through VCU’s student organizations, departments and programs. Giveaways, free lunch and fun activities highlight this year’s fair, with dozens of tables to stop by and learn about resources on the MCV Campus.

Ramchella

Saturday, Aug. 20, 3-6 p.m., Cary Street Field (1106 W. Cary St.)

Join VCU on Cary Street Field for games, food, fun, performances and prizes. Carnival games, amusement park rides, inflatables, photo booths and carnival prizes will await students on Cary Street Field. Students are asked to register for the event in advance.

New Student Convocation, Ram Spirit Walk and Block Party

Monday, Aug. 22, 4-8 p.m., Monroe Park (620 W. Main St.)

New Student Convocation is the Class of 2026’s formal welcome to the VCU academic community and the official beginning of the school year for all students. Attendees will hear remarks by VCU leaders, including VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D.

Immediately following New Student Convocation will be the Ram Spirit Walk, a VCU tradition in which students will march alongside the Peppas spirit band from Monroe Park to a block party. The block party will start at 5:30 p.m. and will feature a DJ, a live cover band, inflatables and free dinner for VCU students.

Uncommon Campus

Tuesday, Aug. 23, 10 a.m-1 p.m., The Compass

VCU is a place unlike any other, and all Rams are unique. This event, hosted by University Relations, will give the VCU community an opportunity to demonstrate what makes them undeniably themselves. On The Compass — located between Cabell Library, Hibbs Hall and Shafer Court — students, faculty and staff will be able to have their photo taken individually or with friends, and pick up a free new VCU T-shirt and other swag.

Student Organization & Volunteer Opportunity Fair (SOVO)

Friday, Aug. 26, 3-6 p.m., Monroe Park

The Student Organization & Volunteer Opportunity Fair will be an opportunity to check out hundreds of student organizations, departments and community organizations. Held in Monroe Park, the annual SOVO Fair is a great way to find ways to get involved at VCU and in the Richmond community. Registration is not required.

International Beach Party

Saturday, Aug. 27, 3-7 p.m., Cary Street Field

Inflatable water slides, slip-and-slides, water slingshots, water sprayers and a selection of beach-inspired foods will be among the attractions at the International Beach Party. It will be an opportunity for new students to engage with and meet other students while learning about resources and programs offered by VCU’s RecWell and Outdoor Adventure Program.

MCV Campus Block Party

Thursday, Sept. 8, 3-6 p.m., Larrick Student Center

Held in front of Larrick Student Center, the MCV Campus Block Party will feature fun games, local food truck vendors and music. MCV Campus students are encouraged to come on out and connect with fellow students and enjoy the celebration.