The Wright Regional Center Hosts Inaugural Research Day to Cultivate Collaboration and Showcase Innovation in Virginia’s Research Community
On October 17th, 2024, the Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research at Virginia Commonwealth University held its first-ever Research Day, bringing together over fifty scholars, faculty, and partners to showcase research aimed at advancing clinical and translational science.
This event emphasized collaboration and networking, showcasing the impact that community-engaged research can have on the communities partnered with researchers. “Our inaugural Research Day is about more than just showcasing innovative projects—it’s about building a network of dedicated minds working together to create real, lasting impact,” said Brad Williams, Faculty Development Program Manager, at the Wright Center. “By fostering connections across disciplines and with our community, we’re laying the foundation for transformative research that meets the needs of our region.”
Throughout the day, participants engaged in a series of 15-minute mini-talks, covering topics such as doulas in health care and substance use disorder, mechanisms of eating disorders, and musculoskeletal injury risk following concussion. These sessions were an excellent opportunity for students and faculty of all levels to share their work and receive feedback from peers and mentors.
“I loved the range of topics and the range of professionals who presented (i.e. sophomore in college up to faculty),” said Anonymous Attendee from VCU.
The event also featured interactive sessions, including Networking Bingo, an engaging lunch break hosted by Wright Center Leaders from various modules, and a panel discussion with the Greater Richmond Community Advisory Board (CAB). The CAB panel discussion created an opportunity for participants to gain valuable insights into community health needs, how to build connections with local stakeholders and explore collaborative research opportunities. This discussion helps researchers align their work with community priorities, enhancing the impact and relevance of their studies.
Another attendee from the event stated “I really enjoyed closing out the day with a panel. It seemed to bring everything from the day together and allowed for great discussion.”
Wright Center’s Research Day provided invaluable networking opportunities, fostering connections across disciplines and institutions while celebrating the diverse spectrum of talent driving clinical and translational research. Presenters included MD/PhD students at VCU, K12 scholars, diversity scholars, a VCU undergraduate intern, and scholars from prestigious programs such as IRACDA and BIRCWH. This diverse representation showcased the Center’s dedication to mentoring and supporting researchers at every stage of their careers, from undergraduate students to advanced clinician-researchers. The event highlighted the Wright Center’s commitment to fostering a collaborative environment that not only advances research development but also amplifies its community impact by prioritizing inclusion and interdisciplinary engagement.
The Wright Center Research Day exemplified the power of collaboration and innovation in advancing clinical and translational science. By fostering meaningful networking opportunities, showcasing research from undergraduates to faculty, and amplifying the voices of Community Advisory Board members, the event underscored the Center’s commitment to its mission: growing community engagement, diversifying patient populations, and fostering greater diversity among emerging clinician-researchers. These efforts not only strengthen the pipeline of future researchers but also ensure that research is inclusive, relevant, and impactful. By bridging communities and academia, the Research Day contributes directly to improving health outcomes, addressing health disparities, and creating a more equitable healthcare landscape.For more information about the Wright Center’s initiatives and future events, visit cctr.vcu.edu.
Categories Collaboration, Community Engagement, Mentorship, Research, Uncategorized