[{"id":18542,"date":"2026-04-01T15:19:39","date_gmt":"2026-04-01T19:19:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/?p=18542"},"modified":"2026-04-02T10:25:35","modified_gmt":"2026-04-02T14:25:35","slug":"alumni-author-section-at-monroe-park-barnes-noble","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/2026\/04\/01\/alumni-author-section-at-monroe-park-barnes-noble\/","title":{"rendered":"Alumni author section at Monroe Park Barnes &amp; Noble\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Browse works from our very own alumni authors at the Monroe Park Campus Barnes &amp; Noble. From gripping fiction to groundbreaking research, be inspired by this curated section of books by authors who once walked the campus and are now making their mark.\u00a0<br><br>Are you an alumni author? Complete the <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/forms\/d\/e\/1FAIpQLSfXz0lv1LnlC5kCq7EubGu0Wx9SlGv2sYXDcVSuxcdm6x1OmQ\/viewform?usp=header\">interest form<\/a> to be featured in the alumni author section. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some of the books featured in the bookstore: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cThings You Won&#8217;t Tell Your Therapist\u201d by Colleen Kearney Rich (B.S.\u201985)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cHumble: Free Yourself from the Traps of a Narcissistic World\u201d by Daryl Van Tongeren Ph.D. (Ph.D.\u201911)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cBruce Songs: The Music of Bruce Springsteen\u201d by Kenneth Campbell (B.S.\u201977)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cLittlejohn\u201d by Howard Owen (M.A.\u201981)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cThe Crimson Mouse\u201d by Blair Cousins (B.S.\u201914)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cLost Graces\u201d by Helen Montague Foster M.D. (M.D.\u201982)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cIowa Women&#8217;s Corrections: A History\u201d by Erica Spiller (M.F.A.\u201909)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cStrangers Like You\u201d by Mark Mansfield (B.A.\u201977)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cDemocracy and Mathematics Education: Rethinking School Math for Our Troubled Times\u201d by Kurt Stemhagen (M.A.\u201995)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep your love of reading alive with these VCU Alumni resources:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pbc.guru\/vcu\">Join the VCU Alumni Virtual Book Club<\/a> <br>Connect with fellow Rams and dive into your next great read together.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/guides.library.vcu.edu\/alumni\">Access the VCU Libraries Catalog<\/a> <br>Continue your research journey with alumni access to extensive digital collections.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/magazine.vcu.edu\/\">Enjoy shorter reads in VCU Magazine<\/a> <br>Stay inspired with stories, profiles and features from the VCU community.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/09\/AlumniAuthors-1-1-1024x683.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18544 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/09\/AlumniAuthors-1-1-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/09\/AlumniAuthors-1-1-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/09\/AlumniAuthors-1-1-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/09\/AlumniAuthors-1-1-1536x1024.png 1536w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/09\/AlumniAuthors-1-1-2048x1365.png 2048w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/683;\" \/><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Browse works from our very own alumni authors at the Monroe Park Campus Barnes &amp; Noble.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1777,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-18542","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-alumni"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18542","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1777"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18542"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18542\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18542"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=18542"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=18542"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":18663,"date":"2026-03-20T14:04:32","date_gmt":"2026-03-20T18:04:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/?p=18663"},"modified":"2026-03-20T14:04:33","modified_gmt":"2026-03-20T18:04:33","slug":"update-your-profile-pic-for-the-big-dance","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/2026\/03\/20\/update-your-profile-pic-for-the-big-dance\/","title":{"rendered":"Update Your Profile Pic for the Big Dance"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>The Rams advance in the NCAA Tournament. Update your profile pic to fill the feed with black and gold! Save a photo to your phone or computer, then update your profile photo on your social media pages. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ad2f72ca wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"320\" height=\"320\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/unafraid-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18666 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/unafraid-1.jpg 320w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/unafraid-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/unafraid-1-150x150.jpg 150w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 320px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 320\/320;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"320\" height=\"320\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/unequaled-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18667 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/unequaled-1.jpg 320w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/unequaled-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/unequaled-1-150x150.jpg 150w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 320px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 320\/320;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ad2f72ca wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"320\" height=\"320\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/unstoppable.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18669 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/unstoppable.jpg 320w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/unstoppable-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/unstoppable-150x150.jpg 150w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 320px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 320\/320;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"320\" height=\"320\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/unlimited-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18670 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/unlimited-1.jpg 320w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/unlimited-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/unlimited-1-150x150.jpg 150w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 320px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 320\/320;\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Rams advance in the NCAA Tournament. Update your profile pic to fill the feed with black and gold! <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1777,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-18663","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-alumni"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18663","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1777"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18663"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18663\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18663"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=18663"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=18663"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":18658,"date":"2026-03-13T09:36:48","date_gmt":"2026-03-13T13:36:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/?p=18658"},"modified":"2026-03-16T12:25:58","modified_gmt":"2026-03-16T16:25:58","slug":"scholarship-feeds-students-passion-for-medicine","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/2026\/03\/13\/scholarship-feeds-students-passion-for-medicine\/","title":{"rendered":"Scholarship feeds student\u2019s passion for medicine"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>By Kit Tindall<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignright size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"757\" height=\"1024\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/SKY03606-1-757x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18660 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 757px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 757\/1024;aspect-ratio:0.739243430551545;width:303px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/SKY03606-1-757x1024.jpg 757w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/SKY03606-1-222x300.jpg 222w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/SKY03606-1-768x1039.jpg 768w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/03\/SKY03606-1-1135x1536.jpg 1135w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 757px) 100vw, 757px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Sanjana Gupta\u2019s journey to becoming a pediatrician started years before she stepped foot on VCU\u2019s campus in 2024. In high school, she chose a health science studies track but it was her summers serving as a YMCA camp counselor and a go-to babysitter for her cousins that cemented her love for taking care of children. After watching her aunt build a fulfilling career in pediatrics, Gupta was inspired to follow in her footsteps.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cMy aunt is a pediatrician, and she\u2019s my biggest role model,\u201d says Gupta, a VCU Honors College student majoring in health, physical and exercise science. \u201cFor me, she\u2019s the gold standard of being a doctor. While I was growing up, I watched her complete medical school and start practicing. It always appealed to me. My aunt would tell me that I\u2019d be a great pediatrician and that approval from her is important to me. It made me think I could do it.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When Gupta was assigned a research project in her first semester at VCU, she chose to focus on the impact technology has on a child\u2019s development. Her experiences watching her cousins, who were obsessed with their technological gadgets, inspired her focus. She was especially interested in researching how technology affected children raised during the COVID-19 pandemic, when they had much less interaction with people outside of their homes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThe main thing that came out of the research was that you can\u2019t take technology away. Use of technology is only going to grow. What\u2019s important is what kids are doing with technology,\u201d says Gupta, who presented her work in 2025 at the National Conference on Undergraduate Research in Pittsburgh.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While she was succeeding academically, Gupta wasn\u2019t thriving personally. She tried her best to save as much money as she could in her first year at VCU, including not purchasing a dining plan but quickly ran into problems trying to stay fed. She doesn\u2019t have much experience cooking, she says, and a well-balanced diet is not easy to plan or pay for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI thought I was going to starve,\u201d Gupta says. \u201cI didn\u2019t have time to spend three hours working on a meal I would probably hate.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In her second year, she was determined to find a way to fund a dining plan. The <a href=\"https:\/\/vcu.academicworks.com\/opportunities\/17737\">VCUAA Endowed Honors Scholarship<\/a> filled this gap for her.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cNow, I feel more confident because I have more time to study, complete assignments and make sure I\u2019m prepared. Knowing I have access to good meals every day, even when I\u2019m in a rush between classes, is a huge relief,\u201d she says.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Gupta spends her free time staying involved on campus. She participates in a number of science-related clubs including the Medical Journal Club, she volunteers at the Children\u2019s Hospital of Richmond at VCU and serves as a campus tutor. Most recently, she was the marketing co-lead for TEDxVCU, an student-led organization that will present a live speaking event in April featuring talks from VCU students, faculty and staff.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cLately, I\u2019ve been trying to get experience in different areas,\u201d Gupta says. \u201cI had time to work on a research project about autism. I\u2019m trying to build up a resume and try new things.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>See how the VCU Alumni Association Endowed Honors Scholarship supported Sanjana Gupta on her journey to becoming a pediatrician. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":393,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-18658","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-alumni"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18658","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/393"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18658"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18658\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18658"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=18658"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=18658"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":18656,"date":"2026-03-09T11:01:50","date_gmt":"2026-03-09T15:01:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/?p=18656"},"modified":"2026-04-03T11:51:24","modified_gmt":"2026-04-03T15:51:24","slug":"philanthropy-week-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/2026\/03\/09\/philanthropy-week-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"Philanthropy Week\u00a02026"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>What is philanthropy? It\u2019s showing love for VCU! Some people volunteer at events, serve on boards, provide financial support or all of the above. Philanthropy in all its forms makes the university the best it can be for current students and future generations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This Philanthropy Week, April 20-23, we\u2019ll celebrate how donor generosity has positively impacted the VCU experience. During this week of fun and special events, students will get the chance to share what they love about VCU, say thanks to donors and enjoy free swag and treats.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Get The Scoop on Philanthropy&nbsp;<\/strong><br>Noon-2 p.m. Monday, April 20<br>Monroe Park Compass&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To kick off Philanthropy Week, come grab some prepackaged ice cream treats and learn how philanthropy impacts the university.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Giving Day<\/strong> <strong>+ Giving Games<\/strong><br>11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday, April 21<br>Monroe Park Campus, Park Plaza<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Support VCU at Giving Games, a chance to participate in fun activities and raise money for a good cause. Plus snag some treats and free swag. Make an early impact by giving to your favorite cause at <a href=\"https:\/\/give.vcu.edu\/vcu-giving-day-2026\">givingday.vcu.edu<\/a>. Not sure what fund to support? <a href=\"https:\/\/give.vcu.edu\/vcu-giving-day-2026#pre-launch-quiz-section\">Take the Giving Day quiz.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Black, Gold &amp; Grateful<\/strong><br>Noon-2 p.m.&nbsp;Wednesday, April 22<br>Monroe Park Compass<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Come in your black-and-gold attire, show your VCU spirit and participate in trivia to earn a treat.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Thank a Giver (TAG) Day&nbsp;<\/strong><br>Noon-2 p.m. Thursday, April 23<br>Monroe Park Compass&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Write a note thanking VCU donors who support university programs and scholarships to earn a special treat from Insomnia Cookies.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>This Philanthropy Week, April 20-23, we\u2019ll celebrate how donor generosity has positively impacted the VCU experience.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1777,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-18656","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-alumni"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18656","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1777"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18656"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18656\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18656"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=18656"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=18656"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":18642,"date":"2026-02-11T13:41:42","date_gmt":"2026-02-11T18:41:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/?p=18642"},"modified":"2026-02-11T13:41:43","modified_gmt":"2026-02-11T18:41:43","slug":"vcu-link-explained-getting-started","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/2026\/02\/11\/vcu-link-explained-getting-started\/","title":{"rendered":"VCU Link Explained: Getting started\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>VCU Link is the largest professional networking space that is home to over 10,000 VCU alumni\u2014 it\u2019s your one-stop shop for career exploration and advancement.&nbsp;<br><br>The VCU Link Explained series walks you through the platform and shows you how you can reach your career goals with this exclusive resource. In the first article, you\u2019ll learn what you can expect during signup.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/link.vcu.edu\/\">Claim your VCU Link Account<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ad2f72ca wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p><strong>Step 1<\/strong><br><br>Start on the VCU Link landing page and click <strong>Join Our Community<\/strong> or <strong>Sign In<\/strong> to choose your signup method \u2014 Continue with LinkedIn or Sign up with Email.<br><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"453\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Expplained-1-1024x453.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18643 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/453;width:752px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Expplained-1-1024x453.png 1024w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Expplained-1-300x133.png 300w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Expplained-1-768x340.png 768w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Expplained-1.png 1059w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 2<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ad2f72ca wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p>Add basic info (name, email and password) and agree to terms of service. If you create your account using LinkedIn, you will get step-by-step instructions on how to upload your work experience directly to your VCU Link account.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1011\" height=\"439\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-2.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18645 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1011px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1011\/439;width:693px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-2.png 1011w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-2-300x130.png 300w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-2-768x333.png 768w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1011px) 100vw, 1011px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 3<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ad2f72ca wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p>Next, select your user type (Student, Alum, Faculty &amp; Staff, or Friend of the Community). If you are a current student and have already graduated from VCU, sign up as an alum.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"927\" height=\"393\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18647 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 927px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 927\/393;width:745px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-4.png 927w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-4-300x127.png 300w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-4-768x326.png 768w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 927px) 100vw, 927px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 4<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ad2f72ca wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p>Next, provide details about your academic background, including your degree type, major and graduation year.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"945\" height=\"481\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-5.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18648 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 945px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 945\/481;width:699px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-5.png 945w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-5-300x153.png 300w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-5-768x391.png 768w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 945px) 100vw, 945px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 5<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ad2f72ca wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p>Then, add your latest professional experiences. You can import your LinkedIn Profile to save time.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"882\" height=\"417\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-6.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18649 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 882px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 882\/417;width:761px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-6.png 882w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-6-300x142.png 300w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-6-768x363.png 768w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 882px) 100vw, 882px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ad2f72ca wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p>Upload a profile photo.                                        <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px;width:197px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer wp-container-content-f4774eab\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"877\" height=\"489\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-7.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18650 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 877px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 877\/489;width:701px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-7.png 877w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-7-300x167.png 300w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-7-768x428.png 768w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 877px) 100vw, 877px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 7&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ad2f72ca wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p>Next, add the topics and industries that you are experienced with and can help students and fellow alumni with. You can input your availability to manage outreach. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"431\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-8-1024x431.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18651 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-8-1024x431.png 1024w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-8-300x126.png 300w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-8-768x323.png 768w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-8.png 1321w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/431;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 8<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ad2f72ca wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p>Next, to help discover relevant connections and opportunities, add information such as your date of birth, activities you were involved with as a student, what affinity groups you identify with and your current location.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"399\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-9.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18652 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1000px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1000\/399;width:779px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-9.png 1000w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-9-300x120.png 300w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-9-768x306.png 768w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 9<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ad2f72ca wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p>Lastly, add your goals for using the platform. This helps shape your experience with personalized recommendations and suggested actions.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"823\" height=\"331\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-10.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18653 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 823px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 823\/331;width:840px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-10.png 823w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-10-300x121.png 300w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2026\/02\/VCU-Link-Explained-10-768x309.png 768w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 823px) 100vw, 823px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<p>Your account setup is complete! Now you can start browsing exclusive job opportunities, find alumni at your dream company\/ dream role, explore professional development and volunteer events or find or offer mentorship.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/link.vcu.edu\/v2\/\">Tap into the power of community on VCU Link<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>VCU Link Explained walks you through VCU&#8217;s largest professional networking space that is home to over 10,000 VCU alumni\u2014 it\u2019s your one-stop shop for career exploration and advancement. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1777,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-18642","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-alumni"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18642","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1777"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18642"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18642\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18642"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=18642"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=18642"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":18636,"date":"2025-12-09T10:16:40","date_gmt":"2025-12-09T15:16:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/?p=18636"},"modified":"2025-12-09T10:37:37","modified_gmt":"2025-12-09T15:37:37","slug":"alumni-owned-business-spotlight-tony-duran-b-s-17","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/2025\/12\/09\/alumni-owned-business-spotlight-tony-duran-b-s-17\/","title":{"rendered":"Alumni-owned business spotlight: Tony Duran (B.S.\u201917)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>VCU Alumni is highlighting Ram entrepreneurs listed in our alumni-owned business directory. Learn tips from Tony Duran (B.S.\u201917), owner of <a href=\"https:\/\/nubecoffee.store\/\">Nube Coffee<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.vcualumni.org\/career\/alumni-owned-businesses\/directory\/\">Browse the directory<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignright size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"450\" height=\"450\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/12\/Tony-Duran.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18639 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 450px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 450\/450;width:249px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/12\/Tony-Duran.jpg 450w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/12\/Tony-Duran-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/12\/Tony-Duran-150x150.jpg 150w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>What tools helped you the most when you started out?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Our county small business owners meetings and social media.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What was the biggest challenge to maintaining your business?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Finding time to balance a full-time job and a small business is the biggest challenge.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What advice do you have for people considering starting a business?<\/strong><br><br>Just start! Starting is better than dreaming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.support.vcu.edu\/event\/iownabusiness\">Add your business<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>VCU Alumni is highlighting Ram entrepreneurs listed in our alumni-owned business directory. Learn tips from Tony Duran (B.S.\u201917), owner of Nube Coffee.\u00a0<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1777,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-18636","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-alumni"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18636","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1777"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18636"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18636\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18636"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=18636"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=18636"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":18635,"date":"2025-12-09T10:13:31","date_gmt":"2025-12-09T15:13:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/?p=18635"},"modified":"2025-12-09T10:36:46","modified_gmt":"2025-12-09T15:36:46","slug":"alumni-owned-business-spotlight-andrea-perez-m-s-w-20","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/2025\/12\/09\/alumni-owned-business-spotlight-andrea-perez-m-s-w-20\/","title":{"rendered":"Alumni-owned business spotlight: Andrea Perez (M.S.W..\u201920)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>VCU Alumni is highlighting Ram entrepreneurs listed in our alumni-owned business directory. Learn tips from Andrea Perez (M.S.W.\u201920), owner of <a href=\"https:\/\/universeandmecounseling.com\/\">Universe &amp; Me Counseling LLC<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.vcualumni.org\/career\/alumni-owned-businesses\/directory\/\">Browse the directory<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignright size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"587\" height=\"847\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/12\/Andrea-Perez.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18638 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 587px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 587\/847;width:183px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/12\/Andrea-Perez.png 587w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/12\/Andrea-Perez-208x300.png 208w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 587px) 100vw, 587px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>What tools helped you the most when you started out?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When I first started my business, several key resources helped me navigate the process. Connecting with fellow graduates and engaging in alumni Facebook groups provided a strong support system and valuable insights from others on the same journey.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Local resources such as small business advocates and mentors were also incredibly helpful in answering specific questions and guiding me through the early stages. Having access to experienced professionals who could provide tailored advice made a big difference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>My own instincts played a huge role as well \u2014 I had to trust myself to make decisions even when things felt uncertain.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What was the biggest challenge to maintaining your business?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><br><\/strong>The biggest challenge in maintaining my business is that I\u2019m responsible for everything. Balancing my business with my other job as a school social worker can be overwhelming at times, and it\u2019s easy to want to push things off when there\u2019s so much to juggle. Additionally, keeping overhead costs low means I have to stay on top of new laws and tax requirements on my own, which can also be challenging to navigate. Finding ways to manage these responsibilities while maintaining balance is an ongoing process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What advice do you have for people considering starting a business?<\/strong><br><strong><br><\/strong>If you&#8217;re thinking about starting a small business, just do it. There will never be a perfect time.&nbsp; Even when you think you have all the answers, new questions will always come up. Trust yourself and lean on people you trust for guidance and support. Also, start networking differently \u2014 don\u2019t just connect with people in your field. Expanding your network beyond your expertise can open doors to unexpected opportunities and valuable insights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.support.vcu.edu\/event\/iownabusiness\">Add your business<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>VCU Alumni is highlighting Ram entrepreneurs listed in our alumni-owned business directory. Learn tips from Andrea Perez (M.S.W.\u201920), owner of Universe &amp; Me Counseling LLC.\u00a0<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1777,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-18635","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-alumni"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18635","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1777"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18635"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18635\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18635"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=18635"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=18635"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":18633,"date":"2025-12-09T09:46:12","date_gmt":"2025-12-09T14:46:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/?p=18633"},"modified":"2025-12-09T10:17:55","modified_gmt":"2025-12-09T15:17:55","slug":"alumni-owned-business-spotlight-tyrone-nelson-jr-b-s-20","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/2025\/12\/09\/alumni-owned-business-spotlight-tyrone-nelson-jr-b-s-20\/","title":{"rendered":"Alumni-owned business spotlight: Tyrone Nelson Jr. (B.S.\u201920)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>VCU Alumni is highlighting Ram entrepreneurs listed in our alumni-owned business directory. Learn tips from Tyrone Nelson (B.S.\u201920), owner of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.newviewsagency.com\/\">Newviews Agency<\/a>, a full-service public relations and production company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-text-align-center wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.vcualumni.org\/career\/alumni-owned-businesses\/directory\/\">Browse the directory<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/12\/Tyrone-9X16-576x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18634 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 576px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 576\/1024;width:193px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/12\/Tyrone-9X16-576x1024.jpg 576w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/12\/Tyrone-9X16-169x300.jpg 169w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/12\/Tyrone-9X16-768x1365.jpg 768w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/12\/Tyrone-9X16-864x1536.jpg 864w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/12\/Tyrone-9X16-1152x2048.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/12\/Tyrone-9X16-scaled.jpg 1440w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>What tools helped you the most when you started out?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The biggest tool that helped us when we started as a video production company was the Adobe Creative Cloud Suite (specifically Premiere Pro), Google Docs and spreadsheets. Being able to track all the people we were meeting or negotiating with and then creating a system to follow up with every individual we come in contact with was very important. Business is all about relationships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you develop your service offerings and are dedicated to continuing to improve that, it really becomes \u201cWho knows about this service?\u201d Almost like the old saying, \u201cIf a tree falls in the woods and nobody hears it, did it really fall?\u201d&nbsp; \u2014 same thing with your business. If you have great services and people don&#8217;t know about them, then do they exist in the world?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We made sure to write down all the people who we were networking with to ensure that we could spread the word on the type of work that we do. Eventually, as I hired more staff, going from a one-person shop to a staff of almost 20 people, those systems paid off. They turned into meeting structures, sales calls, production playbooks, etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What was the biggest challenge to maintaining your business?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Managing people; I think any business owner will say this. Whether it\u2019s working with clients, staff or interns, people are different and people can be challenging, but it&#8217;s not necessarily a bad thing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I truly believe that everyone is special and sees the world through a unique lens, and being able to incorporate their nuance into the business is one of the most beautiful things to witness and be a part of.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a business owner, you have to be equipped to meet people where they are so you can get the best out of them, so they can produce what you\u2019re looking for, but also so you can have a great time working together. You have to have the skills to be able to effectively negotiate with partners and potential clients as well as defuse situations when there is a misunderstanding on deliverables or internally. You also have to be able to effectively deliver your vision to your staff. It\u2019s just a skill that has to be developed and a muscle that is always being stretched.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What advice do you have for people considering starting a business?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Start<\/em>; just start, that\u2019s the biggest thing. Sometimes we are so concerned about it being perfect and not wanting to put something out until we believe there are no flaws in it, but you can always improve after release. Allow yourself to improve by starting. Don\u2019t let it sit on paper for too long. Don\u2019t let it stay in your mind for too long&nbsp; \u2014 put some action behind it, and see where that takes you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The first documentary we did was not by any means our best work, but it landed us a deal with Adidas. Who would have known where we would have gotten if we did not put that project out?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Go for it, and once you start it, surround yourself with great people. As the owner, before you bring people on, know your business like the back of your hand. Every wrinkle, every muscle, every bone, every vein, understand it. Next, start bringing people who can help you take it to the next level. It\u2019s a journey, but it&#8217;s worth it.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Live as if there was nothing more urgent than becoming who you were meant to be!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.support.vcu.edu\/event\/iownabusiness\">Add your business<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>VCU Alumni is highlighting Ram entrepreneurs listed in our alumni-owned business directory. Learn tips from Tyrone Nelson (B.S.\u201920), owner of Newviews Agency, a full-service public relations and production company.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1777,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-18633","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-alumni"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18633","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1777"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18633"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18633\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18633"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=18633"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=18633"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":18628,"date":"2025-11-07T16:26:38","date_gmt":"2025-11-07T21:26:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/?p=18628"},"modified":"2025-11-07T16:27:19","modified_gmt":"2025-11-07T21:27:19","slug":"alumni-owned-business-spotlight-dana-watkins-b-s-11","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/2025\/11\/07\/alumni-owned-business-spotlight-dana-watkins-b-s-11\/","title":{"rendered":"Alumni-owned business spotlight: Dana Watkins (B.S.\u201911)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>VCU Alumni is highlighting Ram entrepreneurs listed in our alumni-owned business directory. Learn tips from Dana Watkins (B.S.\u201911), owner of web design service <a href=\"https:\/\/snaplysites.com\/\">Snaply Sites<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\">Browse the directory<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignright size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/11\/Dana-Watkins.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18629 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 800px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 800\/800;width:169px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/11\/Dana-Watkins.jpg 800w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/11\/Dana-Watkins-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/11\/Dana-Watkins-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/11\/Dana-Watkins-768x768.jpg 768w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>What tools helped you the most when you started out?<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong>My husband and I started Snaply Sites as a side hustle while working full time. Balancing jobs, everyday life&nbsp; and a growing business has been a challenge, but we love seeing the impact we&#8217;re making! We&#8217;ve supported businesses in more than seven states with our web design service, and we&#8217;re still growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What advice do you have for people considering starting a business?<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong>Just start! Your first attempt won\u2019t be your best attempt. Start small. The secret isn&#8217;t motivation, it&#8217;s momentum. Take one tiny step today, then another tomorrow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.support.vcu.edu\/event\/iownabusiness\">Add your business<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>VCU Alumni is highlighting Ram entrepreneurs listed in our alumni-owned business directory. Learn tips from Dana Watkins (B.S.\u201911), owner of web design service Snaply Sites.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1777,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-18628","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-alumni"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18628","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1777"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18628"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18628\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18628"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=18628"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=18628"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":18621,"date":"2025-11-05T14:40:45","date_gmt":"2025-11-05T19:40:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/?p=18621"},"modified":"2026-01-09T12:04:13","modified_gmt":"2026-01-09T17:04:13","slug":"celebrating-the-women-of-vcu-brunch-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/2025\/11\/05\/celebrating-the-women-of-vcu-brunch-2\/","title":{"rendered":"Celebrating the Women of VCU Brunch\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Get ready for the fourth annual brunch celebrating the women of VCU <strong>Saturday, March 28<\/strong>! The event focuses on women\u2019s leadership, authenticity and community, with a theme of&nbsp; \u201cIn Full Bloom: Honoring the Women Who Inspire Us.\u201d Hear and share stories of mentorship rooted in bold resilience and enjoy delicious food, inspiring discussion and opportunities to grow connections with like-minded women.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This year, we\u2019re pleased to offer sponsorship opportunities. With a sponsorship, your organization will honor women who are shaping the future, support meaningful connections and mentorship across generations, and highlight your commitment to advancing women\u2019s leadership and success, as well as gain valuable exposure to a dynamic audience.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"735\" height=\"730\" data-src=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/11\/WVCU-Sponsorship-Info.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18640 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/11\/WVCU-Sponsorship-Info.png 735w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/11\/WVCU-Sponsorship-Info-300x298.png 300w, https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/627\/2025\/11\/WVCU-Sponsorship-Info-150x150.png 150w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 735px) 100vw, 735px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 735px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 735\/730;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019d like to learn more about becoming a sponsor, contact Latisha Taylor Smart, senior director, alumni career and personal development, at smartlt@vcu.edu by <strong>Friday, March 6<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Other questions about the event? Contact <a href=\"mailto:smartlt@vcu.edu\">Latisha<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Participation in any alumni engagement event is open to all members of the VCU community.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Get ready for the fourth annual brunch celebrating the women of VCU Saturday, March 28! The event focuses on women\u2019s leadership, authenticity and community, with a theme of\u00a0 \u201cIn Full Bloom: Honoring the Women Who Inspire Us.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1777,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-18621","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-alumni"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18621","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1777"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18621"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18621\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18621"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=18621"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.vcu.edu\/enews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=18621"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}]