News

VCU School of the Arts is ranked No. 2 in the nation among graduate schools

April 7, 2026

U.S. News & World Report includes 18 VCU programs in the top 50 of its new rankings.

Naaima Zaharah, a psychology major, has learned to “appreciate the intellectual complexity of research and the collaborative nature of scientific discovery” while at VCU. (Dean Hoffmeyer, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

How I found my research: Naaima Zaharah examines genetic vulnerabilities in alcohol use disorder

March 27, 2026

The psychology major said that research is ‘an incredibly rewarding experience that allows you to explore questions you genuinely care about.’

Amaria Ford “has consistently demonstrated outstanding dedication, initiative and excellence. She excels at every task she does,” according to a faculty mentor. (Contributed image)

Class of 2026: Amaria Ford connects biology, psychology and youth development

March 24, 2026

She has been a standout in undergraduate research, supporting the Empower Youth Lab led by Chelsea Williams.

2026 Oscar Reviews: 'Sentimental Value'

March 10, 2026

On March 15, the 98th Academy Awards will showcase the best – and most talked-about – films of the year. Ahead of Hollywood’s biggest night, some VCU professors shared their thoughts on films that aligned with their area of expertise and will be in contention in a variety of categories.

Abigail Adade, who is pursuing a Ph.D. in clinical psychology, said the mentorship and training she has received at VCU has deepened her commitment to culturally responsive mental health research and helped her grow as a scholar and a practitioner. (Dean Hoffmeyer, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

World@VCU: Abigail Adade from Ghana

March 9, 2026

‘I was drawn to VCU’s commitment to community-engaged research and its support for diverse student populations.’

Terry and Ed Dadez took the same chemistry class at VCU as freshmen and married four years later. Their 46-year marriage has been highlighted by two sons, numerous academic degrees and careers in nursing and education. (Contributed image)

Unbreakable bonds: An index card isn’t the most romantic prop, but persistence paid off

Feb. 12, 2026

Ed Dadez was smitten with wife-to-be Terry from the get-go in 1975; her thoughts, and eyes, were elsewhere.

Nostalgic pastimes – like looking at old photographs – can increase gratitude and overall well-being, according to new VCU research. (Getty Images)

If you want to feel gratitude in your life, embrace nostalgia, VCU research finds

Feb. 4, 2026

Wistful memories – from a reunion, a song or even a daydream – strengthen a sense of social connection, which drives thankfulness.

J. Kim Penberthy, Ph.D. (Ph.D.’98) pursues innovative therapies to expand patient freedom

Jan. 30, 2026

The Department of Psychology alumna recently returned to campus to speak on prolonged grief disorder and the feasibility of psilocybin treatment

At VCU, impactful innovation follows multiple paths

Dec. 19, 2025

Here is how researchers turn inventions into ventures — and why industry and government are taking notice.

Chelsea Rushbrook focused on addiction studies as part of her psychology major at VCU. (Dean Hoffmeyer, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

Class of 2025: Chelsea Rushbrook finds, and shares, success in recovery

Dec. 12, 2025

Powered by her experience with substance use disorder and the justice system, the psychology major wants her studies and her peer support to continue.