March 30- April 5, 2026

To see full descriptions for any item in the summary list, please click on the continue reading link below the list.

This Week’s Events: 

1. PART-TIME GRADUATE STUDENT GROUP – Monday
2. LET’S LOCK IN – Monday
3. FINANCES AFTER GRADUATION: COLLEGE OF SCIENCE – Monday
4. SUBMISSION DEADLINE: HOME BEYOND HOME: A COMMUNITY-BASED PHOTOGRAPHY CALL Tuesday
5. NSPIRE LECTURE SERIES – Wednesday
6. SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH- Wednesday
7. GLC CAFÉ-  Thursday
8. APIDAHM PRESENTS: PUBLIC LECTURE + RECEPTION FEATURING NYT FOOD COLUMNIST ERIC KIM – Thursday
9. APIDAHM PRESENTS: LEARNING LUNCH FEATURING NEW YORK TIMES FOOD COLUMNIST ERIC KIM – Friday
10. TEA AT TWO – Friday

Administrative Announcements:   

11. SPRING 2026 COMMENCEMENT STUDENT SPEAKERS – 1^st posting
12. CONNECTIONS THAT COUNT: CELEBRATING WINS – 1^st posting
13. THE GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL STUDENT SENATE (GPSS) ANNUAL ELECTION FOR EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS FOR 2026‑27 – 2^nd posting
14. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR CHILD CARE – 2^nd posting
15. APIDA SUMMER BOOK CLUB – 2^nd posting
16. LEADERSHIP COURSE AVAILABLE FOR SUMMER 3! REGISTER NOW! – 2^nd posting
17. REGISTER NOW – FALL 2026 LEADERSHIP COURSES –2^nd posting
18. DCAP – ENTER TO WIN FREE TICKET TO “NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE” – 2^nd  posting

Jobs

19. GRA POSITION – FALL 2026 – 3^rd posting

Funding Opportunities:

20. SUMMER CUNNINGHAM FELLOWSHIP – DEADLINE: APRIL 1, 2026
21. 2026 VIRGINIA GOVERNOR’S FELLOWS PROGRAM – DEADLINE APRIL 10
22. APPLY TO BE A FUTURE LEADER FOR FOOD & AGRICULTURE (FFAR) FELLOW – DEADLINE: APRIL 15, 2026

Volunteers and research participants sought: 

23. GIVING AWAY SAND AND CLAY – 1^st posting (1/1)
24. INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE: STUDY ON LOCATION-BASED GAMES FOR SOCIAL PLAY OVER DISTANCE (IRB #24-674) – 1^st posting
25. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED: CHILDREN OF UNHAPPY MARRIAGES – 2^nd posting
26. PARTICIPANT RECRUITMENT FOR STUDY ON SENSEMAKING OF CLASSROOM DISCUSSIONS – 2^nd posting
27. CALL FOR PARTICIPANTS: AI ETHICS AND POLICY THROUGH THEATRE – 3^rd  posting
28. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR SURVEY ON STUDENT LEISURE AND STRESS – 3^rd posting

Upcoming Events:    

29. WGSS CONFERENCE: FEMINISM IS FOR EVERYBODY -April 6

30. FIND YOUR NEXT ON-CAMPUS JOB AT THE 2026 CAMPUS STUDENT EMPLOYMENT FAIR! – April 6
31. PLANT AND PAINT NIGHT – FREE FOOD!
32. CRUMBL FUNDRAISER – April 7
33. CREATING INTERACTIVE DATA DASHBOARDS WITH R AND SHINY – April 8,
34. THE VIRGINIA TECH OFFICE FOR GIS AND REMOTE SENSING RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM (OGIS)  – April 10,
35. JOIN THE PRIDE WEEK GROUP AT THE BIG EVENT! – April 11
36. STEM PhDs AND POSTDOCS – PREPARING FOR YOUR INDUSTRIAL JOB SEARCH – April 13
37. PREPARING DATA FOR INPUT INTO GEOSPATIAL APPLICATIONS –  April 15

35. KIDS’ TECH UNIVERSITY (KTU) EN ESPAÑOL – April 18
36. ALL-DAY WRITING RETREAT  – APRIL 20TH
37. WORKSHOP: WRITING SUCCESSFUL STUDENT-INITIATED PROPOSALS – April 23

This Week’s Events  

1. PART-TIME GRADUATE STUDENT GROUP
Monday, March 30, and Wednesday, April 15, 12-1pm, GLC room B and Zoom
Are you a part-time student seeking community, accountability, and motivation in your graduate school journey? Join us in-person or on Zoom for Bring-Your-Own Lunch and casual conversation. Connect with other part-time graduate students in navigating the unique challenges and accomplishments of part-time graduate work. Register to attend either, or both sessions here: https://forms.office.com/r/7HHFGEK0k8

2 LET’S LOCK IN
Monday, March 30, 4-6pm,APIDA + Center (140 Squires)
Looking for a weekly boost to stay on track with your classes? Let’s Lock In is open to all and meets once a week – every Monday – to give you a dedicated time and space to focus, get support, and make real progress. Join other students in a relaxed, productive environment where tutors are on hand to help with coursework, and other campus resources are all around. Think of it like study hall, but better: whether you’re tackling tough assignments, prepping for exams, or just trying to stay organized, Let’s Lock In is here to help. Drop in, get focused, and leave feeling accomplished.

3.  FINANCES AFTER GRADUATION: COLLEGE OF SCIENCE
Monday, March 30, 5:30-6:30pm, Data & Decision Sciences, Room 180
Our Finances After Graduation workshop will provide college seniors with practical tools to navigate budgeting, student loans, taxes, and other real‑world money questions. Join the College of Science and Hokie Wellness for a judgment-free session designed to help you start your post-college life on strong financial footing. This event is geared towards graduating seniors; however, all are welcome! Both undergraduate and graduate students can benefit from the information. If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Jess Hoopengardner at jessh@vt.edu at least 10 business days prior to the event. https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/event/12280676

4. SUBMISSION DEADLINE: HOME BEYOND HOME: A COMMUNITY BASED PHOTOGRAPHY CALL
Tuesday, March 31, 12pm, Virtual
“Home Beyond Home” is a photography event that invites students to capture and share their international experiences and identities! What does “Home Beyond Home” mean? Through images, participants explore the idea of “home” in a personal and meaningful way. This can be a place, a person, a tradition, or a moment that brings comfort and joy. The event celebrates the diverse experiences of students and highlights the many ways community and identity are formed. Selected photos will be featured in an exhibition, with top submissions receiving awards and dining dollar prizes. Join us in reflecting on what “Home” means beyond borders and see the stories that connect us all! Open to everyone. 3/31 is the submission date! The photo exhibit will be 4/17-4/30. https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hGiVYK0Q-kCGPU8yweOjevoblZ75tHxKo2x4tGal0sBUOTg5VFE3UFI0STcyWkxFUVhVTTdPTjQ0Qi4u&route=shorturl

5. NSPIRE LECTURE SERIES
Wednesday, April 1, 9:30-2pm, Virtual
All are invited to attend Notable Scholars Promoting Innovative Research and Ethics (NSPIRE) lecture series on Wednesday, April 1. Three notable scholars will share their work and the ethical decisions they face in their research journey. The event consists of three sessions scheduled throughout the day. Attendance at all sessions is optional; please participate in those that align best with your interests and availability. This event features speakers Julie Simpson, Barbara DeCausey, and Rockwell Clancy. Click the link for more information and to register. https://www.research.vt.edu/events/nspire-april-1-sessions.html

6. SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH
Wednesday, April 1, 5-8pm, Drillfield East A
Connect with the Sexual Violence Prevention & Education (SVPE) Office and campus partners to learn about prevention and building community care.

7. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, April 2, 3:30-5pm, GLC Reading Room 
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your grad student and Grad School colleagues. Relax, network, and load up on caffeine and/or carbs. Bring your own mug if you can. If you have any questions, please contact Lindsay Barron (lbarron@vt.edu).

8. APIDAHM PRESENTS: PUBLIC LECTURE + RECEPTION FEATURING NYT FOOD COLUMNIST ERIC KIM
Thursday, April 2, 5:30-7:30pm, Newman Library, Goodall MPR (Room 101)
In this uplifting lecture, Kim tells the story of his greatest failure in life – dropping out of the English Ph.D. program at Columbia University – and how, years later, finally understanding the racial and institutional politics of that department (and academia in general) helped him figure out what he was truly meant to do with his life: write. Reception with light refreshments to follow lecture. Following the lecture, guests are invited to stay for a reception featuring light refreshments and an opportunity to connect with fellow attendees. This event is free and open to the public. All are welcome as we gather to celebrate culture, creativity, and community.

9. APIDAHM PRESENTS: LEARNING LUNCH FEATURING NEW YORK TIMES FOOD COLUMNIST ERIC KIM
Friday, April 3, 12-1pm, APIDA + Center (Squires 140)
Join us for a special APIDA Heritage Month Learning Lunch that is open to all with New York Times food columnist and essayist Eric Kim! An award-winning food writer and bestselling cookbook author, Eric Kim will share stories about food, culture, and identity while offering a behind-the-scenes look at his journey in food media. Enjoy light refreshments as you learn how food connects us across generations and communities—and leave inspired – no cooking required! https://virginiatech.zoom.us/meeting/register/yGaPKSoTRbqv6NHTgouvKg

10. TEA AT TWO
Friday, April 3, 2-3:30pm,APIDA + Center (Squires 140)
Need a low-key break at the end of your week? Tea at Two is your weekly invitation to unplug, get creative, and connect with other students in a relaxed, welcoming space. Each week features a new craft with all supplies provided, and guidance if needed. You’re always welcome to bring your own projects or try out a new hobby. Sip tea, meet new friends, and take a breather for some much-needed self-care—light refreshments included. Open to All!

Administrative Announcements   

11. SPRING 2026 COMMENCEMENT STUDENT SPEAKERS – 1^st posting
The Graduate School is seeking 1-2 graduate student speakers for the Spring 2026 Graduate Commencement Ceremony on Wednesday, May 13, 3:00pm, at Cassell Coliseum in Blacksburg, Virginia. The speeches are modeled after the talks at the Center for Communicating Science’s Nutshell Games, with individual speeches lasting about 90 seconds. Student speakers share a brief experience of their own that depicts graduate student life as they experience(d) it. Student speakers must be a Ph.D. student or interdisciplinary graduate education program student who is planning on participating in graduation this semester, spring 2026. If you are interested in serving as a commencement speaker, please complete this form by Friday, April 10: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/NEMGYVuSqA

12. CONNECTIONS THAT COUNT: CELEBRATING WINS – 1^st posting (1/1)
Did you show up to class on time today? Have you started your paper or lab report due soon? This week let’s focus on our wins. It can be easy to get caught up in our never-ending to do list, but by focusing on our wins and the things we have accomplished we are setting ourselves up for success. In moments when it might feel like we aren’t doing a good job, take a step back and see what you are accomplishing. By focusing on these moments, we are reinforcing self-compassion and helping to give our brain a break from stress we may be experiencing. Celebrating the wins reminds us that we show resilience by not just pushing through, but by recognizing where we have grown, what we are accomplishing, and taking time for rest. Submitted by SVPE.

13. THE GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL STUDENT SENATE (GPSS) ANNUAL ELECTION FOR EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS FOR 2026‑27 – 2^nd posting
The Graduate and Professional Student Senate (GPSS) is announcing the available positions for the 2026-27 Executive Board elections. GPSS represents 7,000+ graduate and professional students across Virginia Tech, serving as a liaison to administration, advocating through policy, and fostering community.
Eligibility: Any current graduate or professional student (no prior Senate experience required).
Positions (7): President, Vice President, Director of Finance & Treasurer, Director of Advocacy, Director of Programs, Director of Events, Director of Communications (Honorarium: $5,000/year).
1 Nominated Position: CGPSA Chair (Unpaid).
Application process:
1. Submit your election packet (gpss.vt.edu) to the Election Officer, Chizoba Obunadike (chizobaobunadike@vt.edu), by April 6, 11:59 PM.
2. Present at the GPSS Senate meeting on April 16 (5:30–7 PM).
See the election packet for details or email gpss@vt.edu.

14. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR CHILD CARE – 2^nd posting
If you ever find yourself in need of assistance to pay for child care, there are programs and resources available. Child Care Aware of Virginia offers a comprehensive list of resources you can access to. Visit: https://vachildcare.com/why-is-early-childhood-education-important/your-child-care-search/financial-assistance/ 

15. APIDA SUMMER BOOK CLUB – 2^nd posting
This message is for faculty, staff, and graduate students who are interested in participating in the 2026 Summer Book Club hosted by the APIDA + Center in collaboration with the APIDA Caucus and the Graduate APIDA Student Organization. At the moment, we are requesting that you read through the five (5) possible book options. Once you’ve reviewed the possible choices, please complete the poll . The deadline to complete the form is Friday, March 27th at 5 PM EST. Once the book selection has been made, there will be 25 books available for free for people on a first come, first serve basis who want to participate in the 2026 Summer Book Club. Also, this program is open to all. https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fforms.office.com%2Fr%2F6fBy3nanmL&data=05%7C02%7Cteresaan%40vt.edu%7C99661a33aa9846ef881c08de85e62173%7C6095688410ad40fa863d4f32c1e3a37a%7C0%7C0%7C639095421152957103%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=bQtmrjpkrTcpq6Z5N7UBicVChkIQbjzhoYcIgw3DKzM%3D&reserved=0

16. LEADERSHIP COURSE AVAILABLE FOR SUMMER 3! REGISTER NOW! – 2^nd posting
Want to sharpen your understanding and practice of leadership? LDRS 5454 LEADERSHIP FOR DIVERSE CONTEXTS CRN 61991 is being offered online this summer. This Summer 3 course provides a general understanding, identification, and definition of leadership in formal and non-formal education settings, communities, & organizations. Students will learn how to apply leadership theory to their present and future leadership roles. Contact Dr. Jerald Walz, jhwalz@vt.edu.

17. REGISTER NOW – FALL 2026 LEADERSHIP COURSES – 2^nd posting
Leadership courses for Fall 2026: LDRS 5454 (CRN 87395) virtual: LEADERSHIP DIVERSE CONTEXTS Identification and definition of leadership in education settings, communities, & organizations. LDRS 5464 (CRN 87396) in-person: LEADERSHIP IN GLOBAL SOCIETY Identification and development of the personal and professional competencies required for effective leadership in an increasingly global society. LDRS 5534 (CRN 87397) virtual: LEADING WITH COGNITIVE DIVERSITY Theoretical perspectives, processes and techniques utilized in problem solving, both adaptively and innovatively. Individual cognitive preference for working to effect change. LDRS 5544 (CRN 87398) virtual: LEADING TEAMS THROUGH CHANGE Theory and techniques for leading tactical, creative, and problem-solving teams through change. LDRS 4454 (CRN 92117) TOXIC LEADERSHIP Toxic leadership, impacts and outcomes on leaders, followers, and the organizational environment. Questions? Contact Dr Jerald Walz at jhwalz@vt.edu.

18. DCAP – ENTER TO WIN FREE TICKET TO “NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE” – 2^nd posting
Step into the world through the lens of two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer and National Geographic Explorer Muhammed Muheisen. His compelling images capture resilience, hope, and humanity in the face of conflict across the globe. From children’s games to everyday acts of courage, Muheisen’s photography tells powerful stories that move hearts and inspire change. https://artscenter.vt.edu/performances/nat-geo-live-beauty-beyond-frontlines.html. This event takes place on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 7:30 PM at the Center for the Arts, 190 Alumni Mall, Blacksburg. Students with a valid VT ID who are randomly selected will receive information about the ticket pick-up location. Only one entry per student per performance. If you have questions, please email grads@vt.edu. Register for a chance to win a free ticket at: https://virginiatech.questionpro.com/nationalgeographic

Jobs   

19. GRA POSITION – FALL  2026– 2^nd posting
The ARIES Graduate Research Assistant at University Libraries, will contribute directly to active research projects by designing interactive environments, developing software, conducting user studies, and participating in the publication of research findings. The ideal candidate will have experience in:
– Unity (C#) and/or Unreal Engine (C++).
– Developing interactive 3D environments or immersive applications.
– WebXR or Three.js for browser-based immersive experiences.
– Data integration, APIs, or data-driven applications.
– Interdisciplinary research and immersive learning technologies, with the ability to design or contribute to user studies or research evaluation.
Link to apply: https://forms.gle/PJ7unik9Ya9urw478

Funding Opportunities:

20.  SUMMER CUNNINGHAM FELLOWSHIP – DEADLINE: APRIL 1, 2026
In combination with the Cunningham Doctoral Scholarship and the Graduate School Annual Fund, we are delighted to announce the availability of summer fellowships in the amount of $8,000 each. This supplement will be awarded as a lump sum fellowship payment through payroll at the beginning of the summer. This is a one-time award, cannot be renewed, and is awarded without the expectation of any additional work on your part. Awardees must be current PhD students (have passed their Preliminary Examination) who are working on their dissertations during the summer months. This award cannot be combined with other Virginia Tech funding sources. Priority will be given to those:

• toward the end of their program
• with personal financial need
• and with a strong record of accomplishment from previous funding
• Applications will be accepted until April 1, awards will be announced soon thereafter, https://script.google.com/a/macros/vt.edu/s/AKfycby4VdRhVSe3aq-h9HIjK1tX3TJQ1u5a-CGae1YK4sBLUDFKnqWTGFAr02wziG-322kZ/exec?v=start

**Fellowships are not considered employment; no taxes are withheld and you will not receive a W2 form at the end of the year. Fellowships will show on your 1098-T from the university and may have to be reported to the IRS on your 1040 form. However, different tax rules apply to international students. For them, the university is required to collect taxes on the fellowship and to report those amounts at year-end to the IRS on form 1042S. For more information, please refer to the following Scholarships and Fellowships: Important Tax Information for Students .

21. APPLY TO BE A FUTURE LEADER FOR FOOD & AGRICULTURE (FFAR) FELLOW – DEADLINE: APRIL 15, 2026
Applications for the Professional Development category are due April 15, with notifications sent by May 15. Students from any U.S. or Canadian university may apply for either category. Funding is provided through equal matching sponsorship between FFAR and non-federal partners, including industry, NGOs, commodity organizations, or other approved sources. Sponsorships may be combined to meet required totals. The three-year match requirement is $15,000 for professional development fellows. In-kind support is not permitted. Applicants must secure committed sponsors before submitting a full application. Professional Development applicants are encouraged, but not required, to have non-academic support. https://ffarfellows.org/apply/

22. 2026 VIRGINIA GOVERNOR’S FELLOWS PROGRAM – DEADLINE: APRIL 10, 2026
Recently, Commonwealth of Virginia Governor Abigail D. Spanberger launched the 2026 Governor’s Fellows Program. The Virginia Governor’s Fellows Program offers participants a substantive, eight‑week experience within the administration. Fellows are placed in various offices, where they support day‑to‑day operations, research, and policy initiatives. This year, the program will run from June 8-July 31, 2026, and rising college seniors, recent college graduates, and graduate students are encouraged to apply. Applications are due Friday, April 10th. This fellowship is a unique opportunity to attract emerging professionals, assist in the development of the early stages of their professional journeys, and expose them to state government career pathways. Each Fellow develops a portfolio that highlights their accomplishments, skills, and professional growth throughout the program. Fellows work in small groups on a policy project that addresses an issue relevant to the Commonwealth. Projects culminate in a formal presentation to administration officials. For more information and to apply, visit: https://www.governor.virginia.gov/fellows/

Volunteers and Research Participants Sought 

23. GIVING AWAY SAND AND CLAY – 1^st posting (1/1)
Looking to give away ~10 tons worth of USGA Topdressing Sand (mixed with very small amounts of clay), and bags of clay (Earthen red C06-5 purchased from Highwater Clay) trimmings that are partially saturated. These soil were used in a calibration chamber test where it was inundated with water, compressed and sheared. The clay trimmings were cut from the blocks and stored in plastic bags; they were not used in the calibration chamber tests. Interested parties need to coordinate their own transportation to haul the materials away from the lab (across Prices Fork elementary).For more information, please contact Tat Shing Thum tat2@vt.edu.

24. INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE: STUDY ON LOCATION-BASED GAMES FOR SOCIAL PLAY OVER DISTANCE (IRB #24-674) – 1^st posting
We are inviting participants to take part in a research study exploring how Location-Based Games (LBGs) can be designed to support social play and connection between people in different locations. In this study, you and a companion will play a prototype Location-Based Game, complete a short survey, and participate in a follow-up interview to share your experience. Participants must be at least 18 years old and able to provide informed consent. Participants will receive a $15 USD Amazon gift card in appreciation for their time. Please email Derek Haqq dhaqq@vt.edu for more information. Alternatively, if you are interested in participating, please complete the screener survey below to confirm your eligibility: https://virginiatech.questionpro.com/t/AWr90Z8EAz

25. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED: CHILDREN OF UNHAPPY MARRIAGES – 2^nd posting
We are seeking participants for a 60-90 minute qualitative interview study (IRB #26-139) exploring the experience of adults who grew up in households where parents remained in unhappy marriages. This study aims to better understand how early home environments shape personal development and influence relationships in adulthood. Participants must be at least 18 years of age or older, must have parents who are currently still married, and both parents must still be living. Compensation $20 Amazon Gift Card If interested in participating please email Erin Andrea at ekandre@vt.edu.

26. PARTICIPANT RECRUITMENT FOR STUDY ON SENSEMAKING OF CLASSROOM DISCUSSIONS – 2^nd  posting
PRIME Lab at Virginia Tech is seeking participants for an in-person user study exploring tools to support real-time sensemaking and facilitation of classroom discussions (IRB#: 24-1020). The study session will take place in person at Gilbert Place in Blacksburg and will last approximately 90 minutes. Participants will interact with a prototype dashboard system that simulates real-time monitoring of parallel student group discussions. We are looking for individuals with teaching experience (e.g., instructor, GTA, UTA, tutor). Compensation $25. https://forms.gle/yij1BcFgSCdUE2Cv7

27. CALL FOR PARTICIPANTS: AI ETHICS AND POLICY THROUGH THEATRE – 3^rd  posting
Looking for new perspectives and ways to talk about AI? Unpack and envision its potential future and ethical implications through storytelling, improv, and dynamic dialogues. The workshops will take place on March 23 (12:30-2:00 pm), April 10 (10-11:30 am), and April 20 (11-12:30 pm) in Theatre 101 (200 College Avenue). This project has been made possible in part by a grant from Virginia Tech’s Institute for Creativity, Arts, and Technology. Open to all. Experience in computer science or computer engineering is recommended but not required. Participants may attend one or more workshops, and will receive a $15 Amazon digital gift card for every session they attend. Register at: https://forms.office.com/r/mTX4x7nPGg

28. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR SURVEY ON STUDENT LEISURE AND STRESS – 3^rd  posting
We are seeking participants to complete an anonymous survey that examines how college students spend their free time in relation to their perceived stress levels. This survey is a Microsoft Form and should no longer than 5 minutes to fill out. If you are willing to fill out the survey, please see the following link: https://forms.office.com/r/dhXLuHjVVy

Upcoming Events   

29. WGSS CONFERENCE: FEMINISM IS FOR EVERYBODY
Monday, April 6, 8:15-4pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
The Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Program is excited to invite the campus community to attend Feminism is for EveryBody, our annual undergraduate and graduate student conference and essay contest! Stop by for an hour or two, or stay all day to engage with our exciting schedule of social science, humanities, creative, and interdisciplinary presentations, including an open mic session at lunchtime featuring poetry and performances.
Date: April 6, 2026
Location: Graduate Life Center Multipurpose Room
Time: 8:50am–4:00pm
Doors open at 8:15am for coffee, pastries, photos and conversation
Lunch provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ChJ2XVKsQtTENs7-a_m8RBd3yj-tOytKw0mgwaPXfdM/edit?tab=t.0

30.  FIND YOUR NEXT ON-CAMPUS JOB AT THE 2026 CAMPUS STUDENT EMPLOYMENT FAIR! – APRIL 6
Monday, April 6, 11am-3pm, Owens Ballroom
Career and Professional Development and University Scholarships and Financial Aid are excited to host the Spring 2026 Campus Student Employment Fair on Monday, April 6th, from 11:00 AM–3:00 PM in the Owens Ballroom.
At this fair, you’ll be able to:
• Speak to campus departments
• Learn about part-time jobs, internships, research roles, and Federal Work-Study opportunities
• Ask questions and make meaningful connections
• Explore opportunities that fit your schedule and career goals
Whether you’re seeking your first campus job or looking for a new opportunity, this event is designed to help you take the next step. This event is open to students of all academic levels.
We look forward to seeing you there!

https://vt.joinhandshake.com/career_fairs/e3d45715-ad53-43cf-9dd5-feb5aa1ac745/student_preview

31. PLANT AND PAINT NIGHT – FREE FOOD!
Tuesday, April 7, 5-7pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Come join GPSS and SECL for a Plant and Paint Night. All supplies will be provided so you can relax and get creative. Free food and desserts will be available while supplies last. We hope to see you there for a fun and creative evening! More info: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/LgZJVjhkhD

32. CRUMBL FUNDRAISER
Tuesday, April 7, 5-8pm, Crumbl Cookies located at 884 Prices Fork Rd, Blacksburg, VA 24060
10% of in person and online purchases between the hours of 5-8pm will support New River Valley Women’s Resource Center.

33. CREATING INTERACTIVE DATA DASHBOARDS WITH R AND SHINY
Wednesday, April 8, 1-4pm, Zoom
Join us for an introduction to making interactive data dashboards in R with Shiny. This hands-on, participatory workshop is designed for those with basic R programming experience that are looking to develop interactive data visualizations that can be published to the web. Whether it is for internal use within a lab or working group or to communicate your findings to the world, Shiny can help you build an interactive dashboard with your data. The workshop is open to all VT community members. You will need access to a Windows, Mac, or Linux computer and should be familiar with programming in R and RStudio. https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/16490556

34. THE VIRGINIA TECH OFFICE FOR GIS AND REMOTE SENSING RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM (OGIS)
Friday, April 10, 9:30am – 2pm, Newman Library
The OGIS Symposium is an annual event held at Virginia Tech University Libraries where Virginia Tech researchers gather to reflect on the geospatial research that has occurred throughout the University over the last year.  Broad applications of geographic information technology (GIT): geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and the global positioning system (GPS) through applied and theoretical research, outreach, and education in direct collaboration with the federal government, Virginia’s industries, state and local governments, and Virginia Tech faculty. https://sites.google.com/vt.edu/ogis/2026-ogis-symposium

35. JOIN THE PRIDE WEEK GROUP AT THE BIG EVENT!
Saturday, April 11, 9am, Meet at the Drillfield
To celebrate Pride Week at VT (April 5-11), RSO Queer Grads, Professionals, and Allies (QGPA) is leading a group at the Big Event on Saturday, April 11! For information on registration and coordinating for this event, please join the GroupMe at the following link. Deadline for registration is April 8: https://groupme.com/join_group/113877986/vTqkl01X
If you have questions, please contact William Hernández (whernandez@vt.edu).

36. STEM PhDs AND POSTDOCS – PREPARING FOR YOUR INDUSTRIAL JOB SEARCH –
Monday, April 13, 5pm, Kelly Hall, Room 310
This workshop is designed to help you plan and prepare for your job search for a PhD internship or full-time role after completing your PhD or Postdoc. Dr Andrew (Gio) Giordani and Dr. Jackie Thomas from the Proctor & Gamble Company will discuss the skills and attributes that industry employers look for in candidates and offer advice on how to successfully navigate through the interview process. This event is open to all PhD and Postdocs in Chemical and Physical sciences, Engineering, Life Sciences, Computer, Data & Information Sciences and other STEM fields. To attend please sign up by April 10: https://virginiatech.questionpro.com/a/TakeSurvey?tt=bmmBXt9c85AECHrPeIW9eQ%3D%3D
For logistics questions contact Kim Felix at mii@vt.edu

37. PREPARING DATA FOR INPUT INTO GEOSPATIAL APPLICATIONS
Wednesday, April 15, 2-3pm, Zoom
Designed for students, faculty, and researchers new to geospatial mapping (GIS) or working with tabular data, we provide a practical foundation for integrating spreadsheet-based data into spatial analysis workflows. By the end, participants will understand how to prepare and format spreadsheet and CSV format datasets so they can be effectively imported, visualized, and symbolized in a geospatial mapping environment. No prior experience is required. Participants will learn how to identify and clean location data to ensure proper formatting and structure for correct input into geospatial software like ArcGIS or QGIS. https://profdev.tlos.vt.edu/browse/teachingandlearning/courses/lib187-041526

38. KIDS’ TECH UNIVERSITY (KTU) EN ESPAÑOL
Saturday, April 18, 9:30am-3:30pm,Steger Hall
Kids’ Tech University ¡en Español! is a free, Spanish-language STEM event taking place on Saturday, April 18th, 2026, hosted at Virginia Tech. Designed for Spanish-speaking children ages 9–12 and their parents or guardians, the event offers a full day of hands-on science and engineering activities led by professors, staff, and students. Now in its third year, the program has consistently brought together over 100 children, adults, and volunteers. There is no cost to participating families. Those interested can register by filling out the online form or contacting the team via emailing ktu-espanol@groups.office365.vt.edu. More information is available on the main Kids’ Tech University website and the dedicated ¡en Español! webpage (https://ktu.fralinlifesci.vt.edu/).

39. ALL-DAY WRITING RETREAT  – APRIL 20
Monday, April 20, 9am-4pm, Graduate Life Center or Virtual
Designed for graduate students in a writing phase at any level!
This series offers a variety of structured and flexible sessions to support your writing journey. Whether you’re seeking a structured writing period, a focused environment, or the freedom to drop in as needed, our offerings cater to diverse needs. From facilitated workshops and Pomodoro sessions to quiet, open writing spaces, this series allows you to develop skills, boost productivity, and bring your ideas to life. Embrace the chance to write, connect, and grow in a community dedicated to creative and academic excellence. https://graduateschool.vt.edu/professional-development/professional-development-series.html

40. WORKSHOP: WRITING SUCCESSFUL STUDENT-INITIATED PROPOSALS
Thursday, April 23, 10am-12pm, Virtual
Graduate students and postdoctoral fellows are invited to a workshop on preparing effective student-initiated research proposals. Presenters will share tips, resources, and strategies to strengthen proposals and enhance funding success. The session will cover strategies for developing effective proposals and using university resources that support proposal writing and submission. The goal is to help participants strengthen their proposals and contribute to the success of Virginia Tech’s student-initiated research funding efforts. Breakout sessions will address proposal development for NIH, NSF, and Humanities/Social Sciences/Education projects. The workshop will be held virtually and is open to all interested participants; register here: RSVP Form: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hGiVYK0Q-kCGPU8yweOjetT9we5iFEpHl4mvNhX4JHxUNFg4UlIyVDRPRjlXREJGU00wMjUzVERYTy4u&route=shorturl