Posted on by lbarron

April 13-19, 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. MAKING OUR VOICES HEARD – Monday
  2. LET’S LOCK IN – Monday
  3. STEM PhDs AND POSTDOCS – PREPARING FOR YOUR INDUSTRIAL JOB SEARCH – Monday
  4. PART-TIME GRADUATE STUDENT GROUP – Wednesday
  5. PREPARING DATA FOR INPUT INTO GEOSPATIAL APPLICATIONS – Wednesday
  6. GLC CAFÉ-  Thursday
  7. TEA AT TWO – Friday
  8. THIS IS HOW WE ROLL: BOWLING EDITION – Friday
  9. KIDS’ TECH UNIVERSITY (KTU) EN ESPAÑOL – Saturday

Administrative Announcements:   

  1. CLIMATE SURVEY – 1st posting
  2. GREEN GRADUATES PROGRAM – 1st posting
  3. CONNECTIONS THAT COUNT: EMPATHETIC LISTENING – 1st posting (1/1)
  4. SUBSCRIBE TO UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES RESEARCH SERVICES NEWSLETTER – 2nd posting
  5. REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR 2026 SUMMER INSTITUTE – 2nd posting
  6. PROTECTING ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENDERS APPLIED RESEARCH SUMMER COURSE – 2nd posting
  7. CONNECTIONS THAT COUNT:– 1st posting (1/1)
  8. SPRING 2026 COMMENCEMENT STUDENT SPEAKERS – 3rd posting

Jobs

  1. VT TEACHING FELLOWS – ADJUNCT TEACHING OPPORTUNITY – 1st posting
  2. GA POSITION IN SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS – CINEMA PROGRAM – 1st posting
  3. GA POSITION – COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST AND PROJECT COORDINATOR 1st posting
  4. GA POSITION IN SEXUAL VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND EDUCATION – 1st posting
  5. WAGE POSITION – COMMUNICATIONS INTERN IN SEXUAL VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND EDUCATION – 2nd posting
  6. ACCESSIBLE TECHNOLOGIES GA POSITION 2026/2027 – 2nd posting

Funding Opportunities:

  1. APPLY TO BE A FUTURE LEADER FOR FOOD & AGRICULTURE (FFAR) FELLOW – DEADLINE: APRIL 15, 2026

Volunteers and research participants sought: 

  1. Y-TOSS COLLECTION 26 MAY 8th-13th  – 1st posting (1 of 2)
  2. PAID VOLLEYBALL JUMP SPIKE STUDY – 1st posting
  3. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR SURVEY ON STUDENT EXERCISE HABITS AND ACADEMIC OUTCOMES – 2nd posting
  4. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A RESEARCH STUDY ABOUT COGNITION – 2nd posting
  5. INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE: STUDY ON LOCATION-BASED GAMES FOR SOCIAL PLAY OVER DISTANCE (IRB #24-674) – 3rd position

Upcoming Events:    

  1. ALL-DAY WRITING RETREAT  – APRIL 20
  2. LECTURE: RESPONSIBLE USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN RESEARCH AND SCHOLARLY WRITING – April 20
  3. BLOOM ANYWAY – April 22
  4. WORKSHOP: WRITING SUCCESSFUL STUDENT-INITIATED PROPOSALS – April 23
  5. GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT DISCUSSION SERIES- DOES WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT MEDIATE HOUSEHOLD FOOD INSECURITY IN THE EVENT OF SHOCKS? EVIDENCE FROM ETHIOPIA  – April 23
  6. STEPPING INTO PREVENTION –  April 23
  7. APIDA HERITAGE MONTH INSPIRE SERIES: GRADUATE STUDENT PANEL –  April 27
  8. TIE-DYE & TACOS – May 1

This Week’s Events  

1. MAKING OUR VOICES HEARD
Monday, April 13, 12-1pm,APIDA + Center (Squires 140)
Discussion groups centered around amplifying and/or supporting APIDA voices and experiences. OPEN TO ALL!

2 LET’S LOCK IN
Monday, April 13, 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. 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

4. PART-TIME GRADUATE STUDENT GROUP
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 the last session of the semester here: https://forms.office.com/r/7HHFGEK0k8

5. 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

6. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, April 16, 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).

7. TEA AT TWO
Friday, April 17, 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!

8. THIS IS HOW WE ROLL: BOWLING EDITION
Friday, April 17, 5-7pm,Breakzone at Squires Student Center
Strike up some fun at This is How We Roll: Bowling Edition! Join us for a lively evening on the lanes where you can connect with friends, enjoy delicious sushi, and explore the APIDA community through the stories and impact of famous Asian American bowlers. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just here for the vibes (and the rolls), this event blends fun, culture, and community in a unique way. Sponsored by the APIDA + Center and open to all students—come roll with us!

9. 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/).

Administrative Announcements   

10. SEXUAL VIOLENCE CAMPUS CLIMATE SURVEY – 1st posting
Most Hokies feel safe, let’s make it 100%! The Office of Civil Rights Compliance and Prevention Education 2023-24 Sexual Violence Campus Climate Survey revealed that 81% of students feel safe on campus.  Take this year’s Sexual Violence Campus Climate Survey and help us understand why some students don’t feel safe. Take the anonymous 45-minute survey to help build prevention efforts and enter the raffle drawing after completion. Survey will be available April 1-22 https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_71iUjxr6vdspcyi?Q_CHL=qr

11. GREEN GRADUATES PROGRAM – 1st posting (1/2)
The Green Graduates Program asks students to reflect on the ways they can be sustainable after graduation. The student will fill out the Green Graduates pledge and receive a FREE graduation cord. Fill out the form here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=hGiVYK0Q-kCGPU8yweOjei1qw7kDWVZLv9LBFEsWW-9UM0RSVFFUQ1dPVUhXTzVWNDNKREwzMzJWRC4u

12. CONNECTIONS THAT COUNT: EMPATHETIC LISTENING -1ST POSTING (1/1)
Brought to you by the Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Education (SVPE)
Have you ever thought you were having a conversation with someone and realized that they are not listening to anything you said? Employing empathetic listening can help us build connections as people by having the other person feel valued and seen. Empathetic listening is a type of active listening that combines a reflection of feelings and asking questions to better understand a person. It shows intentional care and concern towards the person. A few things we can do as empathetic listeners are to quiet your mind when starting a conversation with someone, listen without judgement, and ask open ended questions to better understand what the person is experiencing. The next time you’re in a conversation, try practicing empathetic listening and notice how it transforms your connection with others.

13. SUBSCRIBE TO UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES RESEARCH SERVICES NEWSLETTER – 2nd posting
University Libraries offers expertise, workshops, and information resources for graduate students who conduct research. Subscribe to University Libraries’ Research Services Newsletter to stay up to date on information you need to be a successful researcher. Subscribe: https://t.send.vt.edu/lp/ulrs-subscribe

14. REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR 2026 SUMMER INSTITUTE – 2nd posting
Registration is now open for the 2026 Summer Institute. The event, May 20-22, provides faculty, staff, administrators, and graduate students the opportunity to gather two-and-a-half days each May to learn, share, and grow in a collaborative environment. For more information: https://www.undergraduate.provost.vt.edu/ouc/summer-institute.html. Apply here:  

https://sicss.io/2026/udc/apply

15. PROTECTING ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENDERS APPLIED RESEARCH SUMMER COURSE – 2nd posting
Join the School for Public and International Affairs for a unique applied research course. Research violence toward environmental defenders across the globe for partners/clients at the Environmental Law Institute and the Alliance for Land, Indigenous, and Environmental Defenders. Open to all graduate students interested in environmental policy, business, human rights, international affairs, law, and security. Research projects will analyze the drivers of violence, explore prevention strategies, and present your research directly to global partners working on the frontlines to reduce violence against at-risk environmental defenders.  100% online. (UG) SPIA 4984: Protecting Env Defenders (Grad) SPIA 5984: Protecting Env Defenders Summer 2: July 8 – Aug. 15, Classes meet virtually Mondays, 5:00 – 7:45 pm

16. EARTH MONTH EVENTS APRIL 6TH – APRIL 25TH – 2nd posting
Earth Month is here! There are over 50 Earth Month events occurring over the next three weeks. Check out the VT Earth Month website to see all the events. We’re excited to see you there!
Website link: https://www.vt.edu/sustainability/earth-month.html

17. SPRING 2026 COMMENCEMENT STUDENT SPEAKERS –  EXTENDED DEADLINE – 3rd  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 17: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/NEMGYVuSqA

Jobs   

18. VT TEACHING FELLOWS – ADJUNCT TEACHING OPPORTUNITY – 1st posting
Do your career plans potentially include teaching? The Virginia Tech Teaching Fellows Program is gearing up for Fall 2026! This program offers VT graduate students (master’s or doctoral) the opportunity to be credentialed Adjunct Faculty at Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA). 1-on-1 coaching is provided for those accepted into the program. This opportunity is open to domestic or international students with at least 18 graduate credit hours in the teaching discipline (note: dissertation/research credits do not apply). Teaching will be either in-person or virtual, depending on the student’s location, and available positions will align with NOVA’s discipline needs. Want to learn more? Attend an online information session April 22 or April 29 at 7 pm. Please register to receive the Zoom link: https://forms.office.com/r/e5K3LbZ97P

19. GA POSITION IN SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS – CINEMA PROGRAM – 1ST posting
Cinema Equipment Manager – Responsible for checkout, maintenance, inventory, and servicing of cinema equipment for students and faculty. Working with Cinema faculty in the School of Performing Arts, the GA will ensure cinema equipment is ready and available for students to check out for production work, class assignments, etc. The equipment inventory is maintained in a database: Connect2 The check-out room will have set hours to be open for students to check out equipment Monday – Friday between 8 am – 5 pm. Examples of previous schedules are below for reference. The 26-27 schedule can be set to the GA’s schedule. Minimum Qualifications:
Excellent time management, communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, to prioritize and perform multiple tasks, and to work cooperatively in a team atmosphere. Experience with cameras and lighting equipment. Database experience. This is a 20 hour/week Assistantship. TO APPLY: Send a letter of interest and current resume to Professor Walter Mets (waltercm@vt.edu)

20. GA POSITION – COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST AND PROJECT COORDINATOR 1st posting
The Graduate Assistant (GA) serves as a Communications Specialist and Project Coordinator for the Virginia Tech Division of Public Safety, assisting Public Safety leadership and operational units by creating and managing communications materials, including graphics, flyers, articles, safety notices, website content, and social media posts. Responsibilities include capturing photography and video, distributing surveys and data‑collection tools, analyzing social media metrics, and ensuring brand consistency with Virginia Tech guidelines. The GA provides administrative support, attends events for on‑site communications assistance, and completes required trainings. The successful candidate must be enrolled in a graduate degree program at Virginia Tech for the duration of the appointment and possess strong written and verbal communication skills. Applicants should demonstrate strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks independently and meet deadlines. Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office and digital platforms is required, along with the ability to learn new tools. The candidate must maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and demonstrate a commitment to the Virginia Tech Principles of Community and Ut Prosim (That I May Serve). https://virginiatech-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/carolinewood25_vt_edu/IQCl5V3SsRqBR6RkPQsd5scFAV5HyY3gEjLmFTTg4We7Ebg?e=lRbcPa​

21. GA POSITION IN SEXUAL VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND EDUCATION – 2nd posting
Support research, program development, and community outreach efforts aimed at addressing gender-based violence. Support VOICES Peer Educator Program. Ability to commit to the position from August 2026 to May 2027. Qualifications: Graduate student at VT who meets assistantship eligibility requirements. Skills in prevention education, curriculum development, and project management.
Interest in social justice issues. . Email letter of interest and resume to Zach LaCroix (zlacroix@vt.edu)  by April 24, 2026

22. WAGE POSITION – COMMUNICATIONS INTERN IN SEXUAL VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND EDUCATION – 2nd posting
Assist in creating and scheduling content for social media platforms, newsletters, and promotional content. Support marketing campaigns and outreach efforts across departments or programs.
Research trends, audience engagement, and best practices. Qualifications: 10 hours per week. Graduate or undergraduate student at VT. Knowledge of social media platforms and development tools (Canvas, Adobe, Microsoft Teams, Google Drive). Creative mindset and willingness to learn.

Email letter of interest and resume to the SVPE team SVPE@vt.edu by April 24, 2026.

23. ACCESSIBLE TECHNOLOGIES GA POSITION 2026/2027 – 2nd posting
Technology‑enhanced Learning and Online Strategies is seeking a Graduate Assistant to support the Accessible Technologies team on the Virginia Tech Blacksburg campus. This full GA position (20 hours per week) includes a stipend and tuition assistance. Reporting to the Director of Universal Design for Learning and Accessibility Services, the GA will contribute to university‑wide initiatives that advance digital accessibility, UDL, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence in teaching and learning. The position offers hands‑on experience at the intersection of accessibility, UDL, educational technology, and AI. The GA will support project management, technical, and operational efforts across Accessible Technologies initiatives while collaborating with a team of accessibility professionals. Emphasis is placed on data‑informed decision‑making and the development of scalable solutions that enhance access, equity, and inclusive learning experiences across the institution.. Qualifications: 1. Enrollment in a graduate program
2. Strong initiative, creativity, and ability to work both independently and collaboratively within various teams
3. Familiarity with AI tools that support teaching and learning (e.g., ChatGPT, Copilot, Gemini)
4. Proficiency with common productivity and collaboration tools (Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Slack, Canvas, Zoom)
5. Experience presenting to and collaborating with diverse teams
Review of applications will begin April 15, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. For more information and instructions on how to apply: https://tinyurl.com/TLOS-GA-Position

Funding Opportunities:

24.  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/

Volunteers and Research Participants Sought 

25. Y-TOSS COLLECTION 26 MAY 8th-13th  – 1st posting (1 of 2)
Y-TOSS is a student-led sustainability initiative by the YMCA at Virginia Tech that helps reduce campus waste by collecting and diverting gently used items during student move-out. These donated items are then made available to incoming students during the fall move-in sale across from the Virginia Tech campus. It’s one of the largest sustainability efforts on campus! If help out volunteering you gain early access to the move-in sale, before the students raid our supplies. https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.signupgenius.com%2Fgo%2F4090449AFA929AAFA7-63040141-ytoss&data=05%7C02%7Ckorae24%40vt.edu%7C43b7d85611f740af17a808de9044d8c3%7C6095688410ad40fa863d4f32c1e3a37a%7C0%7C0%7C639106822527204968%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=fmbLsrGQXTRSdasLlRyGEC8SjfNokp3v1g0mW8AJ1kY%3D&reserved=0

26. PAID VOLLEYBALL JUMP SPIKE STUDY – 1st posting
The Granata Biomechanics Lab is recruiting healthy, male and female volleyball players ages 14-25 for a 60-minute study on landing mechanics during volleyball jump spikes during competition-based scenarios. The goal of this study is to understand injury risk during sport-specific environments and improve injury prevention methods for volleyball athletes. Eligibility: 14-25 years old, no current pain or injury, has played volleyball for at least one-year, and has played for a minimum of 1 hour per week for the past 2 months or more. Participants will receive $15 in cash for their time and effort. If you are interested, please complete the following survey: https://forms.office.com/r/aFrECEbrw2

27. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR SURVEY ON STUDENT EXERCISE HABITS AND ACADEMIC OUTCOMES – 2nd  posting
We are seeking participants to complete an anonymous survey on student exercise habits and academic performance and wellbeing, including GPA and stress levels. This survey is a Google Form and should take no longer than 5 minutes to fill out. If you are willing to fill out the survey, please see the following link: https://forms.gle/cwqY7Ru2b3LYEXZ5A

28. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A RESEARCH STUDY ABOUT COGNITION – 2nd posting
The MEM Lab (Williams Hall) is recruiting participants for a 2-session study on cognition in younger adults. Eligible participants must be between the ages of 18 and 30, be able to quickly read visually presented English words, have no hearing impairments, and must not have previously participated in studies from the MEM Lab. Participants will be compensated $5 for the first session (approximately 45 minutes) and $20 for the second session (approximately 1 hour). If you are interested, please fill out this interest form: https://forms.gle/2ty4oksPzaNEtS7TA or email Erica S. Shafer at esshafer@vt.edu.
This study has been approved by the Biomedical Research Alliance of New York Institutional Review Board (BRANY), Protocol #VT18-1077-568. For more information, contact Erica Shafer at vtmemorylab@gmail.com.

29. INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE: STUDY ON LOCATION-BASED GAMES FOR SOCIAL PLAY OVER DISTANCE (IRB #24-674) – 3rd  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

Upcoming Events   

30. 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

31. LECTURE: RESPONSIBLE USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN RESEARCH AND SCHOLARLY WRITING
Monday, April 20, 11am-12pm,Zoom/Steger Hall Auditorium (1015 Life Science Circle, Blacksburg)
You are invited to attend the spring Research Integrity and Scholarly Excellence (RISE) Lecture Series featuring Dr. David B. Resnik, a leading national expert on research ethics and Senior Advisor for Research Integrity at the National Institutes of Health. In his talk, Dr. Resnik will examine ethical challenges related to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in research and writing, with a special focus on generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini. Dr. Resnik will explore key issues such as authorship and transparency, accountability and bias, data integrity and trust, and Individual and social responsibility in AI supported research.
https://www.research.vt.edu/events/responsible-use-ai-research-scholarly-writing.html

32. BLOOM ANYWAY
Wednesday, April 22, 12-2pm, Drillfield East A
Create a bouquet to honor strength, resilience, and beautiful new beginnings.

33. 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

34. GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT DISCUSSION SERIES- DOES WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT MEDIATE HOUSEHOLD FOOD INSECURITY IN THE EVENT OF SHOCKS? EVIDENCE FROM ETHIOPIA
Thursday, April 23, 2:30-3:30pm, Zoom
We examine the role of women’s empowerment in mitigating the impact of shocks on household food insecurity in rural Oromia, Ethiopia. Using panel data from 2016 and 2019, we categorize households based on women’s and men’s empowerment, as measured by the project-level Women’s Empowerment in Agriculture Index (pro-WEAI), and analyze the effects of agricultural, price, and health shocks. Our findings show that shocks, particularly price-related ones, increase food insecurity, but households where the woman is empowered are less likely to experience worsening food insecurity. Women’s autonomy in income, social networks, and diverse coping strategies appear as key factors in building resilience. Our results highlight the protective role of women’s empowerment in the event of shocks and underscores the need for gender-sensitive approaches in food security policy. Register here:  https://cired.vt.edu/discussion-series.html

35. STEPPING INTO PREVENTION
Thursday, April 23, 5:30-7pm, GLC room D
Join SVPE and GPSS for a creative workshop where you can paint, embroider, or decorate items while reflecting on what prevention looks like in our communities.  Share ideas, and leave with a personalized item that represents your commitment to fostering safer, more supportive spaces. No artistic experience needed! Snacks will be provided.

36. APIDA HERITAGE MONTH INSPIRE SERIES: GRADUATE STUDENT PANEL
Monday, April 27, 12-1pm, GLC MPR
Graduate student panelists will share their journey in higher education, insights on academia, and advice for navigating college and beyond. Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and be inspired. Lunch will be provided. Register on Gobbler connect: https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/event/12299698

37. TIE-DYE & TACOS
Friday, May 1, 12-2pm, Graduate School LawnTake an afternoon break with other graduate students to enjoy delicious tacos and create a tie-dye masterpiece. Tie-dye materials will be provided, but please bring your own shirt (or other garment) to tie-dye. Please only bring one item to ensure that as many people as possible can join in on the fun. Tie-dye works best with white cloth, but lightly colored material may also work. (If you have a Graduate Education Week t-shirt, those are great to tie-dye!)
Please note that registration is required for both tie-dye and tacos!
***We will have both vegetarian and meat options at this event.
Register here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/wewjfhSTCD