President Michael Rao's Inauguration

The Board of Visitors of Virginia Commonwealth University cordially invites you to celebrate the Inauguration of Michael Rao, Ph.D. as President.

Anderson Gallery exhibit: Environment and Object, Recent African Art

Responses to urban, natural and economic environments by sixteen African artists will be on view in this thought-provoking exhibition. Environment and Object, Recent African Art will feature sculpture, photography, painting, video and installations by such internationally recognized artists as Yinka Shonibare and El Anatsui, as well as emerging artists gaining a reputation outside of Africa.

Family Weekend 2011 Registration

Stop by the Family Weekend 2011 Registration to pick up materials on the events of the weekend.

Richmond Folk Festival

Location: The Richmond Folk Festival takes place on the banks of downtown Richmond's riverfront, from 2nd to 7th streets and from Byrd Street to the river - including Brown's Island, the American Civil War Center at Tredegar, the lawn of the New Market (Ethyl) Corporation, portions of Federal Reserve parking lots, and Tredegar Street.

Last year, more than 190,000 people visited downtown Richmond's riverfront to celebrate the roots, richness and variety of American culture through music, dance traditional crafts, storytelling and food. The Richmond Folk Festival has become one of Virginia’s largest and most-loved events of the year and has been voted as the best musical festival in Richmond, 2 years running. The 2011 Festival will bring a new and similarly amazing list of performers, artists and exhibitors. For more information visit, http://richmondfolkfestival.org.

Sustainability Day

Tours, bike give-a-way, zip car information, bike registration (VCU Police), off campus student housing information, food, and more!

Family Picnic

Join us for horseshoes, board games, delicious food by Jonah's Catering Service and the sounds of the "Doors Wide Open" band. This band rocks! They are absolutely awesome!

Recreational Sports Open Facilities

Come visit VCU's recently renovated and expanded Recreational Sports facilities. The guest fee is waived for Family Weekend guests of VCU students all weekend.

The Cary Street Gym offers two swimming pools, whirlpool, a rock climbing wall, indoor track, courts for volleyball, racquetball, basketball, group exercise classes, and an extensive array of top of the line cardio and weight equipment. MCV Campus Rec & Aquatic Center has a swimming pool, whirlpool, racquetball and squash courts, a two court gym and the same high quality workout equipment.

Our locker rooms feature showers and lockers with built in digital locks, so no need to bring your own. Just bring your athletic wear or swim gear and enjoy a fitness break as part of your weekend at VCU!

Women's Volleyball vs. Towson

Ticket prices are $7 for Adult, $4 Youth/Senior (ages 6-17/55+) and Children (5 & under) are Free. VCU students are FREE with a current ID.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2

Bring your family to enjoy a movie and popcorn provided by the Activities Programming Board. In the epic finale, the battle between the good and evil forces of the wizarding world escalates into an all-out war. The stakes have never been higher and no one is safe. But it is Harry Potter who may be called upon to make the ultimate sacrifice as he draws closer to the climactic showdown with Lord Voldemort.2 hours and 10 minutes.

Captain America: The First Avenger

Bring your family to enjoy a movie and popcorn provided by the Activities Programming Board. After being deemed unfit for military service, Steve Rogers volunteers for a top secret research project that turns him into Captain America, a superhero dedicated to defending America's ideals. 2 hours 5 minutes

Creepy Hollow Scream Park

Creepy Hollow Scream Park is Richmond's Ultimate Halloween destination, with more monsters, more frights and more fun! Each night we have well over 50 live actors monsters, incredible animatronics, amazing illusions and acres of screams. Join us for Richmond's legendary Creepy Hollow Hayride and dare to venture into Scream Forest, the most intense haunt in Virginia!

Your VCU ID gets you and your entire party a discounted combo ticket to both the Creepy Hollow Hayride and Scream Forest for just $22 per person.

Visit RichmondScreams.com for directions and more info.

Wicked! The Untold Story of Oz

Winner of 35 major awards, including a Grammy and three Tony Awards, WICKED is Broadway’s biggest blockbuster, a cultural phenomenon and was just named “the defining musical of the decade” by The New York Times. Long before that girl from Kansas arrives in Munchkinland, two girls meet in the land of Oz. One – born with emerald green skin – is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. How these two grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good makes for “the most complete and completely satisfying new musical in a long time” (USA Today). Ticket Prices range from $37 – 137.50. Purchase tickets online at http://www.landmarktheater.net/

Rocky Horror Picture Show

Free props to the first 300 students. Prizes to the best dressed male and female characters. Rain location is the Commons Commonwealth Ballroom.

VCU Fall Open House

You and your family are cordially invited to attend the Fall Open House 2011 for prospective students at Virginia Commonwealth University on Saturday, October 15. Open House will be a day for you to learn more about VCU’s outstanding academic programs as well as to get a sense of student life on campus. Experience the diversity that makes VCU a special place!

Recreational Sports Open Facilities

Come visit VCU's recently renovated and expanded Recreational Sports facilities. The guest fee is waived for Family Weekend guests of VCU students all weekend.

The Cary Street Gym offers two swimming pools, whirlpool, a rock climbing wall, indoor track, courts for volleyball, racquetball, basketball, group exercise classes, and an extensive array of top of the line cardio and weight equipment. MCV Campus Rec & Aquatic Center has a swimming pool, whirlpool, racquetball and squash courts, a two court gym and the same high quality workout equipment.

Our locker rooms feature showers and lockers with built in digital locks, so no need to bring your own. Just bring your athletic wear or swim gear and enjoy a fitness break as part of your weekend at VCU!

University College First-Year Parent Family Weekend Brunch

The University College and the VCU Alumni Association invite you to attend the University College First-Year Parent Brunch on Saturday, October 15 from 9:00 - 10:30 in the University College (Hibbs Hall, first floor). This is an opportunity for parents to hear from other VCU parents and members of the Alumni Association. You will also meet members of the University College family - Focused Inquiry instructors, advisors, and representatives from the Campus Learning Center and Writing Center. This event is free; however, reservations are required as space is limited. Please RSVP to nso@vcu.edu or (804) 828-3700 by Monday, October 10.

Office of Multicultural Student Affairs (OMSA) Open House

Students, parents, and visitors please stop by our office to learn about multicultural organizations, OMSA, and other university services that may be helpful to you! Light refreshments will be provided. Sponsored by the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs.

Brunch Munch

It's Family Weekend! Students celebrate and bring your family to the Saturday brunch! Enjoy a refreshing breakfast foods and music. You don't want to miss this!

The Other Side of Orientation: What Your Students Don't Tell You

Parents, do you want to know what life at VCU has been like for your student? Come join the student leaders of the Office of New Student Programs and the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs for an engaging discussion on campus life from the student perspective. Ask our leaders anything you would like to know about what your child will experience while attending VCU! Topics covered will range from handling college as a full time job, to embracing the diversity of the community. Don't miss out on this interactive learning experience! Sponsored by Office of New Student Programs and the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs.

Family Weekend 2011 Registration

Stop by the Family Weekend 2011 Registration to pick up materials on the events of the weekend.

Anderson Gallery exhibit: Environment and Object, Recent African Art

Responses to urban, natural and economic environments by sixteen African artists will be on view in this thought-provoking exhibition. Environment and Object, Recent African Art will feature sculpture, photography, painting, video and installations by such internationally recognized artists as Yinka Shonibare and El Anatsui, as well as emerging artists gaining a reputation outside of Africa.

Richmond Folk Festival

Location: The Richmond Folk Festival takes place on the banks of downtown Richmond's riverfront, from 2nd to 7th streets and from Byrd Street to the river - including Brown's Island, the American Civil War Center at Tredegar, the lawn of the New Market (Ethyl) Corporation, portions of Federal Reserve parking lots, and Tredegar Street

Last year, more than 190,000 people visited downtown Richmond's riverfront to celebrate the roots, richness and variety of American culture through music, dance traditional crafts, storytelling and food. The Richmond Folk Festival has become one of Virginia’s largest and most-loved events of the year and has been voted as the best musical festival in Richmond, 2 years running. The 2011 Festival will bring a new and similarly amazing list of performers, artists and exhibitors.

For more information visit, http://richmondfolkfestival.org.

Wicked! The Untold Story of Oz

Winner of 35 major awards, including a Grammy and three Tony Awards, WICKED is Broadway’s biggest blockbuster, a cultural phenomenon and was just named “the defining musical of the decade” by The New York Times. Long before that girl from Kansas arrives in Munchkinland, two girls meet in the land of Oz. One – born with emerald green skin – is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. How these two grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good makes for “the most complete and completely satisfying new musical in a long time” (USA Today). Ticket Prices range from $37 – 137.50. Purchase tickets online at http://www.landmarktheater.net/

From Austria to Zimbabwe: the A-Z's of Study Abroad at VCU

Ever thought about studying abroad? Find out how to study in another country and earn credits towards your VCU degree. Students who have studied abroad will be present. Parents and students will be able to ask questions about VCU programs.

Inauguration A Cappella Concert

This concert brings together the diverse singing talents of several of VCU’s musical student organizations, Notochords - A Cappella Ensemble, R.A.M.ifications and Black Awakening Choir. The performances will include a cappella and music accompanied spiritual, contemporary and old school Pop and R & B tunes. Join us for an afternoon of great music! Sponsored by Office of Multicultural Student Affairs and University Student Commons and Activities.

Freshman Scholars BBQ

Freshmen who have received either a Presidents, Provosts or Dean's Scholarship are invited to attend a BBQ dinner compliments of the VCU Alumni Association. Students and up to two guests may attend free of charge. Others will be $10 per person. Invitees will receive an invitation via email.

Please call (804) 828-7020 if you are eligible and have not received an invitation. If you have any questions, please contact Diane Stout-Brown at dstout@vcu.edu.

Fraternity and Sorority Life Parent's Reception

Please join the leaders of the Fraternity & Sorority Community of VCU while we share stories from current members on the impact of the fraternity or sorority on their lives along with a special guest speaker, Dr. Carolyn Whittier on the role of fraternity in a college student's life. Please join us for light hors d'oeuvres as we celebrate the accomplishments of the fraternity and sorority community and the role parents play in those accomplishments.

Men's Soccer vs. William & Mary

Purchase the match ticket and exclusive VCU Soccer Scarf combo for just $15! Ticket prices are $7 for Adult, $4 Youth/Senior (ages 6-17/55+) and Children (5 & under) are Free. VCU students are FREE with a current ID.

Women's Volleyball vs. Delaware

The first 150 fans will receive a FREE VCU Volleyball t-shirt! Ticket prices are $7 for Adult, $4 Youth/Senior (ages 6-17/55+) and Children (5 & under) are Free. VCU students are FREE with a current ID.

Coast Guard Horns w/ Patrick Smith and students

Members of the Coast Guard Horns visit VCU for a performance with faculty member Patrick Smith and horn students. This event is part of VCU Brassfest 2011. Tickets are $5 for the general public and free for VCU students with ID.

Creepy Hollow Scream Park

Creepy Hollow Scream Park is Richmond's Ultimate Halloween destination, with more monsters, more frights and more fun! Each night we have well over 50 live actors monsters, incredible animatronics, amazing illusions and acres of screams.

Join us for Richmond's legendary Creepy Hollow Hayride and dare to venture into Scream Forest, the most intense haunt in Virginia! Your VCU ID gets you and your entire party a discounted combo ticket to both the Creepy Hollow Hayride and Scream Forest for just $22.

Visit RichmondScreams.com for directions and more info.

Captain America: The First Avenger

Bring your family to enjoy a movie and popcorn provided by the Activities Programming Board. After being deemed unfit for military service, Steve Rogers volunteers for a top secret research project that turns him into Captain America, a superhero dedicated to defending America's ideals. 2 hours 5 minutes

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2

Bring your family to enjoy a movie and popcorn provided by the Activities Programming Board. In the epic finale, the battle between the good and evil forces of the wizarding world escalates into an all-out war. The stakes have never been higher and no one is safe. But it is Harry Potter who may be called upon to make the ultimate sacrifice as he draws closer to the climactic showdown with Lord Voldemort.2 hours and 10 minutes.

Recreational Sports Open Facilities

Come visit VCU's recently renovated and expanded Recreational Sports facilities. The guest fee is waived for Family Weekend guests of VCU students all weekend.

The Cary Street Gym offers two swimming pools, whirlpool, a rock climbing wall, indoor track, courts for volleyball, racquetball, basketball, group exercise classes, and an extensive array of top of the line cardio and weight equipment. MCV Campus Rec & Aquatic Center has a swimming pool, whirlpool, racquetball and squash courts, a two court gym and the same high quality workout equipment.

Our locker rooms feature showers and lockers with built in digital locks, so no need to bring your own. Just bring your athletic wear or swim gear and enjoy a fitness break as part of your weekend at VCU!

Anderson Gallery exhibit: Environment and Object, Recent African Art

Responses to urban, natural and economic environments by sixteen African artists will be on view in this thought-provoking exhibition. Environment and Object, Recent African Art will feature sculpture, photography, painting, video and installations by such internationally recognized artists as Yinka Shonibare and El Anatsui, as well as emerging artists gaining a reputation outside of Africa.

Richmond Folk Festival

Location: The Richmond Folk Festival takes place on the banks of downtown Richmond's riverfront, from 2nd to 7th streets and from Byrd Street to the river - including Brown's Island, the American Civil War Center at Tredegar, the lawn of the New Market (Ethyl) Corporation, portions of Federal Reserve parking lots, and Tredegar Street

Last year, more than 190,000 people visited downtown Richmond's riverfront to celebrate the roots, richness and variety of American culture through music, dance traditional crafts, storytelling and food. The Richmond Folk Festival has become one of Virginia’s largest and most-loved events of the year and has been voted as the best musical festival in Richmond, 2 years running. The 2011 Festival will bring a new and similarly amazing list of performers, artists and exhibitors.

For more information visit, http://richmondfolkfestival.org.

Wicked! The Untold Story of Oz

Winner of 35 major awards, including a Grammy and three Tony Awards, WICKED is Broadway’s biggest blockbuster, a cultural phenomenon and was just named “the defining musical of the decade” by The New York Times. Long before that girl from Kansas arrives in Munchkinland, two girls meet in the land of Oz. One – born with emerald green skin – is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. How these two grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good makes for “the most complete and completely satisfying new musical in a long time” (USA Today). Ticket Prices range from $37 – 137.50. Purchase tickets online at http://www.landmarktheater.net/

Discovery Advising Majors Fair

The Discovery Advising program in the University College delivers advising to all undeclared and exploratory students at VCU: we help students explore their options for majors and discover the own open road through college.

As part of Family Weekend 2011, Discovery Advising will host a Majors Fair in the Commonwealth Ballrooms at the Student Commons on Sunday, October 16, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. In addition to Discovery Advisors, representatives from all of VCU’s undergraduate programs will be present to answer questions from potential and current VCU students.

We look forward to seeing you!

VCU Guitar Series: Sam Dorsey, Guitar

Sam Dorsey is a professor of music and chair of the music department at Norfolk State University. He has studied guitar with Jesus Silva and Michael Lorimer, and has attended masterDs classes with Andrés Segovia. As president of the Tidewater Classical Guitar Society, he has been a catalyst in bringing artists of international acclaim to the Tidewater area.

He has performed with the Virginia Symphony, Virginia Opera, Virginia Stage Company, and the Virginia Beach Symphony, and is the founder of the Tidewater Guitar Orchestra. As a solo artist, he has performed throughout the United States, Europe and Latin America. Mr. Dorsey has performed recitals at the Teatro Nacional in San Jose, Costa Rica, and at the Cento Nacional de las Artes in Mexico City, Mexico.

Mr. Dorsey recently completed his Ph.D. in musicology from the Catholic University of America, where he was the recipient of the Paul Furfey Hanley Scholarship. Tickets $15 general admission; $10 for students with VCU ID.