The latest from President Rao
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Featured video
State of the University Address
The president talks about VCU's “fascination with what's difficult” in the the fourth annual State of the University Address.
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Featured video
The fascination of what's difficult
VCU community talks about their fascination with doing what is difficult.
Vision and goals
Virginia Commonwealth University’s six-year strategic plan, Quest for Distinction, sets forth the vision for VCU to be the nation’s premier urban, public research university. Now in the final two years, Quest rests upon three themes that outline the university’s institutional priorities, goals and strategies.
Theme I
Become a leader among national research universities in providing all students with high-quality learning/living experiences focused on inquiry, discovery and innovation in a global environment.
Theme II
Attain distinction as a fully integrated urban, public research university through contributions in human health, research, scholarship and creative expression that advance knowledge and enhance the quality of life.
Theme III
Become a national model for community engagement and regional impact.
For more information, visit the VCU strategic plan website for the latest updates, implementation process and copies of the full Quest for Distinction document and executive summary.
Reports and initiatives
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VCU Comprehensive Economic Impact Report »
CURA@VCU published a report measuring and analyzing the economic and social impacts of VCU on Richmond, the broader region and the state. Learn more about VCU’s contributions to the area’s talent, innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem, regional stewardship and the local culture. Read the report.
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University Annual Report »
In the 2016 State of the University address, VCU President Michael Rao defined the challenges facing higher education and the perception that universities have become institutions rather than a place for opportunity. The 2015–16 University Annual Report, titled “Yes,” reinforces VCU’s relevancy – and the opportunities it creates – even in the changing landscape of higher education.
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Shared Governance Statement »
VCU’s model of shared governance reflects our mission of fostering collaboration, transparency and trust among individuals and groups across the university. Read our statement to learn more about our shared governance model and the philosophy behind it.
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Grow by Degrees »
Grow by Degrees is a statewide campaign that aims to expand job opportunities and economic growth in Virginia through reform-based reinvestment in the state’s higher education system. Priorities include awarding 100,000 more college degrees by 2025.
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Great Place Initiative »
The Great Place Initiative aims to strengthen the human element upon which Quest for Distinction — VCU’s strategic plan — is based by focusing on aspects of benefits, culture, recognition and work/life balance within the framework of strong core values of civility and respect.
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Enterprise risk management »
VCU’s enterprise risk management program is a comprehensive approach to identifying risks that could severely impact the university.
By the numbers
$270.3m
in sponsored research
31,242
students enrolled
21,679
employees
President’s posts Highlights from Dr. Rao’s blog
How we “Make it real”
February 2, 2016A few days ago, I had lunch with a group of remarkable entrepreneurs. These creative minds had started companies that engineer life-saving medical devices; grow and distribute healthier foods; create beautiful and original fashion; promote safe, effective and sustainable ride sharing; and more. These entrepreneurs were brilliant and passionate, and …
Following up on Presidential Forum on Diversity and Inclusion
November 19, 2015Yesterday, we engaged in a productive discussion about diversity and inclusion at Virginia Commonwealth University, especially relating to the lives of black students.
The importance of athletics
November 2, 2015Earlier today, we cut the ribbon on our Basketball Development Center, a best-of-its-kind practice facility for our men’s and women’s basketball teams.
The unyielding pursuit of discovery
August 26, 2015Today marks a significant milestone for Virginia Commonwealth University as we launch VCU Health, a new brand that captures all of the compelling and exciting work we do together every day, across our institution.