Initiatives and Centers
The Division of Inclusive Excellence is proud to support a wide range of initiatives, programs, and research centers focused on scholarship and the advancement of diverse communities. Here’s a general description of what these may encompass:
El Centro at VCU
El Centro at VCU aims to develop and support scholarly, community and cultural activities that center and nourish VCU students, faculty and staff and the greater Richmond Latino/e communities.
Go to El Centro at VCU to learn more about their mission and strategic plan
Project Gabriel
In spring 2023, VCU's Office of the President launched Project Gabriel to report, reconcile and heal the wounds caused by VCU's historic ties to the institution of slavery. This effort is so named after Gabriel Prosser, an enslaved Richmond man who organized a rebellion in 1800 intended to end slavery in Virginia. In 2022, VCU renamed its African American Studies building in his honor.
Inspired by Gabriel's boldness, courage and conviction, this commission will be deliberate in its efforts to guide VCU on a path toward reckoning with its past, engaging with its present and strengthening all communities for the future.
Go to Project Gabriel to read more about implementation
Age-Inclusive University Initiative
VCU is committed to creating an age-inclusive environment in order to change the narrative about aging through education, advocacy, research, and policy across the lifespan. We strive to promote a culture of age inclusion and appreciation among learners, alumni, faculty, staff and the community. Our goal is to prompt vibrant, holistic, intergenerational communities on our VCU campuses, health system and the larger community.
Learn more about the Age-Inclusive University Initiative
Strengthening VCU’s Climate and Culture
The Strengthening VCU’s Climate and Inclusion initiative is a university-wide effort dedicated to fostering a campus environment where civil and respectful dialogue thrives across all aspects of diversity, including cultural, religious, racial, gender, and social identities. This initiative seeks to ensure that every member of the VCU community feels valued, heard and respected, regardless of differing perspectives.
Building on the progress made during the 2023-2024 academic year, this collaborative effort is led by Inclusive Excellence, Human Resources and the Office of the Provost.
Learn more about Strengthening VCU’s Climate and Inclusion Initiative