Alum and Donor News

“It’s quite fascinating to see what parts of history people are inclined to absorb and to think about, because we all have different interests,” said VCU alum Meika Downey. (Contributed photo)

Alum Meika Downey brings Virginia’s rich history to life

Nov. 1, 2023

One of the first to earn VCU’s public history graduate certificate, Downey works as the education manager for Preservation Virginia.

The class Sustainable Community Development, part of the Master of Urban and Regional Planning program in the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at VCU, developed story maps in partnership with descendant and community groups associated with Barton Heights and Woodland cemeteries. (Contributed photo)

VCU students’ online story maps highlight the history of Richmond’s Barton Heights and Woodland cemeteries

Oct. 10, 2023

The project was developed in close partnership with groups of descendants and volunteers associated with the two historic African American cemeteries in Richmond.

Diana DiGangi, author of “Last Chance Chicago,” is an alum of the Robertson School of Media and Culture. Her debut novel is about insider trading and a protagonist who “who makes complicated decisions but has growing to do.” (Bywater Books)

With mystery novel, VCU grad Diana DiGangi puts investigative journalism skills to work

Oct. 5, 2023

“Last Chance Chicago,” the debut novel for the Robertson School of Media and Culture alum, explores the world of insider trading.

VCU Alumni 10 Under 10 award recipients to be honored for noteworthy achievements

Sept. 27, 2023

Distinguished graduates from throughout the university will be recognized at a private ceremony Oct. 21.

Kevin Powers, who has published a book of poetry and three novels, enjoys “the room that fiction gives me to explore.” (Contributed photo)

VCU alum Kevin Powers takes on murder mystery in new book ‘A Line in the Sand’

Sept. 20, 2023

The National Book Award finalist, who earned an English degree in 2008, reflects on his writing journey, the legacy of war and advice for VCU writers.

Four people posing with naming plaques - Michal Coffey, Mike and Sally Hunnicutt, and Catherine Ingrassia

A heartwarming tribute emerges in VCU's new STEM Building - 817WF

Sept. 11, 2023

Dr. Mike Hunnicutt honors longtime VCU chemistry professor, administrator Dr. Sally Hunnicutt, with named spaces in new STEM Building - 817WF

Kai Frazier, who graduated from VCU with a bachelor’s degree in history, founded Kai XR, a metaverse platform for educating children. (Contributed photo)

VCU alum Kai Frazier brings the world to students through virtual field trips

Aug. 31, 2023

Combining her background in teaching and museum work, 2008 history graduate broadens access for youths to immerse themselves in life-changing learning.

Jerome Reid, senior athletic trainer for the Philadelphia Eagles, knew he wanted to enter the field after his first Intro to Athletic Training course at VCU. (Courtesy photo)

With the health of athletes in his hands, VCU alum Jerome Reid is an NFL star outside the spotlight

Aug. 9, 2023

Senior trainer for the Philadelphia Eagles followed a path of perseverance to reach the pros.

Tricia Vaughan has served as the Virginia House of Delegates journal and records keeper since 2005. (Jud Froelich)

‘The Guardians of Process’

July 7, 2023

A now somewhat-forgotten president created America’s professional civil service in 1883 and, by extension, modern U.S. government. Since then, civil servants have flourished and grown more and more necessary, all in the face of never-ending aspersions.

Keith Rogers, who has received two degrees at VCU, recently was named city manager in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. (Contributed photo)

South of the (Virginia) border, VCU alum Keith Rogers Jr. takes the lead as city manager

July 3, 2023

With two VCU degrees, a decade in Richmond government and a stint in N.Va., Rogers is now leading Rocky Mount, North Carolina.