VCU Human Resources and the VCU Staff Senate are excited to sponsor the 2026 Career Development Conference that will take place during the VCU 2026 Spring Break. The theme is “Unlocking Potential: Discover, Connect, Grow”, which is designed to unlock staff’s full potential through connection, curiosity, and courage.
The 2026 Career Development Conference will be offered on two days: Tuesday, March 10, 2026 (virtual via Zoom) and Thursday, March 12, 2026 (in-person at the University Student Commons). Conference sessions will be a series of interactive development activities designed to meet the needs of staff and their career development goals. The event is free to all VCU and VCU Health System employees.
Session activity formats include:
- Panel discussions
- Presentations
- Round table discussions
We are currently seeking speakers/facilitators to share their knowledge and skills with their colleagues in an interactive and creative format. This year’s conference themes include:
- Uncommon Keys – Tools and mindsets for unlocking professional growth
- Breaking Down Barriers – Navigating silos, skill gaps, and difficult conversations
- Elevated Engagement – Strategies for reigniting excitement, building belonging, and aligning passion with work
- Curating Our Identity – Exploring VCU’s culture, values, and shared purpose
- Stretch & Grow – Embracing challenge, learning, and professional expansion
If you are interested in participating as a presenter, please select here to complete the proposal submission form by Wednesday, December 3, 2025. You will receive a final response during the week of December 8. If selected, you will receive a notification requesting technology details, a short bio, and a headshot.
In addition, if you have suggestions for presenters (keynote speaker, workshop presenters, or VCU leaders), please select here and share by Wednesday, December 3, 2025. The preferred keynote speaker should be a dynamic, engaging, and interactive speaker from outside the university.