Alumni magazine

Rabia Kamara (B.S.’10/B), founder of Ruby Scoops ice cream parlor, dazzled judges throughout the first season of Food Network’s “Clash of the Cones” to take the crown.

Meet 10 recent graduates who are taking small businesses to new heights, conducting innovative research and making a difference in their communities.

Started in 2006, VCU’s Common Book Program creates a shared reading experience for the campus community and welcomes students into the university’s intellectual culture.

After 18 quiet months, VCU’s campus burst to life as students took part in an annual tradition and reflected on what they missed most and what they’re most excited for this year.

VCU was the only school that art major Laila Hendricks wanted to attend, and this fall, she joined VCU’s campus, following in the footsteps of her father, aunt and grandfather.

Reuban Rodriguez, Ed.D., associate vice provost and dean of students, walks miles of VCU’s urban campus every week to connect with students where they are.

Joshua Loyd, M.D. (M.D.’14/M; H.S.’17/M), who received scholarships during his time at the VCU School of Medicine, prioritizes giving back to support students and residents.

Richmond school teacher Jessica Diaz (B.A.’18/H&S; B.A.’18/H&S; M.T.’18/E) builds community by supporting students and advocating for colleagues.

Brandee Branche, M.D. (M.D.’21/M) stepped up to the mic at VCU’s May 2021 Commencement to tell her fellow grads, “Go forth and make a difference in this world.”

From a return to campus to amazing recent graduates, resilience describes the VCU community during the pandemic as we work to make our world a better place.