Featured News
Every day College of Health Professions students, alumni, faculty and staff do extraordinary things. Read more about our latest achievements below.
Program leads way in preparing interdisciplinary researchers
In an era when health systems, academic institutions and community programs alike are turning to data to inform decisions and improve outcomes, VCU’s Ph.D. Program in Health Related Sciences has carved out a national reputation for equipping professionals to use research and analysis to drive health innovation.
Understanding Virginia’s new law to license anesthesia assistants
In early 2025, Virginia passed a law allowing for the licensure of anesthesia assistants (AAs), making it one of about 20 states to permit the profession. Anesthesia assistants will work exclusively under the supervision of physician anesthesiologists, a model different from the training and practice approach of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), who are prepared for independent practice.
VCU Rehabilitation Counseling Students Empower Youth Through Life Skills at MFYC
Hear directly from the students about their motivations, the moments that have impacted them most, and the value of connecting academic learning with community service. Their work demonstrates how student-community partnerships can foster growth, resilience, and new perspectives for young people.
Simulation lab upgrades raise the bar for OT and PT training
Our simulation lab received a $108,000 investment to create immersive, hospital-like environments for OT and PT students, complete with responsive mannequins, communication systems and clinical sound effects. The upgraded spaces – fitted with cameras, debrief rooms and documentation stations – support holistic skill development from hands-on patient care to clinical reasoning and workflow fluency.
Chu earns tenure and a $25,000 community engagement grant
Virginia Chu, Ph.D., OTR/L, is celebrating a dual milestone: her promotion to tenured faculty and a grant from the VCU Division of Community Engagement.
Reconfigured labs with cutting-edge technology enhance hands-on training
Radiation Sciences revamped its physical learning spaces by reassigning lab locations and introducing a high-tech VERT (Virtual Environment in Radiation Therapy) lab that enables students to simulate patient positioning and deliver radiation in a controlled, virtual setting. Enhanced features like a large 3D display and realistic treatment planning workstations ensure students graduate with real-world skills and confidence.
As gambling grows in Virginia, so does the need for support
In just a few short years, legalized gambling in Virginia has exploded, most notably with the opening of casinos across the state and booming online sports betting. However, are Virginians — and the state itself — truly prepared for the fallout that can follow when people slip from casual fun into problem gambling, with far more at stake?
OT Academy opens doors for aspiring clinicians
The annual five-day academy – presented by VCU’s Occupational Therapy Department – invites undergraduate students and recent graduates to explore careers in occupational therapy. The program also aims to help participants better understand the field, connect with peers and ultimately enroll in an OT graduate program.
Healing in the heart of displacement
Associate professor Waganesh “Waggy” Zeleke, Ph.D. conducted Fulbright-funded participatory action research in Ethiopian displacement camps, delivering culturally responsive trauma-healing interventions. Her work focuses on building resilience and empowering communities affected by conflict and forced migration.
CHP faculty member joins national leaders in D.C. to advance brain injury care
Rehabilitation Counseling associate professor Kelli Talley, Ph.D. joined national experts in Washington to shape the future of traumatic brain injury care. The group discussed new research, care models, and strategies to improve outcomes for patients nationwide.
