Hosted by Virginia Commonwealth University, the VCU Workplace Learning Summit is a collaborative professional learning experience that brings together expertise from across VCU, the University of Richmond, and leaders from the Richmond community. Designed by Richmond professionals for Richmond professionals, the Summit creates a unique space for employees and managers to learn, connect, and grow together.

Centered on the theme Building Connection at Work: Communicating, Collaborating, and Building Trust, the Summit explores the skills and practices that help individuals and teams thrive in today's workplace. Through a combination of expert-led presentations, guided reflection, and interactive deep-dive sessions, participants will gain practical tools for strengthening workplace relationships, navigating challenging conversations, leading with emotional intelligence, and fostering meaningful collaboration.

The day begins with a Learning Showcase, where participants hear from all facilitators and gain insight into each topic area. Participants then select two interactive deep-dive sessions to engage in hands-on learning, discussion, and skill practice with colleagues from across organizations and industries.

Whether you are seeking strategies for difficult conversations, tools for leading with emotional intelligence, or practices for building trust and connection at work, the Summit offers actionable approaches that can be immediately applied in your professional environment while fostering connections across the Richmond region.

What You Will Learn
By participating in the VCU Workplace Learning Summit, you will:

• Explore the foundations of effective workplace communication, collaboration, and trust-building.
• Examine how emotional intelligence influences workplace relationships, leadership, and team dynamics.
• Learn strategies for navigating difficult conversations with greater confidence, empathy, and intention.
• Discover how mindfulness and presence can strengthen communication and improve workplace interactions.
• Identify approaches for fostering meaningful connections and psychological safety within teams.
• Reflect on your own communication patterns and leadership practices to enhance workplace effectiveness.
• Explore practical tools and frameworks shared by experts from VCU, the University of Richmond, and community leaders.

Skills You Will Build
Through interactive activities, guided reflection, and hands-on deep-dive sessions, participants will strengthen their ability to:

• Communicate with greater clarity, empathy, and intention.
• Build trust and strengthen relationships across teams and organizational boundaries.
• Listen actively and engage more effectively in meaningful workplace conversations.
• Navigate challenging conversations while maintaining respect, curiosity, and connection.
• Recognize and manage emotional responses during workplace interactions.
• Apply emotional intelligence strategies to leadership, collaboration, and conflict resolution.
• Practice mindfulness techniques that support focus, presence, and effective communication.
• Foster more inclusive, collaborative, and psychologically safe work environments.
• Translate new insights into practical actions that can improve team culture and workplace relationships.

Who Should Attend
This Summit is designed for:

• Faculty and staff who work in collaborative environments
• Supervisors, managers, and team leaders
• Employees interested in strengthening communication and relationship-building skills
• Professionals seeking strategies for fostering trust, engagement, and effective teamwork
• Individuals who want to develop greater self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and workplace effectiveness

No prior experience is required. Participants at all career stages are welcome.
Workplace Learning Summit Agenda.

There are still openings remaining at this time.

OR