VCU Life Sciences and Sustainability

05/29/2026

One year down — and we’re just getting started.

From hands-on learning and field research to innovative labs, dedicated faculty, and endless opportunities for students to grow, the VCU School of Life Sciences and Sustainability is building something truly exciting.

Whether your passion is biology, environmental studies, bioinformatics, sustainability or beyond, SLSS is a place where curiosity leads to impact.

Swipe through to learn more about who we are, what we offer and why SLSS could be the right fit for you.

And this is only the beginning
Over the next few weeks, we’ll be highlighting each of our programs and sharing even more about what makes our school special.

05/26/2026

“Is it safe to swim in the James?”

SLSS alum Tom Dunlap ’11, M.S. ’14 says the answer is usually yes, with some important caveats.

Now serving as the James River Keeper at the James River Association, Tom recently shared insights with Style Weekly on water quality, river safety and the decades of restoration work that have helped make the James one of Richmond’s greatest assets.

From his time studying environmental studies and biology at VCU to protecting the James today, Tom’s work reflects the impact of science, sustainability and community engagement in action.

Read the full article from Style Weekly:

The short answer: yes. The longer answer: It depends.

05/21/2026

We’re proud to highlight Ed Acevedo, Senior Associate Director of the School of Life Sciences and Sustainability and Professor of Kinesiology and Health Sciences at VCU, who was recently featured in American Kinesiology Association’s Kinesiology Today!

The feature spotlights Dr. Acevedo’s experience as a Fulbright U.S. Scholar in Brazil, where he collaborated on international research projects focused on physical activity, brain health, and psychophysiological responses to exercise. His work continues to expand global research partnerships while creating transformational learning opportunities for students both at VCU and abroad.

Congratulations to Dr. Acevedo on this well-deserved recognition and for representing SLSS on an international stage.

Read the full feature here:

05/20/2026

How can cities use nature to better adapt to climate change?

New research from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Life Sciences and Sustainability professor Brian Verrelli explores how evolution can shape nature-based solutions like urban trees, wetlands and oyster beds to help cities adapt to climate change and environmental stressors.

Read more here:

Evolutionary geneticist Brian Verrelli usually studies the past. Now, he’s looking to the future as cities adapt to climate change.

05/18/2026

What happens when conservation, science, and community advocacy intersect? A recent feature from Richmond Magazine highlights the ongoing conversation surrounding Powell Creek and the importance of protecting the James River ecosystem, including insights from VCU School of Life Sciences faculty member Greg Garman.

The article explores concerns surrounding a proposed dredging project and its potential impact on wildlife, water quality, and historically significant habitats along the James River. Greg’s expertise helps shed light on the long-term ecological implications and the importance of preserving these fragile ecosystems for future generations.

Read the full story from Richmond Magazine here:

Plans to dredge a tributary stir up trouble in Prince George.

05/13/2026

Proud to partner with the James River Association and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, to support important conservation efforts along the James River. From tracking migratory fish populations to protecting critical habitats, this work helps strengthen the future of our local ecosystems.

05/06/2026

The VCU School of Life Sciences and Sustainability’s Native Plant–Pollinator Biodiversity Project is helping grow pollinator-friendly habitats across Richmond — one garden at a time.

Led by Dr. Colleen Higgins and SLSS student researchers, the initiative sold out all 30 student-grown native garden kits at the Maymont Herbs Galore sale, connecting community engagement with hands-on ecological research and conservation efforts.

Read more:

VCU Native Plant-Pollinator Biodiversity Project Connects Community and ConservationMay 6, 2026The VCU School of Life Sciences and Sustainability’s Native Plant–Pollinator Biodiversity Project sold out all 30 student-grown garden kits at the Maymont Herbs Galore sale, helping expand pollinator-f...

05/04/2026

Sustainability and style come together at VCU’s Free Store with the launch of the new Curated Closet—a student-led initiative designed to keep clothing in circulation and reduce textile waste.

The project also connects to VCU’s Sustainable Innovation Certificate, offered through the School of Life Sciences and Sustainability, which equips students across disciplines with the tools to advance real-world sustainability solutions.

From promoting circular fashion to supporting a zero-waste campus, this initiative reflects how sustainability is being embedded across VCU.

Read the full story:

Two VCUarts students are expanding access to fashion while addressing textile waste.

04/30/2026

Biology and sociology alum Krissi Vandenberg (B.S.’96, M.S.’07) turned her passion for animals and community activism into a leadership career with Vegan Action.

From her time at Virginia Commonwealth University to leading national advocacy efforts, her journey shows how interdisciplinary learning and purpose-driven work can create meaningful impact.

Read her story:

Biology and sociology alum’s advocacy work on campus inspires leadership career at Vegan ActionApril 21, 2026Author: Nathan Heintschel (B.A.’14)Krissi Vandenberg (B.S.’96, M.S.’07) found a way to help animals by pairing her education with her work in community activismKrissi Vandenberg (B.S....