For the past year, the University of Richmond has adapted to provide students with engaging connections despite COVID-19 restrictions. The spring semester is no different when it comes to a wide array of opportunities for the Spider community to learn and join together.

Modlin Center for the Arts

A series of performances and conversations is offered through the Modlin Center’s digital stage this spring. Comedian, writer, producer, and political commentator Hasan Minhaj is joining journalism professor Shahan Mufti for a live conversation on March 2. Minhaj was named one of Time magazine’s most influential people in 2019, and he will discuss the role of comedy in his work related to culture, identity politics, and social justice.

University Museums

University Museums has also been finding new ways to remain accessible. Virtual walk-throughs of current exhibitions are available, as well as programming that overlaps with exhibition themes. For example, a performance with Richmond-based musician Héctor Coco Barez complements the exhibition “Action & Reaction: Looking at the Art of Social Justice.” Visitors can also request a visit for a self-guided or customized docent-led tour.

Department of Theatre & Dance

The Department of Theatre & Dance worked to create a virtual production of “Blood at the Root,” a drama about racial injustice, based on a series of events in 1912 that led to an entire Black community being forced out of a county in Georgia.

“Our students’ commitment to creating new modes of theater in these challenging times has been inspirational,” said visiting lecturer Melissa Freilich. More information on performances can be found on Modlin’s site for performances and events.

Center for Student Involvement

Student organizations are working through the COVID-19 restrictions to provide an engaging campus experience virtually. Whether Spiders are looking for group exercise, fellowship, service, or entertainment, activities — such as virtual dance classes and a Zoom yoga classes — can be found through the UR Involved app.  

“The CSI team has been working continuously to keep our organizations informed and supported in these program offerings,” said Lauren Foligno, the Center for Student Involvement’s assistant director of programming. “It has not been easy, but we are certainly proud of the work we have done and the efforts made by our students to keep engaged and active.”

UR Well

The newly opened Well-Being Center combines all campus health care in one location, designed to be a collaborative environment to support student learning, well-being, and success. A roster of online programming is available covering topics from body image to anxiety management.

The Spider Demo Kitchen promotes lifelong culinary and nutrition skills through cooking demonstrations and classes. Located in the Well-Being Center, these programs enable participants to better understand nutrition and learn cooking techniques. Demonstrations are taught by UR’s culinary dietician, UR chefs, and visiting guest chefs.

The Weinstein Center for Recreation is open with limited capacity for students, faculty, and staff. Classes are available, and a larger selection of classes from barre to yoga is available virtually.  

Outdoor Adventure and Recreation (OAR) Program

Other areas of campus, like the Outdoor Adventure and Recreation Program, are also offering safe opportunities for students. In addition to the campus bike share, lawn games are set-up for pop-up games in front of the Weinstein Center. Later this semester, guided trail runs through campus, outdoor meditation sessions, plant and animal identification courses, and bike maintenance clinics will be offered.