Request for Proposals
Thriving Communities Research Pilot Grant Program
Program Goals
- Providing faculty with pilot funding to explore innovative and community-engaged approaches to their research.
- Supporting faculty who wish to incorporate community-engaged methods, even if they are new to this approach.
- Encouraging partnerships with VCU’s priority partner communities or other community organizations to address critical, community-identified needs.
- Creating opportunities for faculty to build preliminary data and evidence that can serve as a foundation for larger, externally funded projects.
- Empowering researchers to expand their methodologies and impact, regardless of their discipline, including creative arts, basic scientists, etc. or faculty who have not previously conducted community-engaged research.
- Advancing VCU’s commitment to Thriving Communities as outlined in Quest 2028 and DCE’s mission.
Thriving Communities Pilot Grant Recipients
Below are the recipients whose projects exemplify collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to building healthier, more resilient communities.
Project: Kare: RVA A Community Partnership to Improve Kidney Health in Richmond through Awareness, Risk Screening, and Education
Amber Paulus, Ph.D., RN, Associate Chief, Nephrology Research & Data Analytics, Assistant Professor, Department of Internal Medicine, VCU School of Medicine
Project Description: The KARE-RVA initiative aims to improve kidney health equity in Richmond’s East End by expanding screenings, offering genetic testing, and addressing social needs through community partnerships. Building on previous findings, the project combines health assessments with targeted education and personalized reports to support early detection and community-driven care.
AI for Thriving Communities: Enhancing Educational Outcomes Through AI Learning Support
Radhika Barua, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering, College of Engineering
Project Description: This pilot study will explore how AI tools can enhance STEM education and student engagement among secondary school students and teachers in the Greater Richmond Area. In partnership with local nonprofits, the project will assess the impact of AI workshops and classroom integration on teaching practices and learning outcomes.
Amplifying Teacher Power: Co-researching the Local Impact of Yale National Initiative on Teacher Fellows from Richmond Public Schools
Sara Wilson McKay, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Art Education, School of the Arts
Project Description: This project brings together Richmond Public Schools Teacher Fellows and VCU faculty to examine the local impact of the Yale National Initiative on teacher retention, professional growth, and classroom empowerment. Using a critical participatory inquiry approach, the team will co-investigate how the program supports educators and inform future strategies for sustaining teachers in the classroom.
A culturally informed service navigation model for connecting families in need with early childhood development resources
Virginia Chu, Ph.D., OTR/L, Director, Sensorimotor Performance and Rehabilitation Engineering Lab, Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Health Professions
Project Description: This pilot project aims to improve early intervention access for Spanish-speaking and low-income families by developing a culturally and linguistically informed service navigation model. Through interprofessional training and community partnerships, the initiative will connect families with developmental resources and address systemic barriers in Richmond neighborhoods.