Latest Happenings
Research Day 2026: Service Beyond the Stars
In honor of National VA Research Week (May 11–15), on May 8th, 2026, the Richmond Institute for Veteran Research (RIVR) proudly hosted our annual Research Day, titled “Service Beyond the Stars.”
This year’s event was a powerful celebration of scientific discovery, collaboration, and above all, service. We are incredibly proud to highlight the dedication and hard work of our researchers, physicians, and clinical teams whose commitment continues to advance meaningful innovation in veteran health research.
Equally, we extend our deepest gratitude to the Veterans who participated in our research trials. Your willingness to contribute your time and experiences is the foundation of everything we do. We simply could not advance our mission without your trust and partnership.
We also want to sincerely thank our community partners and guests who attended and supported this event. Your collaboration strengthens our work and reinforces the shared mission of improving care for those who have served our country.
At RIVR, Research Day is more than an event, it is a reminder that progress is only possible through teamwork, compassion, and service beyond ourselves.
✨ On August 26, the Federally Employed Women’s Special Emphasis Committee celebrated National Women’s Equality Day with an educational table highlighting the history and importance of this day. This program has been mandated
throughout the VA since 1973.
A big thank you to our amazing committee members: Meenakshi Bindal, MD (Co-Chair), Denise Lester, MD, FASAM (Co-Chair), Levetta Frasier, RN, Debra Jordan Cole, RT, Kristal Syracuse, MS, Mikela July, Administrator, Chauncey Roach, RN, and Brooke Albright Trainer, MD, FASA for helping bring awareness to this important milestone.
📅 First declared by Congress in 1973, Women’s Equality Day commemorates the 1920 ratification of the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote. It’s a reminder of progress made and the continued work toward equal rights and opportunities for all. 💪🌸
The Richmond Institute for Veterans Research was honored to participate in Boots on the Ground, a country western–themed event designed to support and celebrate Seniors and Veterans. The event brought together a wide range of community organizations, each providing valuable resources, information, and services.
In addition to the opportunity for meaningful networking, the event fostered strong community engagement and highlighted the importance of collaboration in serving Seniors and Veterans. Attendees also enjoyed themed activities, including music and line dancing, which created a welcoming and engaging environment.
Participation in this event allowed the Richmond Institute for Veterans Research to strengthen existing partnerships and establish new connections that will help further our mission of supporting Veterans within the community.
RIVR NEWS
Latest Happenings
Research Week 2024
On Friday, May 10th, the Richmond Institute for Veterans Research (RIVR) hosted the Richmond Veteran Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) annual research event to express gratitude to veterans and their families for supporting veteran-related research in Central Virginia.
March: Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
