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VCU Massey Cancer Center is hosting its second year of Massey Dialogues, a series that aims to promote open and honest conversations about social identity. During four sessions between August and November, participants will read and discuss the VCU Common Book, “Seek You: A Journey Through American Loneliness.”

The facilitator for Massey Dialogues is Tremayne D. Robertson, director for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) at Massey, which the National Cancer Institute designated as a Comprehensive Cancer Center earlier this year.

The Massey Dialogues series begins this month. Why is the issue of loneliness especially timely to discuss, and why is it important for an institution like Massey to host this type of dialogue?

Loneliness is a cross-cutting issue, especially following the height of COVID-19 and lockdowns around the world. Loneliness itself is a feeling of lacking meaningful and fulfilling relationships. Who hasn't felt this way? I have.

According to some studies, about one in three Americans experiences loneliness. People who experience loneliness have a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety and premature death. Loneliness and social isolation can increase cancer incidence. Loneliness and social isolation are a damaging combination for cancer survivors. The negative outcome of loneliness is comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

These facts and statistics from the literature make loneliness a clear health imperative to consider, especially for the most vulnerable individuals in our catchment across Virginia. It is appropriate for Massey to contemplate this issue because we care deeply about the communities we serve.

Tremayne Robertson, Director for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) at Massey

From a DEI perspective, how rewarding is it for you to facilitate this type of program?

The individuals most impacted by loneliness are older adults, immigrants, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, underrepresented racial groups and people with lower incomes. Loneliness is very much a DEI issue. I enjoy bringing people together to discuss topics and issues that are meaningful; together we can work together to find solutions to support one another.

For anyone who is not able to participate in this series, why would you still encourage them to read the VCU Common Book?

The Common Book allows Massey, the university and community to be in conversation with one another around loneliness, which is a silent epidemic. Also, “Seek You” provides a reflection point and reminder about the comprehensive level of care needed for cancer patients and community members. I hope the book nudges us to nurture and value relationships at work and personally. One Team. One Fight.

Registration is now open for the sessions:

• Aug. 23, Noon-1:15 p.m.
• Sept. 27, 5-6:15 p.m.
• Oct. 18, 7:30-8:45 a.m.
• Nov. 1, Noon-1:15 p.m.

Each session will be held in the Thalhimer Conference Room inside the Goodwin Research Library (GRL), 401 College Street.

Registrants can pick up a copy of the Common Book at the front desk of GRL.

Interview by: Amy Lacey