Rochester sets institutional record with four Goldwater Scholars

Four University students—Derek Chien ’25, Katherine (Katie) Hall ’24, Margaret (Maggie) Scholer ’24, and Hope Silva ’24—have been selected as Barry Goldwater Scholars, marking the first time Rochester has had four recipients in a single year. The prestigious national award supports promising US students pursuing research careers in STEM fields.

Researchers discover how to steer army of immune cells toward cancer

Immunotherapy, particularly CAR T-Cell treatment for cancer, is extending the lives of many patients. A team of Wilmot Cancer Institute researchers discovered the molecule responsible for guiding T cells toward tumors, setting the stage for scientists to improve upon the groundbreaking treatment.

Answering fun questions on social media puts your identity in jeopardy

Social media is a common distraction many people use to pass the time; however, you may be giving away more personal information than you realize, cautions University IT. If you’ve ever scrolled through your feed to find social media quizzes asking you to “Combine your first pet’s name and the street you grew up on” to formulate your new nickname, what you don’t realize is that scammers could take your answer and use “Mittens Mt. Hope” to circumvent password security questions. Even worse, they could look at your profile and crossreference any public-facing information your share to help steal your identity. The BBB offers some tips to avoid social media scams.

Study support series includes snacks with the provost

Stop by Hirst Lounge in Wilson Commons on Tuesday, April 25, between 8:30 and 10 p.m. to enjoy some snacks and chat with Provost David Figlio. This event is a study break hosted by Wilson Commons Student Activities. Additional study support events can be found on CCC. No need to register, just show up. As a reminder, unreserved student life spaces will be available for use. During Reading Period, both Douglass Commons and Wilson Commons are open until 1 a.m.

Practical ways to get moving with Well-U

Learn the benefits of breaking your activity into 5-minute or even 30-second bouts by joining Lisa Nichols, a lifestyle counselor with Well-U, for a virtual presentation at noon on Tuesday, April 25. Discover how frequent and sustainable movement can increase your well-being and tailor this approach to your specific needs including desk stretches, movement reminder triggers, and other creative strategies. Enroll here.

Learn about instructional needs survey results

The Teaching Center will present an overview of its recent instructional needs survey data and next steps on Friday, April 28, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Register to attend and contact the center with questions.

Strategic planning discussion forums this week

All students, faculty, and staff are invited to join a discussion forum this week to learn more about the University’s 2030 strategic plan goals and objectives, ask questions, and provide feedback. Registration is not required.

• Monday, April 24: An in-person session will take place at the Eastman School of Music, Ray Wright Room (ESM 120), at 11:30 a.m., followed by a virtual session at 5 p.m. via Zoom.
• Thursday, April 27: An in-person session will be held at the Humanities Center (Conference Room D), at 2 p.m.

Find the full schedule here.

Celebrate the installation of the Arthur Satz Professors

Join Gloria Culver, dean of the School of Arts & Sciences, to celebrate the installation of William Bridges, Peter Christensen, and Honey Meconi as the Arthur Satz Professors on Wednesday, April 26. The installation ceremony will begin at 5 p.m. in the Hawkins-Carlson Room, Rush Rhees Library, with a reception immediately following. Email the Office of Special Events with questions.

Learn about Simon’s Professional and Executive MBA programs designed for working professionals

Are you considering a part-time business degree? Join Simon Business School representatives for a program on the Professional and Executive MBA experience on Wednesday, April 26, from 5 to 7:15 p.m. This event provides students with the opportunity to meet current students and faculty, receive program overviews and a quick tour of Simon, and attend an “Advanced Pricing” class in person.

Studio X student showcase

Ever wonder what goes on in Mary Ann Mavrinac Studio X? Head there on Friday, April 28, for some answers. From 2 to 4 p.m., students will be giving a series of lightning talks and presentations on extended reality projects, like a product that allows you to safely confront your fears, a virtual alchemical lab, and Studio X: The Game. Light refreshments will be provided. Register if you plan to attend.

Lotte Lenya Competition celebrates 25 years

The Eastman School of Music will host the final round of the Kurt Weill Foundation’s Lotte Lenya Competition, as well as its 25th Anniversary Gala Concert, on Saturday, April 29, as part of a celebratory weekend of events at the Lenya Competition’s original home. The events are free and open to the public and will be streamed live via the Kurt Weill Foundation’s website.

Board of Trustees approves merger of men’s and women’s colleges

1952: On April 26, the University’s Board of Trustees unanimously approved the merger of the College for Women on the Prince Street campus and the College for Men on the River Campus into one fully coeducational college, housed on the River Campus. The move came after years of discussion and several months of intensive study on the proposed merger. The Rochester Alumni-Alumnae Review detailed the board’s decision; the construction of buildings, including residential units and administrative space, required to accommodate the change; as well as the reaction from the community.