DESI first-year data delivers unprecedented measurements of expanding universe
Scientists including Rochester researchers Regina Demina, a professor of physics, Segev BenZvi, an associate professor of physics, and Kelly Douglass, an assistant professor of physics and astronomy (instructional), have analyzed the first batch of data from the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument’s (DESI) quest to map the universe and unravel the mysteries of dark energy. An international science collaboration involving more than 800 scientists from around the globe, DESI is currently in the midst of a five-year quest to measure 40 million galaxies and quasars and create the largest 3D map of the cosmos ever constructed, with the most precise measurements to date.
In today’s issue:
A college course development fellowship through the Teaching Center
University staff can sign up to volunteer at Commencement
Attend today’s Learning in the Digital Age colloquium on exploring GenAI tools for instruction
An overcast sky didn’t stop the University community from celebrating yesterday’s total solar eclipse. Above, Rush Rhees Library and Eastman Quadrangle are seen during totality. Continue to follow the University on Instagram and Facebook for more photos and videos from the experience. (University photo / J. Adam Fenster)
Over the past year, Information Security has performed various phishing tests to gauge the security awareness of the workforce within the University and further educate the University community to be vigilant when interacting with emails. It is crucial to be wary of official-looking messages attempting to bait you into disclosing information. Phishing messages can appear to come from well-known applications, banks, organizations, stores, and contests, but there are several ways to identify emails as phishing attempts. University IT has put together tips using real-life phishing examples that can be found here. If you suspect an email looks “phishy,” do not respond or click any links or attachments. Report suspicious activity immediately to abuse@ rochester.edu; instructions on forwarding emails are available here. Have security questions? Information Security will be holding its next Ask Security Anything session on April 18. Visit the ASA web page for more information.
Need a study break? Stop by the Welles-Brown Room in Rush Rhees Library on Monday, April 15, from 6 to 8 p.m. and join the spring Destress Fest. Find activities like bucket hat and sleep mask decorating, refreshments, and more. Brought to you by the UHS Health Promotion Office.
The Teaching Center’s Instructor Spotlight is Shauna Paradine, an assistant professor of chemistry, who will offer a virtual workshop on Thursday, April 11, from 11 a.m. to noon. Open to all University instructors, this workshop provides best practices for engaging students in meaningful learning using visual elements and infographics. Register here for the Zoom link.
Workshop: Creating a Queer-Inclusive University workshop series
The Paul J. Burgett Intercultural Center offers Creating a Queer-Inclusive University, a two-part LGBTQ workshop series for student-facing faculty and staff to learn more about the LGBTQ community and become better allies. This series counts as an elective for the Well-Being in Life and Learning training program.
In Part One, participants will learn basic information about LGBTQ culture including current language and terms. In Part Two, participants will begin to gain an understanding of cissexism and heterosexism in higher education. The virtual workshop takes place on Wednesdays, April 17 and 24, from noon to 1:30 p.m. A Zoom link will be sent upon registration. Learn more and register by April 15. Email col.raimond@rochester.edu with questions.
College course development fellowship
Designing a new or redesigning an existing fall 2024 course that enrolls students in the School of Arts & Sciences or Hajim School of Engineering & Applied Sciences? Work with the Teaching Center and a group of colleagues over the summer to plan and meet during the fall semester to debrief and troubleshoot. Fellows are awarded a $1,000 non-salary stipend. Applications are due April 19.
Staff invited to volunteer at Commencement
Staff throughout the University community are encouraged to volunteer at the University Commencement Ceremony, which will take place in Fauver Stadium at the Brian F. Prince Athletic Complex on Friday, May 17, at 9 a.m. Volunteers will be a part of the excitement and have the opportunity to celebrate with the graduates. To learn more, including details on all the volunteer options available, sign up here. Staff should consult with their supervisor to ensure appropriate coverage in their office.
Build a better workout with Well-U
Learn exercises specifically made for you and your goals in Well-U’s Fitness 101 program starting on Friday, April 12. Get a plan, motivation, and support from others with similar goals along with a personal trainer. Reserve your spot.
Find care for seniors
Whether you’re looking for care for an elderly family member or help running errands, eligible employees can find caregivers for seniors locally and across the country using their free Care.com premium membership. Visit the family care web page for eligibility information or to enroll.
LiDA colloquium on exploring GenAI tools for instruction
This Center for Learning in the Digital Age (LiDA) colloquium series session will feature a set of conversation starters introducing three categories of GenAI tools—to support research, to support teachers, and for visual creation— followed by longer than usual breakout rooms when some of the tools will be introduced and discussed in more depth. The virtual session takes place today, April 9, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Register here to attend.
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