February 5, 2024

(University of Rochester Archives)

The Institute of Optics, Hajim School, and University at large is remembering a longtime leader and pioneer in optics and holography. Brian J. Thompson, a provost emeritus, former dean, and professor emeritus of optics who is known for his pioneering research in holography, died on January 27, in Fort Myers, Florida at age 91.

The William F. May Professor of Engineering filled many roles in his career at Rochester, beginning in 1968 as the director of the Institute of Optics. He held the position until 1975, when he became dean of what was known as the College of Engineering and Applied Science. In 1984, he became provost and served in that capacity until retiring from the position in 1994. He helped shape the University’s growth in numerous ways throughout that period.

I had the pleasure of meeting Brian when I became dean, and I found him to be a warm, vibrant, creative, curious, and engaging person who continued to support and promote the University even after retiring. Go to the News Center for more information about his life and memories from his colleagues and students.

FIRST-GENERATION STUDENTS FIND MENTORS, RESOURCES, AND NICHES AT ROCHESTER

(University of Rochester illustration / Phillip Sennett)

For many first-generation students, a college education represents a path to a better life. But these students often face many obstacles unique to their experience, ranging from uncertainties navigating the college application process to finding a sense of belonging on campus.

The University published a story taking a deep look at the first-generation student experience at Rochester, highlighting some systems in place to help ensure these students have what they need to thrive academically, personally, and professionally. The story features the journey of recent alumnus Justin Pimentel ’23 (computer science) as well as advice from Emmanuel Ahishakiye ’27 (computer science, business). Read more at the News Center.

HAJIM INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

Congratulations to nine students who received Hajim School International Experience Scholarships to travel the globe this spring for life-changing experiential learning opportunities. The scholarships offer Hajim students up to $500 to help defray the costs of studying abroad, including program tuition, room and board, books, local transportation, insurance and international airfare.

These are the students who earned the scholarships and the names of the programs they will participate in:

• Leslii Walker Silveus ’25 (mechanical engineering)— Nanyang Technological University
• Gina Li Min Wang ’25 (electrical and computer engineering)— Nanyang Technological University
• Abdoul Rasmane Maiga ’25 (computer science)— Khalifa University of Science and Technology
• Kevin Xavier Segarra Valentin ’25 (biomedical engineering)— IES Abroad Madrid – Engineering, Math & Science
• Ivy Chang ’25 (biomedical engineering)— IES Abroad Cape Town – University of Cape Town
• Kara Sage Houston ’26 (biomedical engineering)— Queen Mary University of London
• Ahmed A Chaudhry ’25 (computer science)— University of York
• Max L Colognesi ’25 (mechanical engineering)— University of Sydney Exchange
• Rufaro Russell Gamariel ’25 (biomedical engineering)— IES Abroad Madrid – Engineering, Math & Science

CHRIS KANAN NAMED SENIOR MEMBER BY AAAI

(Quanta Magazine photo / Sasha Maslov)

Chris Kanan, an associate professor in the Department of Computer Science, is one of five scholars named a senior member by the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AAAI). Senior member status recognizes AAAI members who have achieved significant accomplishments within the field of artificial intelligence. Kanan will be recognized at the annual AAAI conference and in AI Magazine. Please join me in congratulating Chris!

TAU BETA PI OFFERS DROP-IN ENGINEERING TUTORING HOURS

Rochester’s chapter of the Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society is offering drop-in tutoring hours every Sunday. Students can get help with homework, projects, and general advice from upper-class engineering students in Tau Beta Pi. They will be available in Genesee Hall room 308 every Sunday from 1-4 p.m. and can provide guidance on the following topics:

• 1-2 p.m.—Audio and music engineering and electrical and computer engineering
• 2-3 p.m.—biomedical engineering and chemical engineering
• 3-4 p.m.—mechanical engineering and optics

For questions, email taubetapinyk@gmail.com.

REMINDER: THE MELIORA COLLECTIVE MENTORSHIP PROGRAM

Applications for the spring cycle of the Meliora Collective University-wide Mentorship Program are now open. Sign up by February 10 to be part of this unique and flexible three-month virtual experience with your hand-matched mentor or mentee.

This 3-month virtual program hand matches mentors and mentees to work together on professional/personal goals and is open to current students, alumni, faculty, and parents across the University. Mentors can be alumni, faculty, staff, or parents; mentees can be alumni or students.

It’s a terrific opportunity to share your expertise, make lasting connections, and dive into a shared journey of growth. Sign up today.

STRATEGIC PLANNING DISCUSSION FORUM FEBRUARY 8

Join Adrienne Morgan, Vice President for Equity and Inclusion, and Joe Testani, Deputy to the President, at noon on Thursday, February 8 for a discussion forum about the University’s Boundless Possibility 2030 strategic plan. An overview of the plan will be followed by a conversation with Adrienne about our MELIORA values, core beliefs, and success in each of our strategic goals. The event is free and open to all staff, faculty, and students. Registration is required.

 CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH

(University of Rochester photo / J. Adam Fenster)

February marks Black History Month, and the University will celebrate the occasion with various events, including discussions, exhibitions, and performances. Explore the events.

Have a great week!

Your dean,
Wendi Heinzelman