The inauguration of President Sarah C. Mangelsdorf set the celebratory tone of the University of Rochester’s 19th annual Meliora Weekend. In addition to the inauguration ceremony and related events, Meliora Weekend events across all campuses showcased the exceptional talent within the University community and included noted headliners, unique speakers, interactive workshops, engaging lectures, student performances, and more.
HISTORIC MOMENT: In a ceremony filled with tradition, music, laughter, and optimism, Sarah C. Mangelsdorf was formally invested Friday afternoon as the University of Rochester’s 11th president. (University of Rochester photo/ J. Adam Fenster.) See more coverage from the inauguration ceremony.
PICTURESQUE: From left, first-year students Vignya Dontu, Akshita Bhogavalli, and Kylie Pitt jump for a snapshot in front of the Meliora letters on Eastman Quadrangle on a crisp fall day. (University of Rochester photo / J. Adam Fenster)
STORYTELLER: “I’m going to be a spokesperson today for why it is a good idea to be an English major,” acclaimed author Ann Patchett told the crowd at Strong Auditorium. “Books are not just something you read, and learn to teach them to others.” Patchett shared what she’s learned by interviewing other authors and about the process of writing her latest book, The Dutch House. (University of Rochester photo / Matt Wittmeyer)
CREATIVE THOUGHTS: John Foxe (left), the Kilian J. and Caroline F. Schmitt Chair in Neuroscience, moderated a discussion on the roles of creativity and discovery in the modern university at the Inauguration Symposium. Panelists included Elizabeth West Marvin ’89E (PhD) (second from left), the Minehan Family Professor, a professor of music theory and of brain and cognitive sciences; East High Superintendent Shaun Nelms ’04W (MS), ’13W (EdD), the William & Sheila Konar Director of the Center for Urban Education Success at the Warner School of Education; Catherine Kuo, an associate professor of biomedical engineering and of orthopaedics; Adam Frank, a professor of physics and astronomy; and Joan Saab, the Susan B. Anthony Professor and associate professor of art and art history and visual and cultural studies, and vice provost for academic affairs. Kuo says public perception often is that scientists aren’t creative people, but she argues that “creativity is an important part of our field.” (University of Rochester photo / J. Adam Fenster)
CLASS PICTURE: Members of the class of 1989 pose for a photo on Eastman Quadrangle. (University of Rochester photo / J. Adam Fenster)
SAY ‘ROCKY’: Josh Spenard, a project manager with University Facilities, takes a selfie with Rocky during the inaugural barbecue. President Sarah C. Mangelsdorf gave brief remarks at the University community event, which preceded her formal inauguration ceremony Friday afternoon. “I really appreciate how warmly I’ve been welcomed by everyone at the University and in the city of Rochester,” Mangelsdorf said. (University of Rochester photo / J. Adam Fenster)
STRIKING PERFORMANCE: Percussionist Austin Keck ’22E performs at the inauguration celebration Friday night at the Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center. (University of Rochester photo / J. Adam Fenster)
50 YEARS: Members of the Class of 1969 pose for a class photo after the medallion ceremony to mark their 50th reunion. (University of Rochester photo / Deron Berkhof)
TEAMWORK: Rochester alumni row in mixed college alumni race during the Head of the Genesee Regatta. (University of Rochester photo / J. Adam Fenster)
IN CONCERT: Jon Batiste, a singer, composer, and leader of the group Stay Human—house band of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert—acknowledges the audience in Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre Saturday night. At the end of the show, Batiste and his band took the show off stage and into the audience. (University of Rochester photo / Mary Cooke)
ALL TOGETHER NOW: From left, Aaron Engel ’19, Gersie Domond ’20 (front), Brandon Courteau ’20, Michael Keene ’19, and Brenden Eder ’19 pose for a photo. ( University of Rochester photo / J. Adam Fenster)
TALES TO TELL: Emmy-nominated actress, comedian, and Saturday Night Live alumna Vanessa Bayer entertained the audience at the Palestra with stories of her time as a drama instructor at summer camp and her time at SNL—including when she got the call asking her to be a new cast member. (University of Rochester photo / Matt Wittmeyer)
