If the University of Rochester was…
a season, which one would it be? Or a flavor? Or an element? See if you agree with these descriptions in this fun social media trend.
Where are they now?
Devan Bajal ’19 was an environmental health major at Rochester and is now a fourth-year medical student on his way to becoming a sports psychiatrist.
All roads led to Rochester
Aekta Miglani ’04, ’10 (MD), ’13M (Res) was a Rochester undergraduate and medical student and is now vice chair of operations and medical director of Strong Memorial Hospital’s emergency department.
Making the most of college
From computer science to the Korean language, Mervyn Winn ’26 —a first-year Black Alumni Network scholarship student—is exploring it all.
NFL coach of the year
Brian Daboll ’97 was given this honor by the Associated Press after leading the New York Giants to the playoffs in his first season.
Thank you for being a friend
The Friends of Rochester Athletics support the University’s students, alumni, and sports teams.
Mt. Hope Family Center: a community resource, leader
For decades, Mt. Hope Family Center, part of the University of Rochester’s Department of Psychology, has been a local, national, and international resource, helping families and children navigate the most difficult circumstances around abuse and neglect. The center is also a research powerhouse in the field of childhood trauma. Join us and help the center offer even more hope in our community and beyond.
Medical Center staff ‘whack the wall’
In late February, emergency department (ED) and cardiology staff gathered to mark the end of Strong Memorial Hospital’s old ED, and they had some fun in the process. The Strong Expansion Project is a multi-year initiative that will add much-needed space to the ED. Chief Operating Officer Kathy Parrinello (featured in the video) says, “Today is visible evidence that this building is coming down and a new tower is going up.”
Thriving after heart surgery
This American Heart Month, Drew Costanza is grateful to return to an active lifestyle after receiving expert cardiac care.
Playing the course
Dawne Hickton ’79—a collegiate swimmer, business leader, athlete, and mom of six–loves to learn, play, and support men’s golf.
She’s the first
Nadia Niyogushima ’26, a first-year, first-generation student, is one of the Black Alumni Network’s first scholarship recipients.
Gift will support faculty, research, and students at the Warner School of Education and Human Development
Mary Ellen Burris ’68W (EdM) has committed to making a major gift to support the Warner School of Education and Human Development. The endowed gift, which will be funded through Burris’s estate, will support academic leaders, faculty research, and student success through the establishment of a deanship, professorship, and scholarship. This will be the single largest gift the Warner School has ever received.
Gift establishes a violin professorship at Eastman
A $1.5 million gift from Susan Ain ’78E and her husband, Aron Ain, establishes the Susan and Aron Ain Professorship for Violin at the Eastman School of Music. The professorship will support, recognize, and honor as well as attract and retain exemplary faculty.
Striking power
Why are noses broken on Egyptian statues? Find out at this Memorial Art Gallery’s exhibition.
First jobs
Amanda Tatem ’20 combines her engineering know-how with her passion for the environment.
Good books
Diane Boni ’84 recommends The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray.
For your health
Stretch yourself with these exercises to relieve stiffness, reduce pain, and boost mobility.
Renaissance man and mentor
Elliot Richman ’70, ’75 (PhD) serves as a sounding board for students and recent graduates through The Meliora Collective’s Mentorship Program.
2022: A year to reconnect
The University returned to (mostly) normal in 2022. As a community we gathered together in person again. We celebrated our traditions with renewed focus, and we even added a few new ones. We regained momentum in everything we do, too–from research to patient care to our creative and academic pursuits.
Gift establishes Eastman deanship and fellowship
Robert “Robin” O. Lehman has established the Marie Rolf Dean of Graduate Studies Endowed Fund at the Eastman School of Music. This gift creates two named positions: the Marie Rolf Dean of Graduate Studies and the Robert O. Lehman Graduate Fellowship. Both honor Eastman’s senior associate dean of graduate studies and professor of music theory, Marie Rolf ’77E (PhD), who is also Lehman’s wife. Rolf will retire on January 2, 2023, after 27 years as graduate dean and 44 total years on the faculty of the school.
Give me five
Q&A with David Figlio, University provost and the Gordon Fyfe Professor of Economics and Education.
Tune in
Looking for a compelling podcast or show to watch? Find some of our alumni in the spotlight and behind the scenes.
Taking a look at optics
Three alumni from different generations shed light on this fast-growing field.
Playing from the heart
Meet Jefferson Svengsouk ’05S (MBA), professor of emergency medicine and a Native American flute player.
What’s cooking?
Seasonal food and wine pairings, with recommendations from Overstreet, an alumna winemaker.
Art and science of wine
Kerith Overstreet ’98M (MD) talks about what it takes to make a great bottle of wine.
Wilmot Cancer Institute: Vic’s story
When Vic Perotti went in for his first colonoscopy at age 48, he worried more about the procedure than the results. His wife, Milagros, had been urging him to see his doctor to get checked out, but neither of them expected the news that came next.
From food stamps to the C-suite to the mayor’s office: Patrick Cunningham
The City of Rochester’s deputy mayor, Wilmot Cancer Institute board member, former CEO, and philanthropist focuses on a life without regrets. He recently made several gifts totaling $1.6 million to honor his late wife, JoEll Mileo Cunningham; advance cancer research; and support priority areas at Wilmot.
Music schools founded on the Western classical model face special challenges
Crystal Sellers Battle articulates a path toward long-term cultural change at the Eastman School of Music.
Celebrating Eastman’s newly endowed professorships
Teaching is at the heart of all that goes on at the Eastman School of Music. For the last 100 years, the school’s world-class faculty members have been helping students discover their greatest potential.
James C. Wyant ’67 (MS), ’69 (PhD), ’21 (Honorary) and Tammy Wyant commit $12M to the Institute of Optics
University of Rochester life trustee James C. Wyant ’67 (MS), ’69 (PhD), ’21 (Honorary) and his wife, Tammy Wyant, have established a $12 million professorship challenge to support the Institute of Optics and set the course for its continued growth, groundbreaking research, leadership, and scholarship. The Wyant Optics Challenge Fund is a 10-year initiative that will increase the institute’s faculty by 50 percent and advance its preeminent position in the field of optics. Specifically, the Wyant Optics Challenge will create 10 endowed professorships, a visiting professorship, and resources for staff. Optica, a leading society in optics and photonics, has signed on as the first Wyant Challenge partner. Optica’s gift establishes the Donna Strickland and Optica Distinguished Professorship in Optics, which honors one of the University’s most distinguished alumni, Donna Strickland ’89 (PhD), a recipient of the 2018 Nobel Prize in Physics.
Helping children smile
Clinton Morrison, MD—a URMC physician and director of the Pediatric Cleft and Craniofacial Center—leads outreach and advocacy efforts that bring hope and joy to children and families around the world.
SMD alumni give $1.5 million to support the Division of Plastic Surgery
Joseph Serletti ’82M (MD), ’88M (Res) and Bonnie Serletti ’90M (MD), ’94M (Res), recently made a gift to establish the Serletti Family Cleft and Craniofacial Humanitarian Outreach Initiative and a future professorship.
Go behind the scenes
Get a sneak peek of UR Medicine’s new Orthopaedics and Physical Performance Center at Marketplace Mall. The new center will serve the community’s urgent demand for clinical care, research, education, and wellness—all in one location.
Celebrating Asian female composers
Eunmi Ko ’06E, ’12E (DMA) and Ania Vu ’17E create “Music She Writes” to highlight diversity in contemporary classical music.
Arts + Identity
The Memorial Art Gallery presents two exhibitions that celebrate, honor, and educate visitors about indigenous and African cultures.
What’s cooking?
Enjoy some savory summer BBQ recipes, including the University of Rochester’s signature Mel Sauce.
From the ground up
Emma Rainwater ’11 and Naomi Salama ’08—farmers, entrepreneurs, and life partners—run Rainwater Farms in Honeoye Falls, N.Y., a small farm where they grow fruits and vegetables and make wood crafts from materials on their land. In this story and video, they talk about creativity, sustainability, and seasonal wisdom.
Gift establishes the Kenneth and Joy Ouriel Family Professorship in Vascular Surgery
Kenneth Ouriel ’77, ’86M (Res), ’87M (Flw) and his wife, Joy Bracker Ouriel, have committed $1.5 million to establish the Kenneth and Joy Ouriel Family Professorship within the Medical Center’s Division of Vascular Surgery. The couple’s endowed gift will advance excellence within the vascular surgery program and provide resources to honor, recruit, and retain world-class faculty and staff leaders.
An ‘unofficial second career’ with the University
One of the University’s most committed volunteers and supporters, Roger Friedlander ’56, celebrates a 70-year connection to Rochester.
‘Leave the light on’
Six Black members of the Board of Trustees share their experience and advice about leadership, diversity, and success.
Give me 5
This five-minute read delves into Simon 2025 and provides insights from Sevin Yeltekin, dean of the Simon Business School.
Ringing that bell
Jack Harrison—a 2020 Golisano Children’s Hospital Miracle Kid—is doing it all, proving that anything is possible.
Favorite spaces with Herb Smith ’91E
Go behind the scenes for a look at Smith’s home office and a tour of some of his favorite things.
Starting a sweet venture
Anna Gaines ’15 and Yuting Yang ’16—engineers-turned-entrepreneurs—sell cookies to spread joy.
Coming full circle
Four years ago, Matthew, Robert, and Nicole Gelb arrived on campus as first-year students at the University of Rochester. But it wasn’t their first experience at the University. About 18 years ago, they were just 29 weeks old when they were born minutes apart at Strong Memorial Hospital. The Gelb triplets then spent the first three months of their lives in the NICU. This year, each one graduated from the University—their parents, Jay and Sandra Gelb, couldn’t be more proud.
$3 million endowed gift establishes the Robert Sperandio Professorship in Entrepreneurship at the Simon Business School
A $3 million endowed gift from Jackie Sperandio establishes the Robert Sperandio Professorship in Entrepreneurship at the University of Rochester’s Simon Business School. For 40 years, Robert (Bob) ran Sporting Dog Specialties, a Rochester, N.Y.-based direct mail company that PetSmart purchased in 1997.
Building a spirit of entrepreneurship: Bob and Jackie Sperandio
For 40 years, Robert (Bob) Sperandio ran Sporting Dog Specialties, a Rochester, N.Y.-based direct mail company that PetSmart purchased in 1997. Along the way, he made a difference in many lives by providing jobs, modeling excellence and innovation, and building a spirit of entrepreneurship that has since inspired many.
Poised for Pride: Strong Earns Healthcare Equality Designation
Strong Memorial Hospital has again been named one of the nation’s leaders in LGBTQ+ inclusion and equality initiatives by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation (HRC). The Healthcare Equality Index (HEI) surveys health care facilities on policies and practices dedicated to the equitable treatment and inclusion of LGBTQ+ patients, visitors and employees.
Dedicated to science and the arts
For more than 60 years, James V. Aquavella, MD—a corneal surgeon and the Catherine E. Aquavella Distinguished Professor of Ophthalmology at the Medical Center’s Flaum Eye Institute—has been a leader in clinical practice, surgery, education, and research. He’s an avid art collector, too, who recently donated 15 works of art from his private collection to the Memorial Art Gallery.
Where are they now? Nick Pomianek ’21
Inspired by his undergraduate research experience in Ranga Dias’ lab, Pomianek is now pursuing a PhD in mechanical engineering.
Embracing inspiration: Abigail Hanna ’25E
This Wisconsin-raised, Ecuadorian American cellist and scholarship recipient is finding her groove at the Eastman School of Music.
Good books
Just in time for Father’s Day, Mitchell Hecker, University volunteer and parent of Ryan Hecker ’23, recommends Tim Russert’s Wisdom of Our Fathers.
Lucy Rorke-Adams, MD—a trailblazer, pediatric neuropathologist, and would-be opera singer
This friend of the University of Rochester’s Flaum Eye Institute delves into her legendary career, philanthropic interests, and passion for advancing the human condition.
Where are they now? Anis Kallel ’17 (KEY)
This Tunisia-based entrepreneur and former scholarship recipient is helping Africans–many of whom don’t use or have access to a bank account–harness new financial opportunities.
Running with John Zabrodsky ’82
This alumnus and former Rochester athlete talks about the impact of running on his life and why he gives to his alma mater.
7 with Coach Serra Sevenly ’15
March Matchness is around the corner–a perfect time to get to know the new director of rowing and head coach for women’s rowing.
Farash Foundation Challenge
The Max and Marian Farash Charitable Foundation recently established a $500,000 challenge to support the construction of the Greenbaum Center for Jewish Life on the University of Rochester’s River Campus. The Farash Challenge is designed to encourage other donors to join in helping to build the center, which will be the new home for Hillel at the University of Rochester and a resource for all students and the broader Rochester Jewish community.
Why I Give: Stephen Plume ’69M (MD), ’75M (Res)
This retired cardiothoracic surgeon and academic medical leader established an endowed scholarship to benefit future generations of medical students.
Meet the University’s Alumni Board
Representing all of the University’s schools and the College, this diverse group focuses on career placement, professional development, and creating a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive University community.
Her story: Kathy Waller ’80, ’83S (MBA)
This recently retired Coca-Cola executive, current University trustee, and new Women’s Network cochair talks about life, leadership, and lessons learned along the way.
Konar Foundation gives $1.75 million to the Warner School to support literacy
The William & Sheila Konar Foundation recently made a $1.5 million gift to establish the Sheila Konar Professorship at the Warner School of Education. The foundation also made a $275,000 gift to support the Project READ Fund, which will provide immediate support for the program along with related literacy book pilot projects.
It’s a small world after all: Navera Burki ’21S (MS)
By day, this alumna works as a data analyst for Barnes & Noble. In the evenings, she travels remotely to Pakistan to help students at the Al-Bayan School that she cofounded.
Why I give: Nancy Dianis ’85N (MS)
This alumna is committed to improving lives wherever she can. Here, she elaborates on her career, her time at the School of Nursing, and the reasons why she gives to her alma mater.
Why I give: Richard Kreipe, MD
Donor reflects on the importance of establishing the Mary Sue Jack Endowed Fund to honor his wife and underscore the importance of the nursing profession.
Women’s Network Scholar: Raina Plaisir ’25
For Plaisir, being a Women’s Network Scholar means that she’s gifted the opportunity to do incredible things, to turn her dreams into realities, and to forge her own path.
Sir Rocha Says
Find Simon alumna Linh Phillips ’13S (MBA)—the woman behind Sir Rocha Says—on social media, dishing on the best of Rochester’s food scene. For her, it’s all about shining a positive light on Rochester.
Engineering insight: Kevin Klem ’80
With employers like Hughes Aircraft, Raytheon, and Ball Aerospace on his resume, Kevin Klem ’80 now brings his expertise to the role of mentor for the next generation of engineers.
How to write your best college essay
The University’s dean of undergraduate admissions, Rob Alexander, offers college applicants some dos and don’ts in writing the personal statement.
Alumni at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics
Takuya Adachi ’04S (MBA) and Yuske Shimizu ’02 had the opportunity of their lifetimes this past summer: they both were part of the Olympic Games. Adachi worked in network technology and Shimizu was a volunteer interpreter.
Partners in mentoring
Ashley Campbell, PhD, ’09, ’10W (MS) and Karenrose Kamala ’22 share their thoughts on mentorship and discuss their participation in The Meliora Collective’s Mentorship Match program.
Take heart: A conversation with Sanul Corrielus ’98M (MD)
Losing his father at a young age to heart disease launched Corrielus on his quest to become a cardiologist. His wish: to empower people with the knowledge and tools to take care of their heart health.
$2 million gift endows professorship in Italian studies
A $2 million endowed gift from Arnold Lisio ’56, ’61M (MD) and his wife, Anne Moore Lisio, MD, establishes the Lisio Distinguished Professorship in Italian studies. The Lisios’ generosity ensures that exemplary Italian instruction and scholarship will continue at the University of Rochester forever.
Coming soon: The Sloan Performing Arts Center
The 30,000-square-foot Sloan Performing Arts Center had its soft opening at the end of August, adding a much-anticipated new building to the University of Rochester’s River Campus in time for the fall semester. The building will be fully functional by the end of the calendar year. The Sloan Center is made possible thanks to the generosity of University Life Trustee Thomas Sloan ’65, ’67 (MS) and Linda Sloan ’67 and other lead donors. Read more about the Sloan Center and get a behind-the-scenes look at artist Jay Yan’s installation of a specially commissioned mosaic that will span most of the building’s interior.
The University establishes its Global Emergency Response Fund
The University of Rochester has established its Global Emergency Response Fund, made possible through its Board of Trustees chair, Rich Handler ’83, and his company, the Jefferies Group. The Jefferies Group recently raised $6M for 45 charities to help Afghan refugees, military heroes, and victims of the Haiti disaster, and this generosity extended to the University. The fund will have broad utility and will support students, faculty, scholars, and others in the University community who are dealing with an international crisis. All new gifts made to this fund will be matched in a dollar-for-dollar Jefferies Challenge, up to $150,000.
Alumni forum: Returning to the office
Worried about going back to the workplace? Not sure how to manage it all? Three alumni career and life coaches—Sean Allen ’11S (MS), Julie Reisler ’97, Jonathan Meagher-Zayas ’13—give their tips and insights.
Taking suicide out of the darkness
In 1968, when Steven Schonfeld ’74M (MD) was a 19-year-old college student, his father died by suicide. Thirty years later, his brother also died by suicide. Today, Dr. Schonfeld dedicates his life to suicide prevention. Recently, he and his wife, Nicki, made an endowed gift to support URMC’s Center for the Study and Prevention of Suicide.
Realizing her dream to become a physician
Bianca Audrey Duah ’24M (MD)–the recipient of three scholarships–has wanted to pursue medicine since she was a little girl. Today, she is making it happen and is looking forward to contributing to the health, happiness, and well-being of her future patients.
On mentorship
Dr. Gina Cuyler ’92M (MD), ’95M (Res) is passionate about helping people fulfill their potential–especially young Black women in medicine. She is actively engaged in The Meliora Collection, is the cochair of the Black Alumni Network, and holds various volunteer roles at the University. Here, she provides her insights regarding medicine, mentorship, and the spirit of Meliora.
New Wegman Scholarship supports two East High grads
Dyanna Garcia ’25 and Deziree Garrick ’25, both graduates of the Rochester City School District’s East High School, joined the University’s incoming class this fall as Wegman Scholars.
New study mismatches vaccine doses to boost immunity to COVID and variants
URMC is participating in a new clinical trial that will mix-and-match the initial regime of an approved vaccine with a booster dose from a different manufacturer. The research will help inform public health decisions.
Through the lens of Seiji Yamashita ’20, ’20E
This Japanese American journalist and jazz pianist tells stories that give voice to the underrepresented and often unheard.
The joy and fear of returning to the office
Three accomplished alumni—Nicole Blake ’00, a human resources executive; Jeanne DiVincenzo ’80, a clinical psychologist and executive coach; and Paola Realpozo ’10S, a long-time telecommuting marketing professional—share their advice.
‘We helped and healed each other’
As the yearlong, $100 million Together for Rochester campaign closes, University leaders thank the campus and alumni community for making a “real difference in the lives of many.”
That’s the Rochester Effect
Lynne Maquat, PhD, reflects on her research journey and the incredible potential for RNA-based therapies to treat a wide variety of diseases. Watch the video and read more about how she and others at the University of Rochester Medical Center are attacking the pandemic, one RNA strand at a time.
Persistence and love
Thanks to both, Miguel Baique, a first-generation student, earns his doctorate in education from the Warner School of Education. “I give all the credit to my mom, an immigrant from Peru,” says Baique. “I’m living the American dream through my mom.”
Keep on Pushin’: Juneteenth and the Evolution of Emancipation
Watch this recorded REAL Conversations webinar featuring Dr. Scot Brown ’89, distinguished author and associate professor of African American Studies and History at UCLA. This event was hosted by the Office of Alumni Relations and Constituent Engagement in partnership with the Black Alumni Network, the Diversity Advisory Council, and the Office of Equity and Inclusion.
Music to his ears
After two heart surgeries and a series of strokes, Christian Woehr ’73E–a violist and avid adventurer–gained pitch recognition, which opened up a new musical world and prompted him to become a prolific composer. Learn more about his musical experiences and listen to one of his symphonies.
The give and take of entrepreneurship and mentoring
Barclay Keith ’12S (MS) and Brad Friedlander ’99 talk about how their alumni connection turned into a mentoring relationship and eventually into an entrepreneurial partnership that launched their company, Artis Technologies.
A day in the life of two music therapists
Within Golisano Children’s Hospital’s Sahler Family Music Therapy program, Rosemary Obi and Elaine Kong help young people get through difficult times through music. Here’s a snapshot of one of their days.
Marking 80 years since graduation
A lot happened in 1941. The Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, Citizen Kane was released, and gas was 12 cents a gallon. It’s also the same year that John Manhold, now 101 years old, graduated. Glimpse his original application and personal essay for a look back in time.
Gift establishes the Sobel Professorship in Radiation Oncology at the Wilmot Cancer Institute
A gift from Dr. Sidney Sobel ’73M (FLW) and his wife, Barbara, recently established the Dr. Sidney H. and Barbara L. Sobel Professorship in Radiation Oncology at the Wilmot Cancer Institute at the University of Rochester Medical Center. The professorship will support an accomplished Wilmot faculty member who is dedicated to advancing radiation oncology research and education. Brian Marples, PhD, has been named the inaugural recipient of this professorship.
Experiencing Rochester again and again
In the last year, Trixie (Sanborn) Meteyer ’67 has attended dozens of the University’s virtual events that feature faculty, alumni, and guest scholars. She often schedules her days around them, too, knowing she will always learn something new.
Start building and using your network
Dave Duryea ’83, a career Navy officer, retired Rear Admiral, and dedicated alumnus, enjoys helping students be all they can be. In his current role at a national security consulting firm in the D.C. area, he mentors students and lets them know about internships and job opportunities in the federal government that they might not be aware of.
Blending the old and the new: the Sequoia Reed Quintet
This innovative student ensemble delights audiences with its versatility and energetic approach to music. Reed quintets like theirs thrive on tradition and innovation—just like Eastman does. Learn more about Sequoia Reed and listen to some of their music.
100 years of Eastman
The Eastman School of Music is honoring a century of music–a legacy of musical excellence, education, and innovation. Learn more about Eastman’s centennial activities and its Centennial Campaign, and listen to some of Eastman’s students, musical ensembles, alumni, and faculty who are all shaping the future of music.
Evans Lam ’83, ’84S (MBA) establishes scholarship challenge at Simon
University of Rochester Board of Trustees member Evans Lam ’83, ’84S (MBA) recently established a $500,000 scholarship challenge at the Simon Business School. The Evans Lam Opportunity Scholarship Challenge is designed to encourage others to create new, endowed scholarships. Lam also contributed $100,000 to an unrestricted scholarship fund to be put to use immediately. Supporting students is a key aspect of the University’s yearlong Together for Rochester engagement and fundraising campaign.
Spring forward
Experts from UR Medicine’s Fitness Science and Center for Community Health & Prevention programs weigh in on how to emerge from winter and pandemic hibernation. Gain fitness know-how, nutrition tips, and meditation guidance from them–along with a variety of resources.
‘Alumni are in a position to help students, especially this year’
Many recent graduates, alumni, and students have seen job offers delayed and lost professional opportunities due to the pandemic. Alumni like Josh Richards ’12, ’14S (MS), the business planning and analytics director for North America at Sandoz Pharmaceuticals, are stepping up to help.
Doubling down to help others
Sisters Ranae and Shanae McKenzie have done just about everything together for as long as they can remember. In September 2020, they both started the accelerated baccalaureate program for non-nurses at the University of Rochester’s School of Nursing. They are also scholarship recipients who share a passion for learning, nursing, and helping others.
Celebration of Scholarships 2021
This year marks the 12th anniversary of the University of Rochester’s annual Celebration of Scholarships. Learn more about some of our scholarship students through their inspiring stories, messages, and videos. Thank you to all of our donors—your generosity makes their lives ever better.
Leading Through Change: Today and Looking Forward
Seven of the University’s distinguished alumnae recently participated in a discussion presented by the University’s Women’s Network. Watch the recorded webinar, read highlights of it, and learn about pivotal moments in their lives that served as catalysts for growth.
Then and Now: Being a student during times of great change
Irene Kaplan ’58 and her scholarship student, Johanna Matulonis ’23, compare what it was like living on River Campus during historic times—when the men’s and women’s campuses merged in 1955 and during the pandemic in 2020-21.
Fred Aman ’67: Legal scholar, academic administrator, and musician
University Life Trustee Fred Aman started playing drums at the age of four. Since then, he’s learned from jazz legends, worked with civil rights icons, and led an esteemed legal and academic career. Learn more and listen to some of his music.
That’s the Rochester Effect–Rochester is on a relentless quest
The University of Rochester Medical Center is at the forefront of the pandemic response, including testing four of the six major coronavirus vaccine candidates. Angela Branche, MD, and David Topham, PhD, discuss how Rochester is contributing to the science needed right now.
Among the first
Sean Bajwa ’18 and Genessis Galindo ’20 were among the first to participate in a recent pilot mentorship match program, which brought together first-generation students and alumni through The Meliora Collective.
Representation matters
Travon Walker ’21E, an aspiring opera singer, recently launched a crowdfunding project designed to introduce middle and high school students to classical music composed by Black, Indigenous, and people of color.
Helping women build financial confidence
Two alumnae in the financial services field–Marcia Mantell ’83 and Sherry Finkel Murphy ’81–offer tips, know-how, and networking perspective regarding money matters.
Five tips for applying to college during the pandemic
The University’s Admissions office offers advice for prospective students and parents as they lay out a path to college over the next several months.
COVID-19 vaccine: What’s RNA research got to do with it?
Rochester research into RNA structure and function provides key information for developing coronavirus treatments. The FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTech is based on RNA technology.
Naveen and Courtney Nataraj commit $1 million to the Together for Rochester diversity, equity and inclusion scholarship challenge
University of Rochester Board of Trustees member Naveen Nataraj and his wife, Courtney, have established a $1 million scholarship challenge to kickstart Together for Rochester.
Early signs indicate Coronavirus Vaccine is Effective
An interim analysis of study data from a coronavirus vaccine being developed by Pfizer and BioNTech–and with URMC ties–indicates that the vaccine is 90 percent effective in preventing COVID-19.
Phase 3 AstraZeneca Coronavirus Vaccine Study Reopens at URMC
After voluntarily pausing this study in September, AstroZeneca recently announced the official reopening its U.S. trial. The restart comes after a thorough review by the U.S. FDA and other international regulators.
Can the Common Cold Help Protect You from COVID-19?
Medical Center research suggests the colds you’ve had may provide some protection against the coronavirus. The research also suggests that immunity to COVID-19 is likely to last a long time–maybe even a lifetime.
Among the first
Sean Bajwa ’18 and Genessis Galindo ’20 were among the first to participate in a recent pilot mentorship match program, which brought together first-generation students and alumni through The Meliora Collective.
College finds a connection with students in Puerto Rico
Students who arrived as guests after Hurricane Maria have made their mark on campus—and helped the College attract more undergraduates from the island.
Gift establishes the Linde Klein Professorship in Head and Neck Cancer
A $1.5 million gift from David and Dawn Klein recently established the Linde Klein Professorship in Head and Neck Cancer at the Medical Center’s Wilmot Cancer Institute. Their generosity will forever honor David’s late wife, Linde, who lost her battle with head and neck cancer in 2011.
Cultural visionary, Arthur Satz, leaves the largest endowed gift ever in support of the humanities at the University of Rochester
Arthur Satz—a music major from the University’s Class of 1951 and the late president emeritus at the New York School of Interior Design (NYSID)—has bequeathed the largest endowed gift ever in support of the humanities at the University of Rochester’s School of Arts & Sciences. Satz’s visionary generosity will establish the school’s first named department—the Arthur Satz Department of Music—and a minimum of five professorships in humanities-related fields.
$1 million endowed gift will fund innovative research in chemistry
A recent $1 million gift from the family of John Zabriskie ’66 (PhD) establishes a new, endowed research fund in the Department of Chemistry. The fund will honor the shared legacy of Zabriskie and his mentor, Marshall D. Gates, Jr., who is known worldwide for his groundbreaking synthesis of morphine. This discovery is at the core of many of the medications used today for pain management.
Shaping lives through music: Howard Spindler
“Music has shaped my life, and teaching has been my greatest joy,” says Howard Spindler ’81E (MA), piano and music theory instructor at the Eastman Community Music School. A few months ago, prior to the pandemic, Spindler decided to include Eastman in his will.
Rowing for all
Before the pandemic, Cross Currents Minority Rowing Program made two gifts to support the University of Rochester’s women’s rowing program. On behalf of Cross Currents, Lydia Boddie-Rice, one of its cofounders, made a $6,500 donation to support the Rochester team and Patricia Rozzo-Leadley, the group’s former coach, donated the program’s rowing shell and oars, valued at close to $4,000. The gifts help continue the mission of Cross Currents, which was founded in 2006 and closed its doors in 2016.
‘We have a lot more history to make’: A conversation with Gail Lione ’71
Gail Lione ’71, a successful lawyer and volunteer leader, is passionate about women’s issues. Lione and her generation would become the first in many areas—in locker rooms, conference rooms, board rooms, and more. They were inspired by people like Gloria Steinem, Dorothy Pitman Hughes, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
Blazing new trails for Black women in science: Monique Mendes ’18M (MS), ’20M (PhD)
Monique Mendes ’18M (MS), ’20M (PhD) moved from Kingston, Jamaica to South Florida, when she was a teenager. Her parents came to the U.S. with the hope that Monique would live the American dream. And, because of her hard work, determination, and passion for science, she has.
Living in lockdown: Wuwei Chen ’11 recounts 62 days of official lockdown
Every year, Wuwei Chen ’11 goes home to celebrate Chinese New Year. This year was no different.
Happy 90th, Ray Ettington ’51!
About a year ago, Ray Ettington’s four daughters started planning a 90th birthday party for their father. Family and friends spanning the globe were going to make the trip to Rochester to celebrate Ray’s big day.
Dave Ocorr ’51: athlete, coach, administrator
Dave Ocorr ’51 has been an athlete, pro-baseball player, author, journalist, university leader, and more. As a Rochester student, he lettered in three sports and was captain of the baseball team. He was also president of Delta Kappa Epsilon, editor for the yearbook, and a sports editor for the Campus Times.
‘We have a say in our health’
When it comes to her wellness journey, Jennie (Fagen) Malloy’s story begins with some unconventional advice. While pursuing a Take 5 scholarship in voice at the University of Rochester, her vocal cords became inflamed and damaged. When Malloy’s doctor recommended dietary and lifestyle changes, she was initially skeptical and couldn’t imagine how non-medicinal remedies would help. But when she healed after following through with his advice, she realized just how much food impacts every aspect of our lives.
Getting the news out: Kim Gorode ’05 spends her days spreading news about COVID-19 testing options
Kim Gorode ’05 leads the public relations center of excellence at Quest Diagnostics, the world’s leading provider of diagnostic information services. She is responsible for sharing news about the company’s advances in science and innovation, including its recent launch of a direct-to-consumer COVID antibody test—one of just a few tests provided emergency use authorization by the Federal Drug Administration.
COVID-19 and public health: Jamie Sokol ’05, MPH, is helping to prevent and mitigate the spread of the virus
When the pandemic hit, Jamie Sokol ’05, MPH, was pulled in early. As the manager for workforce development at the Allegheny County Health Department in southwestern Pennsylvania, she and her colleagues had to implement the county’s public health emergency response plan, and they had to do it fast. That meant shutting down some of the health department’s programs, scaling back others, and building up new ones for an area that serves 1.2 million people, including the city of Pittsburgh.
Music and medicine: Todd Frazier ‘92E offers resources to calm, heal, and inspire
Todd Frazier ‘92E is a sixth generation Texan who went to the Eastman School of Music to study music composition. What he learned at Eastman transformed his life and shaped his career. For the last eight years, Frazier has served as the director of Houston Methodist Hospital’s Center for Performing Arts Medicine (CPAM). The center’s mission is to translate the collaborative potential of arts and medicine to the health care environment.
An insider’s perspective: Dr. Jeffrey Le ’08 goes from music to medicine to the frontlines of the pandemic
Dr. Jeffrey Le ’07 graduated from the University of Rochester with a degree in music. He was a member of the Midnight Ramblers a cappella group, with whom he traveled extensively, bringing music and joy to audiences around the world.
Tracking COVID-19: Paul Bleicher ’83M (MS), ’83M (MD/PhD) digs into data to help drive insights about the pandemic
A few weeks ago on a Friday morning, Paul Bleicher ’83M (MS), ’83M (MD/PhD) sat down at his desk and started looking for information on the number of COVID-19 cases nationally, interested in knowing what the numbers were by state and by county within a state. He was particularly curious about the Boston area, where he and his wife Julia Greenstein ’81M (MS), ’81M (PhD) live.
Tips and resources to support young people during the pandemic with Kim Fraites Dow ’98, ’98E of Girl Scouts
A few weeks ago, Kim Fraites-Dow, the CEO of Girls Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania, did what many others have done during the COVID-19 crisis—especially leaders who happen to be Eastman School of Music alumni. She set up an at-home office, complete with her laptop and a standing desk, a physio ball to serve as her office chair, and, yes, a dedicated space to practice her clarinet. Even though it’s been more than 20 years since graduation, she still plays when she can. And, during the pandemic, Fraites-Dow finds that practicing offers her a much-need respite.
‘Our community is rallying together’
In response to challenges arising from COVID-19, University of Rochester alumni, students, and friends have been reaching out to help. By mid-March, the University established two COVID-19 emergency funds—one to support the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) and the other to help all students with urgent needs—and the response has been remarkable.
‘Our parents and alumni in China are true University ambassadors’
In response to challenges arising from COVID-19, the University of Rochester recently established two emergency funds to support its Medical Center and its students who remain on campus—80 percent of whom are international—as well as those who have other urgent needs emerging from this crisis. The University’s network of parents and alumni in China has generously responded.
Catering to the community with Kristin Klock ’00
Kristin Klock ’00 is a small business owner who runs Root Catering and Kin Event Space. Her thriving, eight-year-old business came to a sudden halt a few weeks ago. “It all stopped, literally overnight,” she says. “Every time I checked my phone, there was a cancelation. Within what seemed like hours, we went from being a busy catering and event business to only being able to offer a take-out option.”
Everyone wins
Nana Afoh-Manin ’08M (MD) is an emergency room physician at Kaiser Permanente in Los Angeles—a city hit hard by the pandemic. Every day, she draws on what she learned at medical school, to treat the whole person. This means addressing acute health issues while considering a patient’s surrounding circumstances and socioeconomic conditions—all of which contribute to illness and healing.
New York City-based surgeon on the frontlines: spotlight on Gary Gwertzman ’87
Gary Gwertzman ’87 is a New York City-based vascular surgeon with the Mount Sinai Health Care System in New York City. Because of the pandemic, he and many other specialists have had to shift gears. For weeks, he has been using his surgical skills to help COVID-19 patients at Mount Sinai Hospital Brooklyn. Recently, New York Magazine featured him in one of its “Diary of a Hospital” daily dispatches from the hospital’s medical staff.
Nine ways to decrease fear during the COVID-19 pandemic Advice from Gina Cuyler ’92M (MD), ’95M (Res)
When Dr. Gina Cuyler was two years old, her father died—an acute illness overtook him in days. Soon after his death, her mother sold everything and moved from Panama to New York City in search of a better life for her and her young daughter. By the time Cuyler was four-years-old, she knew she wanted to be a doctor.
Coach Pat Stark: ‘He was part of our family’
Peter “Pat” Stark, who had a highly successful career as a coach and an administrator at the University of Rochester, passed away on June 19. He was 90 years old.
UR Medicine Home Care seeks in-kind donations
When asked, most people say they would prefer to stay in their own homes rather than go to a hospital or facility to receive care. “That’s especially important now,” says Margaret Wiant, UR Medicine Home Care’s director of public relations. “It’s critical that we, at UR Medicine Home Care, do what we can to keep people out of hospitals during the pandemic.”
Changing course to do what’s needed for URMC
Normally, Monica Brown-Ramos, a fourth year medical student, would fill her days with classes, clinical rounds, and serving the community through the University of Rochester Medical Center’s (URMC) UR Well program—a vital service that provides basic health care support to the most underserved in our community.
Meals on Wheels: feeding Rochester’s most vulnerable
Chicken with teriyaki sauce, barley risotto, vegetables, and a brownie—that’s one of the meals that nearly 1,000 volunteers will deliver this week through Meals On Wheels, a UR Medicine Home Care program. Each day, volunteers deliver nutritious food and provide daily check-ins to Rochester’s most vulnerable: the elderly and the home-bound.