Samuel Thomas named dean of the School of Arts & Sciences

Following a national search, the University has appointed Samuel (Sam) William Thomas III ’00 as the next Robert L. and Mary L. Sproull Dean of the School of Arts & Sciences. Thomas currently serves as senior dean of academic affairs and professor of chemistry in the School of Arts and Sciences at Tufts University. He will officially join the University on January 1.

Opinion journalism in a polarized age: vital or vitriol?

New research from Zeynep Soysal, an associate professor of philosophy, says opinion journalism helps the public navigate uncertainty—if its role is properly framed. Explore the research.

Blackboard Ally launch, workshops

The Blackboard Ally accessibility tool will be enabled on Monday, September 15. Ally is helpful for faculty as it provides them with guidance in improving the accessibility of course content. It also benefits students by automatically generating alternative formats, ensuring access to materials in ways that best meet their needs.

Register at the following links for half-hour Zoom workshops for faculty about Ally and accessibility on Wednesday, September 17, at 4 p.m., or Tuesday, September 23, at 2 p.m. Faculty can also access resources from University IT and the Digital Accessibility Team.

How to navigate decision paralysis

Feeling stuck when faced with choices, big or small? Read the September blog from Behavioral Health Partners about practical strategies to help you overcome decision paralysis.

Bills and Brews fundraiser benefits Strong Memorial Hospital

Join Friends of Strong Memorial Hospital on Sunday, September 14, from 12:30 to 4 p.m. for the Bills and Brews fundraiser at Three Heads Brewery. Watch the Buffalo Bills vs. New York Jets game, enjoy food and beer pairings, a sweepstakes, and a silent auction with donations from local businesses. All proceeds benefit patient and family-centered care at Strong Memorial Hospital. Advance tickets are $30; tickets at the door will be $35 while supplies last.

Steadman Family Awards celebration

The Steadman Family Postdoctoral Associate Prize in Interdisciplinary Research offers a monetary award to recognize outstanding postdoctoral associates or fellows at Rochester. Attend a celebration on Monday, September 15, from 3 to 4:30 p.m. in the Hawkins-Carlson Room, Rush Rhees Library, featuring four-minute research presentations from postdocs across disciplines. An awards ceremony and reception with light appetizers will follow.

Explore graduate study at the Warner School

Join the Warner School of Education and Human Development for a virtual information session on Wednesday, September 17, from 8 to 9 a.m. Discover graduate program options, learn about scholarship opportunities that can significantly reduce tuition, and explore Warner’s rolling admissions process. Register to attend.

Escape room experience at iZone

A thrilling adventure awaits you at the Barbara J. Burger iZone. “Caving Gone Wrong,” an escape room experience, will test your problem-solving skills under pressure. Learn more and register to attend September 18–20, between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Opioid overdose prevention training

Students, staff, and faculty can join the Health Promotion Office and Monroe County IMPACT Team for opioid overdose prevention training on Thursday, September 25, from noon to 1 p.m. in Genesee Hall, Room 325. All attendees over age 18 will receive a free Narcan kit. Registration is required.

Fall Gateways Music Festival events at Eastman

Highlights of this fall’s Gateways Music Festival, taking place October 13–16 at the Eastman School of Music, include collaborations with Terence Blanchard at the inaugural Soundtrax Film-Music Festival, a performance of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s Nonet, and the return of the Young Musicians Institute. Find the full festival schedule and ticketing information here.