Flags will be lowered for C. William Brown

University flags on the Eastman Quadrangle and near the entrance of Strong Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Department will be lowered on Thursday, September 26, for University Trustee Emeritus C. William (Bill) Brown ’61, who died on September 9. Brown served the University loyally throughout his life in many volunteer roles including the Board of Trustees, to which he was first elected in 1985, and the Medical Center Board.

Gift card scams are ramping up

Malicious actors are requesting gift cards (Amazon, Google, Apple, Wal-Mart, and other retailers). The interaction typically begins through email and appears to come from an authority figure (professor, supervisor). The impersonator requests to continue communication through text messaging instead of email, and includes a simple “are you there” text. Do not call the number but do reach out in a separate message or call the actual person at a number you know to be legitimate if you feel it may be a true inquiry.

IT security reminds you to be vigilant about taking these four steps to verify messages, particularly ones with [EXT] in the subject line. If you suspect a suspicious email, you can forward the email to abuse@rochester.edu or reach out to either the University IT Help Desk at (585) 275-2000 or the Medical Center ISD Help Desk at (585) 275-3200 directly.

Wilmot’s Future Deaf Scientists program expands across US

For four years, high school students from the Rochester School for the Deaf have come to the Wilmot Cancer Institute to learn about cancer-related healthcare and research careers. With new funding from the National Cancer Institute, the innovative training program developed at Wilmot will be offered at four schools for the Deaf near new partner cancer centers beginning in fall 2025. Enrollment is expected to increase from about 10 students to 100 or more.

UR Financials, UR Procurement, and UR Student upgrades successful

The semiannual upgrade was completed over the weekend. An in-the-system announcement will detail any feature changes for your role. UR Procurement users can send an email or call (585) 275-2012 with issues after the upgrade. All others can contact the University IT Help Desk via email, by calling (585) 275-2000, or by submitting a support ticket.

Set, reach, and sustain your goals with Well-U

Whether your goal is to decrease stress, build better relationships, or eat more vegetables, Well-U’s goal-setting success program on Fridays starting September 27 can help you to succeed. Not only will you improve your ability to achieve, but you will also earn a $100 incentive once you complete the program. Register here.

Group hiking session

Join Well-U and Max Effort Training for the next group hike on Saturday, September 28, at 9 a.m. at Beatty Point Trail. Register here.

UR Out 2024 photo project

Are you an out member of the LGBTQ community and a University employee?  If so, consider joining our University-wide LGBTQ “UR Out” project. For National Coming Out Day the LGBTQ Advocacy Committee will share a collage of headshots of all out LGBTQ employees who wish to be included. Names, positions, identities, and other participant information will not be shared. The collage aims to be a powerful and visible representation that helps to foster a sense of community while letting LGBTQ students, coworkers, and patients know that they are welcome at the University. Fill out this form and follow the instructions to submit your photo by September 27. Note that if you participated in the past and wish to be included this year, you need to sign up again and submit a photo.

Apply for CTSI pilot awards for translational science

The Clinical and Translational Science Insitute is seeking applications for pilot projects in translational science and health equity. These pilots are designed to address common challenges and barriers to research and health equity across diseases and health conditions. Medical Center researchers are encouraged to submit initial letters of intent by October 21 at 5 p.m.

The anticipated start date for these awards is July 1. Email Karen Grabowski with questions. To find out more about these pilot awards and apply, visit the directory and set the “Filter by Funding Mechanism” box to “Pilot.”

UR Tech Store Apple back-to-school promotion ends September 30

Apple’s back-to-school promotion, “Buy a Mac for college and get AirPods. Buy an iPad for college and get Apple Pencil,” is now available at the UR Tech Store through September 30. The offer is available for personal purchases only. For full details, visit the UR Tech Store online or stop by the retail locations at the Medical Center (G-7220B) or Rush Rhees Library.

Help shape campus parking, transportation, and future improvements

The Department of Transportation and Logistics is seeking feedback from students, faculty, and staff. Stop by an upcoming pop-up event to share your thoughts about the future state of transportation and parking on campus. Your feedback will help shape recommendations as part of the comprehensive Master Plan. Visit on Wednesday, September 25, at Rush Rhees Library (vestibule by Connections) from 12:45 to 2:00 p.m. or Thursday, September 26, at the Medical Center’s Café 601 South End from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Enjoy complimentary snacks and giveaways. Email parking@rochester.edu with questions.

Students can join focus groups on September 25 and 26 to share their thoughts on campus improvements and enjoy free pizza. Hosted by the University Master Plan team, these sessions at the Medical Center, River Campus, and Eastman School of Music campus will gather student perspectives for the University’s long-term planning process. Sign up today to reserve your spot.

Community Dialogues series begins this week

Join the Office of Equity and Inclusion and the Susan B. Anthony Center for a time of community building and connection at the first in-person community dialogue this fall. All University students, staff, and faculty are welcome to attend on Wednesday, September 25, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in Douglass Commons, Room 407. Registration is required. Light refreshments will be provided.

OUTBreath queer-centered mindfulness series

Join OUTBreath, a queer-centered mindfulness series open to all undergraduate and graduate students, staff, and faculty. Kyle Trenshaw will be facilitating a queer-centered space inspired by Jacoby Ballard’s A Queer Dharma: Yoga and Meditations for Liberation. While all are welcome to participate, allies are encouraged to “step back” during debriefs to create space for queer voices and ensure a safe environment for everyone. Sessions are on Zoom at 5:30 p.m. on October 10, 17, 24, and 31. Sign up here.