‘Strat chat’ with Joe Testani

On Friday, February 14, from noon to 1 p.m. on Zoom, Joe Testani, the deputy to the president, will provide an update on and answer questions about Boundless Possibility, the University’s 2030 strategic plan. Register to attend.

Undergraduate summer research funding

The Institute for Human Health and the Environment is seeking applications from undergraduate students who are passionate about engaging in mentored research related to the impact of environmental exposures on human health and the many factors—social, economic, and cultural—that contribute to environmental health problems. Students from arts, education, humanities, and STEM backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Information session on Simon’s new AI course

Curious about how AI can transform higher education? Join a virtual information session on Wednesday, February 12, at noon to explore Simon Business School’s new spring course, Generative AI in Practice: Higher Ed Applications for Faculty and Staff. The course is designed for University faculty, staff, and affiliates to provide practical tools and frameworks for integrating AI into university workflows. It will guide participants in determining how, where, and when to use AI while addressing key challenges and questions in higher education. Email AIHigherEdCourse@simon.rochester.edu to RSVP for the information session.

The course is offered on Wednesdays, April 2–16, from noon to 1:30 p.m. in Gleason Hall, Room 118. The cost of the course is $850; UR Tuition Benefits may cover 80 to 95 percent of the cost for eligible employees. Registration closes on March 21, and space is limited.

Don’t let osteoarthritis limit you

Discover how to stay active and improve your quality of life with osteoarthritis. In Well-U’s coaching program, you will be guided in what changes you can make to feel your best. Save your spot here.

Child care subsidy tax reminder

Your 2024 child care subsidy award and any voluntary dependent care FSA contributions will be reported in Box 10 on your W-2. Consult with your personal tax advisor regarding any tax impact for you, particularly if you do not claim the entire award you receive. Review IRS Form 2441 with your personal tax advisor to determine how to account for your dependent care FSA benefits.

Support student groups at the Shops@Wilco

Students, staff, and faculty can get into the Valentine’s Day spirit this week at the Shops@Wilco. Student organization shops raising funds include After Hours (serenades), Alpha Kappa Psi, Bhangra (chocolate box), Rice Crew, SALSEROS, and Senior Giving. Find them on the first floor of Wilson Commons.

LiDA colloquium on student and educator perspectives about AI

The next Center for Learning in the Digital Age (LiDA) colloquium series session will involve reports and short videos about surveys conducted on perceptions of using AI in education. Learn more about the surveys and the session and register to attend via Zoom today, February 11, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

DPS giveaway enhances vehicle safety

Students, faculty, and staff are invited to stop by Lot 1-Crittenden on Wednesday, February 12, from 7 to 9 a.m. or 4 to 5 p.m. to pick up a free steering wheel lock and get to know the Department of Public Safety’s Office of Community Engagement.

Restorative Dialogues session

The Office of Equity and Inclusion and the Susan B. Anthony Center offer the spring semester’s Restorative Dialogues series, open to all University students, staff, and faculty. Share what’s in your heart and on your mind, and explore restorative practices. This month’s theme is “Building Strong Connections with Others.” Register here to attend the virtual session on Thursday, February 13, from noon to 1 p.m.

Fall in love with VR graffiti

Spend your Valentine’s Day with Studio X making 3D art. This workshop will guide you through the basics of Multibrush, a virtual reality (VR) drawing app. You’ll learn to navigate its features to create your own graffiti masterpiece and have a chance to compete with others in a contest for prizes. Register to attend.

Virtual event on cleaning up the aging brain

Attend a virtual event on Thursday, February 20, at noon to learn how a team of Rochester engineers and neuroscientists are collaborating to uncover the mechanisms behind brain fluid flow to enhance brain health. Learn more and register here.

Plutzik Reading Series welcomes author Gabriel Bump

Author Gabriel Bump gives a reading on Thursday, February 20, at 5 p.m. in the Welles-Brown Room, Rush Rhees Library, as part of the Plutzik Reading Series. He will also answer questions about his writing process, inspiration, and more. Copies of his books will be available for purchase. The event is free and open to the public.

Run, walk, or pledge your support for transplant patients at Strong

The Rochester River Run returns to Genesee Valley Park on Sunday, April 13. You can run or walk the scenic 5K route. Proceeds benefit the Transplant Patient Fund in support of patients awaiting and recovering from heart, liver, kidney, or pancreas transplant surgery at Strong Memorial Hospital. Learn more, register, or pledge your support.

Medical Center and community engagement mini-grants

Supported and funded by the Center for Community Health & Prevention and the Clinical & Translational Science Institute, mini-grants are one-time grants up to $2,000 that provide Medical Center and community partnerships with additional funding to address concerns such as transportation, child care, meeting space rental, and refreshments. The next application deadline is April 16.