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May 14, 2025

University honorary degrees, medals, and awards to be presented during Commencement

The University will recognize the outstanding contributions of several distinguished individuals and educators by presenting the institution’s highest honors for achievement and service, as well as awards for scholarship and teaching during Commencement Weekend, May 16–18. Review the list of honorees.

In today’s issue:

  • A reminder about River Campus parking during Commencement
  • iZone is hosting a student employee recognition event
  • Sonic yoga at MAG
FEATURE

12 essential experiences for Rochester students before turning the tassel

Two students in a hammock on River Campus.

From signature campus events to late-night chow, discover the must-do Rochester activities that students will be reminiscing about for years to come.


IN MEMORIAM

Flags will be lowered for Joseph Eberly

University flags on the Eastman Quadrangle and near the entrance of Strong Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Department will be lowered on Thursday, May 29, for Joseph Eberly, the Andrew Carnegie Professor of Physics and a professor of optics, who died on April 30. Eberly joined the University faculty in 1965.


ROCHESTER IN THE NEWS

What shoppers say about sustainability doesn't match how they spend, study finds

MSN News, May 8

“It turns out that package size, ingredients, and brand name are much bigger drivers of purchases than sustainability,” says Kristina Brecko, an assistant professor of marketing at Simon Business School.


FOR STUDENTS

Commencement weekend baccalaureate mass

The Catholic Newman Community invites all graduates, friends, and families to a Commencement weekend baccalaureate mass on Thursday, May 15, at 5 p.m. at the Interfaith Chapel Sanctuary. Seniors will receive their honor cords and a special gift in appreciation from Newman.

Explore your future at the Warner School

It’s not too late for Rochester undergraduate students to apply to the Warner School of Education and Human Development. Explore programs in counseling, teaching, education policy, applied behavior analysis, human development, higher education, and more. Connect with an admissions advisor to learn about available scholarship opportunities. Students can begin their graduate study as early as Summer B or fall 2025. Attend an upcoming virtual information session to learn more.


FOR FACULTY AND STAFF

Prepare for Commencement impact on River Campus parking

On Friday, May 16, the University will hold its Commencement ceremony, which will significantly affect campus traffic flow and parking. Increased traffic is expected on campus that morning as guests begin arriving, and all River Campus lots will be needed for guest parking. Given the heavy traffic flow and need for guest parking, departmental supervisors are encouraged to consider alternatives to staff working onsite that day, where operationally possible. Employees who must work onsite that day should park in their regular lot.

Medical Center employees who park in lots accessed off Crittenden and Kendrick Roads should expect increased traffic that morning and adjust their travel times accordingly. Lot 2 and 9 permit holders are asked to follow the regular parking overflow plan if needed.

Biomaterials symposium

Researchers across the University are invited to a biomaterials symposium on Thursday, May 22, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Goergen Hall, Room 101. Four speakers will cover topics from protein-based materials engineering and adaptive cephalopod-inspired materials to programmable DNA assembly and cellular mechanobiology. There will also be a poster session for students and postdoctoral trainees; lunch will be provided for all registrants. The symposium is being organized by the Center for Emergent Complexity in Biomaterials, a recipient of a Transdisciplinary Research Center Planning Grant.

Register for the fall 2025 Mindful Professor Training Program

This research-backed program equips University faculty and course instructors with tools to reduce stress, enhance presence, foster student well-being, and apply mindful leadership in the classroom and beyond. The fall sessions will be held from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. in the Saunders Research Building on September 3, 10, 17, and 24; October 1, 8, and 22; and November 5. Graduation will be on November 12. Free coffee will be provided at every session. Reserve your spot.

Unlock the cash value feature of your group universal life insurance

Did you know group universal life insurance offers more than just coverage? With the cash value feature, you can grow your savings by adding extra premiums. This money earns guaranteed interest and grows tax-deferred. Use it to boost your death benefit or cover things like retirement, education, a home, or unexpected expenses, without the limits of traditional retirement accounts. Visit Securian Financial’s educational microsite for more information.


FOR THE COMMUNITY

iZone student employee recognition event

On Friday, May 16, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., the Barbara J. Burger iZone will be open for fun, food, music, and recognition of the work senior students have done—and the contributions they have made—during their tenure as iZone student employees. There will also be a raffle to win camping chairs, a hammock, and swag bags. All are invited to attend.

Simon lunch and learn on AI

Join Simon Business School on Wednesday, May 21, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. for an interactive lunch and learn, “AI Can’t Do This: Communication Skills That Make You Irreplaceable.” From active listening to emotional intelligence and persuasive storytelling, dive into the tools that set you apart in a tech-driven world. The event is open to University undergrads and employees, including those at the Medical Center. A catered lunch is provided to all registrants; secure your spot.

Sonic yoga at MAG

The Memorial Art Gallery launches a new series, “Mindful MAGic,” with sonic yoga on Saturday, May 31, from 9:15 to 10:45 a.m. in the Fountain Court. Start your morning with a unique experience that blends mindful movement and immersive sound. Learn more and register here.


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