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July 24, 2025

Read ahead in today’s issue for these items and more:

  • S’mores, firepits, and summer fun for students
  • Resources for faculty on enhancing engagement in the classroom
  • Registration for Meliora Weekend is now open
TODAY'S UPDATES

University launches search for next Warner dean

The University has launched a national search for the next dean of the Warner School of Education and Human Development. The search will be led by a University-wide committee chaired by Senior Vice Provost Elaine Sia. The dean will provide strategic and academic leadership for the school, guiding its educational mission, faculty development, research initiatives, and community engagement efforts. Applications and nominations are now being accepted. Find more information here.

Registration is open for Meliora Weekend 2025

From celebrity headliners and unforgettable performances to inspiring panels and engaging social gatherings, Meliora Weekend—September 18–21—is packed with experiences you won’t want to miss. Register today.


HEALTHY LIVING

When to seek medical attention for a rash

While you might be able to soothe irritated skin at home, the Medical Center offers guidance on when to seek medical attention for a rash.


ICYMI

@Rochester will be on hiatus next week

There are no issues of @Rochester planned between July 28 and August 1. If you have a submission for Friday’s issue, please send it by noon today. We’ll return to our regular weekday schedule on Monday, August 4.


FOR STUDENTS

Firepits and s’mores

Join Wilson Commons Student Activities from 7 to 9 p.m. on Monday, July 28, and Monday, August 4, for classic summer fun and enjoy a toasted s’more by the Jackson Court firepit. The event, which is open to all University students while supplies last, is weather permitting.

Workshop on time and stress management strategies for graduate TAs

Graduate students or postdoctoral fellows at the University will learn practical techniques to balance academic and teaching responsibilities while prioritizing their well-being efficiently. Register here to attend via Zoom on August 6 from 1 to 2 p.m.


FOR FACULTY AND STAFF

Session on setting the stage for robust engagement in the classroom

This interactive session explores how faculty can establish clear expectations, foster inclusive dialogue, and support student engagement. Participants will reflect on their own classroom experiences and gain practical tools for navigating challenging conversations and building academic community. Register to attend via Zoom on Wednesday, July 30, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Don’t sweat the small stuff

During Well-U’s stress reduction program, discover how to let go of the small stressors in life and reprioritize what is important. Register here for virtual group sessions beginning on Friday, August 1, at noon.

Transition your course to Blackboard Ultra for fall

If you have not already taught in Blackboard Ultra, you can still attend workshops to prepare for the fall term. This three-part workshop series will help you learn more about Ultra course view, transition an existing course, and provide you with the tools to teach in the fall. The workshops are offered on August 7, August 12, and August 14 from noon to 1 p.m. Register here to attend the workshop series. Can’t make the workshops? Explore self-paced training options.

Improve your online course discussions

Are you sick of reading “I agree” during your online course discussions? In this newsletter, find three quick action items you can take to improve your Blackboard course discussions and help further engage students.

Save the date for the 2025 Convocation ceremony

The Office of Orientation and New Student Programs invites all faculty and staff in the School of Arts & Sciences, the Hajim School of Engineering & Applied Sciences, and the Eastman School of Music to join University leadership for the 2025 undergraduate Convocation ceremony on Wednesday, August 20, at 9:30 a.m. on the Eastman Quad. The ceremony marks the beginning of the academic year and the academic journey of new students, and celebrates and welcomes the undergraduate class of 2029 and incoming transfer and exchange students.


FOR THE COMMUNITY

Learn CPR at Buffalo Bills training camp

UR Medicine and the American Heart Association will teach hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) through the HeartSaver Hub to fans during Buffalo Bills training camp at St. John Fisher University through August 7. Learn more here.

‘Pastries and Programs’ with Simon

Join Simon Business School for a pop-up event from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on Monday, July 28. Learn about flexible graduate-level options designed for busy professionals in healthcare settings. Visitors will receive an application fee waiver (a $90 value) and a complimentary cup of coffee and pastry.


THINGS TO DO

Stop: Hammock time

Two students sit in hammocks on a sunny day.

When the weather is nice, there’s only one thing for students to do: find a beautiful oak tree, tie a hammock to a sturdy limb, and take a quick break between classes. Maybe it’s because those sunny days often feel few and far between, but it’s one of our 12 essential experiences for students.

And, did you know that Rochester’s campus is an accredited arboretum? Recognized by Tree Campus USA, the arboretum is home to 7,716 trees and 212 different species on the River Campus and at the Eastman School of Music, Memorial Art Gallery, Medical Center, and the Mt. Hope Campus, with some dating back to the University’s earliest days. Here you can explore an interactive map that identifies trees throughout the River Campus.


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