University flags on the Eastman Quadrangle and near the entrance of Strong Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Department, and the flags atop the Eastman Theatre at the corner of Gibbs and Main Streets, will be lowered on Thursday, July 30, for Khristian Thornton, an ID access control supervisor in the Department of Public Safety, who died on June 14. Thornton joined the University in 2023.

During wildfire season, smoke can travel hundreds of miles, creating hazy skies and unhealthy air quality across New York State. URochester Medicine experts recommend taking these precautions.

Before heading outside this summer, check out this advice from Michael Gavin, an associate professor of clinical medicine and of clinical pediatrics, for protecting kids from too much sun.

Join the Office of Total Rewards today, July 17, at 11 a.m. for a webinar designed to help you better understand your health and dental benefits, including key healthcare terms, the medical and dental plan options available to you, and how spending accounts like FSAs and HSAs work. You’ll also learn about helpful tools and resources to make confident, informed choices during enrollment and beyond.

Save $3 on each Ride and Slide ticket at Seabreeze Amusement Park, now available in YOUR Benefits Extras under Local Discounts.

Unsure if you’re on track for retirement or where to start? With MMA Prosper Wise, you have access to one-on-one financial coaching at no cost. A financial coach can help you build a plan, understand your options, and make confident decisions, whether you’re focused on retirement, budgeting, or saving for what’s next. Members of your household can also use this benefit. Get started here.

The application for the Community-Based Participatory Research training program is now open. Through the program, community members and URochester faculty, trainees, and students learn together about research processes and shared values. Participants can form collaborative teams to develop and submit proposals for the CBPR Pathway to Pilot Awards. The weekly, seven-month training will begin in September. Learn more and apply by August 12.

Photonics Spectra, July 15

The National Science Foundation revealed plans to award $15 million over the next two years to launch the NSF STELLAR Engine in the Rochester/Finger Lakes Region of New York, led by URochester.

This news was featured across other outlets, including WXXI, the Rochester Business Journal, and News 8 WROC.