Spring 2025
Meliora! A message from our Chair
As spring approaches, our campuses at the University of Rochester are buzzing with vibrant events and activities. Every day, students, faculty, and staff are immersed in a journey of learning and growth.
On May 1, we invite you to celebrate the University and Medical Center’s annual Day of Giving. As a valued member of the George Eastman Circle, your support makes a lasting impact. You can participate by renewing your membership, making a pledge payment, contributing an additional gift, or considering a challenge donation.
The University of Rochester is a remarkable community of scholars, healers, artists, musicians, and dedicated supporters like you. Together, we drive innovation and excellence. Your continued generosity strengthens our mission, and we are truly grateful for your commitment.
Meliora,
Evans Lam ’83, ’84S (MBA)
Member, Board of Trustees
National Chair, George Eastman Circle
Day of Giving is May 1—join the challenge now!
Dr. Donald Grover ’62, ’66M (MD), ’73M (Res), and his wife Karen Grover, have committed $250,000 for a George Eastman Circle Day of Giving Challenge!
The first $100,000 will be unlocked when 15 new members join the George Eastman Circle. The remaining $150,000 will be unlocked when 450—or more—members participate by making a pledge payment, renewing their membership, or making an additional gift.
A breakthrough that gave one family hope
When Noah’s world was turned upside down by a devastating diagnosis, a national clinical trial at URMC became a beacon of hope. Through cutting-edge research and compassionate care, this trial didn’t just offer treatment—it gave his family precious moments and a renewed sense of possibility. Noah’s journey is a powerful testament to the life-changing impact of medical innovation fueled by donors like you.
From courtside to Wall Street: Jon Onyiriuka’s journey
As a four-year starter for the University of Rochester Yellowjackets, Jon Onyiriuka ’08 scored 1,267 career points and led the team to three NCAA tournament appearances—a foundation that shaped his success beyond the court. Now a managing director at BTIG, he applies the same discipline, teamwork, and strategic thinking to the fast-paced world of finance.
Jon stays connected to Rochester as a guest speaker for Athletics, a member of The Meliora Collective, and a supporter of future athletes through the Onyiriuka Family Endowment for Men’s Basketball.
Nicole Sampson named University of Rochester Provost
The University of Rochester welcomes Nicole Sampson as its new provost and chief academic officer, effective February 1. A distinguished leader in higher education, Sampson previously served as interim provost and has played a key role in advancing the university’s academic mission. With a strong commitment to enhancing research, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and reimagining education, she is set to lead the university into an exciting new era.
Upcoming Events
As a valued member, we encourage you to visit our George Eastman Circle events page regularly for upcoming event opportunities. Here are just a few of the many exciting events coming up:
March 18: George Eastman Circle Fellows+ Virtual Speaker Series
March 19: George Eastman Circle Faculty & Staff Reception, Rochester, NY
March 27–29: University of Rochester Women’s Summit, New York, NY
April 9: George Eastman Circle Stewardship Reception, Washington, D.C.
April 23: George Eastman Circle Family Celebration, Rochester, NY
May 1: Day of Giving
May 16–18: Class of 2025 Commencement Weekend
May 22: George Eastman Circle Stewardship Reception, Boston, MA
June 24: Annual Garden Party, Rochester, NY
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