University News

Optics professor David Williams, a leading experts on human vision, has been named a member of the National Academy of Sciences in recognition of his continuing achievements in original research. The honor is one of the highest given to a scientist in the United States.

Barry M. Meyer ’64, longtime Warner Bros. Entertainment executive, will receive an honorary doctor of laws degree at the 164th commencement ceremonies. Others recognized for outstanding contributions will receive honorary degrees, Hutchison Medals for exemplary service, and awards for scholarship and teaching.

The Best Translated Book Award -- launched in 2008 by Three Percent, the University's website for translated literature -- is the only prize of its kind to honor the best original works of international fiction and poetry published in the United States.

Theoretical physicist Daniel S. Koltun joined the University in 1962 and was a professor of physics until his retirement in 2004. In addition to being a leader in the meson physics community, Koltun was known for what is called the "Koltun Sum Rule" for the scattering of electrons from nuclear targets.

Trustee Laurence "Larry" H. Bloch '75 and his wife, Cindy, have funded the position of chief fundraising officer, and established the Larry and Cindy Bloch Endowment for University Advancement.

The Center for Emerging and Innovative Sciences (CEIS) will host its 14th Annual University Technology Showcase on the afternoon of April 10. The topic will be "Industry-University Collaborations and Economic Development: How can universities and companies work together to rebuild manufacturing in the US?"

Kenneth Gross, a Renaissance scholar and professor of English, became the inaugural holder of the Alan F. Hilfiker Distinguished Professorship in English on Friday, April 4.

Arbor Day Foundation has named Rochester a "Tree Campus USA," is a national designation created in 2008 to honor colleges and universities that have a commitment to effective urban forest management.

Robert McCrory, director of the Laboratory for Laser Energetics, was appointed University Professor in recognition of his contributions to the physics and engineering community, the LLE, and to the University.

Riccardo Betti, professor of mechanical engineering and of physics and astronomy and assistant director for academic affairs at the Laborator for Laser Energetics, was named the inaugural Robert L. McCrory Professor.

The Institute for Data Science and the Golisano Children's Hospital campaign are flagships of the $1.2 billion goal for The Meliora Challenge: The Campaign for the University of Rochester.

The keynote address will be given by Lee Bollinger, president of Columbia University. Following the address, 18 workshops will focus on race in our community, power and empowerment, and redefining diversity.