
Arbor Day Foundation crowns University as a Tree Campus
The arboretum and grounds include more than 1,400 trees of 117 different species. David Nelson, manager of Horticulture & Grounds, shares the ins and outs of caring for the University’s urban forest.

Henry Kautz to direct intelligent systems division for NSF
In his three-year term at the National Science Foundation, Kautz will direct the agency’s support for research in artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, and data science.

Rebuilding trust and restoring community
Experts trained in a method of conflict resolution called “restorative practices” have been engaged by the University to rebuild trust in the wake of the White Report. Members of the University community who are interested in learning more are encouraged to attend a workshop, “Healing Harm and Rebuilding Community Through Restorative Practices,” on Monday, March 26, in the Wegmans Hall auditorium.

Sandra Cannon to become University’s first chief data officer
Cannon will collaborate with IT leaders and , data officers for initiatives in eight key data domains—finance, human resources, student, research, faculty, clinical, facilities, and alumni & advancement. Her appointment begins July 1.

New scientists enable Data Science Consortium to meet companies’ needs
Former Xerox researchers Wencheng Wu, Beilei Xu, and John Handley bring an ability to adapt and pivot quickly, working with companies in the Finger Lakes region who look to the University as they adapt to fast-paced change.

John Barker named to new leadership position in Arts, Sciences & Engineering
John Barker ‘09W (PhD) says his goals for higher education have always included three tenets: “access, equity, and social justice for all.” As of March 1, he is fulfilling those missions in the newly created role as senior associate dean of the faculty for Arts, Sciences & Engineering.

National search launched for new director of data science
The University of Rochester has launched a national search for a new director of its Goergen Institute for Data Science. Henry Kautz is stepping down after leading the institute since its founding in 2014.

Chad Martinovich named Yellowjackets football coach; Brian Daboll ’97 joins Bills coaching staff
The University of Rochester football program is making headlines this winter, with a new head coach and an alumnus accepting an NFL coaching job.

Beth Olivares takes on expanded diversity role at University
Olivares will report directly to the dean of the Arts, Sciences & Engineering faculty. The move elevates the recognition and consideration of the importance of diversity issues within the Deans’ Office.

New York State Paid Family Leave Act goes into effect Jan. 1
Many University employees—about two-thirds of the employee base—will automatically receive Paid Family Leave (PFL) as a benefit starting in the new year. Human Resources has developed a full FAQ about how PFL will work at the University.