Leading research universities have helped transform the United States into a powerhouse of innovation and social mobility. Let’s proudly share our story.
As a third-generation professor and researcher, I have always been proud to make my professional home in academic communities like the University of Rochester.
Over the course of my life and career, I have seen firsthand the extraordinary roles that research universities and academic medical centers play in the economic, social, and physical health of our country. As a scholar myself, I’m proud of my contributions and those of my colleagues to the research, scholarship, and teaching of psychology.
And as a parent and family member, I’m grateful for the life-changing clinical care and medical advancements that have been made possible by the research endeavors of Rochester and those of our peers across the country.
As a research university, Rochester embodies a significant human-centered investment in the lives of our many communities. All of us who have been touched by the University should be proud to be part of such an outstanding institution and the incredible faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends who shape it. We each carry the story of Rochester with us as we make our way in the world.
I have been thinking a lot about the story of Rochester over the past few years. Partly, that’s a function of a confluence of historical milestones.
As I’ve written before, the year 2025 marks the 175th anniversary of our founding in 1850. We will also celebrate the centennial this year of our Medical Center, the School of Medicine and Dentistry, and the School of Nursing. Over the past few years, we celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Eastman School of Music and Eastman Theatre, and in 2029 we’ll celebrate the centennial of the Institute of Optics.
In just that single paragraph, we are reminded of a legacy of leadership in scientific discovery, technology, clinical treatments and care, cultivation of the arts and culture, creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship, and so much more—all grounded in a collegial community that changes the lives of our students, patients, and community members in ways that few institutions can.
I have also been thinking about our Rochester story as it has become evident that our social compact with those who are less familiar with our work as a research university is not as strong as it should be.
Members of my senior leadership team and I are troubled that Rochester—and many university communities—may be seen as out of touch with the concerns of the country at large.
I hope that everyone who has engaged with our University can tell a different story about Rochester. It begins with our contributions to advancing knowledge, developing treatments and cures, contributing to workforce development, leading technological innovation, buttressing artistic and cultural vibrancy, and enhancing the resilience and well-being of our communities.
Universities like Rochester exemplify the investments that the United States made in funding research that began during World War II. Our nation’s unique model of partnership between federal agencies and leading research universities has positioned the United States as the worldwide leader in research and development.
Our story continues in our belief in the nation’s ethos that everyone deserves an opportunity to advance as individuals, citizens, and leaders. Grounded in Rochester’s historic spirit of social justice, we are committed to the idea that the best way to advance our missions of education, research, and health care is to invite talented individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences to bring their authentic selves to our institution.
We firmly believe that our differences make us stronger and enhance our excellence, while also believing that we are one team with common goals.
We are enhancing the ways in which we share our story across the landscape of higher education. Our Boundless Possibility strategic plan is charting our future work as leaders and innovators. The plan defines our priorities, helps put our values into action, and outlines investments in our strengths. In all, it reflects our stewardship of an incredible institution.
We also are embarking on our first long-term, comprehensive marketing initiative, designed to reach not just prospective students, but also influential leaders across many fields and regions.
I hope each of you is happy to share your story of how Rochester has shaped your personal and professional life as you interact with your friends, neighbors, and colleagues. Our reputation as a University community—in which we work to make ourselves and the world around us better—rests with each of us. We are all examples of Meliora.
We are also stewards of an incredible institution and legacy. Our University has thrived for 175 years. We are confident that we will overcome any challenge we face by remaining true to our values-centered commitment to our mission and to our people.
—Rochester Review, Spring 2025