News Hub - University of Rochester Office of the Provost

This page includes recent leadership messages and important updates from the provost as well as news from the University community. Explore the latest news below.

A close up of the Melilla shield on a University lamp post with fall foliage in the background.

University Initiatives and Progress Updates

Provost Sampson shares updates on key initiatives shaping URochester’s academic enterprise. From enrollment and artificial intelligence to strategic capital investments, the University is aligning resources with its priorities and advancing its vision for long-term success.

Provost Message

University Initiatives and Progress Updates

September 18, 2026

Dear members of the University community, Higher education continues to navigate significant change. Uncertainty around federal research funding, shifting demographic and enrollment trends, and broader economic pressures are reshaping the…

University-wide Academic Notice

Important Update for International Students on CPT

August 28, 2026

New federal guidance changes the requirements for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorization for students in F-1 status. The University is reviewing the guidance and its implications, particularly for students with…

Announcements

University Launches National Search for Next Dean of Simon Business School

August 25, 2026

The University of Rochester has launched a national search for the next dean of the Simon Business School. As a first step in the process, Provost Nicole Sampson has appointed…

Research Impact

Rendering of the proposed NSF OPAL facility.

NSF advances NSF OPAL toward construction-ready design

Tue, 15 Sep 2026

The URochester-led NSF OPAL project awarded initial funding to support the final design phase for a world-leading high-power laser facility.

Close-up of a hand pulling out a blue colored block from a Jenga-like stack of colorful blocks to illustrate the removal of the cGAS protein from cells.

Removing an inflammation-linked protein makes aging worse

Tue, 08 Sep 2026

URochester researchers have found that cGAS, a protein known for triggering inflammation, also plays a protective role.

Illustration of photodynamic therapy showing light killing a bacterial cell.

How light can fight abdominal infections

Wed, 19 Aug 2026

A light-activated therapy being tested at URochester could give doctors an antibiotic-free way to target stubborn abdominal infections.

Learn more about our research impact

Faculty News

Horizontal crop of a black-and-white archival photo of Nicholas George in a suit in an office.

Nicholas George, a trailblazer in holography, diffraction, theory, and optics, remembered

Fri, 25 Sep 2026

The professor emeritus and former director of the Institute of Optics leaves a legacy of innovation and mentorship.

URochester PhD student and advisor in a lab to illustrate how to choose a PhD program and advisor.

Thinking about a PhD? Your biggest questions, answered

Mon, 10 Aug 2026

Professor Darren Lipomi offers candid advice on choosing a graduate program, finding the right advisor, funding your education, and building a career in research.

URochester faculty appointed to named professorships

Wed, 05 Aug 2026

Named positions are part of a long-standing tradition to celebrate the work of URochester’s faculty as researchers, scholars, and teachers.

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Staff News

Christopher Deeney in a suit and tie with his image reflected on the wall next to him.

Laboratory for Laser Energetics director Christopher Deeney reappointed

Mon, 03 Aug 2026

The new term recognizes Deeney’s leadership in advancing LLE’s scientific mission while strengthening national research partnerships.

Jim Forrester named interim chief information officer and University vice president

Mon, 06 Jul 2026

University President Sarah Mangelsdorf is elevating the CIO role to reflect the strategic importance of technology across the entire institution.

professional portrait of woman with blonde hair and a dark top.

Rachael Honig named University senior vice president and general counsel

Mon, 30 Mar 2026

Honig, who joins URochester on August 1, will serve as key legal advisor to the president, the board of trustees, and leadership throughout the University.

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Student News

Claire Boeck against a white background and text that reads

4 myths about what it means to be a “good student”

Fri, 04 Sep 2026

URochester experts challenge common assumptions about academic success—and offer practical ways to become a more successful college student.

Students attend the Candlelight ceremony during Welcome Week.

Yellowjackets from the start: Welcome Week sets the tone for a new school year

Sun, 30 Aug 2026

Excitement, anticipation, and school spirit abound as new and returning students arrive at URochester for the start of the 2026–27 academic year.

Hire Rochester interns Alayna Leestma, Claire Cho, Triet Ly, and Ivan Cea Gomez on the URochester quad.

New paid internship program helps URochester students launch careers

Tue, 18 Aug 2026

This summer’s inaugural Hire Rochester undergraduates are building skills, confidence, and professional connections.

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