The Record

Andy Cohen to give WashU’s 165th Commencement address

Emmy Award-winning host, producer and author Andy Cohen, a St. Louis native, will deliver the 2026 WashU Commencement address. Chancellor Andrew D. Martin and Cohen shared the news from the set of Cohen’s show, “Watch What Happens Live.”

Stopping GLP-1 drugs can quickly erase cardiovascular benefits

WashU Medicine researchers found that stopping GLP-1 drugs such as semaglutide and tirzepatide — even temporarily — elevates the risk of heart attack, stroke and death compared to staying on the medication continuously.

Diamonds are not a geoengineer’s best friend

McKelvey Engineering researchers have found that diamond dust is not a suitable particle for stratospheric aerosol injection, which aims to cool the Earth by reflecting light back into space.

Shepherd appointed vice chancellor, chief budget officer

Kurt Shepherd has been appointed vice chancellor for budget and financial planning and chief budget officer at WashU, Chancellor Andrew D. Martin announced. He has served as Vanderbilt University’s assistant vice chancellor for finance.

Notables

WashU Police Lt. Nicole Gentilini was among 253 law enforcement officers who graduated from the FBI National Academy March 18 in Quantico, Va. The academy offers 10 weeks of advanced communication, leadership and fitness training.

Announcements

University Services announces several updates

University Services has announced updates for faculty, staff and students heading into the 2026–27 academic year. Topics include parking permits, ID cards, supply chain management and more.