Author: Julie Hail Flory

On Tuesday, Nov. 8, Missouri voters will be asked to consider a ballot initiative — Amendment 3 — that relates to an increase in our state’s tobacco tax. Though simple on its face, Amendment 3 raises very serious concerns, particularly for world-leading research institutions like ours.

In recognition of significant contributions to solving global humanitarian issues, the World Affairs Council of St. Louis has selected Washington University to receive the 2016 International Humanitarian of the Year Award. The university will be honored at a gala event to be held Thursday, Oct. 27, at the Chase Park Plaza hotel.

Washington University in St. Louis is affirming its commitment to an open exchange of ideas by strongly endorsing a statement of principle regarding freedom of expression, as written by members of its faculty.

In an effort to streamline operations and ensure a seamless response to crises and emergencies, Washington University in St. Louis has integrated its business continuity and emergency management efforts into a unified program that spans the Danforth and Medical campuses.

Emelyn dela Peña, assistant dean of student life for equity, diversity and inclusion in the Office of Student Life at Harvard College, has been appointed associate vice chancellor for student affairs and dean of the Center for Diversity and Inclusion at Washington University in St. Louis, effective Oct. 31.

Washington University will open the academic year on Monday, Aug. 29, with a universitywide gathering to reflect upon recent events, consider our individual and collective roles in the community, and celebrate our shared, core values. “Reflections: Unity, Social Justice & Peace” will begin at 4 p.m. in Graham Chapel.

“Village Atheists: How America’s Unbelievers Made Their Way in a Godly Nation,” the most recent book by Leigh Eric Schmidt, the Edward C. Mallinckrodt Distinguished University Professor in the Humanities, has been named by Publishers Weekly to its list of most anticipated books of fall 2016.

A search committee to identify candidates for the position of university librarian at Washington University in St. Louis has been formed by Provost Holden Thorp. The position was formerly held by Jeffrey G. Trzeciak, who left the university in July.

Mark N. Amiri, formerly vice president for finance and chief investment officer at Baylor Scott and White Health in Dallas, has been appointed associate vice chancellor for finance and treasurer at Washington University in St. Louis, effective Aug. 1, according to Chancellor Mark S. Wrighton.

Pamella A. Henson, currently associate vice chancellor for alumni and development programs, will be promoted to vice chancellor for alumni and development programs; and William S. Stoll, currently associate vice chancellor for development, will be promoted to vice chancellor for development. Both positions are newly created and the appointments became effective July 1.