Author: Diane Toroian Keaggy

At the virtual vigil “Ring Their Names,” Adrienne Davis, vice provost and the William M. Van Cleve Professor of Law, urged faculty, students and staff to direct their energy, intellect and resources to achieve racial equity. 

The Center for Diversity and Inclusion is inviting Washington University in St. Louis students, staff and faculty to come together at 11:30 a.m. Friday, June 5, for “Ring Their Names,” a virtual vigil honoring the lives of George Floyd and other black men, women and trans people who recently have been killed. 

Washington University in St. Louis has admitted 50 rising high school sophomores to its innovative College Prep Program, a multiyear initiative that prepares high-achieving students with limited financial resources for college. Due to the COVID-19 crisis, summer programming will move online. However, students still will have opportunities to study with top faculty, learn about the college application process and reflect on their own goals and interests.

The Institute for School Partnership at Washington University has launched new programs and partnerships and created new curriculum. Efforts include a new COVID-19 curriculum for middle school students and distributing materials for at-home STEM projects.

Paul J. Landgraf, a veteran employee of Washington University in St. Louis, died Tuesday, May 19, 2020. He had suffered a fall earlier in the month at his home. He was 73. Landgraf was known across campus for his warm personality, eagerness to lend a hand and commitment to the health and safety of all who worked or studied at and visited Washington University.

As part of its response to the COVID-19 crisis, Washington University in St. Louis has partnered with Park Central Development and St. Louis Food Angels to deliver groceries to nearby families. The program also connects residents to important community resources.

Across St. Louis, America and the globe, the 3,298 graduates of Washington University in St. Louis gathered in front of screens May 14-15 to watch recognition ceremonies for their schools, academic departments and affinity groups. The virtual events replaced on-campus Commencement, which was postponed for the first time in university history due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

From digital memory books, Class of 2020 regalia T-shirts and messages of congratulations from celebrities and athletes, Washington University in St. Louis staff found new ways to celebrate students and honor the tradition of Commencement in the era of coronavirus.

With 33 million Americans unemployed and the global economy hurtling toward recession, some students may be tempted to sit out the job and internship market. But that would be a huge mistake, said Mark Smith, associate vice chancellor and dean of career services.

The Gephardt Institute for Civic and Community Engagement has announced this year’s recipients of the Gerry and Bob Virgil Ethic of Service Award. The annual honor recognizes community members who exemplify a character of service and engagement with the St. Louis region.