Campus & Community

Large-scale redevelopment is often pitched as a strategy for reviving struggling downtowns. Yet such projects — with their acres of asphalt and tenuous connections to surrounding environs — are usually poor substitutes for the organic neighborhoods they displace, argues Patty Heyda, an associate professor of urban design at the Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts.

Former Student Union President Tyrin Truong, AB ’21, continues his commitment to public service at age 23 as one of the country’s youngest mayors.

Jennie H. Kwon, DO, an assistant professor of medicine at the School of Medicine, has been named head of the Society of Healthcare Epidemiologists of America Research Committee.

In our highly polarized world, students often struggle to navigate tough conversations and engage with viewpoints that challenge their own, says Anna Gonzalez, vice chancellor for student affairs. That is why Washington University is introducing “Dialogue Across Difference,” an eight-week course that teaches undergraduate students how to explore difficult topics such as politics, religion, race, gender and socioeconomic identity in a positive and productive way. 

William A. Peck, MD, a former executive vice chancellor and dean of the School of Medicine, died peacefully, surrounded by family, Feb. 22 at his home in St. Louis County, Mo. He was 89.

Garland (“Gar”) Edward Allen III, a professor emeritus of biology in Arts & Sciences, died peacefully in Palm Springs, Calif., Feb. 10. He was widely known for his work in the history of genetics and was an international leader on the history of eugenics.

Joseph Lee Roti Roti, a professor emeritus of radiation oncology at the School of Medicine, died Feb. 18 at his home in Highland, Ill. He had been dealing with kidney-related conditions and was 79.

St. Louis City SC will stand out in Major League Soccer for its gameday experience, top-of-the-line technology and commitment to sustainability, says Olin Business School sports economist Patrick Rishe. But how much of an impact will the new team have on downtown St. Louis and the economy?

Ed Soltero has been appointed assistant vice chancellor and university architect for Facilities Planning & Management, announced Shantay Bolton, executive vice chancellor for administration.

After a “ruff” start, rescue puppies Bear and Brookie have a new home at Washington University in St. Louis, where they are training to be therapy dogs. The pups reported for duty a week ago and already have hundreds of human friends and their own Instagram account, Comfort Dogs of WUPD.