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A newly renovated Umrath Hall opened for the fall semester on the Danforth Campus. Umrath Hall originally was built in 1902 as a men’s dormitory and featured small rooms, narrow hallways and limited entrances and exits. The yearlong renovation, which began in June 2011, retained Umrath’s historic exterior but included a complete reconstruction of the building’s interior and a new roof.

WHAT: Celebration of Mike McLaughlin, Olin Business School MBA student who recently completed a 2,500-mile hike for charity, becoming what is believed to be the first person to through-hike the Appalachian and Ozark Trails back-to-back.

Barry Commoner, a biologist at WUSTL from 1947-1981, died Sept. 30, 2012, in Manhattan. He was 95. Commoner was a professor of plant physiology and of environmental studies, both in Arts & Sciences. According to The New York Times, Commoner was “a founder of modern ecology and one of its most provocative thinkers and mobilizers in making environmentalism a people’s political cause.”

“Creating a strong environment at Washington University that stimulates, encourages and rewards both innovation and entrepreneurship can enhance the benefit that the university brings to our students, our region, our country and, indeed, our world.” —Chancellor’s December 2011 Report to the Board of Trustees

There’s no debating the fact Washington University in St. Louis experts know presidential politics. The university hosted presidential debates in 1992, 2000 and ’04, as well as the VP debate in ’08. As President Barack Obama and Gov. Mitt Romney prepare to debate this week, you’re preparing your coverage. Washington University professors are ready to comment — over the phone, on air, on camera – to help clarify the issues that will define the 2012 campaign.

Chancellor Mark S. Wrighton has announced two important promotions, effective Oct. 1. James V. Wertsch, PhD, has been promoted to vice chancellor for international relations, the university official responsible for international programs and initiatives; and John A. Berg has been promoted to vice chancellor for admissions and will continue to preside over admissions and financial aid.

LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) Student Involvement and Leadership will be hosting the Holobaugh Honors Ceremony at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 7, in Holmes Lounge, Ridgley Hall. The Holobaugh Honors recognize individuals who: live and lead with integrity; engage diverse communities on issues relevant to the LGBT equality; perform direct advocacy and service to the St. Louis metro community; and incorporate education and dialogue as part of their practice. Nomination forms are online: https://getinvolved.wustl.edu/LGBT/programs_and_events/Pages/Holobaugh-Nomination-Form.aspx

Rudy Ruettiger made a surprise visit to the Washington University in St. Louis football practice Sept. 27 at Francis Field. The Rudy Dream Big Bus Tour has made stops at key locations across the nation’s midsection, spreading Ruettiger’s encouraging message of never giving up.

Edward R. Fickenscher, director of business development in the Office of Technology Management (OTM), died suddenly Wednesday, Sept. 12, 2012. He was 68.

All students interested in studying abroad are invited to attend the third annual Study Abroad Showcase. The event takes place from 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 3, in College Hall on the South 40.