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Humanities & Society

Most Americans live surprisingly close to their mothers

Most Americans live within 25 miles of their mothers, according to a study co-authored by an economics researcher at Washington University in St. Louis. The study calls into question a widespread belief that when children grow up, they’re likely to move far away and not be on hand to help out when their mothers get […]
Science & Technology

Discovering new horizons

Pluto Crescent Color
After a nearly 10-year wait, planetary scientist William McKinnon, PhD, provides an inside look at New Horizons’ spectacular flyby of Pluto and its first discoveries coming into focus.
Campus & Community

First in class

James Sweatt III, MD, was the first African-American graduate of the School of Medicine. (Photo: Jim Olvera)
Though he doesn’t consider himself a pathfinder, James L. Sweatt helped integrate some of the country’s top institutions, including Washington University School of Medicine.
Campus & Community

A bumper sticker inspires

While at Washington University, Kelsi Singer noticed Bill McKinnon’s bumper sticker, “My other vehicle is on its way to Pluto.” Today, she works on the New Horizons mission and has her own sticker: “My other vehicle explored Pluto.”
Humanities & Society

From charity to change

Touring Lewis Place
The Gephardt Institute celebrates its ­10-year anniversary with a renewed focus on engagement. Its Civic Scholars Program exemplifies the mission: to develop engaged citizens and build strong communities.
Humanities & Society

Toward a civic mission: Involve, evolve

Across higher education, colleges and universities refer to a tripartite mission of teaching, research and service. Today, the shift in service is one away from a charitable orientation toward one that embraces a problem-solving, partnership-based approach.
Campus & Community

Composing a city

Alum Michael Castro in his home.
Over his career, alumnus Michael Castro has published 10 collections of poetry. His poems exhibit a keen ear and a fearless eye, which may be why he was selected to be St. Louis’ first poet laureate.