Two vice chancellor appointments announced

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.

WUSTL Wind Ensemble Oct. 7

At the turn of the last century, Australian composer Percy Aldridge Grainger developed a fascination with folk music of the British Isles. Among the results was Molly on the Shore, an arrangement of two traditional Irish reels, or dances. On Oct. 7, the Washington University Wind Ensemble will perform Molly on the Shore as part of a free concert marking the public debut of new conductor Chris Becker.

Washington University in St. Louis experts available to talk presidential politics

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.

Sam Fox School at Venice Architecture Biennale

Last fall, students from the Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts created Parking Plot, a subversive look at just what constitutes “urban nature.” Now, Parking Plot is one of two projects with ties to the Sam Fox School included in the U.S. Pavilion of the 2012 Venice Architecture Biennale — arguably the profession’s leading international showcase. In addition, Peter MacKeith, associate dean of the Sam Fox School and associate professor of architecture, curated the Nordic Pavilion in its entirety.

Nominations due Oct. 19 for the fifth annual James M. Holobaugh Honors

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

Underdog ‘Rudy’ pays surprise visit to football Bears

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.

Study Abroad Showcase set for Oct. 3

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.