President’s Newsletter

Wednesday, April 1, 2026

Dear Colleagues,

I’m sending this week’s newsletter a little early, as I will be taking a short vacation at the end of the week and into next week to celebrate a family milestone. I’ve been able to get a little desk time this week, preparing a presentation for the upcoming Community Breakfast, working on a presentation for Mornings with the Professors, and reviewing the applications for the Presidential Citation Award. I’m looking forward to my interviews with the shortlisted students next week. I also got a chance to sign APT letters and write a reference for one of our student leaders.

On Monday, Provost Brasted and I met with senior leaders in SUNY to discuss ways to enhance our Washington DC program, and I felt buoyed by their interest in supporting our signature program. I also met virtually with Senate Executive and attended a Rochester Rotary meeting.

On Tuesday, John Follaco, Ellsworth and I drove to Buffalo. Alum Pete Gallivan hosted us on his morning program to talk about Mascot Madness. (Don’t forget to vote!). We were able to use the journey there and back to have one of our regular one-to-ones. Be sure to watch Rochester’s News10NBC this evening. You might spot Ellsworth with another of our alums — chief meteorologist Stacey Pensgen. 

Today I had lunch with a university council member, Antwan Williams, and gave blood in Seymour Union. It was great to see so many faculty, staff and students doing the same. Tonight I’m looking forward to attending our rescheduled home opener for women’s flag football, and hoping for a win.

While I won’t be there, I would encourage everyone to attend the penultimate First Friday of the year at Alumni House starting at 4pm on Friday. And here’s an early plug for the final First Friday of the academic year, on May 1. It will be held at Burlingame House. I would love to host you there.