Commencement diary: sights, stories of the Class of 2021

Washington University celebrated its 160th Commencement not once, but eight times last week. The Record kept a diary of the days’ sights and stories, including four alumni who returned to watch their children graduate; student-athletes headed to baseball championships; and an elated chancellor.

Thriving in ‘unpredictable challenges’

At a Commencement like no other in the university’s storied history, NBA great and social justice advocate Kareem Abdul-Jabbar told members of the Class of 2021 to write their own story — but to make sure it went beyond themselves.

Medical school celebrates its graduates

The pandemic rewrote the script for medical students this year. Dozens celebrated their transition May 21 from students to physicians and other professions, cheered on by family, friends and faculty. See photos and more from the School of Medicine ceremonies.

Alcohol problems severely undertreated

School of Medicine researchers have found that although the vast majority of people with alcohol use disorder see their doctors regularly, fewer than one in 10 ever get treatment to help curb their drinking.

Notables

Jennie H. Kwon, DO, assistant professor of medicine at the School of Medicine, has been named the vice chair for the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America Research Committee.

Notables

Miguel Valerio, assistant professor of Spanish in Arts & Sciences, has won a 2021–22 Career Enhancement Fellowship from the Institute for Citizens & Scholars.