New course promotes open dialogue, freedom of speech

In our highly polarized world, students often struggle to navigate tough conversations and engage with opposing viewpoints, says Anna Gonzalez, vice chancellor for student affairs. So WashU is introducing the eight-week course “Dialogue Across Difference” to teach students how to explore difficult topics in a productive way.

Offering hope — and a way forward

The Brown School’s Fred Ssewamala and his research team, at WashU and in Uganda, are creating and implementing efforts to reduce poverty and improve public health. The work is making a huge difference in the lives of families in the African country.

WashU Expert: Stadiums don’t save cities

Large-scale redevelopment is often pitched as a strategy for reviving struggling downtowns. Yet such projects — with their acres of asphalt and tenuous connections to surrounding environs — are usually poor substitutes for the organic neighborhoods they displace, argues the Sam Fox School’s Patty Heyda.

Notables

Jennie H. Kwon, DO, an assistant professor of medicine at the School of Medicine, has been named head of the Society of Healthcare Epidemiologists of America Research Committee.

Notables

The east end project on the Danforth Campus has received the 2023 American Institute of Architects Regional & Urban Design Award. The program recognizes the best in urban design, regional and city planning and community development.

Announcements

Sign up to participate in College Transit Challenge

WashU faculty, staff and students are encouraged to sign up and take part in the College Transit Challenge. Log trips on MetroLink and Metro buses March 3-10, be entered in prize drawings and help WashU win the friendly competition.

William A. Peck, former medical school dean, 89

William A. Peck, MD, a former executive vice chancellor and dean of the School of Medicine, died peacefully, surrounded by family, Feb. 22 at his home in St. Louis County, Mo. He was 89. A memorial service will be held at Graham Chapel at a later date.