The Washington University in St Louis Podcast

Campus Update: Fall Break, Career Events, Bears Football Win, ASA Language Night, Farmers Market & More (Oct 6-13)

Hey Bears, it's Jenny with your Campus Update for October 6 through October 13. Let's get you set for the week—fast.
First up—Fall Break runs from October 4 to October 7. No classes during this period, so enjoy the time off!
Next, the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey is hosting an Engineering & Architecture Associates Program Info Session on Tuesday, October 7, from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. A great opportunity for those interested in these fields.
Finally, the Johnson & Johnson WiSTEM2D Presents - Backpacks to Briefcases event is on Wednesday, October 8, from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. A must-attend for students in STEM fields.
Over the weekend, our Bears football team secured a thrilling victory against the University of Chicago, edging them out 24-21. Quarterback Alex Thompson threw for two touchdowns and ran for another, leading the charge. Looking ahead, the Bears will face off against Carnegie Mellon at home this Saturday at 1 p.m. Let's pack the stands and show our support!
The African Students Association is hosting their October General Body Meeting: Language Tables on Thursday, October 9, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. It's a fantastic way to learn about different African languages and cultures.
On the dining front, the WashU Medicine Farmers Market is happening on Thursday, October 9, starting at 10 a.m. Fresh produce and local goods await!
This week in St. Louis, expect mild temperatures with highs in the mid-70s and lows in the mid-50s. A slight chance of rain on Thursday, so you might want to carry an umbrella just in case.
Your move: Register for the Fall Foraging Walk happening on Thursday, October 9, from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. It's a unique opportunity to explore edible plants on campus. Advance registration is requested.
That's your quick Campus Update. I'm Jenny—catch you next Monday morning. Tap follow on your podcast app so you never miss a beat.

Campus Update: Bears Football, Best of Missouri Market, St. Louis VegFest & Warm Weather Highlights for October 4–6

Hey Bears, it's Jenny with your Campus Update for September 29 through October 6. Let's get you set for the week—fast.
First up—the football team is hosting Illinois Wesleyan this Saturday, October 4, at 6 p.m. on Francis Olympic Field. It's a great chance to support the Bears under the lights.
Next, the Best of Missouri Market is happening October 4–6 at the Missouri Botanical Garden. Explore over 120 local artisans, enjoy live music, and check out the two-acre Kid’s Corner. Admission is $9 for members and $18 for general admission.
Finally, the St. Louis VegFest is set for Sunday, October 6, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the World’s Fair Pavilion in Forest Park. It's a free event featuring plant-based food vendors, speakers, and activities.
The Bears football team faced a tough opponent last Saturday, September 27, against North Central College, the defending national champions. Despite a strong effort, the Bears fell short. Looking ahead, they're gearing up to take on Illinois Wesleyan at home this Saturday at 6 p.m. Let's pack the stands and show our support!
The Best of Missouri Market at the Missouri Botanical Garden is a must-visit this weekend. With over 120 local artisans, live music, and a dedicated Kid’s Corner, there's something for everyone. It's a perfect way to experience local culture and craftsmanship.
On the food scene, the St. Louis VegFest on Sunday offers a variety of plant-based foods and products. It's a great opportunity to explore vegan options and enjoy a day in Forest Park.
This week in St. Louis, expect very warm temperatures with plenty of sunshine. Highs will be in the mid to upper 80s, with lows in the upper 50s to low 60s. It's a great week to enjoy outdoor activities, but remember to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
Your move: Plan to attend the football game this Saturday at 6 p.m. It's a great way to support our team and enjoy a fun evening with friends.
That's your quick Campus Update. I'm Jenny—catch you next Monday morning. Tap follow on your podcast app so you never miss a beat.

WashU Update: Network Upgrades, Climate Day Event, Football Victory & 2026 Merit Raise Freeze Announced

Good afternoon, Washington University community. Today is Monday, September 22, 2025, and here are the latest updates from our campus.
The Network Modernization Project, initiated in November 2024, is making significant strides. This initiative aims to replace outdated network equipment with cutting-edge technology, resulting in a tenfold increase in bandwidth. Several buildings on the Danforth Campus, including Crow Hall, the Women's Building, and Eads Hall, have already transitioned to the new network environment. The project is set to extend to the WashU Medicine campus in March 2026, enhancing connectivity across all university facilities.
Looking ahead, the university is hosting a Day of Reflection on Climate Change on Saturday, September 29, at Emerson Auditorium in Knight Hall from 1 to 4 p.m. This event will bring together community partners, alumni, industry professionals, as well as WashU faculty, students, and staff to discuss global climate action. Notable speakers include Christiana Figueres, former Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change; Michael Brune, Executive Director of the Sierra Club; and Jeffrey Seale, Agricultural Environmental Strategy Lead at Bayer Crop Science.
In sports news, the WashU football team opened their 2025 season with a commanding 49-0 victory over Rhodes College on September 6. The Bears showcased a strong performance, with senior Fred Ware leading the charge with 103 rushing yards and two touchdowns. The team is set to face Carroll University on September 20 at 1 p.m.
In administrative news, the university has announced that there will be no merit raises for employees during the 2026 fiscal year. Chancellor Andrew Martin cited the recent endowment excise tax and cost imbalances within academic and administrative departments as reasons for this decision. The tax is expected to cost the university an additional $37 million per year.
That's all for today's updates. Stay tuned for more news and events happening around campus.

WashU Campus Updates: Network Upgrades, Career Expo, Climate Event, and More – September 15, 2025

Good morning, Washington University community. Today is Monday, September 15, 2025, and here are the latest updates from our campus.
First, a significant development in our university's infrastructure: the Network Modernization Project, initiated in November 2024, is making substantial progress. This initiative aims to replace outdated network equipment with cutting-edge technology, resulting in a tenfold increase in bandwidth. Several buildings on the Danforth Campus, including Crow Hall, the Women's Building, and Eads Hall, have already transitioned to the new network environment. The project is set to extend to the WashU Medicine campus in March 2026, enhancing connectivity across all university facilities.
In career-related news, the WashU Fall Career Expo is scheduled for this week. This premier two-day recruiting event connects students with employers across various industries. Day one, on Wednesday, September 17, focuses on Engineering, Health Care, Sciences, Technology, and Entrepreneurship. Day two, on Thursday, September 18, highlights Business, Government, Social Impact, and Creative Industries. Both sessions will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. at the WashU Athletics Complex, Varsity Gym. Students are encouraged to attend both days to explore a wide range of opportunities.
Additionally, on Thursday, September 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Women in Business & Technology Virtual Fair will take place. This event offers students and alumni the chance to connect with top employers seeking diverse talent in business and tech fields. Participation is free, and attendees can explore full-time, internship, and co-op opportunities.
For those interested in student organizations, "ShowcaseU: Meet the Student Groups" is happening on Thursday, September 18, from 12 to 1 p.m. at the Athletic Complex, Varsity Gym. This event allows student organizations to highlight their missions and achievements, providing a platform for students to engage with various groups on campus.
In university financial news, WashU has announced that there will be no university-wide merit raises for employees during the 2026 fiscal year. Chancellor Andrew Martin cited the recent endowment excise tax and cost imbalances within departments as reasons for this decision. The university estimates that the tax will cost an additional $37 million per year.
On the athletic front, the WashU football team opened their 2025 season with a commanding 49-0 victory over Rhodes College. The game, held under the lights for the first time since 2018, saw standout performances from senior Fred Ware and junior quarterback Levi Moore. The Bears will travel to Carroll University for their next game on September 20.
Looking ahead, mark your calendars for the "Day of Reflection on Climate Change" on Saturday, September 29, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Emerson Auditorium in Knight Hall. This event will bring together community partners, alumni, industry professionals, and university members to discuss global climate action. Notable speakers include Christiana Figueres, former Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, and Michael Brune, Executive Director of the Sierra Club.
That's all for today's updates. Stay engaged, stay informed, and have a great week ahead.

WashU Wins Sustainability, Diversity Honors; Launches FARM Initiative; Simone Biles to Speak at 2025 Commencement

Hello, and welcome to the latest episode of our campus news podcast. Today is Monday, September 8, 2025, and we've got a lineup of stories highlighting recent developments at Washington University in St. Louis.
First up, the university has been honored with the 2025 Excellence in Sustainability Award by the National Association of College and University Business Officers. This recognition celebrates WashU's commitment to environmental stewardship, particularly through its Arboretum and the transformation of the Danforth Campus landscape. The university's efforts have resulted in a diverse tree canopy and the integration of teaching and research into the Arboretum.
In other sustainability news, WashU has expanded its support for electric vehicle users by installing 16 new Level 2 charging stations across the Danforth Campus. This addition brings the total number of charging ports to 39, reflecting the university's dedication to promoting sustainable transportation options.
On the academic front, the university has launched the Food and Agriculture Research Mission, or FARM. This ambitious initiative aims to tackle global challenges in agricultural production, food distribution, and access to nutritious foods by developing practical, scalable solutions.
In leadership news, David J. Gray has been appointed as the new executive vice chancellor for finance and chief financial officer at Washington University. His tenure began on April 7, 2025, and he brings a wealth of experience to the role.
Turning to campus life, the university has been recognized as a 2025 Best Workplace for Commuters. This accolade highlights WashU's outstanding commuter benefits, which help employees save money, reduce stress, and contribute positively to the St. Louis and bi-state areas.
In the realm of diversity and inclusion, the WashU Medicine Internal Medicine Residency Program received the 2025 Barbara Ross-Lee, DO Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. This honor recognizes initiatives aimed at recruiting and mentoring residents who are underrepresented in medicine.
Finally, looking ahead, Simone Biles, widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time, is set to deliver the 2025 Commencement address at Washington University. This announcement has generated excitement across the campus community.
That's all for today's episode. Stay tuned for more updates on campus events and developments. Thanks for listening!

WashU Welcomes Class of 2029, Showcases Digital Innovation, New Faculty, and Exciting Fall Sports and Events

Good afternoon, Washington University community. Today is Monday, September 1, 2025, and here are the latest updates from our campus.
The university is excited to welcome the Class of 2029, the second-largest in our history, comprising 1,963 students from 49 states and 29 countries. This diverse group embodies the values and spirit of WashU, bringing a wide array of backgrounds and perspectives to our community.
This summer, students participating in WashU’s Digital Transformation Summer Corps developed AI-driven tools to support interdisciplinary research projects. This initiative is part of the Digital Intelligence & Innovation Accelerator, a key component of the university's "Here & Next" strategy, aiming to integrate cutting-edge technology into academic endeavors.
The Brown School is pleased to announce the addition of six new faculty members for the 2025-26 academic year. These scholars will enhance research and teaching in areas such as child welfare, financial capability, nonprofit leadership, youth development, and policy reform, further strengthening the school's commitment to social impact.
As the new season approaches, the Washington University men's soccer team, under the leadership of head coach Andrew Bordelon, is set to build upon last year's performance. The Bears will kick off their season on Friday, August 29, with an away game against Millikin, followed by a match at Westminster on Sunday, August 31. Fans can look forward to the home opener on Friday, September 5, against Elmhurst at Francis Olympic Field.
The No. 11 ranked Washington University women's volleyball team, led by coach Vanessa Walby, is gearing up for an exciting season. The Bears will host the annual Bear Invite on Friday, August 29, and Saturday, August 30, welcoming teams such as Bluffton, Carthage, Loras, Webster, and Willamette to the Athletic Center. Matches will take place in the Field House, with the Bears facing Willamette at 5 p.m. on Friday and Loras at 7 p.m.
Looking ahead, the Department of History invites students to the Bear Beginnings Open House on Tuesday, August 19, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in Olin Library, room 142. This event offers an opportunity to meet faculty, learn about the history and medical humanities programs, and connect with representatives from various campus organizations. Ice cream will be provided, and attendees can spin the prize wheel for a chance to win WashU swag and other prizes.
That's all for today's update. Stay tuned for more news and events happening around our campus.

WashU Weekly Update: Dick Gregory Event, Career Expo, Sustainability Efforts, Athletic Wins, DEI Award, and Campus Construction Pause

Good afternoon, Washington University community. Today is Monday, August 25, 2025, and here are the latest updates from our campus.
This Thursday, August 28, the Missouri History Museum will host "Thursday Nights at the Museum: The Life and Legacy of Dick Gregory" from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. This event is part of the ongoing partnership between WashU and the museum, offering enriching experiences for students and the St. Louis community.
Looking ahead, the Fall Career Expo is scheduled for September 17 and 18. This two-day event is open to all undergraduate, graduate, PhD, Post Doc, and MBA students. Day 1 focuses on Engineering, Health Care, Sciences, Technology, and Entrepreneurship industries, while Day 2 highlights Business, Government, Social Impact, and Creative industries. It's an excellent opportunity to connect with potential employers and explore various career paths.
In line with our commitment to sustainability, WashU has become a host site for Ripple Glass collection. This initiative provides the university and surrounding community with a convenient option to recycle glass bottles and jars, promoting environmental responsibility.
The 2024-25 academic year was remarkable for WashU Athletics. Highlights include:
- The women's soccer team secured the program's second national title on December 8, 2024, with a 3-0 victory over William Smith.
- The women's tennis team clinched its first-ever national championship, defeating top-seeded teams, including a 4-3 win over Pomona-Pitzer in the final match.
- The men's basketball team reached the Final Four for the first time since 2009, marking a significant achievement for the program.
The WashU Medicine Internal Medicine Residency Program received the ACGME 2025 Barbara Ross-Lee, DO Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award. This honor recognizes initiatives aimed at recruiting and mentoring residents who are underrepresented in medicine, reflecting our ongoing commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.
In April 2025, the university announced a pause on major construction projects, including improvements to Mudd Field and a new Arts & Sciences building near Olin Library. This decision was made due to uncertainties surrounding federal funding. The university remains committed to enhancing campus facilities and will revisit these projects once the financial outlook becomes clearer.
That's all for today's update. Stay tuned for more news and events happening around our campus.

Campus Transformations, Sustainability, Leadership Changes, and Controversy: WashU News Highlights August 2025

Hello, and welcome to the latest episode of our campus news podcast. Today is Monday, August 18, 2025, and we have several important updates from Washington University in St. Louis.
First, let's talk about some exciting changes coming to our campus. Mudd Field, a central hub for student activities, is set to undergo a significant transformation. By 2028, the field will be enhanced with numerous shade trees and a new "social green" area, providing a relaxing space for students to unwind between classes. Additionally, a new pathway will connect the north and south sides of campus, improving accessibility and fostering a more cohesive campus environment.
In line with our commitment to sustainability, the university has installed 16 new Level 2 electric vehicle charging stations across the Danforth Campus, bringing the total number of ports to 39. This initiative supports the growing number of electric vehicle users within our community and underscores WashU's dedication to sustainable practices.
In leadership news, David J. Gray has been appointed as the new Executive Vice Chancellor for Finance and Chief Financial Officer, effective April 7. Gray brings a wealth of experience in financial management and is expected to play a pivotal role in steering the university's financial strategy in the coming years.
Turning to commencement news, the Class of 2025 had the honor of hearing from Simone Biles, one of the greatest athletes of all time, during the graduation ceremony. Biles shared insights on leadership, managing pressure, and the importance of being the "greatest you of all time," inspiring graduates as they embark on their post-university journeys.
On the community front, WashU has become a host site for Ripple Glass collection, offering students and the surrounding community a convenient option to recycle glass bottles and jars. This initiative aligns with the university's ongoing efforts to promote sustainability and environmental responsibility.
In recent months, the university has faced scrutiny over its response to campus protests. In April 2024, a pro-Palestinian demonstration resulted in over 100 arrests, including students and faculty members. The university's handling of the situation has sparked debate and calls for a reassessment of policies related to campus demonstrations and free speech.
Finally, a recent study by WashU's Center for Analytics and Business Insights highlights the importance of competitive salaries and career growth opportunities in retaining graduates in the St. Louis area. The university is actively working with local businesses to create personalized experiences for students, aiming to strengthen the regional economy and keep talent within the community.
That's all for today's update. Stay tuned for more news and developments from Washington University in St. Louis.

WashU News: New Rural Scholars, Research Impact, Sustainability Awards, Job Growth & Diversity Initiatives – August 11, 2025 Campus Update

Good afternoon, Washington University community. Today is Monday, August 11, 2025, and here are the latest updates from our campus.
Currently, it's partly sunny with a temperature of 74 degrees Fahrenheit. As the day progresses, expect temperatures to rise, reaching a high of 92 degrees by mid-afternoon. There's a chance of thunderstorms around 3 PM, so keep an umbrella handy if you're heading out later.
*Rural Scholars Academy Welcomes New Cohort*
This month, the Rural Scholars Academy welcomed its third cohort of 36 incoming high school juniors to campus. These students will engage in college classes, admissions workshops, and field trips to St. Louis attractions. Notably, this year’s program includes opportunities to meet the first graduates of the academy who will attend WashU.
*New Research Impact Webpage Launched*
Washington University has unveiled a new webpage titled "From Lab to Real Life: The Impact of WashU Research." This platform highlights groundbreaking discoveries and innovations that improve lives locally, nationally, and globally. It's a testament to the university's commitment to driving meaningful change through research.
*Economic Growth in St. Louis Region*
The St. Louis region has seen a 2.57% increase in employment from August 2023 to August 2024, adding 36,600 employees. This growth positions St. Louis as having the fourth-highest percentage increase in employment among U.S. metro areas, following Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and Indianapolis.
*Recognition for Sustainability Efforts*
Washington University has been recognized as the NACUBO 2025 Excellence in Sustainability Award recipient. This honor acknowledges the university's efforts in transforming the Danforth Campus landscape, enhancing its biodiverse tree canopy, and integrating teaching and research into the WashU Arboretum.
*Expansion of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations*
In line with its commitment to sustainable mobility, WashU has installed 16 new Level 2 electric vehicle charging stations across the Danforth Campus, increasing the total number of ports to 39. This expansion supports the growing number of electric vehicle users within the university community.
*Internal Medicine Residency Program Honored*
The WashU Medicine Internal Medicine Residency Program has received the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) 2025 Barbara Ross-Lee, DO Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award. This recognition highlights the program's initiative led by Assistant Professor Cassandra Fritz, MD, aimed at recruiting and mentoring residents who are underrepresented in medicine.
*Permanent Black History Display Installed*
The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion has installed a permanent wall display on campus dedicated to Black History. This installation depicts the historical experiences of Black and African American individuals on the Medical Campus and is part of ongoing efforts to foster an inclusive environment.
*Study on Retaining College Graduates in St. Louis*
Washington University's Center for Analytics and Business Insights has released a report focusing on retaining college graduates in St. Louis. The study identifies salary, social connections, and career advancement opportunities as key factors influencing graduates' decisions to stay in the area. The university plans to host a conference on October 9, 2024, to discuss these findings with local leaders.
That's all for today's update. Stay safe, stay informed, and have a great day.

WashU Fall Updates: New Dining, Sustainability Awards, EV Stations, and Diversity Initiatives Shape Campus Life

Good afternoon, Washington University community. Today is Monday, August 4, 2025, and here are the latest updates from our campus.
This fall, the Danforth University Center will welcome a new dining option: Qdoba. Replacing the current Delicioso station, Qdoba will join Subway as one of two fast-food chains on campus, offering students and staff more variety in their meal choices.
In May, our campus and surrounding areas experienced significant damage due to a tornado that struck Clayton. The university has been working diligently to repair and restore affected facilities to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all as the new academic year approaches.
Washington University has been honored with the NACUBO 2025 Excellence in Sustainability Award. This recognition highlights our commitment to transforming the Danforth Campus landscape into a biodiverse arboretum that integrates teaching and research.
Additionally, the university has installed 16 new Level 2 electric vehicle charging stations across the Danforth Campus, increasing the total number of ports to 39. This effort supports sustainable mobility and provides more options for electric vehicle users within our community.
The WashU Medicine Internal Medicine Residency Program has received the ACGME 2025 Barbara Ross-Lee, DO Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award. This honor recognizes initiatives aimed at recruiting and mentoring residents who are underrepresented in medicine, reflecting our ongoing commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.
Furthermore, the School of Medicine has been awarded the 2024 National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education Institutional Excellence Award for professional schools. This accolade acknowledges the collaborative efforts of faculty, staff, and students in promoting a culture of diversity and inclusion.
In October 2024, Washington University released a report emphasizing the importance of competitive salaries and career growth opportunities in retaining graduates within the St. Louis area. The study suggests that personalized experiences, collaborations with local businesses, and tailored retention strategies are key to encouraging graduates to remain in the region.
As we prepare for the upcoming academic year, the university is focused on enhancing campus life through new dining options, sustainability efforts, and initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion. We encourage all members of the WashU community to engage with these developments and contribute to our vibrant campus environment.
That's all for today's update. Stay tuned for more news and events happening around our campus.