News from other Michigan public universities and U-M peer institutions across the nation.
STATE UNIVERSITIES
Chuck D. delivers Grand Valley MLK keynote
A standing-room-only audience packed the Kirkhof Center at Grand Valley State University on Martin Luther King Jr. Day Jan. 20 to hear from legendary rapper Chuck D. The founder of Public Enemy was the keynote speaker to open MLK Commemoration Week. Speaking for nearly an hour, he emphasized the importance of earning a college degree and learning more about the world. “Dr. King wanted his children to be known for their character, not their characteristics,” he said. “To design your insides takes grinding.”
Lake Superior State accepts project gift
The Old Mission Bank leadership group recently made progress on a commitment to Lake Superior State University’s South Hall Renovation Project with a $20,000 check presentation. Architectural and engineering work on the hall that will house the Lukenda School of Business continues, with a goal of commencing interior demolition in coming months. A donor group is matching gifts and pledges to the project between now and April 1.
PEER INSTITUTIONS
Diversity on the rise among UCLA undergraduate applicants
The University of California, Los Angeles, reports that diversity has increased among applicants to UCLA this year, with Chicanos/Latinos, African-Americans and Native Americans all applying in greater numbers than in previous years. Of 86,472 freshman applicants, 4,640 are black (a 5.8 percent increase over 2013), 505 are Native American (up 18.3 percent) and 18,384 are Chicano/Latino (up 4.1 percent).
Stanford Education Dean named UC Berkeley provost
Stanford University Graduate School of Education Dean Claude Steele has been named the next executive vice chancellor and provost of the University of California, Berkeley, officials announced Jan. 20. Steele would become UC Berkeley’s chief academic officer and leading senior executive responsible for managing its academic programs, budget and daily operations on March 31, pending confirmation by the UC board of regents.
University of Chicago announces $10M program for low-income students
The University of Chicago has announced a $10-million gift that will fund the College Success Initiative, part of the university’s Urban Education Institute. It will train educators and policy makers nationwide on how to improve college readiness for underserved students. The institute has created tools that educators can use to ensure students are ready for college, help them apply and then monitor their success.
