STATE UNIVERSITIES
FSU approves new academic degree programs
Ferris State University’s Board of Trustees have approved two new academic degrees, including a Bachelor of Science in respiratory therapy and a redesigned Insurance and Risk Management degree from the College of Business. The Bachelor of Science in respiratory therapy degree will feature two areas of specialization: advanced clinical practice and leadership. The Insurance and Risk Management program will offer a major, minor and certificate programs. The university plans to implement the programs in spring 2016.
Wayne State dedicates new $93M biosciences center
Wayne State University celebrates the Integrative Biosciences Center. The center is a $93 million research facility that will be dedicated to studying and eliminating the many health disparities that plague Detroit residents. Research teams include environmental sciences, behavioral health, cardiovascular health, metabolic disorders, bio and systems engineering, and systems biology.
MSU researchers receive $4.15M grant to explore cancer risks
Two Michigan State University researchers have received a five-year, $4.15 million grant. Their research will look at how a high-fat diet interacts with BP-3, a chemical found in sunscreen, and what effect it could have on breast cancer risk. They will additionally work to develop effective prevention strategies.
PEER INSTITUTIONS
Wisconsin receives $28M gift for art education
University of Wisconsin-Madison alumni Jerome and Simona Chazen have pledged a $28 million gift to the school’s art program in the form of several valuable pieces of art from their private collection, as well as an additional $5 million gift for the Chazen Museum building and $3 million to establish the Chazen Family Distinguished Chair in Art and the Simona and Jerome Chazen Distinguished Chair in Art History. The Chazens previously made a $20 million donation to support the expansion of the school’s art museum, which was renamed for them.
UT Austin receives $4M for brain imaging and manipulation
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have received three grants, totaling $4 million, to develop techniques for imaging and manipulating the activity of neurons in the brain. This research will help scientists explore addiction, obesity, fear, and other brain states and disorders. The funding from the National Institutes of Health is part of the Brain Research through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies Initiative launched by President Obama.
