News from around the university.
Confucius Institute honored by Chinese government
The Confucius Institute at the U-M was one of 28 winners of the Confucius Institute of the Year award in 2013, which recognizes success in promoting the Chinese arts, culture and exchanges. The honor was presented in China by the Beijing-based Chinese Language Council International, a branch of the Chinese Ministry of Education. “It is a grand distinction to receive the Confucius Institute of the Year award,” says Lester Monts, senior vice provost for academic affairs. The institute presents concerts, lectures, exhibitions, round-table discussions theatrical performances and free classes and workshops.
UM-Flint establishing state’s first physical therapy doctorate
UM-Flint’s Physical Therapy department is establishing the state’s first doctorate degree in the field. It is designed for those who seek careers in academic teaching, research and advanced clinical practice. It is also the first doctorate program on the Flint campus. The program meets a growing need for physical therapy faculty who are prepared to conduct research and serve as mentors, and be future leaders of academic programs.
Reminder: Staff innovation applications sought
The President’s Staff Innovation Award recognizes individual staff or teams whose ideas represent an improvement or increase in efficiency, productivity, cost savings, achievement of environmental or health and well-being goals, and enhancement of the culture and climate of the university. There is a $2,000 individual award and a $3,000 team prize. The deadline for applications is Jan. 31. For more information or to submit a nomination, go to www.innovationaward.umich.edu.
Traffic changes affect vehicles and pedestrians
To accommodate the renovation of the A. Alfred Taubman Health Sciences Library, closures are in effect for one lane of traffic on Catherine Street and for the north sidewalk between the Victor Vaughan Building and the south entrance to the Medical Science II building. The pedestrian bridge connecting the Glen Avenue parking structure with the sidewalk in front of the library has closed. Pedestrians will need to cross at street level to the south side of Catherine to move east or west. For more information, go to med.umich.edu/hsh/THSLpedclosure.pdf. For information on how bus service is affected, go to pts.umich.edu.
University achieves Marine Stewardship Council Certification
The University of Michigan has become the first Big Ten university to achieve Marine Stewardship Council Chain of Custody certification as part of its commitment to offer sustainable food on campus. Michigan Dining has earned certification to support sustainably managed fisheries by sourcing seafood that has been certified against a rigorous standard. The seafood will be offered in five residential dining halls on campus including East Quad, North Quad, Marketplace, Markley Hall and Bursley Hall.
