FIU News - 2021

FIU unveils new flexible work arrangement policy

Gisela Maria Valencia — Tue, 21 Dec 2021 13:42:00 -0500

FIU created a new flexible work arrangement policy, which features several options, including a hybrid model.

FIU leads international forum on global learning

Birgitta Rausch-Montoto — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 14:11:00 -0500

FIU Office of Global Learning Initiatives scholars and staff offered their expertise to 50 faculty and administrators from around the world.

My first internship at one of the largest wine and food festivals in the world

Contributing Author — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 12:00:00 -0500

FIU Hospitality student Celina Neville shares her experience as a South Beach Wine & Food Festival® intern.

Nationally recognized FIU physician provides faculty development to help colleagues become effective educators

Celene Torres — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 12:00:00 -0500

Dr. Suzanne Minor helps physicians become more effective, inclusive educators

COVID-19 cases continue to increase: Please get tested to avoid spreading the virus

Contributing Author — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Reports of increased positivity rate and hospitalizations in Miami-Dade County due to the spread of the Omicron variant have continued this weekend.

5 guiding forces for the hospitality and tourism industry

Monica Smith — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 13:55:00 -0500

Miami-Dade County hotel and restaurants – the two largest hospitality industries in South Florida – have taken a $3.36 billion dollar hit from COVID-19, according to a new study.

The study released today by Florida International University's FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management, in collaboration with the Greater Miami Convention and Visitor's Bureau (GMCVB), shows that from the time mandatory COVID-19-related business closures took effect in March until the end of August, the direct and indirect effects of the pandemic – including revenue loss, supply chain and business expenditures, operating expenses and the ripple effect of furloughed workers not spending on the local economy — resulted in the multi-billion-dollar loss.

According to the study, the pandemic is responsible for $1.3 billion in direct revenue loss to hotels and $742 million in direct revenue loss to restaurants, when comparing March through August 2019 with the same time period in 2020. Hotels and restaurants lost another $664.7 million in indirect spending from a reduction in expenditures such as raw materials, supplies and other operating expenses, plus another $651.8 million in induced losses as a result of the ripple effect of furloughed workers not spending on the local economy.

“As hospitality educators, we needed to find out exactly how the pandemic affected our community and who has been the hardest hit,” said Eric Beckman, revenue management professor at the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management and lead author of the study. “South Florida's economy has a high reliance on the hospitality and travel-related business and our study shows if those sectors are down, it results in huge financial losses and an economic decline for the entire community.”

Beckman and his colleagues made their findings by looking at tax revenue data from the county, as well as hotel room revenue data from companies such as STR, CBRE, Lee Pillsbury of Thayer Ventures, Adara and Kalibri Labs.

In January, hospitality employment was up 2.4 percent compared to January 2019. That positive trend continued into February before plummeting in April to a 45.4 percent decline. The latest data for August 2020 shows a decrease of 23.7 percent in hospitality jobs compared to August 2019. The study also found that COVID-19 can be blamed for $1.2 billion dollars in loss of employee income to Miami-Dade County hotel and restaurant workers from March through August.

“As the entire country faced mandatory closures, there was a drastic reduction in hospitality jobs in the county,” said Michael Cheng, dean of the Chaplin School and one of the study's co-authors. “As we move towards operating without restrictions. the hospitality industry will begin to move towards prior levels of employment and growth.”

Although focused on hotels and restaurants, the study also looked at the state and federal tax impact and the decline in travel via Miami International Airport. The reduction in hotel and restaurant sector revenue in the county resulted in more than $260 million dollars in federal tax losses. From March through August of 2020 compared to 2019, there was an 87.2% decrease in international arrivals and 71.8 % decrease in domestic arrivals.

The study goes on to list future challenges to the industry, such as future COVID-19 outbreaks, effectiveness of a vaccine, consumer ability to travel, consumer confidence and the importance of government policy and support. The authors say government policy and support, such as this summer’s Payroll Protection Program (PPP), will be crucial to the existence of many businesses that have managed to re-open their doors and survive until now.

“The hospitality industry is a resilient industry filled with ambitious entrepreneurs and people who know how to transfer their skills,” Beckman said. “That, combined with the fact that we know people love to travel and eat out, will result in the resurgence of travel and tourism in Miami-Dade County.”

To view the study's PowerPoint presentation, click here.

Alumnus' Lien Library makes property information easily accessible

Contributing Author — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 11:23:00 -0500

The business alumnus' company won the top prize at the Endeavor Pitch Competition, co-sponsored by Microsoft for Startups and The Miami Herald.

Provost Furton moving to a new role at FIU

Contributing Author — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 16:05:00 -0500

President Mark B. Rosenberg sent the following message to the university community today.

FIU Law well-being program earns national recognition from American Bar Association

Gisela Maria Valencia — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 15:27:00 -0500

FIU Law was honored for equipping students with the tools necessary to have integrity and dedication as they launch into the profession.

FIU leads citizen science team to second place win at UN climate conference

Angela Nicoletti — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 12:56:00 -0500

FIU's citizen science program was in the running for the Climate Change Cup, an international competition that celebrates civic research partnerships fighting climate change in the U.S. and U.K.

Meet a Miami tech leader of tomorrow: President of UPE Nicholas Gonzalez

Krysten Brenlla — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 11:30:00 -0500

This story originally appeared on Refresh Miami.

FIU entrepreneurship programs ranked Top 50 in the nation, Top 10 in the Southeast by The Princeton Review

Lourdes Perez — Wed, 15 Dec 2021 14:40:00 -0500

The Princeton Review® and Entrepreneur® have ranked Florida International University’s entrepreneurship programs No. 6 best graduate and No. 7 best undergraduate in the Southeast region for 2022.

FIU’s Chapman Graduate School of Business was ranked No. 21 among all public universities. FIU’s undergraduate entrepreneurship program was ranked No. 26 among public universities.

The Princeton Review's 16^th annual ranking of undergraduate and graduate schools for entrepreneurship studies is based on a survey the education services company conducted in summer 2021 of nearly 300 schools with entrepreneurship offerings. The ranking’s data points included academic offerings, experiential learning opportunities, and career outcomes.

The Princeton Review and Entrepreneur cited StartUP FIU, Eugenio Pino and Family Global Entrepreneurship Center, Florida Small Business Development Center at FIU, and FIU’s College of Communication, Architecture + The Arts’ Ratcliffe Art + Design Incubator as some of the entrepreneurship programs that catapulted FIU into the top 10 in the Southeast. They also noted annual entrepreneurship courses offered by the Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management and Honors College that give students real-world experiences.

“Our entrepreneurship programs are drivers of prosperity. They help our students and our community grow companies and create jobs,” said FIU President Mark B. Rosenberg. “The Princeton Review rankings confirm that what we are doing is having a real impact.”

This year, The Princeton Review tallied regional sub-lists – Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, West, and International – in addition to the overall top 50 graduate and undergraduate programs.

"This ranking recognizes our world-class programs that give current and future entrepreneurs the tools they need to launch and grow their businesses," said Emily Gresham, FIU assistant vice president of research, innovation and economic development and co-founder of StartUP FIU. "Entrepreneurship skills are invaluable in the 21st century and we’re dedicated to making sure programs that nurture these skills are available to our students and beyond."

New degree trains English instructors to teach in challenging areas of the world

Monica Smith — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 15:45:00 -0500

FIU’s online M.S. in Foreign Language Education: Teaching in Challenging Contexts track, provides a pathway to equity through language.

The impact of full-tuition scholarships: A tale of two medical students

Ileana Varela — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 13:44:00 -0500

The FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine gave out nine full-tuition scholarships to the Class of 2025. Two of those scholarships are directly funded by donors.

FIU awarded $2.25M U.S. Army grant to create digital forensics Center of Excellence with Historically Black Colleges and Universities

Elizabeth Calzadilla — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 12:00:00 -0500

Florida International University’s Knight Foundation School of Computing and Information Sciences has been awarded a $2.25 million grant by the U.S. Army Research Office to establish a Center of Excellence in digital forensics at FIU in collaboration with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Minority Institutions (MIs).

The Forensic Investigations Network in Digital Sciences (FINDS) Center of Excellence (COE) will provide a vital research hub and workforce pathway for digital forensics professionals entering the Department of Defense and other governmental departments and agencies. It is expected to train more than 100 students over five years.

FIU Distinguished University Professor S. S. “Ram” Iyengar, the principal investigator and director of the FINDS COE, designed the program and developed the partner university collaborations to leverage networks, gain access to needed resources and promote already successful programs and practices.

“This partnership is not only rounding out FIU’s academic and research offerings in the space of digital forensics, but also helping universities, particularly HBCU’s, secure funding, gain additional resources and improve the quality of instruction, as well as facilitate summer internships for graduate students,” Iyengar said.

The FINDS COE will be housed within the Knight Foundation School of Computing and Information Sciences at FIU, while complementing FIU’s Global Forensic and Justice Center Preeminent Program which brings together four programs that establish FIU’s deep expertise in forensic science, forensic services, and justice administration. José Almirall, director of the FIU Center for Advanced Research and Forensic Science, and Kevin Lothridge, executive director of the National Forensic Science Technology Center at FIU, are co-principal investigators on the new grant.

"Digital forensics is a critical area of expertise for our nation’s security,” said Kevin Lothridge, executive director of the National Forensic Science and Technology Center at FIU. “As part of FIU, one of the largest Hispanic-serving institutions in the country, we’re excited to partner with leading HBCUs to deliver high-quality training and inspire a more diverse student population to enter this field.”

The FINDS COE, funded by the five-year digital forensics research grant, is also designed to develop advanced digital forensic systems for use by the Department of Defense and Department of Justice by connecting HBCU/MI research across the country. The FINDS COE represents a collaboration with HBCUs Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), Grambling State University, and Jackson State University (JSU), with FIU as the center’s lead institution.

“The FINDS COE will create a novel analytical cyber forensics framework and develop leading edge technologies to address several hard research problems such as video authenticity and network forensics with comprehensive approaches,” said Cliff Wang, chief of Network Sciences and program manager for Information Assurance at the U.S. Army Research Office. “The proposed research will definitely advance the state of art in digital forensics fields and bring out new capabilities of which the U.S. Army can take advantage.”

The FINDS COE will focus on research in five digital forensic areas - Analytical Methods and Evidence Processing Techniques; Forensic Fusion Models for Extracting Event Signatures; Big Data Digital Forensics; Drone Forensics and Ubiquitous Forensic Signatures. Each area will be led by an investigator from one of the participating universities who will collaborate with researchers from business, industry, and government laboratories, as well as members of other collaborating universities.

FIU associate dean of engineering named 2021 National Academy of Inventors Fellow

Elizabeth Calzadilla — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 08:00:00 -0500

O sama Mohammed, a distinguished professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the associate dean of research at the College of Engineering and Computing, has been named a Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI).

The NAI Fellows Program highlights academic inventors who have created or facilitated outstanding inventions that have made a tangible impact on quality of life, economic development and the welfare of society. Election to NAI Fellow is the highest professional distinction accorded solely to academic inventors. To date, NAI Fellows hold more than 48,000 issued U.S. patents, which have generated over 13,000 licensed technologies and companies, and created more than one million jobs. In addition, over $3 trillion in revenue has been generated based on NAI Fellow discoveries.

The 2021 Fellow class hails from 116 research universities and governmental and non-profit research institutes worldwide. They collectively hold over 4,800 issued U.S. patents. Among the new class of Fellows are 33 members of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, and three Nobel Laureates. Nine other FIU researchers have been inducted as NAI Fellows over the years.

“I am truly honored to receive this very selective recognition from the NAI,” Mohammed said. “I am truly grateful and committed to continuously encouraging and mentoring a new generation of innovators in pursuing the fullest measures of their abilities and ambitions.”

Mohammed is credited with establishing the mainstream analysis methods for computational electromagnetics and developing breakthrough designs and controllers for electric machines and drives. He also is credited with making great contributions to the enhancement of innovative power electronics architectures and switching techniques, transportation electrification and smart grid communications and cyber security. He is one of the most referenced researchers in engineering and computer science.

Mohammed’s issued patents include one that, through systems and techniques for flexible, secure energy management, reduces energy costs for consumers. Another patent focuses on electric vehicle (EV) charging decision support systems, which allows vehicle owners to select energy prices at charging stations, facilitating a win-win situation for EV owners seeking cost effective options and the power grid supporting them.

Mohammed is world-renowned for his expertise in various research topics in power and smart energy systems. He currently has active research projects with several federal agencies. He has authored more than 800 articles in refereed journals and other refereed international conference records, a book and several book chapters. Mohammed holds 16 patents, and several others are pending.

“Dr. Mohammed exemplifies what it means to be an innovative inventor,” said John L. Volakis, dean of the College of Engineering and Computing. “From developing breakthrough designs and controllers for electronic machines to innovating cutting-edge applications in renewable energy and overseeing all research endeavors at the college, Dr. Mohammed is a driving force in American engineering innovation.”

Mohammed is the director of the Energy Systems Research Laboratory at FIU and a Fellow of IEEE. He is also a Fellow of the Applied Computational Electromagnetic Society (ACES). Among his many honors, he is a recipient of the prestigious IEEE Power and Energy Society Cyril Veinott Electromechanical Energy Conversion Award.

The 2021 Fellows will be inducted at the Fellows Induction Ceremony at the 11th Annual Meeting of the National Academy of Inventors in June in Phoenix, Arizona.

Sights and sounds of commencement: Congratulations, Class of 2021!

Contributing Author — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 18:15:00 -0500

More than 5,900 students celebrated their graduation this weekend at FIU Stadium.

Professor Selcuk Uluagac's research team wins Android Security and Privacy Research (ASPIRE) Award

Contributing Author — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 10:30:00 -0500

FIU team wins award for its ongoing work to improve the security and privacy of Android devices

The unvaccinated caregiver

Contributing Author — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 09:54:00 -0500

Medical student Anna Mueller reflects on the importance of a physician making sure a patient has the information to make informed health care choices, including vaccinations.

FIU establishes Panther Partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters to provide mentoring, scholarships

Contributing Author — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 15:20:00 -0500

FIU has teamed up with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami to providing mentoring support and 20 scholarships.

Seas are now rising higher than some buildings’ underground garages

Chrystian Tejedor — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 09:24:00 -0500

Sea level rise has more consistently pushed underground water closer to the surface — sometimes reaching underground levels of coastal buildings, according to a new study conducted by FIU’s Institute of Environment.

FIU coastal geologist Randall Parkinson conducted the study in the wake of the deadly Champlain Towers South collapse in Surfside, Fla.

Between 1994 and 2006, data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the city of Miami Beach show sea level was higher than the underground parking garage of the doomed condo an average of 244 times per year. After 2006, sea level rise accelerated markedly and sea level was higher than the basement level an average of 636 times per year through 2020, Parkinson found.

Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the collapse, but early on questions arose over whether climate change may have played a role.

Parkinson argues now is the time for coastal managers to rethink the way they assess the vulnerability of the built human environment.

He’s also encouraging condo associations and owners to have their buildings inspected by licensed engineers more frequently and to follow the engineers’ recommendations to keep their buildings in solid shape.

To date, vulnerability studies have focused more on how critical infrastructure like water treatment facilities, power substations, emergency shelters and evacuation routes would be affected by sea level rise. And for coastal buildings built before 1990, they would have taken into account the local water table, but were likely not planning for sea level rise.

“The risks are really here — and they have been here,” Parkinson said.

To overcome the compounding effects of increasing sea level rise, architects and engineers cannot use today’s conditions as a guide.

“If coastal zone managers are going to allow buildings to be built, they have to be built for the future,” Parkinson said, “for the environmental conditions they would likely be subjected to at the end of a building’s design life — not today.”

Parkinson’s study was published in the journal Ocean & Coastal Management.

FIU names Miami native Mike MacIntyre as head football coach

Contributing Author — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 09:01:00 -0500

MacIntyre boasts over 30 years of coaching experience and is a two-time National Coach of the Year honoree.

FIU partners with Break Through Tech to increase diversity and gender equality in Miami’s tech ecosystem

Elizabeth Calzadilla — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 09:00:00 -0500

FIU has partnered with Break Through Tech to develop programs that will propel women and underrepresented communities into technology degrees, careers and leadership positions.

Graduates find solutions, blaze new academic trails

Lourdes Perez — Wed, 08 Dec 2021 13:00:00 -0500

FIU will celebrate the graduation of more than 5,900 students this fall in five ceremonies Dec. 11–12 at FIU Stadium.

FIU research makes possible the training of canines to find explosives, sniff out fungus and detect COVID

Contributing Author — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 17:30:00 -0500

The dog detection program is a leader in the field of forensics.

New Trimble Technology Lab provides construction, engineering students access to industry-leading technologies

Caylin Jimenez — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 17:20:00 -0500

The new Trimble Technology Lab was celebrated Dec. 7 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Moss School of Construction, Infrastructure and Sustainability.

Ph.D. student couldn’t decide between shark researcher and writer, so she chose both

Angela Nicoletti — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 10:51:00 -0500

FIU Ph.D. student Erin Spencer brings the beauty and wonder of the underwater world closer to others, inspiring the sort of awe that can spark a deep care and desire to protect the world’s oceans.

Knight Foundation invests $2.25M in CodePath to meet Miami’s demand for careers in tech

Contributing Author — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 11:20:00 -0500

The partnership will strengthen computer science curricula to align with industry needs and help Miami's students achieve tech excellence.

Hollywood A-listers to join chefs, FIU students at star-studded South Beach Wine & Food Festival®

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Singers Adam Levine and Pharrell Williams, Levine's wife and model Behati Prinsloo, actresses Eva Longoria and Kate Hudson and basketball superstar Dwyane Wade plan on attending.

Environment professor discusses community forest management on Academic Minute

Christine Calvo — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 13:00:00 -0500

David Bray, professor in the Department of Earth and Environment in FIU's College of Arts, Sciences & Education, featured in Academic Minute.

Looking for a local tech job? Join FIU at the Venture Miami Tech Hiring Fair today

Krysten Brenlla — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 10:55:00 -0500

President Mark B. Rosenberg, FIU’s Career and Talent Development, the Talent Development Network and others will be at the Venture Miami Tech Hiring Fair.

The Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU presents a retrospective from pop art artist Martin Kreloff

Erica Corsano — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 14:03:00 -0500

“Martin Kreloff: A Retrospective” will feature Kreloff’s best-known pop art-influenced paintings, drawings and new media works.

FIU students propose solutions to White House, corporate leaders on future of tech talent during Washington seminar

Federal Relations — Tue, 30 Nov 2021 18:30:00 -0500

FIU solutions to diversifying the technology workforce were center stage as 21 students visited the nation’s capital for the Future of Tech Talent fly-in seminar last month and submitted policy proposals to the White House.

A collaboration between The Talent Lab at FIU in Washington, D.C. and Campus Life, DC Fly-Ins are designed to expose policymakers to FIU’s top talent and lead to internships and jobs in Washington, in particular, increasing placements in signature organizations including federal agencies, think tanks and Capitol Hill.

"Technology occupations, including cloud computing and information security, are growing faster than any other sector. Yet, technology companies are known for ... disparities among ethnicity and gender.  Government and technology companies must work together forming sound policies to increase diverse talent in the tech workforce," said Chris Brazela, an information technology major at FIU.

The cohort — about half tech-focused majors from the Knight School of Computing and Information Sciences, Sciences, and half non-STEM majors with an interest in technology’s role in society — worked in four teams to develop policy proposals addressing how the federal government, minority-serving institutions of higher education and private industry can collaborate on better practices for training, hiring and retaining diverse tech talent.

Federal players

On day one, students met with the chief information officer of the U.S. Department of State, Keith Jones. In addition to chatting with Jones about his lengthy career in the federal IT workforce and cybersecurity priorities for the federal agency, which manages all U.S. embassies abroad, students learned about the Foreign Affairs IT (FAIT) Fellowship, which provides educational funding and a career in the Foreign Service for historically underrepresented students pursuing an IT degree.

“Her prompting questions and the overall conversation was eye-opening and inspiring as a first-generation student trying to pursue a career in Washington,” said Kyomi Cabral, a sophomore studying international relations and global education studies, after hearing from Dorris Lin, who directs diversity and inclusion efforts at State’s Bureau of Information Resource Management.

Students also met with Congressman Carlos Gimenez (FL-26) and Justin Maturo, legislative director for Congressman Mark Takano (CA-41) to better understand Congress’ role in preparing for the tech workforce.

FIU selects Scott Carr as new athletic director

Contributing Author — Tue, 30 Nov 2021 16:26:00 -0500

Scott Carr has been named Florida International University’s new athletic director. Carr comes to FIU from the University of Central Florida where he has served as deputy and interim athletic director.

FIU Athletics has had many successes in the past few years: The football team played in three bowl games, the swimming and diving team won seven consecutive Conference USA championships and the men's basketball team is on its way to its third winning season in the last four years. This fall, the men's soccer team defeated the No. 1-ranked team in the nation and became Conference USA regular-season champions.

Off the field, student-athletes posted an overall GPA of 3.0 or better in 12 straight semesters and all the seniors on the 2021 football team graduated on time. Comprised of more than 450 student-athletes, FIU Athletics competes in 17 Division I sports.

“My family and I couldn’t be more excited to join the FIU family and serve as your next Director of Athletics,” Carr said. “I see the tremendous opportunities to grow FIU Athletics. We have an outstanding academic institution, a large, energetic student body, tremendous staff, coaches and student-athletes, passionate alumni and we’re located in a phenomenal city. I can’t wait to get started!”

“Athletics is a central piece to the dynamic, high-achieving university FIU has become,” said FIU Board of Trustees Chair Dean C. Colson. “We are confident that under Carr’s leadership our Panthers will thrive and match their academic success with countless achievements on the court, in the field and in the pool.”

Carr succeeds interim athletic director Heath Glick, who has led the program while a national search was conducted for a new athletic director.

Carr will hold a press conference at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 1, at the Graham Center Pit at FIU's main campus.

George Corton named Vice President of Development and Innovation Philanthropy

Clara-Meretan Kiah — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 14:00:00 -0500

George Corton has been promoted to Vice President of Development and Innovation Philanthropy at Florida International University.

FIU CasaCuba and Cuban Banking Study Group to offer scholarly resources on Cuban banking and financial systems

Contributing Author — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 13:00:00 -0500

FIU CasaCuba, and the Cuban Banking Study Group (CBSG) have partnered to meet current and emerging educational needs within the FIU scholarly community and beyond, on the history and future outlook of the Cuban banking and financial system.

FIU CasaCuba – Florida International University’s developing cultural center for the preservation and celebration of Cuban heritage and the study of Cuban affairs – seeks to partner with community organizations such as CBSG to fulfill its mission as a hub for Cuban arts, culture and scholarship. Through this new partnership, FIU CasaCuba and CBSG will offer joint professional development resources, executive roundtables and academic lectures, as well as public events related to the history of Cuban banking and the engagement of future leaders in the banking industry.

“It is an honor to join forces with Cuban Banking Study Group, a distinguished community organization that shares FIU CasaCuba’s mission to educate and inspire the next generations, while ensuring that our history and legacy are never forgotten,” said María Carla Chicuén, founding executive director of FIU CasaCuba.

Founded in 1992 as a non-profit and membership-based organization, CBSG is comprised of professional bankers of Cuban origin with diverse backgrounds and experiences. CBSG is dedicated to the study of the Cuban banking and financial system from its inception to the present. The organization has published studies and hosts events available to members and the public at large in furtherance of its mission statement.

“We are grateful to FIU CasaCuba for their dedication to Cuban history and desire to preserve our incredible legacy,” said CBSG President Fernando Capablanca. “The CasaCuba and FIU teams have been extraordinary leaders in this effort. CBSG is proud to partner with FIU CasaCuba and looks forward to a close collaboration in the years ahead.”

Festival of Lights exhibit to feature menorahs from 1st century BCE to today

Erica Corsano — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 12:00:00 -0500

The exhibition from Rabbi Howard Berman's personal collection will be on view at the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU starting Dec. 5.

High school students prepare for college with a customized visit to FIU Business

Cynthia Corzo — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 11:00:00 -0500

Students from five Miami-Dade County public high schools received a firsthand look at the process of admissions and financial resources as part of an FIU Business initiative.

5 holiday budgeting tips for college students

Ileana Varela — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 11:38:00 -0500

A little thinking ahead will save a lot of dollars later. On the eve of Black Friday, we could all benefit from such advice.

Federal grant to enhance FIU's efforts to train Hispanic leaders for agriculture industry

Chrystian Tejedor — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 15:45:00 -0500

The U.S. Department of Agriculture grant is helping FIU enhance its efforts in recruiting, cultivating and preparing underrepresented students for career and leadership opportunities in agriculture.

University breaks fundraising record on Give Miami Day 10th anniversary

Clara-Meretan Kiah — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 15:10:00 -0500

The university received a record $215,043 from 352 donors over the course of Give Miami Day 2021.

When should you buy your holiday gifts? A supply chain expert has advice

David Drucker — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 13:30:00 -0500

Shoppers should take a special strategic approach in 2021, says logistics guru Craig Austin.

FIU students, alumni star in the latest season of “The College Tour” on Amazon Prime

Contributing Author — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:00:00 -0500

Florida International University is the star of the latest episode of “The College Tour,” an Emmy-nominated series currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime TV. The series showcases colleges and universities around the country through the eyes of students.

Each episode of The College Tour features a different university and is led by real students and recent alumni who provide an insider’s look at campus life, academics, housing, sports, activities, and more. FIU is the first public university in Florida to be featured.

“This is an innovative way of recruiting new students from around the world even when we are not able to be together in person,” said FIU Director of University Admissions Jody Glassman. “Through The College Tour, we’re able to reach millions of students and still give them a true, student-driven taste of our FIU.”

On the show, 20 FIU students and alumni gave insight into a different element of FIU campus life. The cast includes Binta Olabasi, an economics student from Nigeria speaking about student diversity, D’Andria Hollins, a biology student who is dedicated to giving back to the community and studies plant compounds that could treat diseases, and Carlos Vasco, an FIU alumnus and critical care nurse who discussed health education at FIU and the Simulation Teaching and Research Center (STAR) Center, a state-of-the-art clinical simulation center. FIU President Mark B. Rosenberg is also featured in a segment, having cafecito with “College Tour” creator and host Alex Boylan.

“The idea for ‘The College Tour’ TV series came to me from my 16-year-old niece. Because of the pandemic and finances, she wasn’t able to travel to tour colleges,” Boylan said. “So, using our skills as executive producers we created a series inspired by her and millions of other young people who are interested in attending college.”

Other universities that have been featured in the series include UC Davis, Baylor University, Arizona State University and the University of Connecticut.

5 ways to improve your class performance

Monica Smith — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 10:20:00 -0500

Check out some ways you can succeed as final exams draw near.

Satellite data points to land subsidence in Cartagena

Angela Nicoletti — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 08:56:00 -0500

FIU professor found a rapid rate of land subsidence could make sea level rise estimates worse for one of Colombia’s tourist destinations — a warning sign to other coastal cities.

Do your part: Help increase culture of belonging by taking one survey

Contributing Author — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 14:03:00 -0500

The Belonging Survey deadline was extended to November 22. Complete the survey today!

Got my first job! Working with the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition

Yenisleidy Simon Mengana — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 10:00:00 -0500

Alumna and current graduate student Nicole A. Regalado '20, '21 shares her experience working at the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition, based in Washington, D.C.

New thinking pushes the pace of drug development

Alexandra Pecharich — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 16:00:00 -0500

FIU has exploded the traditional model of academic research by swapping silos for a dazzling new outpost devoted to biomedical science.

StartUP FIU, Bank of America and The Underline reveal the 10 winners of the inaugural Miami Small Business Bootcamp

Contributing Author — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 15:30:00 -0500

StartUP FIU, with Bank of America and The Underline, announced the 10 winners of the inaugural Miami Small Business Bootcamp. Winners to attend the Small Business Holiday Village next month.

Excessive media exposure to traumatic events could harm kids

Rosanna Castro — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 10:35:00 -0500

FIU researchers found that when a child is exposed to excessive media coverage of a major climate event, like a hurricane, it can lead to post-traumatic stress (PTS) symptoms.

FIU engineers help develop, expand wireless power capabilities

Contributing Author — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 13:22:00 -0500

Similar to the way we connect to WiFi networks today, we could eventually connect with wireless energy networks.

Panther named Rhodes Scholar finalist, dedicated to increasing prosperity in Caribbean

Gisela Maria Valencia — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Walker is the first student to be named a finalist for the most internationally competitive scholarship in the world.

What is Zakat? A scholar of Islam explains

Contributing Author — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0500

Written by Iqbal Akhtar, FIU associate professor of religious studies, republished from The Conversation.

2021 North Miami BrewFest showcases more than 30 brewers, 15 restaurants

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 00:00:00 -0500

The 2021 North Miami BrewFest is a wrap. After a year hiatus, hundreds of people gathered at MOCA Plaza in North Miami to try beer from more than 30 brewers and 15 restaurants.

Coach of the Year Kyle Russell has FIU men's soccer reaching for new heights

David Drucker — Fri, 12 Nov 2021 10:00:00 -0500

Undefeated in C-USA, the 2021 Panthers are hungry and unified, thanks in large part to their new head coach.

FIU Theatre's latest play is an imaginative take on what awaits us on the other side

Contributing Author — Fri, 12 Nov 2021 00:00:00 -0500

The play will take audiences on a journey of love, life and loss as experienced within Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ modernized morality play, Everybody.

Why are prices so high? Blame the supply chain – and that’s the reason inflation is here to stay

Contributing Author — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 14:00:00 -0500

Craig Austin, FIU assistant teaching professor of logistics and supply chain management wrote this piece, republished from The Conversation.

With grateful hearts: Saluting Veterans, honoring their sacrifices

Gisela Maria Valencia — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 13:47:00 -0500

FIU is celebrating our heroes and paying tribute to their service during Veterans Appreciation Month.

Ph.D. student fights for mangroves — not concrete seawalls — on Miami's shorelines

Angela Nicoletti — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 11:47:00 -0500

FIU Ph.D. student Marbelys Garriga is spearheading a project to gather evidence on how more natural forms of infrastructure, like mangroves, benefit Miami's shorelines.

Executive Director of Sports and Entertainment, Athletics Director Pete Garcia steps down

Mark Rosenberg — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 11:00:00 -0500

President Rosenberg informs the university community about the news out of FIU Athletics.

Wells Fargo awards StartUP FIU Food grant to help local food entrepreneurs recover from pandemic

Contributing Author — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 14:00:00 -0500

Wells Fargo today awarded an Open for Business Fund grant to Florida International University (FIU) to launch a robust, virtual platform at StartUP FIU Food, a small business incubator that serves food and beverage micro-entrepreneurs in South Florida.

The $750,000 grant is projected to offer online resources to more than 1,000 small businesses to help them recover and emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Small business owners who currently participate in StartUP FIU Food have access to state-of-the-art kitchens and facilities at FIU’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management, as well as the expertise of food scientists and mentors, who advise on product development, strategy, financials, e-commerce and more. Wells Fargo’s Open for Business Fund grant will help StartUP FIU Food formalize and expand these counseling and technical assistance resources into a virtual platform that will become a permanent facet of its programming.

“The pandemic has permanently shifted the consumer paradigm,” said Emily Gresham, FIU's assistant vice president for Research & Economic Development and co-founder of StartUP FIU. “There is no return to business as usual, and we have to help these microbusinesses – most with less than four employees – adjust to a new normal with very little resources. I am so grateful to Wells Fargo for trusting us to help our most vulnerable small business owners recover and become more resilient.”

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, StartUP FIU Food recognized that in addition to offering resources online, it had to expand its support beyond its incubator companies. As South Florida restaurants and food and beverage businesses were reeling from the economic effects of the pandemic, seeing revenue decline between 30% and 50%, StartUP FIU Food began offering online course modules teaching businesses to pivot by leveraging e-commerce, utilizing third-party delivery services and other measures to slow drastic losses in sales.

“Entrepreneurs across South Florida are critical to economic growth, including the wide variety of food microbusinesses in Miami’s diverse neighborhoods,” said Wells Fargo’s Vice Chairman of Public Affairs Bill Daley. “FIU is an anchor institution in the community, a trusted expert that local entrepreneurs can turn to as a way to stabilize and grow their business. With its new virtual platform, StartUp FIU Food can significantly expand the number of local businesses that will benefit.”

The grant is one of several Open for Business Fund grants Wells Fargo has awarded in Florida to support small businesses. The Open for Business Fund is a roughly $420 million small business recovery effort across the U.S. to help entrepreneurs recover and rebuild. The initiative focuses on three key areas: increasing access to capital through CDFIs, technical assistance, and long-term recovery and resiliency programs.

"As we look ahead to recover, restore and rebound our economy from the pandemic, we have a critical opportunity to build back stronger by supporting the businesses that were among the hardest hit – especially those in food and beverage and hospitality," said Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. "Miami-Dade's economy runs thanks to small businesses, and I'm thankful to FIU and Wells Fargo for standing up for our community and supporting local entrepreneurs when they need it most."

This grant is part of FIU’s Next Horizon campaign, which is advancing student success and research excellence at the university.

Paying it forward: first-generation alumni invest back into FIU with pride

David Drucker — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 13:13:00 -0500

This National First-Generation College Student Day, we celebrate the growing legacy of first-generation success at the university.

Curious Kids: Do flies really throw up on your food when they land on it?

Contributing Author — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0500

Curious Kids segment written by Ravindra Palavalli-Nettimi, FIU postdoctoral research associate and Jamie Theobald, FIU associate professor of biological sciences, republished from The Conversation.

FIU Engineering receives $22.9 million from U.S. Army to advance research on high performance additive manufacturing technologies

Elizabeth Calzadilla — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0500

Florida International University (FIU) has received a five-year, $22.9 million grant from the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Army Research Laboratory to advance additive manufacturing technologies that aid in the repair, design and durability of high-performance materials that will be used to manufacture next-generation vehicles and munitions.

"There is much potential for advancing this highly innovative technique,” said Arvind Agarwal, chair of FIU’s Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, director of the Advanced Materials Engineering Research Institute and PI on the grant. “The research at FIU will primarily focus on the development of high-performance metallic materials, which are lightweight and of ultra-great strength, using Rapid Advanced Deposition (RAD) techniques including wire arc, solid-state cold spray and friction-stir additive manufacturing."

The development of high deposition structural alloys and novel additive manufacturing processing techniques from computational models is essential toward the prediction of material properties and the implementation of new structural alloys into Army weapons systems.

Using state-of-the-art automation, solid 3D parts could be printed in minutes and last significantly longer once RAD techniques are applied. The process can be reduced to a portable handheld applicator, which makes it particularly useful in military field operations. The new research seeks to advance the scientific understanding of this process while developing enhanced tools and techniques that allow production and repair of materials to be quick and cost-effective.

During Phase I and II of the grant, FIU researchers collaborated with researchers from other academic institutions and industries to develop solid-state AM and polymer coatings. This also included collaborations with private manufacturing companies across the country, including Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL).

“We are thrilled to once again participate in a substantial collaboration with the federal government, other leading research institutions and commercial entities,” said John L. Volakis, dean of FIU’s College of Engineering and Computing. “This research not only addresses the U.S. Army’s needs but it also allows public universities to contribute toward significant initiatives of national interest.”

This collaboration will establish the fundamental research necessary to enable next-generation materials and manufacturing processes in support of the Army’s modernization strategy.

The Florida Congressional delegation has been a strong proponent of critical defense research funding which allows FIU researchers to advance the country’s defense readiness.

“FIU is providing solutions to help maintain our force’s defense readiness, while further advancing innovation and creating dignified jobs for our workforce in Florida," said U.S. Senator Marco Rubio.

U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, chair of the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs appropriations subcommittee of the U.S. House of Representatives, added: “This important investment by the Army in Miami's public research university will bolster America’s defense readiness, create good jobs, and help grow South Florida’s burgeoning technology sector.”

Champions! FIU men’s soccer posts dominating 4-1 win over defending national champion and No. 1 ranked Marshall

Contributing Author — Sat, 06 Nov 2021 07:50:00 -0400

The Panthers will now enter postseason action as the No. 1 seed in next week's Conference USA Championship in Charlotte, N.C.

South Beach Wine & Food Festival® unveils star-studded 21st birthday lineup

Contributing Author — Fri, 05 Nov 2021 14:50:00 -0400

The Festival returns to the sand Feb. 24-27, 2022 and will feature 90-plus events.

Catch of the day: Mellow, the FIU-tagged tiger shark

Angela Nicoletti — Fri, 05 Nov 2021 13:47:00 -0400

Mellow the shark is helping FIU scientists get the data they need to protect sharks and rays in Belize — and he did it by getting caught by a fisherman.

Sophomore sets record time at 32nd Walk on Water

David Drucker — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 15:40:00 -0400

Jack Pearce, a sophomore in CARTA, splashed his way to finish line in 51 seconds, a record time.

Prestigious NSF grant awarded to FIU engineering professor for 'smart' bandages

Contributing Author — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Venkatakrishnan’s work in the development of a wireless, adhesive bandage to monitor wounds has led to a highly competitive award.

Write a novel in November: Unleash your inspiration

Contributing Author — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 09:45:00 -0400

Every November, thousands of aspiring writers take to their pens and paper or laptops and keyboards to start a novel. Here are ways to find inspiration.

Oceanographer Sylvia Earle is still making waves

Angela Nicoletti — Wed, 03 Nov 2021 15:34:00 -0400

FIU welcomed Earle — one of the world’s most renowned oceanographers and explorers — to take part in the College of Arts, Sciences & Education’s Inaugural Explorers & Innovators Lecture Series.

Yes, that's skunk taste in your beer. Students are learning why in hospitality science elective

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Wed, 03 Nov 2021 13:54:00 -0400

Created in class, six student beers to debut at North Miami BrewFest Nov. 13

How to choose courses like a pro

Gisela Maria Valencia — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 14:26:00 -0400

With Summer and Fall 2023 around the corner, academic advisor Cory Fairfield unlocks the secret to creating a successful road map for the upcoming semesters.

FIU ranked among top 50 U.S. patent producers in the world

Morgan Hughes — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 13:05:00 -0400

FIU ranks among the top 20 U.S. public universities in the world for the number of U.S. utility patents produced.

FIU named 2021 Hispanic-Serving Institutions Leader by Fulbright Program

Birgitta Rausch-Montoto — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 09:35:00 -0400

FIU was recognized by the Fulbright Program for its extensive engagement. The distinction is awarded to only 35 Hispanic-Serving Institutions.

FIU receives $3M Department of Energy grant to train next-generation workforce in power, energy and cybersecurity

Elizabeth Calzadilla — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Florida International University’s (FIU) College of Engineering and Computing has received a $3 million U.S. Department of Energy three-year grant to lead an initiative to prepare minority students for careers with national security entities.

The grant from the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) will create the Consortium for Research and Education in Power and Energy Systems (CREPES) for Sustainable STEM Workforce. Overseen by the Department of Energy’s Minority Serving Institution Partnership Program, two other Minority Serving Institutions also are part of the consortium - Alabama A&M University and the University of Texas at El Paso.

“FIU is the ideal institution to lead this important consortium given its academic offerings and multidisciplinary research capabilities in STEM,” said John L. Volakis, dean of the College of Engineering and Computing. “With almost 80 percent of its student body formed of minority students, FIU is also uniquely positioned to recruit and train a diverse student population for the future workforce NNSA seeks.”

Students, faculty members and researchers at the three universities will collaborate with the Sandia National Lab and the Lawrence Livermore National Lab. CREPES, one of 24 NNSA consortiums across the country, is unique in that it focuses on power and energy education and research at the system level of electric power infrastructure. Both play key roles in preserving the U.S.’s domestic and economic security, as they are essential to safeguarding the nation’s citizens and infrastructure.

“Through CREPES at FIU, undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students will receive the training and practical experience needed to succeed in the high-demand fields of electrical and nuclear engineering and cyber and information security,” said Sumit Paudyal, CREPES principal investigator at FIU and associate professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE). “NNSA recognizes FIU as an international leader and a top producer of Hispanic and African American engineers in the U.S.”

CREPES will train 48 undergraduate and six graduate students, in addition to one postdoctoral researcher and two tenure-track assistant professors. The consortium also will focus on strengthening the academic and research capabilities of the three Minority Serving Institutions to improve student and postdoctoral research recruitment and retainment efforts in areas of study critical to NNSA’s mission. The team at FIU includes Paudyal, Osama Mohammed, distinguished professor and associate dean of research, Mohammad Ashiqur Rahman, assistant professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Trina Fletcher, assistant professor in the School of Universal Computing, Construction and Engineering Education (SUCCEED).

The Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU continues wellness event series #BeWell with new fall programming

Erica Corsano — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 15:00:00 -0400

Beginning on Nov. 2, the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU (JMOF-FIU) will present part two of #BeWell, a series of virtual workshops on health and wellness. Originally launched in the spring of 2021, this series provides arts and culture programs that examine practices of mindfulness, healing and wellbeing, via a range of offerings.

#BeWell aims to help develop a mindfulness practice and teach healing arts from wellness experts in various fields.

“We at the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU have been reflecting on our history and role as a place of refuge, community building, and resilience. Built from these values, the #BeWell Series aims to bring together members of our community, who come from many different backgrounds, yet are seeking similar things – to feel connected to a community, develop a mindfulness practice tied to Jewish roots and cultivate a range of tools to cope with the increased stress and sense of isolation resulting from the pandemic,” said Luna Goldberg, education manager at JMOF-FIU.

The #BeWell series is sponsored in part by the Greater Miami Jewish Federation Incubator.

Programming:

Tuesday, Nov. 2, 7 p.m.
War, Poetry, and Theater with Combat Hippies
Co-hosted by the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU and O, Miami this is a storytelling workshop led by Iraq War vet, performance artist and clinical therapist Anthony Torres. Torres will share how his personal and professional experiences re-ignited his passion for writing and ultimately led to his current role as writer, performer and executive director of Combat Hippies – an all-military veteran theater company based in Miami.

Tuesday, Nov. 16, 7 p.m.
Challah-Day Cook-Along: When Thanksgiving Meets Shabbat
In this unique class, Miami-based chef and Jewish educator Romi Naparstek will blend Shabbat and Thanksgiving traditions to make Cranberry Orange Challah. The class includes discussion of other variations and alternatives to spice up holiday menus.

Tuesday, Dec. 14, 7 p.m.
Get Lit: Menorahs and Martinis
This is an hour of crafting holiday cocktails centered around the themes of light and celebration, with Dammara Kovnats of Jewish Cocktails, an events-based business specializing in kosher and Jewish-themed cocktails and classes.

FIU physician tapped for national training program to increase diversity in clinical trials

Ileana Varela — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 11:49:00 -0400

Dr. Annellys Hernandez is one of 52 physicians nationwide selected to participate in a new program to increase minority participation in clinical trials.

New Master of Public Administration degree helps you make the right connections

Monica Smith — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 15:26:00 -0400

Leveraging FIU’s cachet in public service, the new, yearlong Hybrid EMPA degree includes three in-person residency experiences.

Center explores role of free market economies in advancing prosperity, connects students with international leaders

Gisela Maria Valencia — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 15:09:00 -0400

The Adam Smith Center for the Study of Economic Freedom is bringing to campus former public servants to mentor students. The center aims to study the impact of free enterprise systems on government.

FIU receives $2.5 million SBA grant to help local businesses

Cynthia Corzo — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 15:00:00 -0400

Professor discusses why many popular Halloween costumes are examples of cultural misappropriation

Contributing Author — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 14:45:00 -0400

As part of an op-ed series, Elizabeth Scarbrough explains cultural misappropriation and why many popular Halloween costumes are examples of it.

2021 FIU ForEverglades Scholarship Awardees

Christine Calvo — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 10:00:00 -0400

The Everglades Foundation recently announced the 2021 winners of its prestigious ForEverglades Scholarships and Fellowships.

FIU Business No. 1 in the world for real estate research productivity

Cynthia Corzo — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 15:51:00 -0400

FIU surpassed the well-known National University of Singapore for the top spot internationally in the just-released rankings by the Journal of Real Estate Literature.

Hospitality alumnus' vision leads to new partnership with FIU Chaplin School, Sandals Resorts International and The University of the West Indies

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 12:55:00 -0400

The Chaplin School of Hospitality Management embarks on new partnership with Sandals Resorts International and the University of the West Indies.

Construction management professor awarded two grants on worker safety, health training from U.S. Department of Labor

Caylin Jimenez — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 11:43:00 -0400

Grants focus on stopping the spread of infectious diseases, including coronavirus and fall prevention/protection

FIU Business launches Luxury Incubator MBA Project

Cynthia Corzo — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 11:30:00 -0400

Florida International University’s College of Business (FIU Business) has introduced a Luxury Incubator MBA Project course that will teach the marketing of luxury products.

The first of its kind at FIU Business, the Luxury Incubator MBA Project combines classroom and hands-on learning and includes an international residency component where 20 FIU MBA students will travel to Singapore and Bangkok, Thailand to learn what it takes to make a luxury brand successful.

The course was co-created by Deepak Ohri, CEO of lebua Hotels and Resorts, and Anna Pietraszek, director of global operations and assistant teaching professor of marketing and logistics.

“The class illustrates step-by-step planning and development of a luxury brand as well as marketing techniques and management of the luxury market,” Pietraszek said.

Students will study the marketing and management of luxury brands in the U.S. and Asia, learning the different factors that create a culture from a brand. The project will show how psychology, business practices and innovation play a vital role in creating a luxury brand culture and lifestyle.

“I am honored and excited to collaborate with FIU Business. I am looking forward to working with Pietraszek, adding a new dimension to such a great curriculum, and creating something extraordinary that will allow students to experience and learn the disruption of the luxury industry,” said Ohri, an award-winning entrepreneur.

The class will be held from March 31 through May 13, 2022 with the international residency from March 31 to April 10, 2022. Students will be selected based on the capacity of the class and those with a marketing specialization will be given priority to register.

The course will show unconventional approaches to luxury marketing and explain why such strategies are needed to create an incomparable brand. Ohri’s career focus has been on what he considers “experiential luxury” and he will teach students why luxury is an experience, not an expense.

FIU programs ranked Top 50 globally among public universities

Contributing Author — Tue, 26 Oct 2021 13:46:00 -0400

Among the world’s best programs in their respective categories are Environment and Ecology; Electrical and Electronic Engineering; and Psychiatry and Psychology.

Governor DeSantis appoints FIU alumnus Carlos Duart to Board of Trustees

Contributing Author — Tue, 26 Oct 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed Carlos Duart to the Florida International University (FIU) Board of Trustees.

School spirit soars at Homecoming football festivities

David Drucker — Mon, 25 Oct 2021 15:48:00 -0400

FIU pride reached new highs on Saturday as Panthers of all ages bonded at the tailgate and game.

Mosquitoes are good at sucking blood and having babies

Angela Nicoletti — Mon, 25 Oct 2021 15:05:00 -0400

To support this project, Azitra will leverage its extensive scientific knowledge of the skin microbiome to develop and characterize various bacterial strains. Ginkgo Bioworks will contribute its foundries and deep expertise in bioengineering to provide strain engineering. In the initial research phase of the project, the companies will collaborate with top mosquito researcher and neurogeneticist Matthew DeGennaro of FIU’s Biomolecular Sciences Institute, who brings expertise in molecular genetics and odor attraction profile of mosquitoes as well as mosquito repellents. Throughout the project, Latham will provide program management, systems integration support and technical product development support.

“DEET has been the gold standard for mosquito repellency since the 1940s,” said DeGennaro, who is also director of FIU’s Laboratory of Tropical Genetics. “Over the past 80 years, we have learned so much more about how mosquitoes find their hosts. Now is the time for us to leverage that knowledge to break the cycle of mosquito-borne illness. I am so excited to work with Ginkgo Bioworks, Azitra, and LBG to design and deploy this next-generation repellent.”

As the program progresses, Azitra will bring its significant expertise in formulating, packaging, and making microbiome products that can safely integrate with the natural skin microbiome.

“We are extremely excited to partner with Ginkgo Bioworks, FIU, and LBG on this visionary project of engineering the skin microbiome to produce a new class of living, long-lasting, and safe mosquito repellants. Together, Azitra and Ginkgo bring the world’s best genetic engineering capabilities applied to the skin microbiome to execute this vision,” said Travis Whitfill Azitra’s co-founder and executive director of advanced technology. “We hope to address a major global healthcare burden while advancing the concept of using engineered microbes that are part of our natural microbiome to improve human health.”

What causes ADHD and can it be cured?

Contributing Author — Mon, 25 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Gregory Fabiano — FIU psychology professor — wrote this piece, republished from The Conversation.

Everything you need to know for FIU Homecoming game day

Contributing Author — Fri, 22 Oct 2021 15:00:00 -0400

Check out the latest information regarding parking, tailgating, street traffic, transportation and the game day schedule.

FIU's online global learning program receives $25,000 grant to help expand global learning to students, faculty

Emily Castellanos — Fri, 22 Oct 2021 12:52:00 -0400

The grant from 100,000 Strong in the Americas will used to build U.S.- Colombia multidisciplinary intercultural identities.

FIU Business real estate conference brings networking, thought leadership to Miami’s 'hot” market

Ellen Forman — Fri, 22 Oct 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Attendees learned that even in today’s hot South Florida real estate market, challenges of housing affordability and land cost remain on the horizon.

New FIU college of medicine elective focuses on LGBTQ health

Ileana Varela — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 13:00:00 -0400

The Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine launched a new elective course focused on LGBTQ health to address health care and health disparities in this community.

Moss Department of Construction Management welcomed more than 40 companies, nearly 200 students at its Fall 2021 Career Expo

Caylin Jimenez — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 12:00:00 -0400

The networking event was open to FIU engineering students and alumni.

FIU pre-law program earns Association of American Law Schools’ changemaker award

Contributing Author — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 12:00:00 -0400

The pre-law program introduces students to the fundamental components of the American legal system.

School of Social Work advisor creates safe space for Black voices

Stephanie Rendon — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 16:00:00 -0400

Double alumna Kelly Sydnor '09, MSW '10 helps students of all backgrounds find their passion for the field.

FIU researcher testifies before House science committee on storm preparedness, workforce

Federal Relations — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 10:00:00 -0400

Associate Director of the Extreme Events Institute Erik Salna provided expert testimony before the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.

81-year-old alumnus presents self-published family history book to FIU Libraries

Alexandra Pecharich — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 09:00:00 -0400

The “Cuban equivalent of ancestory.com” got a boost recently when Autberto Palma, class of 1978, contributed his work to FIU’s genealogy holdings, considered the most extensive outside of the island.

FIU Music Festival 2021 opens with celebration of Cuban music

Michelle Vires — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:00:00 -0400

The FIU School of Music will open the 2021 edition of the FIU Music Festival on Oct. 20, bringing together international and local musicians and ensembles for three weeks of performances, masterclasses, and a panel discussion about the future of the music business industry at the Wertheim Performing Arts Center.

Opening night is a tribute to Cuban music, featuring an orchestral premiere of the Cuban national anthem co-produced by Grammy award winner Emilio Estefan and the FIU School of Music in partnership with CasaCuba, as well as the orchestral world premiere of Ernesto Lecuona’s “Rumba-Rhapsody.” The evening will include performances by the leading authority and interpreter of the music of Ernesto Lecuona, pianist Tomas Y. Tirino, the FIU Symphony Orchestra, the FIU Concert Choir, Encantus Voices, and the Miami Children’s Chorus.

“We are so incredibly excited to perform for our audiences again,” said FIU School of Music director Karen S. F. Veloz. “We have an exceptional lineup of musicians planned for our festival and are hosting a panel discussion on the future of the music industry – a most-relevant topic during the pandemic. We continually strive to offer programming that deepens our engagement with the South Florida community, reaffirms our commitment to diversity, and nurtures the next generation of musicians through meaningful collaborations and partnerships.”

The festival lineup runs through Nov. 13 and includes an exciting series of jazz and classical performances by international and local musicians. Accomplished jazz pianist Michael Eckroth will make his FIU debut in his new position as associate professor with the FIU Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Big Band. He is a pianist/arranger for the Cuban ensemble Orquesta Akokan, whose 2018 debut album received a Grammy nomination.

Chamber music lovers will delight in a program of works by Ravel, Mozart, and Enescu, including the latter composer’s rarely heard “Octet for Strings,” performed by the FIU’s Artist in Residence ensemble, the Amernet String Quartet, along with Nicholas Kitchen and Yeesun Kim, members of the world-renowned Borromeo String Quartet. For one night only this season, FIU Artist in Residence Kemal Gekic will engage in a program of piano fireworks in the Wertheim Concert Hall with pianist Lindsay Garritson, and returning alumnus and former FIU concerto competition winner Silvije Vidovic.

Other artists to perform at FIU include pianist Karen Walwyn, the first female African American pianist and composer to receive the Steinway Artist Award, Germany’s Berlin PianoPercussion, clarinetist David Shifrin, award-winning pianist Asiya Korepanova, Latin-Fusion group RumBarrocco, and Cuban born, Miami-educated pianist, Fabian Alamazan.

Festival musicians and prominent experts provide additional training to music students with intensive one-on-one instruction, masterclasses, coaching, and lectures. The festival is an opportunity for students to make real-world connections in the concert and music industry as they launch their careers. This “learn by doing” philosophy has enabled graduates to join the ranks of conductors, performers, entrepreneurs, and music educators, many of whom are now leaders in their respective fields across the state of Florida and around the world.

A portion of the newly gifted Celia Cruz Music Score Collection, a cultural treasure that includes 230 long- and short-form musical scores belonging to the legendary Cuban singer, will be on display in the Wertheim Performing Arts Center Concert Hall lobby throughout the festival.

The FIU Music Festival is presented by the FIU School of Music and funded in part by Ocean Bank and the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs. The opening night is co-sponsored by the FIU Cuban Research Institute at FIU, the Kimberly Green Latin American and Caribbean Center at FIU, and CasaCuba at FIU. The Nov. 5 concert is co-sponsored by the Friends of Chamber Music of Miami.

Concerts will be held at FIU’s Herbert and Nicole Wertheim Performing Arts Center located at FIU’s MMC Campus, 10910 SW 17th St., Miami, FL 33199. For more information on the festival schedule and ticket prices, please visit musicfestival.fiu.edu. Livestream and discounted tickets available.

Toxic 'forever chemicals' found in tap water raise questions for scientists

Angela Nicoletti — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 14:42:00 -0400

Around 30 different PFAS found in Miami, Broward and Palm Beach tap water, with the highest concentrations in samples collected near Miami International and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood airports.

Monsters of the deep revealed for what they are

JoAnn Adkins — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 14:00:00 -0400

Scientists have now identified 14 species of bizarre, monster-like creatures as shrimp larvae using deep sea forensics.

Neuroinflammation protein linked to worse survival in men with glioblastoma

Stephanie Rendon — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Scientists have discovered a new link that could bring the scientific and medical community closer to understanding why the most common malignant brain tumor is deadlier in males.

My internship with Zavora Marine Lab

Angela Nicoletti — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 09:14:00 -0400

FIU Institute of Environment student Rose McDonald interned in Mozambique, collecting information on coral reef systems.

FIU receives $1M for storm surge risk mapping throughout the Caribbean

Contributing Author — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 09:00:00 -0400

FIU researchers will help hurricane-vulnerable regions map and forecast flooding to save lives and infrastructure with a two-year $1 million award from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Water related hazards of hurricanes kill more people than the winds. Caribbean and Central American nations are vulnerable to dangerous storm surge and coastal flooding from hurricanes, but many of these nations have limited surge and flood mapping capabilities and forecast systems able to take advantage of the latest technologies.

To help solve this pressing real world problem, FIU will continue assisting NOAA’s National Hurricane Center (NHC), which in 2016 initiated the Caribbean Coastal Inundation and Forecast Demonstration Project (CIFDP-C) to develop improved and cost-effective products for storm surge monitoring and warning for Caribbean island-nations and Central American coastal areas.

“FIU, and all of South Florida really, is also part of the Caribbean, and we are proud to be assisting the National Hurricane Center in helping the nations and peoples of the region improve risk management and save lives,” said Richard Olson, director of FIU’s Extreme Events Institute.

CIFDP is an initiative of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) to increase preparedness in countries most vulnerable to direct impacts from hurricane hazards. That project is funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance. The award funding from NOAA is part of the Cooperative Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Studies (CIMAS), a NOAA Center of Excellence at the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science.

Since 2016, and based on the path-breaking research of the late Professor Keqi Zhang of the FIU Department of Earth and Environment, FIU and the NHC have partnered to improve storm surge forecasts for Hispaniola (Haiti and the Dominican Republic), the eastern coast of Mexico, Belize, the Caribbean coast of Guatemala, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Work is currently ongoing for the Bahamas, which was devastated by Hurricane Dorian in 2019. The new project will expand that assistance to 24 additional nations in the Caribbean and Central America.

“It is an honor to continue and expand the work with the National Hurricane Center of my late mentor and friend Professor Zhang. Improved storm surge mapping saves lives, we all know this, and it drives our program,” said principal investigator Yuepeng Li, director of the Laboratory for Coastal Research with FIU’s Extreme Events Institute who will lead the FIU team and assist the Storm Surge Unit at the National Hurricane Center in this collaborative effort.

Jamie Rhome, project lead for the NHC’s Storm Surge Unit, is equally excited to be advancing this project, adding that “the ability to bring storm surge risk mapping and real-time forecasting capabilities to the Caribbean will revolutionize the region's ability to prepare for and recover from the impacts of hurricanes.”

The 24 Caribbean and the Central America nations that will receive the new storm surge products include Aruba, Curacao, Saint Maarten, Saint Barthélemy, Anguilla, Trinidad and Tobago, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Martinique, Montserrat, Guadeloupe, Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Grenada, Saint Lucia, Dominica, Jamaica, Barbados, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, EI Salvador, and Honduras.

Alabama’s youngest, first black poet laureate is a force of southern pride

Christine Calvo — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 10:00:00 -0400

Alumna Ashley M. Jones is the youngest and first person of color to be named Poet Laureate of Alabama, a position created 91 years ago.

Meet FIU's ombudsperson, dedicated to helping Panthers resolve conflicts

Contributing Author — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 16:00:00 -0400

As FIU’s ombudsperson, Sofia Trelles' job is to try to help Panthers resolve conflicts that may arise during their time at FIU.

Construction trades program helps underserved members of the community thrive in the workforce

Caylin Jimenez — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 16:00:00 -0400

Funded by the Lennar Foundation, FIU's free certificate program in the construction trades is designed to help underserved community members.

Her free time is for the birds

Angela Nicoletti — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 12:51:00 -0400

FIU Ph.D. student Steffanie Munguía has found different ways to make a difference for birds — through volunteer work, research and with the National Audubon Society.

Workers feel most valued when their managers trust them

Contributing Author — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Jesus Arias, FIU doctoral student in business administration, wrote this piece — republished from The Conversation.

Renowned oceanographer Sylvia Earle to speak at FIU

Angela Nicoletti — Wed, 13 Oct 2021 15:37:00 -0400

Sylvia Earle will speak at the College of Arts, Sciences & Education’s Inaugural Explorers & Innovators Lecture Series at the Student Academic Success Center Auditorium on Monday, Nov. 1 at 4:30 p.m.

Real Triumphs: Meet two faculty all-stars

David Drucker — Wed, 13 Oct 2021 12:20:00 -0400

Check out a list of past recipients of the award here.

President Rosenberg: FIU is kicking off our favorite week of the year - Homecoming!

Mark Rosenberg — Wed, 13 Oct 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Please join us for an exciting week throughout our campuses from Friday, October 15 through Saturday, October 23.

His TED talk was the fifth most viewed in 2020 — and now he teaches at FIU

Christine Calvo — Tue, 12 Oct 2021 10:51:00 -0400

Education leadership scholar Anindya Kundu joins education faculty.

FIU joins ACE Learner Success Lab second cohort

Contributing Author — Tue, 12 Oct 2021 10:00:00 -0400

FIU will work over a period of 12 to 18 months to integrate evidence-based practices to produce a comprehensive strategy for learner success.

FIU hurricane researcher to testify before Congress on storm preparedness

Contributing Author — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 15:20:00 -0400

Associate Director of the International Hurricane Research Center Erik Salna will provide expert testimony Oct. 14.

FIU ranked No. 1 for awarding bachelor’s, master’s degrees to Hispanic students

Morgan Hughes — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 15:00:00 -0400

From cover to cover: FIU researcher lands his fifth science journal cover

Ileana Varela — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 13:49:00 -0400

Barry P. Rosen's research has been featured on 5 science journal covers. The latest publication is on how bacteria become resistant to antimony, a toxic metal.

The power of silence: A medical student reflects on the importance of listening to patients

Contributing Author — Fri, 08 Oct 2021 10:20:00 -0400

Medical student Monica Reyes reflects on the importance of listening to patients.

Biomedical engineering professor receives $2.6M NIH grant to research brain disorders

Debra Jacob — Fri, 08 Oct 2021 09:30:00 -0400

$2.6M NIH grant will focus on brain disorders such as cerebral small vessel diseases and Alzheimer's.

FIU Bistro is serving up three-course meals for just $5 at Biscayne Bay Campus

Contributing Author — Thu, 07 Oct 2021 12:00:00 -0400

FIU Bistro at the North Miami Biscayne Bay Campus' Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management serves three-course meals in a student-run restaurant.

What’s the difference between a COVID-19 booster shot and a third dose?

Ileana Varela — Thu, 07 Oct 2021 11:29:00 -0400

Dr. Eneida Roldan, FIU Health CEO and clinical director of FIU’s vaccine initiative, explained the difference between the new shots.

It’s lights out for moths, if you like your nightly pollinators

Angela Nicoletti — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 12:10:00 -0400

FIU researchers want to find out what artificial light at night is doing to moths, one of the nighttime’s most important nocturnal pollinators.

FIU launches first Belonging Survey

Contributing Author — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 12:05:00 -0400

This tool will help our students, faculty, and staff share their experiences and provide feedback regarding our university’s diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.

Bob Dylan: Retrospectrum to open November 30 at Frost Art Museum FIU

Contributing Author — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Retrospectrum, the most expansive and in-depth exhibition of Bob Dylan's artwork ever seen on U.S. soil, will have its U.S. debut at the Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum at FIU.

Got my first job working with Americans for Immigrant Justice

Yenisleidy Simon Mengana — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 10:36:00 -0400

Alumna Janelle Acevedo '21 puts her BA in anthropology and a pair of undergraduate certificates to use in her role as a shelter advocate for incoming immigrant minors.

FIU researchers develop ultra-high performance concrete to bolster aging U.S. infrastructure

Morgan Hughes — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 10:00:00 -0400

An FIU team of researchers are working to develop new solutions that can make buildings and bridges safer by retrofitting rather than rebuilding them.

Celia Cruz Music Score Collection, including rare pieces, gifted to FIU

Madeline Baro — Tue, 05 Oct 2021 10:45:00 -0400

FIU has been gifted the Celia Cruz Music Score Collection, a cultural treasure that includes 230 long- and short-form musical scores belonging to the legendary Cuban singer.

Students lead real-world projects through prestigious UN-affiliated fellowship

Gisela Maria Valencia — Mon, 04 Oct 2021 15:20:00 -0400

Twenty-six students have been named Millennium Fellows and will be working throughout the semester to help solve major issues impacting the globe.

Meet Jessie Woo—alumna, entertainment influencer and cast member on MTV's Wild 'n Out

Zion Sealy — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Jessie Woo shares how she went from College of Communication, Architecture + The Arts student to entertainment influencer and cast member on MTV's Wild 'n Out.

FIU, FPL unveil innovative microgrid and virtual control room at College of Engineering & Computing

Elizabeth Calzadilla — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 12:00:00 -0400

The FIU-FPL microgrid is capable of supplying backup power to FIU’s engineering center for approximately 24 hours.

Muslim women need greater breast-cancer awareness. FIU’s ‘mammovan’ is helping

Contributing Author — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 09:45:00 -0400

In an op-ed, medical student Seema Azim Al-Shaikhli shares how FIU's mammovan is helping minority women get mammograms.

Medical graduates will care for veterans at FIU’s new residency training program

Ileana Varela — Thu, 30 Sep 2021 13:00:00 -0400

The Florida International University (FIU) Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine (HWCOM) will launch a primary care internal medicine training program at the Miami VA Healthcare System.

This will be the only medical residency program in Florida to benefit veterans by utilizing a Veterans Affairs healthcare facility as its primary training site. Residents also will train at Jackson Memorial Hospital and other sites under development. The program, set to start on July 1, 2022, recently received approval from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for FIU to serve those who have served us,” said FIU Provost and Executive Vice President Kenneth G. Furton. “Graduates of this program will be uniquely prepared to manage the complex medical problems that veterans confront after returning to civilian life, including post-traumatic stress disorder, addiction and chronic pain.”

In addition to newly minted doctors who graduate from HWCOM, the program also is expected to draw skilled physicians from across the country. The new FIU/Miami VA residency program has been approved to participate in the National Resident Matching Program, which culminates on Match Day (March 18, 2022) when graduating medical students are "matched" with residency programs nationwide. Residencies offer medical school graduates in-depth training within a specific specialty at a hospital or clinic.

This residency training program also is expected to benefit the South Florida community by attracting more doctors to the area amidst a growing national physician shortage, especially in primary care.

"Studies show the majority of young doctors decide to practice close to where they perform their residency training," said Dr. Juan Cendan, interim dean at the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. "We expect that many of the doctors we train will remain in South Florida."

The three-year graduate medical education program has already started recruiting its first class of six residents.

Stempel College partners with school of medicine in Colombia to help improve health and wellbeing of people in Latin America and the Caribbean

Stephanie Rendon — Thu, 30 Sep 2021 10:30:00 -0400

New partnership will open doors for research and collaboration in Latin America and the Caribbean.

In the face of hustle culture, it's OK to just be

Contributing Author — Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:25:00 -0400

Reframe the way you approach productivity.

Researcher tackles the politics behind sports organizations

Angela Nicoletti — Wed, 29 Sep 2021 11:03:00 -0400

FIU Assistant Professor Anthony Weems researches how diversity and social justice are expressed in the culture of a professional sports organization.

It's National Coffee Day: New FIU class explores the expanding coffee, tea and non-alcoholic beverage industry

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Wed, 29 Sep 2021 00:00:00 -0400

New FIU Hospitality class explores the cofffee, tea and non-alcoholic beverage industry

Fish fertilize corals and seagrasses but not the way you think

Angela Nicoletti — Tue, 28 Sep 2021 14:21:00 -0400

Ph.D. student Will Wied studies fish pee — and his work will broaden our understanding of the ocean's ecosystem.

Director of National Intelligence visits FIU

Katherine Dagand — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 15:43:00 -0400

On Sunday, September 26, the Honorable Avril Haines, Director of National Intelligence (DNI), visited campus for a fireside chat with President Rosenberg.

After a year of pandemic learning, FIU physician assistant students earn their white coats

Noel Gonzalez — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 15:42:00 -0400

Due to the pandemic, the FIU Class of 2022 PA students had to wait a year for their "White Coat Ceremony" generally celebrated at the start of their educational journey.

Gray whale hormones give off distress signal

Angela Nicoletti — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 13:54:00 -0400

FIU postdoctoral researcher Leila Lemos found certain hormones in gray whales could act as a distress signal.

CREST Center for Aquatic Chemistry and Environment launches Phase II at FIU with $5 million NSF funding

Chrystian Tejedor — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 11:33:00 -0400

The National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded FIU’s Institute of Environment a five-year $5 million Phase II grant to support the CREST Center for Aquatic Chemistry and Environment.

Mexican communities manage their local forests, generating benefits for humans, trees and wildlife

Contributing Author — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 09:00:00 -0400

David Bray, FIU professor of earth and environment wrote this piece, republished from The Conversation.

FIU is monitoring Hurricane Sam

Contributing Author — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 17:17:00 -0400

Although it is too early to determine if the storm will impact our region, this is a good time to make sure you and your family have several days’ worth of supplies and medicines.

FIU Theatre returns to the stage with Ray Bradbury's classic 'Fahrenheit 451'

Ivan Lopez — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 12:30:00 -0400

Fahrenheit 451, the classic dystopian play by Ray Bradbury, is now playing at the Wertheim Performing Arts Center through Oct. 3.

Business professor and student take award at international competition focused on issues of diversity, equity and inclusion

Contributing Author — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 09:11:00 -0400

The pair wrote a case study about the inclusive model paying dividends for a highly successful hotel chain in India.

Midterms coming up? Here’s how to survive and thrive during exam week

Gisela Maria Valencia — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 14:19:00 -0400

Alina Dominguez, manager of Academic Advising Services in the College of Arts, Sciences & Education, shares top tips for exam week, study habits and handling stress.

This FIU alumnus is working toward a more prosperous Black South Florida

Krysten Brenlla — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 11:19:00 -0400

FIU alumnus Gordon Eric Knowles '82, founding member of the South Florida Black Prosperity Alliance, discusses the State of Black South Florida.

The Wolfsonian–FIU and designer Bas van Beek bring Dutch dazzle to Miami Art Week

Contributing Author — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Rotterdam-based designer and artist Bas van Beek will create an immersive, jewel-box exhibition for The Wolfsonian–FIU in an expansive Miami Art Week takeover of the museum’s South Beach site.

Alumnus John McKibbon makes $5M gift to FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0400

John McKibbon and his wife Letitia have made a $5 million gift to the Florida International University Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management that will enhance alumni outreach, implement formal integration of technology and innovation into the curriculum, and create student scholarships at the top-10 U.S. public hospitality school from which he graduated.

The McKibbon ’75 Alumni Experience will be physically housed at the school on the Biscayne Bay Campus but have a large virtual presence to reach over 17,000 alumni globally. It aims to inspire future generations of professionals and entrepreneurs by celebrating graduates’ success, serving as a convener for the industry and curating experiences to strengthen alumni bonds while serving lifelong learners through continuing education options. It will include space for alumni to meet and network, areas for hospitality executives in residence, mentor/mentee collaboration and student hospitality clubs.

"FIU is Florida's number one public university," McKibbon said. "What better place to get a great education, and it's critical now more than ever to attract more young people to the industry. So, I'm hoping this gift will also encourage others to do the same. I'm excited to see what we can accomplish together."

Leveraging Miami’s emergence as the next technology hotspot, the gift will increase tech innovation at the Chaplin School through the establishment of the McKibbon ’75 Professorship, which will secure grants to increase endeavors as an innovative hospitality epicenter and bring the Internet of Things (IoT), machine learning and artificial intelligence to the forefront of hospitality tech. The Chaplin School was the first to offer a Certificate in IoT in Hospitality, and FIU was first in the nation to offer an IoT bachelor’s degree.

The gift also will create undergraduate scholarships and graduate fellowships to help the next generation of students secure a world-class hospitality education and become future industry leaders. It benefits the Next Horizon campaign, which advances student success and research excellence at FIU.

“Our FIU is fortunate to have engaged alumni like John McKibbon who are committed to giving back to their alma mater and helping today’s students,” said FIU President Mark B. Rosenberg. “His dedication to furthering the global excellence and stature of the Chaplin School will be a game-changer for our university and the entire industry.”

The gift was presented during a recent event celebrating well-loved and influential professor emeritus and E.M. Statler professor Rocco M. Angelo’s 90th birthday and the celebration of the school's 50th anniversary. Among the school’s first graduates, McKibbon, who graduated in 1975 and studied under Angelo, has worked in the hospitality industry since he was a teenager and is the third generation to run McKibbon Hotel Group, which was founded in 1926 and is now known as McKibbon Hospitality. He became president in 1992 and began expanding through development with Marriott, Hilton, and Starwood; today the company has 90 properties in 39 cities. He also founded M3 Hotel Accounting, an internet-based accounting software provider that is now the industry leader.

Through McKibbon’s Matching Funds Program, the firm has raised several million dollars over the past few years for community service organizations across the country, and he was the recipient of Marriott International’s Community Service Award. He was honored by FIU in 2009 with the FIU Medallion for Outstanding Alumnus.

“We are proud to count John among the most distinguished graduates of the Chaplin School, and his investment in the Chaplin School will prove transformational for hospitality education and the industry,” said Michael Cheng, the school’s dean. “His phenomenal achievements in the field will be reflected by what this gift makes possible for our school and its students.”

George Corton, chief development officer at the FIU Foundation, who first connected with McKibbon 10 years ago added, "As an FIU alumnus myself, I am inspired by John McKibbon's incredible commitment to our alma mater. His success in the hospitality field demonstrates the impact an FIU education can have on our graduates' lives. This gift is John's living legacy, and with it, he will help us build, shape and reinvent this program. His generosity will facilitate opportunities for generations of students to come."

A love of nature paves the path for a beloved career

Contributing Author — Wed, 22 Sep 2021 16:07:00 -0400

Embarking on backpacking expeditions through rivers, mountains and caves in his native Cuba taught Rafael Travieso how to enjoy, respect and get along with nature.

Targeting the sugar coating of cancer cells: FIU takes lead in cancer research

Contributing Author — Wed, 22 Sep 2021 10:13:00 -0400

Wertheim College of Medicine researchers are working on the premise that a deeper understanding of the role of sugars in the development and progression of cancer will lead to better treatments, cures

Setting nets below the surface means fishermen catch almost 80 percent fewer dolphins, whales

Chrystian Tejedor — Tue, 21 Sep 2021 12:57:00 -0400

Lowering gillnets into the water can lower the chances of tuna fishermen accidentally hauling in dolphins and whales, according to new research led by FIU and WWF Pakistan.

Panthers are stepping up to help the U.S. fill its federal workforce need

David Drucker — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 16:00:00 -0400

Young, diverse workers are significantly underrepresented in federal agencies. FIU is providing the talent to change that.

FIU scientist named Florida Heart Researcher of the Year

Ileana Varela — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 15:50:00 -0400

A postdoctoral associate working collaboratively in FIU’s Biomolecular Sciences Institute has earned the award for her research on calcification of blood vessels.

FIU Law earns highest scores on Florida bar exam for the seventh consecutive year

Morgan Hughes — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 15:00:00 -0400

FIU has once again ranked as the top-performing Florida law school on the Florida bar exam.

NSF awards FIU grant to increase diversity in materials engineering field

Elizabeth Calzadilla — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 12:00:00 -0400

The National Science Foundation has awarded FIU nearly $4 million to increase diversity and promote greater inclusion of underrepresented minority groups and women in cutting-edge materials research, education and professions.

The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) Partnerships for Research and Education in Materials (PREM) grant was awarded to Daniela Radu, associate professor of materials science and engineering at FIU’s College of Engineering and Computing. Radu also is a Diversity Mentor Professor at FIU who strongly advocates for equality and inclusion in STEM. FIU is one of eight collaborative research teams across the U.S. to earn the funding.

Materials engineering is central to the growth, prosperity, security, and quality of life of people, as it is new materials that open the door to new technologies, whether they are in civil, chemical, construction, nuclear, aeronautical, agricultural, mechanical, biomedical or electrical engineering. The award will establish the NSF PREM Center for Innovations in Materials, Processes, and Applications for Quantum Technologies (NSF PREM IMPAQT) at FIU, through which faculty researchers will mentor and train more than 80 minority engineering students.

FIU’s College of Engineering and Computing is currently ranked No. 1 in the U.S. in awarding bachelor’s degrees to Hispanic students and No. 6 in awarding bachelor’s degrees to African Americans, according to the American Society for Engineering Association (ASEE).

“We continue to see greater demands for innovation in the fields of quantum science and technology, which can greatly benefit from the cultivation of a diverse, highly-qualified STEM workforce,” Radu said. “With almost 80 percent of its student body composed of minority students, FIU is uniquely positioned to make significant contributions in this research area and produce impactful advancements to everyday technologies people have come to depend on.”

Through the NSF PREM IMPAQT center, a diverse team of research students will collaborate with students from seven other minority-serving institutions. Together, they will explore the fundamental and practical aspects of materials with atomic thickness, also known as two-dimensional (2D) materials. The students will engage in highly innovative materials research, which seeks advancements in sensor technology, secure communication, quantum computing and advanced phenomena simulation.

“The benefits of diversity in education, especially higher education, stretch far and wide — affecting students’ academic and social experiences, as well as having a direct impact on the research they do and the innovative engineering solutions they cultivate,” said John L. Volakis, dean of FIU’s College of Engineering and Computing. “NSF is helping our students expand their horizons, while offering FIU institutional support that will increase recruitment, retention and degree-attainment by underrepresented groups.”

Since its start in 2004, PREM has successfully diversified faculty research and improved the likelihood that underrepresented students and students from underserved communities pursued and completed a doctorate in materials research. It also has trained more than 125 postdoctoral researchers and has helped more than 1,500 students – most from underrepresented minority groups – graduate with a bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree. PREM’s research has produced a wide range of results and new discoveries, from new materials for quantum devices and electronics, to live-cell imaging, integrating research and education to advance knowledge in materials science-related fields.

"A focus on diversity of students, faculty, and partners—paired with the revitalization of under-resourced research—is the foundation of PREM and has been the source of many successful outcomes," said Debasis Majumdar, director of the NSF PREM program. “It expands national innovation capacity and a much needed, highly trained and diverse workforce, propelling U.S. leadership in STEM fields.”

Could a little tough love help corals adapt to climate change?

Angela Nicoletti — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 12:23:00 -0400

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has awarded FIU’s Institute of Environment a $273,491 grant to research innovative ways to make corals more resilient.

How to avoid back injuries while working out

Contributing Author — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Common exercises like crunches or hanging leg raises can be used as ab strengtheners that also provide a stretch to the low back.

Researchers advance the use of nanoparticles to deliver HIV/AIDS drugs to the brain

Ileana Varela — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 11:00:00 -0400

HWCOM scientists working with colleagues at the UM have found a way to deliver HIV drugs to the brain using a special biodegradable nanoparticle.

My internship advocating for diversity in the arts

Yenisleidy Simon Mengana — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0400

NIH awards FIU ADVANCE for enhancing faculty gender diversity in the sciences

Contributing Author — Thu, 16 Sep 2021 14:00:00 -0400

The FIU Advance team was recognized for their transformative efforts in enhancing diversity in biomedical and behavioral science at FIU.

Chemist searches for secret formula to learning success

Christine Calvo — Thu, 16 Sep 2021 13:34:00 -0400

Zahilyn Roche Allred is developing and redesigning hands-on classroom activities that improve learning outcomes.

NSF awards FIU, partners $4M to expand national high school engineering program

Elizabeth Calzadilla — Thu, 16 Sep 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Engineering For US All provides a curriculum for high school students to learn engineering principles, while training their educators on how to teach the specialized coursework.

Highly contagious coronavirus variant's mutation weakens antibody effectiveness

Chrystian Tejedor — Thu, 16 Sep 2021 09:59:00 -0400

FIU researchers looking to unravel the secrets of how the delta variant became so contagious have found an intriguing clue — there's one site where antibodies can't fully latch on.

TGIF lab provides rich student training ground

Contributing Author — Thu, 16 Sep 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Students at all levels of study find hands-on opportunities in the medical school's new, cutting-edge Translational Glycobiology Institute.

Ovarian cancer often goes undetected until it‘s too late. Here’s how to know if you’re at risk

Noel Gonzalez — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 13:00:00 -0400

FIU's Dr. Rebeca Martinez explains the risk factors and symptoms of ovarian cancer.

Linguist wants people to rethink their idea of 'proper English'

Angela Nicoletti — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 10:51:00 -0400

FIU distinguished postdoctoral scholar Nandi Sims is leading research on how race, ethnicity and social dynamics shape language variation in Black communities.

What do you know about Monoclonal Antibody Therapy?

Ileana Varela — Tue, 14 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0400

Dr. Eneida Roldan answers frequently asked questions about monoclonal antibody treatments for COVID-19.

FIU celebrates its place among the most dynamic institutions of higher education

Alexandra Pecharich — Mon, 13 Sep 2021 19:52:00 -0400

2021 has proved to be FIU's year.

My internship at Smithsonian Institution

Yenisleidy Simon Mengana — Mon, 13 Sep 2021 15:00:00 -0400

Natalia Mayorga spent the summer at the Smithsonian and the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, in partnership with Emerson Collective.

Who are the Hazara of Afghanistan? An expert on Islam explains

Contributing Author — Mon, 13 Sep 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Iqbal Akhtar, FIU associate professor of religious studies wrote this piece, republished from The Conversation.

FIU climbs 17 spots in U.S. News rankings

Contributing Author — Mon, 13 Sep 2021 00:01:00 -0400

FIU continued its rapid ascent in the U.S. News and World Report rankings with a 17-spot improvement to No. 78 among public universities in the nation.

Professor reflects on his work helping first responders exposed to 9/11 toxic dust

Stephanie Rendon — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 15:45:00 -0400

Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work professor talks about his work supporting 9/11 first responders.

Panthers gather to commemorate 9/11 on 20th anniversary

Cristina Jaramillo — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 15:00:00 -0400

The FIU community gathered at the GC Pit to remember and honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost on that fateful day.

4 keys to healthy aging

Noel Gonzalez — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 09:57:00 -0400

September is Healthy Aging Month. Dr. Jorge Camilo Mora provides tips on diet and exercise for a long and healthy life.

9/11 survivors’ exposure to toxic dust and the chronic health conditions that followed offer lessons that are still too often unheeded

Contributing Author — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Roberto Lucchini, FIU professor of occupational and environmental health sciences, wrote this piece, republished from The Conversation.

9/11 changed everything. 20 years later, FIU professors reflect on its lasting impact

Morgan Hughes — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 18:00:00 -0400

FIU experts describe how 9/11 changed the world of tourism, immigration, education, war and more.

FIU breaks ground on $48M engineering complex

Contributing Author — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 17:44:00 -0400

The new multidisciplinary facility is designed to better prepare the next generation of engineering and computing professionals.

Let us know if you received an FIU Alert. Take a brief survey here

Contributing Author — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 13:10:00 -0400

Please take a moment to fill out this short survey, which will provide emergency managers important feedback.

Look at them now: Throwback Thursday with the FIU family

Contributing Author — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 12:00:00 -0400

They were sweet, mischievous and a whole lot of fun. And today, they're helping propel FIU to a Top 50 university.

FIU professor’s new technology supports family caregivers in meeting the needs of loved ones with dementia

Alexandra Pecharich — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 10:45:00 -0400

A mobile app in development aims to enhance the quality of life for people with dementia and their caregivers by improving communication with medical providers and prioritizing positive interactions.

Too much heat, slower currents and too little oxygen: more fish die in Biscayne Bay

Chrystian Tejedor — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 16:13:00 -0400

FIU Institute of Environment researchers are investigating the cause of a fish kill that occurred on Biscayne Bay over Labor Day weekend.

FIU's detector dogs sniff out COVID at Miami International Airport

Contributing Author — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 16:00:00 -0400

FIU's two COVID-19 certified detector dogs, Cobra and OneBetta, have been deployed at Miami International Airport.

A former Latin American president, vice president and U.S. Congresswoman to host lectures as part of inaugural fellowship program

Morgan Hughes — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 11:00:00 -0400

FIU to host distinguished public servants to lead seminars on public leadership, decision-making, and free market policymaking.

FIU appoints new interim dean for college of medicine

Ileana Varela — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 09:15:00 -0400

Dr. Juan Cendan has been appointed interim dean of the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine.

FIU experts available to discuss cybersecurity, forensics ahead of 20th anniversary of 9/ 11 attacks

Gabriela Aguirrechu — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 09:00:00 -0400

NSF awards FIU, two other Florida public universities $5M to help academically talented computing students graduate and continue their education

Debra Jacob — Tue, 07 Sep 2021 14:30:00 -0400

Three Florida public universities are joining forces to help academically talented juniors in computer-related fields complete their undergraduate studies.

It all started with my internship

Krysten Brenlla — Tue, 07 Sep 2021 13:50:00 -0400

FIU alumni and community members share their internship experiences that set them up for success.

Why are planets round?

Contributing Author — Tue, 07 Sep 2021 11:00:00 -0400

James Webb — FIU professor and director of the Stocker AstroScience Center for Physics — wrote this piece, republished from The Conversation.

FIU experts available to discuss Biscayne Bay

Gabriela Aguirrechu — Tue, 07 Sep 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Alumna wins first place at prestigious children's nutrition conference

Stephanie Rendon — Mon, 06 Sep 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Priya Krishnakumar won first place at SNEB Division of Nutrition Education for Children Poster Award Competition.

FIU football dominated LIU in season opener. Check out highlights from the game

Contributing Author — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 17:48:00 -0400

FIU football kicked off its 20th season with a 48-10 win against Long Island.

FIU experts are available for the 2021 hurricane season

Gabriela Aguirrechu — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 13:00:00 -0400

Now on the second half of the 2021 Atlantic Hurricane season, FIU experts can discuss various issues surrounding hurricanes and their aftermath.

FIU epidemiology student wins Out to Innovate Scholarship

Stephanie Rendon — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Amelia León is the winner of a 2021 Out to Innovate $8,000 graduate scholarship.

Labor Day in a global pandemic: How are workers faring?

Alexandra Pecharich — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 09:10:00 -0400

The national holiday comes in the midst of continuing uncertainty and changing expectations for many Florida workers, say FIU labor and economics experts.

Microbes’ game of hide-and-seek could predict water quality crises

Angela Nicoletti — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 15:49:00 -0400

Ph.D. student Will Wied was part of a collaborative group of researchers who recently published their findings in Nature Communications about a devastating deoxygenation event off the coast of Panama.

FIU receives South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s Good 2 Green Award

Candice Allouch — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 14:26:00 -0400

The South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce recently awarded the FIU Institute of Environment’s CREST Center for Aquatic Chemistry and Environment (CAChE) its Good 2 Green Award.

FIU elected into elite network of schools of international and public affairs

Amy Ellis — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 13:00:00 -0400

FIU’s Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs has been named a full member of the Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs (APSIA), making it the first university in Florida to achieve the prestigious designation and one of only 25 U.S and 40 APSIA member schools in the world.

Created in 1989, APSIA brings together the leading graduate schools of international affairs worldwide, with the goal of improving global affairs education and advancing international understanding.

“This is a significant milestone for FIU, for our faculty and for our students,’’ said President Mark B. Rosenberg. “Amid an array of challenges around the globe, this designation recognizes the work we are doing to prepare our students to be global leaders.’’

To join APSIA, schools must undergo a rigorous review process and demonstrate excellence in career-focused, graduate-level international affairs education as well as evidence of outstanding research and publications by faculty.

“Election into APSIA has been our ultimate goal since we created the Green School in 2008,” said Provost Kenneth G. Furton.

APSIA members in the United States include American University’s School of International Service, Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs, Duke University’s Sanford School of Public Policy, Georgetown University’s Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service, Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government, Johns Hopkins University’s Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies and Stanford University’s Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies. FIU is the youngest institution among U.S. members.

International member schools include the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies in Geneva, Korea University’s Graduate School of International Studies, the National University of Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, Ritsumeikan University’s Graduate School of International Relations in Japan, Sciences Po’s Paris School of International Affairs, and the Stockholm School of Economics, among others.

“Joining APSIA reflects positively on our students and faculty in the Green School,” said founding dean John F. Stack Jr. “Our innovative multidisciplinary approach to teaching and research stands out and helps prepare students for the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

Membership in APSIA will help FIU recruit top faculty, visiting fellows and students through participation at APSIA events, as well as provide FIU students with new opportunities for careers and internships.

“Congratulations to Dean John Stack, the faculty and the student body of FIU’s Green School of International and Public Affairs on the entry to APSIA. We are proud to be a part of this prestigious organization,” said Ambassador Steven J. Green, for whom the Green School is named. “Recent global events show how important international dialogue is. FIU and the Green School are preparing our students to be the global leaders and change makers of tomorrow who inspire and guide us in building a more peaceful and prosperous world.”

Launched in 2008, the Green School offers 38 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, as well as more than 50 certificate programs. The school has been recognized for its applied master’s degree programs, including the Master of Arts in Global Affairs, ranked among the top 40 in the world for policy careers by Foreign Policy, and the Master of Public Administration, ranked No. 3 in Florida by U.S. News & World Report.

Man-made chemicals could be stressing out marine mammals

Angela Nicoletti — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 08:37:00 -0400

FIU distinguished postdoctoral scholar Leila Lemos is investigating how chemical exposure is impacting marine mammals.

Everything you need to know for the first football game day

David Drucker — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 12:30:00 -0400

A fan's guide to tickets, parking, tailgating, entering the stadium and more.

Professor publishes book on Nile, Africa’s largest dam

Candice Allouch — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 10:06:00 -0400

An FIU Institute of Environment professor has published a book addressing concerns surrounding the operation and filling of the largest dam in Africa.

Women’s and gender studies degree provides students career paths to effect change

Monica Smith — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0400

FIU’s online bachelor's degree prepares grads to guide organizations on diversity, equity and inclusion

Researchers look for strategies to support English Language Learners at risk for ADHD

Rosanna Castro — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Researchers at FIU’s Center for Children and Families (CCF) have been awarded a $3.8 million grant by the Institute of Education Sciences (IES) to find effective interventions for English Language Learners (ELLs) at risk for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Across the United States, approximately 10 percent of students are ELLs – a rapidly growing group in public schools. In Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS), the fourth largest public school district in the nation, that figure is more than double at 24 percent.

These students are disproportionately at risk for poor academic outcomes with nearly 15 percent identified as students with disabilities. ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood, affecting approximately 11 percent of children 4 to17 years old. Although researchers expect the prevalence of ADHD to be no different among ELL students, they believe this group is more likely to go undiagnosed.

“There is substantial support for language development and reading interventions to aid young children in the acquisition of language skills, but there is a significant lack of research addressing interventions for ELLs with disabilities, particularly behavior disorders such as ADHD,” said Nicole Schatz, research assistant professor and principal investigator of the study.

Classroom behavioral interventions like daily report cards work well for many students with ADHD and reading and language interventions help English Language Learners improve English language proficiency. This study will determine whether those learners at risk for ADHD have better academic outcomes following a language learning intervention, a behavioral intervention, or the combination of the two.

“This study will help bring us one step closer to creating culturally tailored mental health interventions that support the needs of our South Florida community and across the nation,” said William E. Pelham, Jr., distinguished university professor, director at CCF and co-investigator of the study. “We are thankful to the IES for funding such an important project and for M-DCPS’ continued support.”

Researchers plan to recruit 300 children in grades K–1 in M-DCPS who are in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) levels 1–4 and are identified as at-risk for ADHD based on parent and teacher ratings of behaviors.

The Center for Children and Families will conduct the study in partnership with Christopher Lonigan, distinguished research professor and associate director of the Florida Center for Reading Research at Florida State University.

5 steps to effective advocacy

Cristina Jaramillo — Tue, 31 Aug 2021 15:30:00 -0400

Advocacy is more than just joining a march, signing a petition or writing a social media post. So, how do you transform advocacy into policy?

5 things to know about Miami Spice: 20 years later

Krysten Brenlla — Tue, 31 Aug 2021 15:00:00 -0400

August kicked off Miami Spice, one of Miami's favorite foodie traditions. Alumni Steven Haas, Belkys Nerey and Felipe Murcia discuss how it all began.

Frost Art Museum FIU presents “Leonardo Drew: Cycles”

Erica Corsano — Tue, 31 Aug 2021 11:00:00 -0400

The Frost Art Museum FIU presents “Leonardo Drew: Cycles, from the Collection of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation,” from Sept. 1 until Nov. 17, 2021.

Do U.S. teens have the right to be vaccinated against their parents’ will? It depends on where they live

Contributing Author — Tue, 31 Aug 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Brian Dean Abramson — FIU adjunct professor of vaccine law — wrote this piece, republished from The Conversation.

FIU-FPL microgrid demonstrates the importance of cross-sector partnerships in South Florida

Contributing Author — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 14:50:00 -0400

In collaboration with FPL, Professor Arif Sarwat and his students have been developing an AI-based microgrid scheduled to launch this fall.

Got my first job! Working at Amazon as a senior human resources assistant

Emily Castellanos — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 14:40:00 -0400

Recent FIU Honors alumna Natalie Quade got her first job at Amazon working as a senior human resources assistant.

Digital attacks fuel the need for network security experts

Monica Smith — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 14:15:00 -0400

For more information about Zoom features, visit AskIT (AskIT.FIU.edu) to search the Division of IT’s Knowledge Base articles or contact the Faculty Resource Center at (305) 348-2814 for any questions or concerns. For questions regarding Zoom within Canvas, contact Canvas Help at 305-348-3630.

Environmental engineering grad transforms former landfills

Diana Hernandez-Alende — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Waste360’s 40 Under 40 honoree Somshekhar Kundral helps make formerly contaminated sites safe for development.

Engineering professor awarded coveted 2021 Microsoft Security Research AI Award

Elizabeth Calzadilla — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 17:05:00 -0400

Amin Kharraz was recently awarded a Microsoft collaborative research grant.

FIU offers $150 FIU One Card incentive for vaccinations

Contributing Author — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 21:05:00 -0400

President Rosenberg shared the following message this evening.

How to rock the semester, get back to in-person routines

Gisela Maria Valencia — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 16:30:00 -0400

Angela Bullard-Thomas, associate director of the Office of Academic Advising at the College of Business, shares her top tips for how students can triumph this fall

FIU experts available to discuss return to school amid pandemic

Gabriela Aguirrechu — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 14:00:00 -0400

FIU experts are available to discuss a variety of topics related to retuning to school including health, anxiety, parenting and how to establish new routines.

FIU researcher leads acoustic research efforts to estimate fish populations in Gulf of Mexico, South Atlantic

Chrystian Tejedor — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 11:22:00 -0400

A team of scientists including a researcher from the FIU Institute of Environment will conduct a $9 million federally-funded study to estimate the number of Greater Amberjack in the U.S. waters of the

Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Commissioner Oliver G. Gilbert visit FIU's vaccination site

Contributing Author — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 18:25:00 -0400

On Tuesday, President Mark B. Rosenberg welcomed Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Vice Chair of the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners Oliver G. Gilbert to FIU.

Bottoms Up: 2021 North Miami BrewFest is back

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 15:40:00 -0400

South Florida' premier craft beer and food festival, the North Miami BrewFest, is back.

My internship at Moss Construction working on FIU's Parkview Housing Phase II

Caylin Jimenez — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 14:45:00 -0400

My internship with Moss working on FIU's Parkview Housing Phase II project

Researcher helps collect key data to establish 9 new protected areas in Peru

Angela Nicoletti — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 09:36:00 -0400

FIU's Alessandro Catenazzi helped gather critical information needed to expedite the establishment of nine new protected areas in one of the most biologically diverse regions of Peru.

FIU receives $1.2 million from EPA to study children’s chemical exposure from soil

JoAnn Adkins — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 12:30:00 -0400

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded $1.26 million to FIU chemist to research children’s chemical exposures from soil and dust.

3 skills critical for success in the 21st century – and how students can develop them

Gisela Maria Valencia — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 11:02:00 -0400

Become a standout job candidate ready to meet the demands of today's workforce by earning free digital badges.

FIU Business to launch new data-driven MBA in Business Analytics

Cynthia Corzo — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 08:00:00 -0400

FIU Business will introduce an MBA in Business Analytics program, incorporating data analysis and information technology into a comprehensive MBA curriculum. The program begins in January of 2022.

The 16-month program includes online and in-person evening classes. Nearly half of the program’s 15-course curriculum focuses on data management, reporting, and data application and analysis. Students will work with exclusive real-world data from Fortune 500 companies. The program also offers professional development seminars.

Focused on preparing graduates to transform complex data into high-impact business insights and strategic solutions, the MBA program will also cover finance, marketing, management, human resources, entrepreneurship, competitive strategy, information systems and operations.

“Understanding big data has become the backbone of business success,” said William Hardin, interim dean of FIU Business. “We’re proud to offer this new program to meet industry-driven needs and prepare our students to apply big data skills to challenging business decisions.”

Students will gain hands-on experience using software and programming languages such as Tableau, Power BI, Amazon Web Services, SQL, Python, and R. Rapid Miner. In addition to technical skills, the MBA in Business Analytics will cover communication, presentation, writing, and networking.

A leader in information systems and business analytics education, FIU Business also offers a Master of Science in Information Systems and a Master of Science in Health Informatics and Analytics.

In addition, its highly-ranked MBA programs include the Professional MBA Online, ranked No. 10 in the world in the 2021 QS Online MBA Rankings, and the International MBA, ranked No. 3 by U.S. News & World Report.

Applications for the MBA in Business Analytics program are now open. For more information, visit the website.

Meet our newest Panthers: Class of 2025

Cristina Jaramillo — Sun, 22 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0400

FIU welcomed the class of 2024 and class of 2025 with an evening full of tradition and Panther pride.

President Rosenberg: 'Welcome to Fall 2021 at our FIU'

Mark Rosenberg — Sun, 22 Aug 2021 08:00:00 -0400

To celebrate the new academic year, Rosenberg encourages all Panthers to show up to campus in full FIU gear all week long.

Reimagining a comeback: How hospitality is forging a sustainable future

Monica Smith — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 16:45:00 -0400

Global tourism's impact on the health of the planet and the environment's effects on the prosperity of the tourism industry – the world’s second largest industry – have propelled the creation of a fully online Bachelor of Arts degree in Global Sustainable Tourism. The Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management and the Department of Earth and Environment at the College of Arts, Sciences & Education at Florida International University (FIU) will launch the program in January 2022 to provide students with the knowledge and skills to lead the hospitality and tourism business sectors on sustainable practices, resiliency and advocacy in this emerging field.

"Our tourism industry is adversely affected by issues such as red tide, seaweed blooms, Zika and others, while overtourism and less-sustainable industry practices directly impact the environment," said Joseph Cilli, department chair and director of distance learning for the Chaplin School. "This program is designed to produce graduates who will become future industry leaders in the management of sustainable tourism practices that work to protect the planet."

Renowned environmental scientists and tourism education leaders from the two FIU schools will teach a new breed of students who are passionate both about environmental causes and the future of Florida's largest industry. A blend of new and existing courses from both schools will offer students an educational pathway toward rewarding careers in sustainability and job positions that did not exist just a decade ago.

According to Visit Florida, visitors spend over $100 billion a year in Florida, supporting more than a million jobs. About 10 percent of the state's total Gross Domestic Product (GDP) comes from tourism. The program would focus on protecting natural resources, which in turn would protect tourism dollars.

After the COVID-19 pandemic put a year-long hold on global travel, many environmental advocates witnessed first-hand the impacts on the planet, such as improved water quality and reduced air pollution.

“Without a healthy environment we lose everything that makes South Florida such a rich place for tourism,” said Leonard Scinto, associate professor and chair of the Department of Earth and Environment. “By ensuring that future leaders of our tourism industry incorporate sustainability, climate change mitigation and environmental concerns at the core of their industry, we can ensure a vibrant and resilient economy and a healthy environment, now and for the future.”

To learn more about and apply for FIU's fully online bachelor's degree in Global Sustainable Tourism, please visit FIU Online.Miami-Dade County hotel and restaurants – the two largest hospitality industries in South Florida – have taken a $3.36 billion dollar hit from COVID-19, according to a new study.

The study released today by Florida International University's FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management, in collaboration with the Greater Miami Convention and Visitor's Bureau (GMCVB), shows that from the time mandatory COVID-19-related business closures took effect in March until the end of August, the direct and indirect effects of the pandemic – including revenue loss, supply chain and business expenditures, operating expenses and the ripple effect of furloughed workers not spending on the local economy — resulted in the multi-billion-dollar loss.

According to the study, the pandemic is responsible for $1.3 billion in direct revenue loss to hotels and $742 million in direct revenue loss to restaurants, when comparing March through August 2019 with the same time period in 2020. Hotels and restaurants lost another $664.7 million in indirect spending from a reduction in expenditures such as raw materials, supplies and other operating expenses, plus another $651.8 million in induced losses as a result of the ripple effect of furloughed workers not spending on the local economy.

“As hospitality educators, we needed to find out exactly how the pandemic affected our community and who has been the hardest hit,” said Eric Beckman, revenue management professor at the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management and lead author of the study. “South Florida's economy has a high reliance on the hospitality and travel-related business and our study shows if those sectors are down, it results in huge financial losses and an economic decline for the entire community.”

Beckman and his colleagues made their findings by looking at tax revenue data from the county, as well as hotel room revenue data from companies such as STR, CBRE, Lee Pillsbury of Thayer Ventures, Adara and Kalibri Labs.

In January, hospitality employment was up 2.4 percent compared to January 2019. That positive trend continued into February before plummeting in April to a 45.4 percent decline. The latest data for August 2020 shows a decrease of 23.7 percent in hospitality jobs compared to August 2019. The study also found that COVID-19 can be blamed for $1.2 billion dollars in loss of employee income to Miami-Dade County hotel and restaurant workers from March through August.

“As the entire country faced mandatory closures, there was a drastic reduction in hospitality jobs in the county,” said Michael Cheng, dean of the Chaplin School and one of the study's co-authors. “As we move towards operating without restrictions. the hospitality industry will begin to move towards prior levels of employment and growth.”

Although focused on hotels and restaurants, the study also looked at the state and federal tax impact and the decline in travel via Miami International Airport. The reduction in hotel and restaurant sector revenue in the county resulted in more than $260 million dollars in federal tax losses. From March through August of 2020 compared to 2019, there was an 87.2% decrease in international arrivals and 71.8 % decrease in domestic arrivals.

The study goes on to list future challenges to the industry, such as future COVID-19 outbreaks, effectiveness of a vaccine, consumer ability to travel, consumer confidence and the importance of government policy and support. The authors say government policy and support, such as this summer’s Payroll Protection Program (PPP), will be crucial to the existence of many businesses that have managed to re-open their doors and survive until now.

“The hospitality industry is a resilient industry filled with ambitious entrepreneurs and people who know how to transfer their skills,” Beckman said. “That, combined with the fact that we know people love to travel and eat out, will result in the resurgence of travel and tourism in Miami-Dade County.”

To view the study's PowerPoint presentation, click here.

5 new mentor professors join the Panther family

Contributing Author — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 16:30:00 -0400

The faculty members are part of AWED’s Mentor Professor Program, which seeks out faculty successful within their field who have a proven commitment to mentoring women and underrepresented minorities.

My internship in horticulture at Zoo Miami

Contributing Author — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 10:40:00 -0400

At Zoo Miami, Alejandra Carrillo monitored different plants and how they grew under various soil conditions.

Move-in week: FIU is home to 3,000+ Panthers this fall

David Drucker — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 09:50:00 -0400

Panther residents share with FIU News their ambitions for the semester and items they brought to feel at home.

Week of Welcome: Your ultimate guide to Fall 2021

Cristina Jaramillo — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 09:25:00 -0400

Here's everything you need to know to make the best of the first week of the fall semester.

Engineering student named 2022 Minority Student Fellow by Transportation Research Board

Elizabeth Calzadilla — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 14:15:00 -0400

As a TRB fellow, Jesus Molina will present his research at the organization's annual meeting and engage transportation professionals.

High school students jumpstart their resumes with FIU internships

Krysten Brenlla — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 13:45:00 -0400

Hundreds of high school students participated in Miami-Dade's Summer Youth Internship Program.

Contact tracing for kids

Angela Nicoletti — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 13:33:00 -0400

FIU researchers hope a do-it-yourself contact tracing tool they created last year will help disrupt the surge of new COVID-19 cases and the highly transmissible Delta variant.

Monroe County school district first to adopt FIU's new curriculum program

Angela Nicoletti — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 15:56:00 -0400

Mission Inspire is a subscription-based K-12 educational toolkit that includes digital courses or “expeditions” that use real FIU research to make lessons relevant.

FIU's new endowed professor in health equity shares how the role will mentor next-gen health disparity researchers

Stephanie Rendon — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 14:24:00 -0400

In the new role, Mario De La Rosa will continue his life's work: helping helped students build careers to support vulnerable and underserved communities.

Summer camp empowers young women, inspires them to pursue construction management

Caylin Jimenez — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 11:39:00 -0400

Summer camp empowers female members of the community and inspires them to pursue construction management.

City of Miami, JPMorgan Chase, FIU create Venture Miami Opportunity Program

Krysten Brenlla — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0400

FIU has partnered with JPMorgan Chase and the City of Miami to create the Venture Miami Opportunity Program in support of female business owners of color

The Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU presents a robust fall lineup of programming

Erica Corsano — Tue, 17 Aug 2021 14:00:00 -0400

This fall, the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU will present a full lineup of rich programming, including “Hello Gorgeous,” a retrospective from Martin Kreloff and more.

Alumna protects ocean—from her paddleboard and beyond

Angela Nicoletti — Tue, 17 Aug 2021 09:51:00 -0400

FIU alum Cat Uden is the South Florida field representative for Oceana — and is on a mission to protect the ocean.

A data-driven world needs data analysts. New fully online degree will meet the demand

Monica Smith — Tue, 17 Aug 2021 00:00:00 -0400

FIU’s fully online M.S. in Research Design and Analysis launches Spring 2022 and feeds the great need for research design and analysis specialists.

Corn farming led this FIU professor to study the impact of pesticides on Hispanic farmworkers

Stephanie Rendon — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 14:30:00 -0400

Michael Anastario is working on a NIMHD pilot study, examining exposure to toxic agrichemicals among migrant Hispanic farmworkers in Immokalee, Florida.

Institute of Environment a finalist for environmental service award

JoAnn Adkins — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 13:00:00 -0400

FIU’s Institute of Environment is a finalist for a Land Rover Defender to advance research in the Florida Everglades.

My internship at Montgomery Botanical Center

Contributing Author — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Name: Christina Chavez

Hometown: Miami, FL

Major: Environmental Science – Natural Resource Science

Where did you intern? What did you do there? I completed my internship at Montgomery Botanical Center where I was afforded the opportunity to study different populations of Sabal palmetto by comparing various morphological and anatomical characteristics.

What projects did you work on? My main project focused on taking leaf, fruit and seed measurements of Sabal palmetto, and I learned how to create herbarium specimens. The project generated enough interest that I was later invited to speak about my research to the South Florida Palm Society. During my internship, I also had the opportunity to accompany Ayress Grinage, a Cornell graduate student, on an Everglades expedition and helped collect DNA specimens for her project on the Sabal genus.

How did you get your internship? Prior to my internship, I had spent time volunteering at Montgomery Botanical Center assisting in the collection of volatile scent samples from various palm species on the property. This project required detailed observations of the flowering status and patterns of the palms we were retrieving samples from. This eventually sparked my interest in Sabals as a whole. Upon the completion of my time volunteering, I was awarded the Peter R. and Stuart Y. Jennings Internship, where I had the opportunity to design a research project focusing on the morphological and anatomical traits and differences within the Sabal palmetto species.

How did your internship connect back to your coursework? This internship allowed me to put into practice the research design methodologies I had learned throughout my coursework and, as a result, helped reinforce that knowledge.

What was the coolest thing about your internship or that happened during your internship? One of the coolest aspects of this internship was learning how to take hand leaf anatomy samples and creating slides. Preparation of thinly sliced leaf tissue requires precision and a steady hand that can only be achieved through continuous practice and patience. It felt very rewarding when the Palm biologist looked at my slides and said, “It can’t get any better than that.”

What did you like most about your experience? The work atmosphere of Montgomery Botanical Center provided an excellent internship experience. The staff always had a positive attitude and willingness to help out when needed, particularly Dr. Joanna Tucker Lima, the collections manager, who set aside time to advise me on how to approach this type of study, and Dr. Larry Noblick, the Palm Biologist, who offered sound advice and taught me how to take leaf anatomy samples. Their help was invaluable, and I am truly grateful to them.

What did you learn about yourself? This experience has taught me to trust in my skills and ability.

How did the position increase your professional confidence? How did you expand your professional network? Thanks to Dr. Patrick Griffith, I was provided numerous opportunities to discuss my project with peers, which increased my professional confidence and public speaking. By being around other researchers, I also learned about different associations, events, and opportunities to further engage with others.

How did it help you prove yourself in the “real world?” It can be intimidating to participate in discussions with people who are presumed experts in their field, so having the opportunity to network allowed me to become more comfortable in discussing my ideas, experience, and knowledge with peers.

What advice do you have for those beginning the internship process? To those starting the internship process, my advice would be to not be afraid to reach out even if you don’t necessarily have the skills. You are more capable than you know, and by showing dedication and commitment, people are willing to teach you the skills needed to succeed.

True grit, real talent: Class of 2025 starts at full speed, hungry to succeed

Gisela Maria Valencia — Fri, 13 Aug 2021 16:13:00 -0400

Our newest Panthers are a group of high-achieving, no-nonsense students ready to make a difference in the world – and to fully embrace their college experience

Tropical Depression Fred is expected to bring gusty wind, heavy rain and flooding to South Florida this weekend

Contributing Author — Fri, 13 Aug 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Areas on our campuses may flood, including our roadways.

Got my first job! Working at Amazon as a user experience researcher

Stephanie Rendon — Fri, 13 Aug 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Last December, Etinosa Oghogho graduated with a doctoral degree in public health from the Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work. Today, she’s a user experience researcher at Amazon.

FIU, OAS launch regional conference on cybersecurity education and training

Katherine Dagand — Thu, 12 Aug 2021 14:15:00 -0400

The Regional Initiative for Cybersecurity Education and Training Conference will explore ways of developing a curriculum for the current and future cybersecurity workforce.

What do faculty think of Panther Book Pack? Many say it will help boost student success

Birgitta Rausch-Montoto — Thu, 12 Aug 2021 13:58:00 -0400

The Panther Book Pack subscription rental program is $20 per undergrad credit hour.

Why Cubans took to the streets: 3 questions about Cuba’s economic crisis answered

Contributing Author — Thu, 12 Aug 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Jorge Salazar-Carrillo, FIU professor of economics, wrote this piece, republished from The Conversation.

Mangroves took a wallop from Hurricane Irma

Chrystian Tejedor — Wed, 11 Aug 2021 14:41:00 -0400

Hurricane Irma devastated mangroves already living on the edge, according to a new study from FIU and East Carolina University.

South Florida remains in Tropical Storm Fred’s forecast cone

Contributing Author — Wed, 11 Aug 2021 14:35:00 -0400

This is a good time to make sure you and your family have several days’ worth of supplies and medicines.

What is the Islamic New Year? A scholar of religion explains

Contributing Author — Wed, 11 Aug 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Iqbal Akhtar—FIU associate professor of religious studies wrote this piece—republished from The Conversation.

Panthers roar with energy as historic football season approaches

David Drucker — Tue, 10 Aug 2021 16:30:00 -0400

On Tuesday, senior student-athletes shared their thoughts on what they think is possible for FIU in 2021.

President Rosenberg: 'Let's take steps to prevent further spread of COVID-19'

Contributing Author — Tue, 10 Aug 2021 16:10:00 -0400

We strongly advise all students, faculty, staff, visitors and vendors to wear a face covering at all times while indoors at any FIU facility, regardless of your vaccination status.

Brothers at FIU Law fly high on way to legal careers in Air Force

Contributing Author — Tue, 10 Aug 2021 13:15:00 -0400

Alumni Stefano and Angelo Schibeci '19 commissioned at the top of their ROTC class. Now, they are going above and beyond in the hope of becoming Air Force lawyers.

FIU is monitoring weather system moving through northeast Caribbean

Contributing Author — Tue, 10 Aug 2021 10:01:00 -0400

The weather system is forecast to become Tropical Storm Fred as early as today.

Researchers determine baseline of pollutants in waterways feeding Biscayne Bay

Christine Calvo — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 12:15:00 -0400

Institute of Environment researchers have established the first baseline of what actually happens in South Florida when organic material from septic tanks, storm runoff and salt water all meet.

College of Medicine appoints head of diversity

Ileana Varela — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 10:02:00 -0400

Cheryl Holder, MD, has been named Associate Dean for Diversity, Equity, Inclusivity and Community Initiatives (ODEICI) at the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine (HWCOM).

"In her new role, Dr. Holder will lead HWCOM in the creation of novel pipeline programs and advocacy for inclusivity and social justice in all aspects of HWCOM operations," said Dr. Robert Sackstein, HWCOM dean and senior vice president for Health Affairs.

Holder is a board-certified internist and HIV specialist who has dedicated her career to serving vulnerable populations. She was one of the first physicians to sound the alarm about the disproportionate effects of COVID-19 on the African American community and the lack of testing sites in black neighborhoods. She had been serving as interim dean since last year while the college conducted a national search.

"I am excited to continue the mission of ensuring our communities receive the care they need to achieve optimal health from a diverse, caring workforce," she said.

In addition to her academic and clinical roles, Holder is president of the Florida State Medical Association, a regional arm of the National Medical Association, the largest and oldest organization representing African American physicians and their patients in the United States. She also co-chairs Florida Clinicians for Climate Action.

ODEICI is also being expanded to include a coordinator for biomedical sciences career development. HWCOM researcher Andrea Raymond has been tapped for the newly-created position. Raymond, an associate professor in the Department of Immunology and Nano-Medicine, is well-recognized for her research work in HIV pathogenesis and has extensive experience mentoring and training biomedical scientists.

"Together, Dr. Holder and Dr. Raymond will drive forward the college of medicine's and FIU's unwavering commitment to diversity and equity," said Sackstein.

Earlier this year, U.S. News & World Report ranked HWCOM as the No. 3 most diverse medical school in the nation. The Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society also honored HWCOM with its 2020 Award for Excellence in Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity in Medical Education and Patient Care.

Panthers flex artistic skills on grad caps

David Drucker — Fri, 06 Aug 2021 13:45:00 -0400

Dogecoin, Bad Bunny, Star Wars and Looney Tunes made appearances at this summer's commencement ceremony.

7 ways to stay connected with FIU after graduation

Gisela Maria Valencia — Fri, 06 Aug 2021 11:00:00 -0400

President Rosenberg to Class of 2021: You're 'graduating from the No. 1 university in the nation's top-ranked state university system'

Contributing Author — Fri, 06 Aug 2021 10:53:00 -0400

President Mark B. Rosenberg addresses Class of 2021 summer grads gathered at FIU Stadium. By Friday evening, more than 5,500 Panthers will have graduated—a summer record.

As nation observes Purple Heart Day, FIU recipient reflects on journey

Karen Cochrane — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 14:50:00 -0400

On Aug. 10, 2004, Mark Velez '19 heard the tell-tale thump of a mortar round. The New York-born, South Florida-raised teenager was six months into his first tour of duty in Iraq.

Ph.D. candidate helps guide research to support future coral conservation

Angela Nicoletti — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Serena Hackerott created a collection of all the research to date on environmental memory and stress hardening in corals.

Students serve up hospitality, with a side of technology

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 10:43:00 -0400

Students at Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management are using tech to help with customer experience.

Tokyo 2020: Alumna leading refugee team at Paralympic Games, at forefront of international inclusion efforts

Gisela Maria Valencia — Wed, 04 Aug 2021 09:02:00 -0400

Paralympian and Cuban refugee Ileana Rodriguez '08, M.Arch '11 is giving back by serving as a mentor and advocate for the Refugee Paralympic Team in Tokyo.

5 ways Americans often misunderstand Cuba, from Fidel Castro’s rise to the Cuban American vote

Contributing Author — Wed, 04 Aug 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Caroline McCulloch ,FIU professor of international relations, wrote this piece, republished from The Conversation.

Got my first job! Working as an event coordinator for Bill Hansen Catering & Event Production

Contributing Author — Tue, 03 Aug 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Hospitality graduate student lands her first job working with one of the most well-known event and catering companies in South Florida.

FIU to celebrate the real triumphs of summer graduates

Morgan Hughes — Mon, 02 Aug 2021 13:00:00 -0400

Real Triumphs Graduates will be celebrated at FIU's summer commencement for their for their achievements and contributions to their fields.

President Rosenberg: 'Please consider getting vaccinated before the beginning of fall term'

Contributing Author — Mon, 02 Aug 2021 10:39:00 -0400

The vaccine site is relocating to the Graham Center Piano Lounge at MMC

College of Medicine welcomes its largest-ever class at White Coat Ceremony

Ileana Varela — Mon, 02 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0400

135 incoming medical students received their first white coats.

What’s driving the huge blooms of brown seaweed piling up on Florida and Caribbean beaches?

Contributing Author — Mon, 02 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Stephen P. Leatherman, FIU professor of coastal science wrote this piece, republished from The Conversation.

FIU professor Frank O. Mora nominated as U.S. ambassador to Organization of American States

Amy Ellis — Fri, 30 Jul 2021 11:28:00 -0400

The senior researcher at the Jack D. Gordon Institute for Public Policy previously led FIU’s Kimberly Green Latin American and Caribbean Center.

Fasting may have become a health fad, but religious communities have been doing it for millennia

Contributing Author — Fri, 30 Jul 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Iqbal Akhtar, FIU associate professor wrote this piece, republished from The Conversation.

College undergrads attend elite math research program at FIU

Christine Calvo — Thu, 29 Jul 2021 15:30:00 -0400

FIU’s Department of Mathematics and Statistics welcomed 14 undergraduate students from across the United States for its first ever summer Research Program for Undergraduates (REU).

The Applied Mathematics REU allows students to participate in research programs in areas of differential equations and analysis with applications in other scientific disciplines.

For University of Tennessee Knoxville student Diana Son, applying to the program was an easy decision.

“I really liked how it highlighted minorities in women,” Son said. “I also liked how it focused on partial differential equations, specifically Fourier analysis.”

The National Science Foundation-funded program is led by Mathematics and Statistics Professor Svetlana Roudenko and is comprised of 14 undergraduate students from nine different colleges and universities. Of those students, 43 percent are female and 50 percent are Hispanic.

To learn more about their experiences, visit CASE News.

Presenting 'rock star' interns and how to be one

David Drucker — Thu, 29 Jul 2021 15:20:00 -0400

FIU has tons of resources to help students connect to internships at top national brands.

Researchers seek end to racial bias in maternal health

Giselle Cancio — Thu, 29 Jul 2021 11:30:00 -0400

The Children’s Trust has awarded FIU’s Center for Women’s and Gender Studies (CWGS) a five-year, $1.37 million grant to combat racial bias in maternal health.

Dredging epic party spot is good for beaches, Biscayne Bay

Angela Nicoletti — Thu, 29 Jul 2021 08:01:00 -0400

FIU coastal scientist Stephen Leatherman says dredging the Haulover sandbar will be a good thing for the environment.

Black history is Miami history

Alexandra Pecharich — Wed, 28 Jul 2021 16:20:00 -0400

Professor Emeritus Marvin Dunn has spent a lifetime uncovering hidden stories.

FIU is the proud keeper of Miami’s history

Alexandra Pecharich — Wed, 28 Jul 2021 15:40:00 -0400

Recent bequests by a descendant of Miami's founders confirm FIU’s commitment to serving the future by safeguarding the past.

The university mourns the passing of Bob Moses, civil rights leader and FIU colleague

Contributing Author — Wed, 28 Jul 2021 11:40:00 -0400

President Mark B. Rosenberg sent the following message to the university community today.

Alumnus celebrates Miami’s 125th birthday by rounding out the story of pioneer Mary Brickell

Contributing Author — Wed, 28 Jul 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Cesar Becerra '95 writes about his healthy obsession with the early-Miami settler whom he deems underappreciated.

State University System, university presidents urge students to get vaccinated

Contributing Author — Tue, 27 Jul 2021 15:23:00 -0400

"We strongly recommend that all students get vaccinated for the COVID-19 virus before arriving on campus."

Vaping and substance use were down for teens during COVID-19 lockdown, but researchers predict not for long

Rosanna Castro — Tue, 27 Jul 2021 15:00:00 -0400

During COVID-19 lockdowns, "vaping and substance use were down, but there was a major increase in anxiety, depression and stress among teens.”

Engineering students win second place at international aircraft design, flying competition

Diana Hernandez-Alende — Tue, 27 Jul 2021 12:45:00 -0400

FIU’s American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Student Chapter built a 71-inch wingspan aircraft that can carry more than 20 pounds of steel.

Compensation for student-athletes? Everything you need to know about 'NIL'

Alexandra Pecharich — Mon, 26 Jul 2021 10:18:00 -0400

Attorney Adam Wasch JD '09 answers questions about the NCAA's new policy on payments to college players.

Panther Book Pack launches with student rental savings to come

David Drucker — Fri, 23 Jul 2021 15:45:00 -0400

Students have the ability to opt out of the program at MyFIU on the Panther Book Pack tile and obtain rentals on their own.

My internship at UPS Public Affairs working on international policy

Yenisleidy Simon Mengana — Fri, 23 Jul 2021 14:41:00 -0400

Emelie Jimenez is spending the summer an an international policy intern at UPS Public Affairs.

Power-Up conference spotlights women’s leadership during COVID-19 pandemic

Contributing Author — Thu, 22 Jul 2021 14:26:00 -0400

FIU’s women’s leadership conference on July 8 focused on surviving and thriving in the hospitality industry.

My internship advocating for LGBTQ+ rights in Vietnam

Yenisleidy Simon Mengana — Thu, 22 Jul 2021 13:45:00 -0400

Melanie Rae Perez interned with ICS Center, an NGO that advocates for LGBTQ+ rights in Vietnam.

3 Panthers to represent FIU in 2020 Olympics

Contributing Author — Thu, 22 Jul 2021 11:15:00 -0400

A judo athlete from Team USA and two students from the swimming and diving team will represent FIU on the international stage.

Faculty experts examine historic Cuba protests and what may come next

Amy Ellis — Wed, 21 Jul 2021 15:21:00 -0400

FIU faculty experts discuss protests in Cuba, what happens next.

Protect yourself against increasing COVID-19 infections

Contributing Author — Wed, 21 Jul 2021 14:13:00 -0400

COVID-19 cases are increasing as a result of the highly transmissible Delta variant. This makes it critical that all Panthers remain vigilant.

My internship at Justice Revival

Yenisleidy Simon Mengana — Wed, 21 Jul 2021 12:15:00 -0400

At her internship, Prachi Lalwani is conducting research and analysis on threats and challenges to human rights in the United States.

FIU students recognized for helping mount the largest wine and food festival in the world

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Tue, 20 Jul 2021 10:11:00 -0400

Students were awarded scholarships for their leadership during the South Beach Wine & Food Festival®.

DOE awards FIU grant to help diversify physics

Angela Nicoletti — Mon, 19 Jul 2021 15:58:00 -0400

U.S. Department of Energy grant will provide paid internships to underrepresented minority undergraduate students at FIU.

FIU student dedicates life to support sexual abuse survivors

Stephanie Rendon — Mon, 19 Jul 2021 14:00:00 -0400

Venezuelan native Linda Guillotti has dedicated her college career to advocating for human and reproductive rights.

COVID-19 variants develop better lock-picking skills to invade human cells

Chrystian Tejedor — Mon, 19 Jul 2021 09:56:00 -0400

A team of FIU researchers have trained detector dogs to accurately identify the COVID-19 virus.

FIU’s International Forensic Research Institute (IFRI) is using its decades of experience researching and identifying odors to help train and improve the ability of detector dogs to locate COVID-19.

The COVID-19 detector dogs will be working on campus at FIU this spring as part of the effort to control the spread of the virus. Much like bomb-detecting dogs, COVID-19 detecting dogs can sweep an area and alert to the presence of the odor that is left on surfaces (particles, aerosols, cellular material) by a person infected with COVID-19. FIU’s COVID detector dogs were also invited to sweep the State Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee. They will start their work at the Florida capital next week.

“Our COVID-19 detector dogs are part of our campus-wide efforts to create the best possible environment using available evidence and our own research,” said FIU Provost and Chief Operating Officer Kenneth G. Furton, who founded IFRI and has chaired several national groups producing consensus standards for Dogs and Sensors since 2004.Two of the four canines currently trained to detect COVID-19 were previously trained to detect the disease odor produced by a specific fungus that killed a significant percentage of avocado trees in South Florida. Scientists are applying the same training method used to find the fungus, to detect COVID-19.

“COVID-19 produces unique odor chemicals and also causes metabolic changes in those infected with the virus, resulting in odors that dogs can detect,” said IFRI Director DeEtta Mills.

For the current study, IFRI is collaborating with the Environmental Health & Safety Department at Baptist Health South Florida, which provided the face coverings worn by individuals who tested positive and negative for COVID-19. Ultraviolet C light is used to inactivate the virus, making the masks safe to handle without altering the COVID-19 odors.

The canine team consists of one Belgian Malinois, a Dutch Shepherd and two small rescue dogs trained to detect COVID-19 odors, first in a lab and now in larger spaces, including auditoriums, computer labs, and libraries. The canine’s size difference helps detect the virus in hard-to-reach spaces such as under and between chairs.

High proficiency in detection comes with practice, and the dogs can achieve greater than 90 percent accuracy and low false positives after completing the final stages of training, which is ongoing.

FIU to hold Information session on DACA ruling

Contributing Author — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 21:22:00 -0400

President Rosenberg sent the following message to the FIU community tonight.

President Rosenberg urges Panthers to get vaccinated

Contributing Author — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 16:45:00 -0400

Visit go.fiu.edu/vaccine or call 305-348-5100 to schedule your COVID-19 vaccine appointment.

How to protect yourself from the sun's harmful UV rays

Ileana Varela — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 13:45:00 -0400

Tips on how to protect yourself from the sun's damaging UV rays.

Rethinking exercise as daily, fun summer activities

Contributing Author — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 11:42:00 -0400

Staying in shape is not limited to the gym. Certified exercise physiologist Troy Moore explains metabolic equivalents and how to maximize your workout this summer while enjoying the outdoors.

The beauty of service: Panther named Miss Hialeah USA, giving back to community

Gisela Maria Valencia — Thu, 15 Jul 2021 13:38:00 -0400

Alumna and staff member Isabela Corzo ’15, MPA ’19 is on a journey to fulfill her potential and prove that true beauty is about becoming who you are meant to be.

How Sarah Baartman’s hips went from a symbol of exploitation to a source of empowerment for Black women

Contributing Author — Thu, 15 Jul 2021 13:28:00 -0400

Rokeshia Renné Ashley, FIU assistant professor of communication, wrote this piece, republished from The Conversation.

Brian Barker appointed endowed Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion professor at Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Thu, 15 Jul 2021 13:00:00 -0400

Brian Barker has been appointed the first endowed Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion professor of FIU's Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management. The new position is part of the school's ongoing commitment to DEI within its curriculum and addressing inequities in the hospitality industry.

In his new role, Barker will be focused on development of DEI curriculum and content, expansion of the mentoring program, establishing Chaplin School as a resource for DEI and change in the hospitality industry, and building and leading a multi-institutional alliance. The alliance is a bold, new initiative among higher learning institutions, industry associations and top hospitality brands to address gaps and create pathways for Black, Hispanic, Women and underrepresented talent in hospitality management.

Barker brings his hospitality education and hotel experience background into his new role at the second-largest hospitality school in the country. FIU Chaplin School, a top 10 U.S. public hospitality school, is also a leader in diversity with over 70% women and 74 countries represented. FIU Hospitality graduates more undergraduate Black and Hispanic students than any other school.

"It is an absolute honor to be joining this great institution," said Barker. "I am looking forward to working with my fellow faculty members and our industry partners and leaders to open the door and create opportunities in leadership for everyone, especially those in underrepresented communities," he added.

According to a May 2021 study by The Castell Project, just 1.6 percent of hospitality executives from director through CEO level are black. In fact, the study shows that number fell from 2019 to 2020. In addition, another Castell Project study from April 2021 of women in hospitality leadership shows that just one woman to 5.7 men reached C-suite level status in 2020.

"Our industry has gone through overwhelming changes over the past year," said Michael Cheng, dean of the Chaplin School. "We need to move the needle forward when it comes to representation in the hospitality industry, and the addition of Brian Barker to our school is a commitment to action we're taking to lead the way," he ended.

Barker's endowed faculty chair for DEI was established through generous seed funding from Southern Glazer's Wine and Spirits.

Barker has over 13 years of industry experience. He started his career at the Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts (FSHR) as an operational manager at FSHR Philadelphia, followed by FSHR Miami, where he successfully led the Miami property to their first attainment of the coveted AAA-Five Diamond Award status as front office manager.

Most recently, Barker was at DePaul University's School of Hospitality Leadership. Professor Barker attained his Master of Arts in Communications from DePaul University in Multi-cultural and Organizational Communication (2011), a dual degree program. He also attained his Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE) certification from American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (2013). He is currently a full-time Ph.D. Candidate at Iowa State University.

Rosenberg: 'Cuba, at FIU we are with you. ¡Patria y Vida!'

Contributing Author — Wed, 14 Jul 2021 18:41:00 -0400

President Mark B. Rosenberg issued this video statement today.

Sophomores take over MMC

Cristina Jaramillo — Wed, 14 Jul 2021 16:17:00 -0400

After completing their freshman year remotely due to the pandemic, the Class of 2024 were welcomed to campus in true FIU fashion.

Global Forensic and Justice Center welcomes nation’s leading forensic librarian

Contributing Author — Wed, 14 Jul 2021 14:45:00 -0400

As the FIU forensic research librarian, Jeff Teitelbaum will curate and maintain the first permanent forensic science public library in the United States.

FIU awarded $1.9M grant to help train counselors for underserved populations

Stephanie Rendon — Wed, 14 Jul 2021 11:00:00 -0400

The money will help increase the number of social workers and counselors trained in behavioral health care.

Ph.D. student is on a mission to study equitable water sharing on the Nile

Contributing Author — Tue, 13 Jul 2021 15:37:00 -0400

Mekdelawit Messay Deribe grew up in Ethiopia hearing about the Nile River. Today, she studies sustainable and equitable use of transboundary waters on the Nile Basin.

Alumnus named International Executive of the Year

Cynthia Corzo — Tue, 13 Jul 2021 14:41:00 -0400

Eduardo del Riego '82, CEO of PayCargo, recently received the International Executive of the Year Award from the Academy of International Business fellows.

Summer class explores vaccine law

David Drucker — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 17:00:00 -0400

A College of Law alumnus and author of a book about vaccine law explains the history of the subject and what the legal framework is today.

Reflections on Haiti brings diverse perspectives on crisis

Amy Ellis — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 16:24:00 -0400

FIU faculty join members of Haitian community for a discussion on the assassination of the Haitian president.

FIU Jazz Vocal Ensemble wins a 2021 Downbeat student award

Contributing Author — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 15:30:00 -0400

The FIU Jazz Vocal Ensemble was recently honored with a Student Music Award from Downbeat Magazine, widely recognized as the most prestigious publication in jazz education.

FIU experts available to discuss Cuba protests and related topics

Contributing Author — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Haitian voices highlight community pain

Contributing Author — Fri, 09 Jul 2021 15:05:00 -0400

In the aftermath of Haitian President Moïse's assassination, members of FIU's Haitian community shared their thoughts on Haiti's uncertain political future and concerns about loved ones.

Women on corporate boards add innovative strategies, study finds

Cynthia Corzo — Fri, 09 Jul 2021 10:58:00 -0400

International business professor Seema Pissaris tracked the number of females at the individual director-level, board-level and firm-level for all S&P 500 firms.

100 days to FIU Homecoming

Contributing Author — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 13:05:00 -0400

Homecoming Week kicks off on Friday, Oct. 15, and runs through Saturday, Oct. 23.

Computer science senior earns $10,000 scholarship and internship for mentoring peers

Debra Jacob — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 11:15:00 -0400

A computer whiz at FIU helped turn other students into award-winning app designers and earned a scholarship and industry internship in the process.

10 ways an FIU degree, completed fully online, enhances careers

Monica Smith — Wed, 07 Jul 2021 14:10:00 -0400

FIU Online learners explain how their degrees changed their career paths

Slain Haitian president faced calls for resignation, sustained mass protests before killing

Contributing Author — Wed, 07 Jul 2021 13:00:00 -0400

Republished from The Conversation, written by FIU Ph.D. candidate of international relations Tamanisha John.

Helios invests in continuing transfer student success efforts at FIU

Gabriela Aguirrechu — Wed, 07 Jul 2021 11:00:00 -0400

The Florida Consortium of Metropolitan Universities and Helios Education Foundation partnered to support transfer students.

Helping from afar: FIU’s International Business Honors Society expands its humanitarian work in India during COVID-19 pandemic

Contributing Author — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 15:44:00 -0400

Their project focuses on helping the women in a village on the outskirts of New Delhi gain financial independence through creating hand-crafted fashion accessories.

5 Covid-19 vaccine myths debunked

Cristina Jaramillo — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 14:35:00 -0400

Epidemiologist experts explain some of the most common COVID-19 vaccine misconceptions.

Miami-Dade, Broward counties currently out of the cone of Tropical Storm Elsa

Contributing Author — Sun, 04 Jul 2021 10:48:00 -0400

At FIU, we continue to monitor updates closely because conditions can change quickly. Our university’s emergency operations center remains activated.

Tropical Storm Elsa update: FIU libraries will close at 6 p.m. Sunday as a precaution

Contributing Author — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 15:09:00 -0400

Tropical Storm Elsa was downgraded from hurricane status this morning. The university’s emergency operations center remains activated.

Engineer explains complexity of investigation into Surfside condo collapse—how changes in local design philosophies, inspection and maintenance practices are likely

Elizabeth Calzadilla — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 11:40:00 -0400

Atorod Azizinamini provides insight into what investigators will look for as they work to determine what went wrong

FIU continues to monitor Hurricane Elsa

Contributing Author — Fri, 02 Jul 2021 13:25:00 -0400

The university’s emergency operations center has been activated since portions of South Florida remain in the storm’s forecast cone.

Computing students, alumni invigorated by growing attention to tech-talent in Miami

Diana Hernandez-Alende — Fri, 02 Jul 2021 13:00:00 -0400

Students and alumni from the Knight Foundation School of Computing and Information Sciences are heartened by the national attention to local talent.

FIU-led hurricane loss model recertified by the state of Florida

Cynthia Corzo — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 14:00:00 -0400

The model is Florida’s benchmark for evaluating the financial risks faced by insurance companies.

FIU is monitoring Tropical Storm Elsa

Contributing Author — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 12:00:00 -0400

South Florida is currently in Tropical Storm Elsa’s five-day forecast cone.

FIU scientists star in 4 new SharkFest shows on National Geographic

Angela Nicoletti — Wed, 30 Jun 2021 13:30:00 -0400

FIU shark experts list

Angela Nicoletti — Wed, 30 Jun 2021 12:03:00 -0400

Watch a video about Cardeñosa's research.

Ratcliffe Art + Design Incubator examines how technology and art shape our world in new podcast series

Tatianna Basanta — Wed, 30 Jun 2021 11:31:00 -0400

Tech Conversations podcast features experts, community leaders, entrepreneurs and artists examining how technology and design merge together to shape the world around us.

June 2021 in photos: No. 1 in Florida, Juneteenth and Poincianas in bloom

David Drucker — Wed, 30 Jun 2021 10:30:00 -0400

A man with an uncanny ability to connect with people across a broad spectrum, Albert Dotson Sr. was a giant in the FIU community. Check out our full story about his memorial here.

Water is your best friend: Staying hydrated through summer

Gisela Maria Valencia — Tue, 29 Jun 2021 15:09:00 -0400

Tania Rivera, a registered dietitian and assistant clinical professor at the Stempel College, sheds light on the ways water replenishes our bodies and how we can stay hydrated through summer.

FIU geophysicist sheds light on Miami Beach land subsidence study

Chrystian Tejedor — Tue, 29 Jun 2021 14:11:00 -0400

FIU geophysics professor Shimon Wdowinski addresses key questions about subsidence and his research in the wake of the tragic building collapse in Surfside, Fla.

FIU records best fundraising year ever

Contributing Author — Tue, 29 Jun 2021 13:50:00 -0400

Mackenzie Scott, Mas and Ferré families, Knight Foundation among donors propelling FIU

FIU and SoftBank Group partner to inject new talent into South Florida’s tech startup scene

Gabriela Aguirrechu — Tue, 29 Jun 2021 09:30:00 -0400

FIU is part of a partnership with SoftBank Group International to prepare students to work with tech startups booming in South Florida.

Business alumnus is building the 'Uber of accounting'—Taxfyle

Ellen Forman — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Founded by an alumnus and described as an “Uber for accounting,” Taxfyle’s software allows individuals and companies to post their accounting jobs to a central website.

FIU stands ready to help our community during this difficult time

Contributing Author — Fri, 25 Jun 2021 18:05:00 -0400

President Rosenberg sent the following message today.

Student’s superyacht design mixes sub-Saharan African cultural design with urban art

Tatianna Basanta — Fri, 25 Jun 2021 11:40:00 -0400

Students in architecture professor Darci Pappano's design studio course reimagined yachts to reflect a more diverse aesthetic.

Labs, theaters and classrooms come to life as in-person learning resumes

David Drucker — Fri, 25 Jun 2021 11:30:00 -0400

Students are getting back to learning endeavors that can't be fully replicated at home.

FIU professor: Collapsed Surfside building showed signs of subsidence in ‘90s

Chrystian Tejedor — Thu, 24 Jun 2021 15:44:00 -0400

The area where a building partially collapsed in Surfside, Fla. showed signs of land subsidence in the 1990s, according to space-based radar data analyzed by an FIU professor.

Alumna leading Univision's social impact campaigns

Contributing Author — Thu, 24 Jun 2021 15:12:00 -0400

As senior director of corporate responsibility, Claudia Prado BBA ’16, MBA ’19 manages Univision’s social impact campaigns, overseeing efforts to connect with and help Latino immigrants.

FIU is ranked a Top 3 young university

Morgan Hughes — Thu, 24 Jun 2021 14:15:00 -0400

FIU was ranked No. 3 among U.S. public universities that are 50 years old or younger by Times Higher Education (THE).

Local condo building collapse has community seeking answers

Alexandra Pecharich — Thu, 24 Jun 2021 12:30:00 -0400

FIU infrastructure expert Atorod Azizinamini offers context around the building failure.

5 tips for transitioning to post-pandemic life

Gisela Maria Valencia — Thu, 24 Jun 2021 11:32:00 -0400

Victoria Gonzalez ‘17, health educator at the Healthy Living Program, shared some top tips to help students adjust to a full return to campus.

FIU experts available to discuss gun violence and surrounding issues

Contributing Author — Wed, 23 Jun 2021 16:00:00 -0400

President Rosenberg: 'Our FIU is number one! This year our FIU has earned the highest score among public universities in the state'

Contributing Author — Wed, 23 Jun 2021 13:00:00 -0400

President Rosenberg shared the following message with the university community today.

FIU ranks first among Florida public universities

Contributing Author — Wed, 23 Jun 2021 13:00:00 -0400

FIU has earned the highest score among public universities in the state according to the Florida Board of Governors performance-based funding scores announced today. This makes FIU the No. 1 public university in Florida, which is the No. 1 state in the country for higher education.

In Florida, state universities are evaluated on key metrics including four-year graduation rate, retention rate, cost of attendance to students and employment of recent graduates.

“The hard work of our students, faculty and staff over the past few years has paid off,” said FIU President Mark B. Rosenberg. “Our top performance this year affirms that our commitment to the academic and research mission, our intentionality, and our dedication to student success have proven to be a winning strategy.”

This news comes at the end of a banner year for FIU, which has included multiple top-50 rankings and on the heels of the $40 million donation by philanthropist and author MacKenzie Scott and her husband Dan Jewett.

FIU earned 97 points, the highest score in the history of the Performance-Based Funding (PBF) Model. This represents a nine-point improvement over the university’s PBF score last year.

FIU showed significant advances in several key areas: four-year graduation rate (6.5 percent improvement), six-year graduation rate for students who are awarded a Pell grant in their first year (3.5 percent improvement), and the number of post-doctoral appointees (7 percent improvement).

“This historic top student success ranking score is the culmination of 7 years of focused efforts that ensure each of our students reach their highest potential,” said FIU Provost and Executive Vice President Kenneth G. Furton. “It cements FIU’s reputation as a Top 50 university that has been recognized with national rankings in international business, law, nursing, public health, social mobility and environmental resilience efforts. This is a testament to the high quality of our academic programs, research and impact on our community.”

Camps at FIU ready to host summer fun

David Drucker — Tue, 22 Jun 2021 14:00:00 -0400

Children are welcome to come practice their acting skills, while teenagers are invited to learn about journalism and construction management.

Wine lovers, rejoice: experts gather at FIU to name best American bottles

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Tue, 22 Jun 2021 13:45:00 -0400

More than 550 vinos from 125 producers competed for the top title at the American Fine Wine Competition held at FIU.

Meet FIU’s Fulbright Program Champion: Iqbal Akhtar

Birgitta Rausch-Montoto — Mon, 21 Jun 2021 16:30:00 -0400

The Fulbright program is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. The program and FIU are successful in meaningful engagement across the world because of global champions like Iqbal Akhtar.

Florida SBDC at FIU Business posts record level of assistance for small businesses to recover and thrive

Cynthia Corzo — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 13:40:00 -0400

In 2020, the center provided consulting services to more than 2,225 business owners.

What can a medical student learn at the zoo?

Contributing Author — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 11:30:00 -0400

Michael Valente recounts his experience on a unique clinical rotation.

Dr. Aileen Marty tells stories of researching world's deadliest diseases on Panther Personalities podcast

David Drucker — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 10:20:00 -0400

From studying bioweapons as a captain in the Navy to fighting an ebola outbreak in Africa as an envoy for the WHO, Marty worked with some of the world's deadliest diseases.

To teach bilingualism, professor blends languages

Angela Nicoletti — Thu, 17 Jun 2021 17:27:00 -0400

FIU assistant professor of bilingual education Ryan Pontier is looking to find ways that empower and support bilingual students.

FIU embraces full return to campus

Alexandra Pecharich — Thu, 17 Jun 2021 16:40:00 -0400

Live, in-person and face-to-face mark a new reality as Miami’s public research university gets back to what it does best.

FIU trustees extend President Rosenberg’s contract

Madeline Baro — Wed, 16 Jun 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Freshman helps train COVID-19 detector dogs on campus

Emily Castellanos — Tue, 15 Jun 2021 16:10:00 -0400

As more students return this upcoming fall, Erica Garcia is helping to ensure safety on campus by training dogs to detect COVID-19.

NeighborhoodHELP: Caring for vulnerable communities during the pandemic

Ileana Varela — Tue, 15 Jun 2021 14:00:00 -0400

FIU's NeighborhoodHELP mitigates challenges faced by underserved communities due to COVID-19.

How to brand yourself

Gisela Maria Valencia — Tue, 15 Jun 2021 11:09:00 -0400

A career counselor shares tips for maintaining a brand that will help you land career opportunities.

MacKenzie Scott makes a $40 million gift to FIU that will transform the student experience

Maydel Santana — Tue, 15 Jun 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Philanthropist and author MacKenzie Scott and husband Dan Jewett have announced a $40 million gift to support student success programs at FIU.

Students in a business class learn lessons while working to grant a young boy’s wish

Ellen Forman — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 15:55:00 -0400

The undergraduates pivoted from in-person projects to online campaigns that netted funds to send an ill child on a dream vacation with his family.

When sharks need a power nap, they go surfing

Angela Nicoletti — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 08:58:00 -0400

Sharks surf to save energy according to new research led by FIU marine scientist Yannis Papastamatiou.

Alumnus studies genetic factors for Alzheimer’s disease

Stephanie Rendon — Fri, 11 Jun 2021 11:35:00 -0400

FIU graduate dedicates life to helping find treatments and cures for diseases like Alzheimer's.

Alumnus and artist Orlando Estrada explores Miami’s fate in newest exhibition

Tatianna Basanta — Fri, 11 Jun 2021 11:00:00 -0400

A giant among men, the late Al Dotson Sr. receives an emotional send-off from a grateful community

Alexandra Pecharich — Thu, 10 Jun 2021 16:15:00 -0400

Family, friends and admirers by the hundreds bid a final farewell to the longtime university supporter and civic leader, who died at 83, with a “Homegoing” ceremony on campus.

Warming lakes put biodiversity at risk

Chrystian Tejedor — Thu, 10 Jun 2021 14:20:00 -0400

A warming climate is warming the world’s lakes — and it could spell trouble for tropical fish, animals and tiny organisms.

Alumna helps underrepresented students access virtual internships through startup

Gisela Maria Valencia — Thu, 10 Jun 2021 13:47:00 -0400

Before the pandemic changed the world, Paula Mora ’17 and a group of women started a company to increase professional opportunities for minority students through virtual internships.

Celebrate, Educate, Heal: FIU to host inaugural weeklong Juneteenth Celebration

Contributing Author — Thu, 10 Jun 2021 11:40:00 -0400

Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration on June 19 marks a new annual tradition for the university community.

Summer 2021 Class Notes

Contributing Author — Wed, 09 Jun 2021 16:15:00 -0400

Check out what our alumni have been up to since graduating from FIU.

Climate activist Gabriela Rodriguez wins Jorge and Darlene Perez Excellence Award

Emily Castellanos — Wed, 09 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0400

Rodriguez will receive a $10,000 award that she will put toward her graduate studies at Yale.

Alumnus' RENT in Havana documentary to premiere on HBO, HBO Max

Ivan Lopez — Wed, 09 Jun 2021 09:30:00 -0400

Andy Señor's production of RENT in Havana is the subject of a documentary premiering on HBO and be available to stream on HBO Max starting June 15.

Quick fixes to improve your desk posture

Contributing Author — Tue, 08 Jun 2021 11:40:00 -0400

Avoid postural changes, chronic pain, and other back complications with these easy tips from Troy Moore, certified exercise physiologist from FIU's Wellness and Recreation Center.

Top Scholars for 2021 named

David Drucker — Tue, 08 Jun 2021 11:05:00 -0400

Being honored were 30 faculty members who generated outstanding work in areas including teaching and engagement, award-winning creative work and significant grants.

Researcher dedicates life’s work to ocean’s secret weapon against climate change

Angela Nicoletti — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 12:51:00 -0400

Director of the FIU Institute of Environment’s Coastlines and Oceans Division James Fourqurean has spent nearly 40 years researching seagrass ecosystems around the world.

President Rosenberg: 'Let's work together to ensure a healthy university community this summer and fall'

Mark Rosenberg — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 10:40:00 -0400

FIU is updating social distancing and mask requirements as the community heads into the "next normal."

University helps community prepare for hurricane season

Contributing Author — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 09:20:00 -0400

The FIU-sponsored, annual "Eye of the Storm" event shared hurricane preparedness tips for the whole family in a fun-filled day at the Museum of Discovery and Science.

FIU family saddened to learn of death at MMC of alumnus

Contributing Author — Sun, 06 Jun 2021 09:20:00 -0400

Police do not suspect foul play in the death of FIU alumnus on campus.

FIU Fulbright Specialist tapped to help Iceland tackle cybercrime

Alex Bassil — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 15:33:00 -0400

Professor Guerette was invited to assist Iceland’s University of Akureyri and Center for Police Training with cybercrime recognition and prevention.

Now on view: a photographer’s exhibit reflects the extraordinary moments found in everyday existence

Contributing Author — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 04:55:00 -0400

Alumna Peggy Levison Nolan's first solo show at the Frost Art Museum FIU reveals her life behind the lens.

Are LGBT high school students more likely to use illicit substances?

Ileana Varela — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Medical students did a data analysis to determine if LGBT high schoolers were more likely to use illicit substances than their heterosexual counterparts.

New fully online degree provides tourism industry skills using sustainable practices

Monica Smith — Thu, 03 Jun 2021 14:00:00 -0400

How will we live together in the future? Architecture faculty, students present innovative ideas at 2021 Venice Biennale

Tatianna Basanta — Thu, 03 Jun 2021 11:40:00 -0400

Architecture professors and dozens of students will exhibit their work at one of the most prestigious international architecture events in the world.

Hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes, floods – whatever your local risk, here's how to be more weather-ready

Contributing Author — Thu, 03 Jun 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Erik Salna, director of education and outreach at FIU's Extreme Events Institute wrote this piece, republished from The Conversation.

Civil and biomedical engineering students receive prestigious Cuban American scholarships to pursue graduate degrees

Debra Jacob — Thu, 03 Jun 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Civil and biomedical students receive prestigious ACAE and C-AACE scholarships.

Transformation Contest winners share transformative experiences

Yenisleidy Simon Mengana — Wed, 02 Jun 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Seven students recently participated in the seventh year of the Transformation D.C. Fly-In, held virtually.

DNA test kit saves thousands of Earth’s most bizarre turtles

Angela Nicoletti — Wed, 02 Jun 2021 09:03:00 -0400

Using a DNA testing toolkit developed by FIU researchers, officials stopped an illegal shipment of Matamata turtles and returned them to the wild.

$5.7 billion moved out of Northern Triangle countries by illicit financial flows in international trade, FIU research finds

Cynthia Corzo — Wed, 02 Jun 2021 08:00:00 -0400

New research from FIU Business shows mispriced trade was a key driver of the $5.7 billion moved to the U.S. from the combined economies of Northern Triangle.

FIU celebrates 60th anniversary of the Peace Corps with commemorative gift

Contributing Author — Tue, 01 Jun 2021 11:00:00 -0400

The Peace Corps’ 60th-anniversary commemorative gift is designed by alumnus David Garcia ’85 and displayed on the north side of DM

JMOF-FIU announces “Hello Gorgeous,” an exhibition celebrating the life of Barbra Streisand

Erica Corsano — Tue, 01 Jun 2021 10:15:00 -0400

FIU hosts congressional briefing on preparing communities for hurricane season

Alex Fleming — Tue, 01 Jun 2021 00:00:00 -0400

According to experts, we’re approaching an “above average” hurricane season. What does that mean and how does FIU best prepare our communities as we start this year’s hurricane season today, June 1?

FIU mourns the loss of Board of Trustees Chair Emeritus Albert E. Dotson Sr.

Contributing Author — Sun, 30 May 2021 12:30:00 -0400

'Miami has lost a community pillar, our FIU has lost one of its greatest champions and we have lost a friend.'

May 2021 in photos: SOBEWFF®, food rescue and teaching Miami history

David Drucker — Fri, 28 May 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Here is how the Bartender's Guild at FIU got voted the event's top mixologists.Read more about the event.

Students debut innovative hospitality concept at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival®

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Thu, 27 May 2021 15:00:00 -0400

Students re-imagine and unveil hospitality concept of the future at SOBEWFF® and win a $1,200 scholarships.

FIU opens student-run art gallery in Miami Beach

Tatianna Basanta — Thu, 27 May 2021 14:50:00 -0400

FIU opens first storefront art gallery in Miami Beach run entirely by graduate visual arts students.

ROTC director named professor of the year by U.S. Army

Gisela Maria Valencia — Thu, 27 May 2021 14:47:00 -0400

Lieutenant Colonel Heath Papkov has been recognized as the best Professor of Military Sciences, the highest honor awarded to ROTC directors and the first time FIU earns the distinction.

College of Medicine researcher studies melanoma, the deadliest skin cancer

Ileana Varela — Thu, 27 May 2021 10:00:00 -0400

Skin cancer awareness with emphasis on melanoma, the deadliest type, and HWCOM research on melanoma.

Not one, but 4 juicy burgers win top prize at SOBEWFF®

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Wed, 26 May 2021 11:30:00 -0400

Alumnus wins People's Choice Award for Very Best Burger at SOBEWFF® event

Bimini dredge leaves its mark on sharks’ DNA

Angela Nicoletti — Wed, 26 May 2021 10:52:00 -0400

FIU Ph.D. candidate Andria Beal led the first of its kind study to uncover one of the greatest mysteries — how environmental stressors impact sharks.

Students called him Dr. Beach and like sand, the name stuck

Angela Nicoletti — Tue, 25 May 2021 10:35:00 -0400

Dr. Beach didn’t set out to refashion tourism or become a hit with the media. His only goal was to promote and protect America's beaches.

Whale consumption should be dramatically decreased in Caribbean to avoid mercury poisoning

Chrystian Tejedor — Tue, 25 May 2021 09:59:00 -0400

Researchers studying the level of mercury concentration of whales in the Caribbean were shocked to see dangerously high levels of the toxic substance in whale products sold for human consumption.

'Vaccination, vaccination, vaccination,' urges Dr. Fauci at FIU's security conference

Katherine Dagand — Mon, 24 May 2021 16:00:00 -0400

Dr. Anthony Fauci highlighted the importance of vaccinations and being gradual when lifting COVID-19 restrictions at the 6th Annual Hemispheric Security Conference.

FIU Bartender’s Guild crowned people’s champ at SOBEWFF® Art of Tiki Showdown

David Drucker — Mon, 24 May 2021 15:40:00 -0400

Their beverage, named "The Sunblazer" in homage to FIU’s original mascot, was a mix that included Bacardi Lime, Bacardi Ocho, pineapple juice, lemon juice and honey.

Beyond good grammar and punctuation—FIU Online zeros in on accessibility and inclusion

Monica Smith — Mon, 24 May 2021 15:00:00 -0400

FIU Online is ranked No.1 in the nation for Quality Matters (QM) certified online courses, recognition of the high quality of the university’s online offerings.

Quality Matters is a faculty-centered, peer-reviewed process that helps examine the design of an online course through a comprehensive evaluation process, helping to ensure that students can navigate the courses more easily and with more transparency. FIU has more than 500 QM-certified online courses and is on a path to ensure that most online courses achieve the distinguished certification by 2025.

FIU is one of more than 1,500 national and international institutions that partner with Quality Matters. Each institution subscribes to the non-profit’s prestigious peer-review quality online course design certification process. Today, FIU leads the list, which includes some of the most reputable and well-known educational institutions around the globe from 26 countries and across six continents.

The Quality Matters designation joins recent U.S. News and World Report rankings that put FIU’s online bachelor’s programs in the top 50 among public universities in the nation. FIU also ranked in the top 10 among public universities for its online master’s in business programs (non-MBA), and top 50 for its online master’s criminal justice program, online master’s engineering program, and online MBA program.

“Online is the campus of the future,” said Kenneth G. Furton, FIU’s Provost and Executive Vice President. “FIU has always been committed to quality online instruction and a Quality Matters certified course is the highest recognition of online course design. We made a commitment to support our faculty in designing and redesigning courses to meet Quality Matters standards. This ranking is the result of the hard work of our faculty and our strategic efforts to ensure that all of our students receive an exceptional education.”

The key to success for FIU Online is the department’s learning and design team, which is trained in best practices in building courses with interactive technology. The team works in close collaboration with university faculty to create dynamic virtual environments that combine innovative digital tools and high quality instruction. During the Covid-19 pandemic, when the university’s courses had to suddenly go remote, the team shifted more than 4,600 courses—representing more than 2,400 faculty and 50,000 students—to the new modality.

“Our Learning Design and Innovation team has been an invaluable resource during this time, going above and beyond in partnership with our faculty,” said Lia Prevolis, interim assistant vice president of FIU Online. “Beyond leading the charge to help maintain academic continuity during the university's emergency response to COVID, the team did not lose sight of quality and worked hard to take FIU to the No. 1 spot for QM-certified courses in the nation.”

Courses undergo a review process with faculty from outside the institution who are trained and certified in the QM process and includes a content discipline expert. Reviewers perform a broad evaluation to gauge each course’s features with 43 specific standards—from overview to usability. Courses that achieve an 85 percent level of compliance with the standards receive a “QM-Recognized” seal.

The university launched the FIU Online Panther Quality Course Design Initiative in support of the Florida Board of Governors’ online course quality standards. This initiative advances the university vision of learning-centered, evidence-based, and culturally responsive teaching. At the same time, the QM process helps fulfill the FIU Online mission to connect FIU students and lifelong learners to the highest quality online educational experience—anytime, anywhere.

Vice President of Costa Rica discusses inequality, migration and major security issues

Katherine Dagand — Fri, 21 May 2021 15:15:00 -0400

Dr. Eneida Roldan tapped for national COVID-19 awareness media campaign

Ileana Varela — Fri, 21 May 2021 14:00:00 -0400

Dr. Eneida Roldan has been tapped by the AAMC for a national campaign to increase awareness about COVID-19 vaccines and promote vaccination.

FIU detection dogs earn COVID-19 certification just in time to work the South Beach Wine & Food Festival®

Lourdes Perez — Fri, 21 May 2021 13:10:00 -0400

The dogs, trained by researchers at FIU’s International Forensic Research Institute (IFRI), are the first in the country to gain certification specific to COVID-19.

FIU partners with Ageless Chic Magazine to mentor students

Tatianna Basanta — Fri, 21 May 2021 10:36:00 -0400

Ageless Chic Magazine is giving 14 FIU students a look into the fashion and journalism world with its first-ever internship program

Alumni sweep Miami-Dade educational honors

Chrystian Tejedor — Fri, 21 May 2021 08:56:00 -0400

Vanessa Valle (left) celebrates her 2021 Miami-Dade County Teacher of the Year win with FIU instructor Melanie Morales.

FIU's computing and information honor society wins national Continuing Excellence Award

Elizabeth Calzadilla — Thu, 20 May 2021 16:35:00 -0400

FIU received the UPE National Board’s Continuing Excellence Award alongside the University of California, Berkeley Chapter.

Alumna working to ease hospital burnout during COVID-19

Gisela Maria Valencia — Thu, 20 May 2021 15:45:00 -0400

From fighting fires and counseling youth to helping hospitals during the pandemic, alumna Nicole Bramblett ’16 has dedicated her life to serving others.

Artisanal whaling claims almost 14,000 whales since the 1940s in the Caribbean

Chrystian Tejedor — Thu, 20 May 2021 11:07:00 -0400

Artisanal subsistence whaling is alive and well in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, a small group of islands in the eastern Caribbean.

Killer whales can’t be picky eaters in the Caribbean

Chrystian Tejedor — Wed, 19 May 2021 13:01:00 -0400

For killer whales in the tropical waters of the Caribbean, everything’s on the menu, even whales twice their size, according to new research led by FIU.

Jorge Mas and family make $5 million lead gift to CasaCuba at FIU

Lourdes Perez — Wed, 19 May 2021 10:30:00 -0400

On behalf of the Mas family, Jorge Mas, one of the most prominent Cuban American business leaders in the United States, has made a $5 million lead gift to CasaCuba at Florida International University.

A founding member of the CasaCuba Board of Advisors and chairman of the Board and co-founder of MasTec, his gift will support the mission and construction of CasaCuba, the university’s center for the celebration and preservation of Cuban culture and the study of Cuban affairs.

The facility will feature galleries for a wide range of exhibits, as well as a state-of-the-art venue for events, classes, performances and dynamic programming. In recognition of the gift, the Mas family will have a named, permanent wing in CasaCuba.

"For many years, FIU has been one of the world’s leading universities in the study of Cuba, and it has been our plan to build a home to share our wealth of resources related to Cuba in a vibrant academic and cultural center. That mission is CasaCuba," said FIU President Mark B. Rosenberg. "We thank the Mas family, who for decades have supported the dreams of Cuban Americans across our nation, for helping CasaCuba become a reality."

“My parents, like so many, fled communist Cuba in search of freedom and built a life in their adopted country, while never forgetting their homeland,” said Mas. “We make this gift in tribute to those who, like my father, did not live to see a free Cuba. My late father taught us that Cubans are un solo pueblo, one people—the Cubans on the island and the Cubans in exile. We are blessed to help build this home for all Cubans.”

From their humble start as Cuban exiles in Miami to the founding of MasTec, a global infrastructure construction company that became the first Cuban American Fortune 500 firm, the Mas family rose to prominence in South Florida. Jorge Mas Canosa, the Mas family patriarch, founded the Cuban American National Foundation (CANF) in 1981 with a group of fellow Cuban exiles. Jorge Mas presently serves as chairman of CANF. He is also managing owner of Inter Miami CF, Miami's Major League Soccer team. Rooted in the belief that education is the cornerstone of society, the Mas family established in 1996 the Mas Family Scholarships. Today the Mas Family Scholarships have supported the education of over 300 students in the most prestigious universities.

“We are profoundly grateful to Jorge Mas and the entire Mas family for their historic gift to CasaCuba,” said María Carla Chicuén, founding executive director of CasaCuba. “This is the moment to come together as a community to build the home for our heritage, where our story will always live on.”

"The Mas family is a pillar of the Cuban community in the U.S., and with this lead gift, they have stepped up as a pillar of CasaCuba. This gift is a show of solidarity and loyalty to Cuban heritage, love for the homeland and commitment to securing its future. It is our sincere hope that the Mas family's generosity will serve to inspire more prominent Cuban American families to become pillars of CasaCuba," said George Corton, a first-generation Cuban American who serves as chief development officer at the FIU Foundation.

René González Architects is now designing CasaCuba’s 57,000-square-foot facility on the University’s Modesto A. Maidique Campus. The iconic center will integrate the latest technologies to enable interactive and digital experiences across the space. CasaCuba will also house the Cuban Research Institute and promote engaging discussions that will bring together top scholars, policymakers and business leaders from around the globe.

The gift benefits the $750 million Next Horizon campaign, which advances student success and research excellence at FIU.

Apps, technology innovations win top honors at Miami Herald Startup Pitch Competition’s FIU Track

Ellen Forman — Tue, 18 May 2021 15:30:00 -0400

Students and alumni came up with original apps and business ideas for the competition.

Volunteering at FIU's COVID-19 vaccine clinic

Stephanie Rendon — Tue, 18 May 2021 14:41:00 -0400

Students are helping to run FIU's COVID-19 vaccine clinic.

Researchers intent on ending health disparities, elevating minorities and vulnerable communities

Gisela Maria Valencia — Tue, 18 May 2021 12:30:00 -0400

Faculty and students at the Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work are conducting transformative research and working firsthand with communities in need to reduce health inequities.

Associate professor to advise World Health Organization on new nutrient requirements for infants

Stephanie Rendon — Mon, 17 May 2021 13:30:00 -0400

FIU professor tapped to help WHO and FAO revise nutrient requirements for children.

Classrooms without borders: Global education gets a boost as students and faculty participate in courses that cross institutions, continents and time zones

David Drucker — Mon, 17 May 2021 09:00:00 -0400

FIU has taken online learning to the next level with international collaborations that have students working “side by side” on projects that integrate a world of diverse perspectives and backgrounds.

Forensic Science master’s programs receive top rankings

Contributing Author — Fri, 14 May 2021 10:52:00 -0400

Intelligent.com ranked FIU's Master of Science (MS) in Forensic Science as the best on-campus program in the U.S., the best in Florida, and in the top-three programs nationwide.

Tickets still available for the South Beach Wine & Food Festival

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Fri, 14 May 2021 10:00:00 -0400

Tickets still available to the 2021 Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One to benefit FIU Hospitality.

Professor receives prestigious IBM Global Academic Award

Elizabeth Calzadilla — Thu, 13 May 2021 14:20:00 -0400

The award is a recognition of Naphtali Rishe's ongoing research in Geospatial Data Analytics for Ecological Observations.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, vice president of Costa Rica to lead 6th annual Hemispheric Security Conference

Katherine Dagand — Thu, 13 May 2021 12:10:00 -0400

The 6th Annual Hemispheric Security Conference will take place May 17-21 and feature speakers Vice President of Costa Rica Epsy Campbell Barr and Dr. Anthony Fauci.

FIU will provide Pfizer vaccine for 12 to 15-year-olds

Contributing Author — Thu, 13 May 2021 09:00:00 -0400

The vaccine will be available to children who reside in the same household with an FIU student, faculty, staff or retiree.

FIU celebrates launch of Ferré Institute for Civic Leadership

Amy Ellis — Wed, 12 May 2021 16:45:00 -0400

Through the creation of the Maurice A. Ferré Institute for Civic Leadership at FIU, Mayor Ferré’s legacy of leadership and service will carry on to a new generation.

Taking it to the top: Company leaders boost their skills with a ‘doctor of business’ degree that doesn’t interrupt their careers

Ellen Forman — Wed, 12 May 2021 15:20:00 -0400

FIU’s executive Ph.D. combines practice and theory while allowing those in charge to continue running the corporate world.

NSF funded project helps dozens of engineering students pursue careers in STEM

Debra Jacob — Wed, 12 May 2021 14:10:00 -0400

Florida IT Pathways to Success project (Flit-Path) has provided 127 scholarships to FIU students in computer science, information technology and computer engineering.

Frost Art Museum FIU presents "Peggy Levison Nolan: Blueprint for a Good Life"

Erica Corsano — Tue, 11 May 2021 11:15:00 -0400

How much sleep do you really need?

Contributing Author — Mon, 10 May 2021 13:00:00 -0400

Your brain and body are active and doing important things while you sleep, like organizing nerve cells, regulating hormones, repairing cells and clearing out toxins.

Bob Dylan: Retrospectrum to open Nov. 30 at Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum

Erica Corsano — Mon, 10 May 2021 12:00:00 -0400

More than 120 of the artist’s paintings, drawings and sculptures spanning six decades will show at Florida International University’s renowned museum through April 2022.

8 billion wobbling muons just put particle theory on notice

Angela Nicoletti — Sun, 09 May 2021 09:52:00 -0400

FIU alumnus was part of an international team of 160 physicists who worked on the groundbreaking Muon g-2 experiment.

FIU adjusts COVID-19 mitigation measures

Contributing Author — Fri, 07 May 2021 16:45:00 -0400

FIU is making several adjustments to mitigation measures as the university community heads into the summer and fall semesters.

Celebrating academic advisors – Panthers at the heart of student success

Gisela Maria Valencia — Fri, 07 May 2021 15:20:00 -0400

In honor of Global Advising Week, the Panther community expressed appreciation for its academic advisors, especially during the pandemic.

Miami women’s shelter finds success for its guests comes with care

Angela Nicoletti — Fri, 07 May 2021 12:54:00 -0400

Lotus House enlisted the help of several FIU psychologists to take part in a community-based research collaboration.

Historian awarded prestigious Guggenheim fellowship to study Peruvian girl who gave birth at 5

Alex Bassil — Fri, 07 May 2021 12:00:00 -0400

History professor Bianca Premo received a $50K 2021 Guggenheim for her book about a Peruvian girl who gave birth at the age of five in 1939.

‘All for Mom’: the secret behind recent grad’s success

Gisela Maria Valencia — Fri, 07 May 2021 11:27:00 -0400

Alumna Susana Rondon ‘21 is on a mission to serve others and to make her mom – her inspiration – proud.

Researchers work to bring Biscayne Bay back from the brink

Chrystian Tejedor — Fri, 07 May 2021 11:00:00 -0400

FIU's Institute of Environment has put every resource toward saving South Florida’s endangered coastal waterway.

Epidemiologist warns pandemic is far from over

Contributing Author — Thu, 06 May 2021 14:30:00 -0400

Dr. Mary Jo Trepka answers questions about the current state of the pandemic and what we can do to keep one another healthy and safe as we head into the summer.

16 year old named outstanding electrical engineering student

Contributing Author — Thu, 06 May 2021 12:30:00 -0400

Recent alumnus Nathan Thomas '21 was named Outstanding Undergraduate in Electrical Engineering at FIU.

'I have hope.' Reflections on medical education from the first wave of the pandemic

Contributing Author — Thu, 06 May 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Dr. Suzanne Minor, assistant dean for faculty development at the college of medicine, reflects on how students and faculty responded to pandemic.

Stay motivated this summer with these 3 fitness tips

Contributing Author — Wed, 05 May 2021 12:00:00 -0400

It can be hard to stay consistent when working out. These easy methods will help keep you motivated and on track.

Scientists learn to be storytellers

Tatianna Basanta — Wed, 05 May 2021 12:00:00 -0400

FIU's Steven Cruz Institute is teaching researchers how to be storytellers.

Giving roses this Mother's Day? Add this artistic twist to the classic gift

Gisela Maria Valencia — Wed, 05 May 2021 10:17:00 -0400

To celebrate Mother's Day, the Frost Art Museum FIU is hosting a hands-on workshop to create rose-inspired art for moms.

FIU Hollo School of Real Estate announces new advisory board and council members

Cynthia Corzo — Tue, 04 May 2021 08:00:00 -0400

The Hollo School of Real Estate appointed Jeffrey Ardizon to their Advisory Board and Sebastian Garcia as the newest member of the Real Estate Council.

FIU Foundation brings together diverse voices to guide new Office of Inclusive Philanthropy

Clara-Meretan Kiah — Mon, 03 May 2021 14:00:00 -0400

The office brings together development professionals, community and industry partners from diverse backgrounds.

Monica E. Cardella named new director of School of Universal Computing, Construction and Engineering Education

Elizabeth Calzadilla — Mon, 03 May 2021 13:00:00 -0400

FIU’s College of Engineering and Computing has named Monica E. Cardella director of its School of Computing, Construction, and Engineering Education (SUCCEED).

Vaccines available for students, faculty, staff and eligible household members

Contributing Author — Mon, 03 May 2021 11:00:00 -0400

First doses of the Pfizer vaccine will be available on Friday, May 7, to Panthers and household members 18 and older, or those 16 and older accompanied by a parent or guardian.

My internship with Camino Worldwide

Yenisleidy Simon Mengana — Mon, 03 May 2021 00:00:00 -0400

A public relations internship turns into a research and evaluation job offer for alumna Jaedyn Guthrie '21.

My internship with Carlson Law

Alexandra Pecharich — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Second-year law student Josh Goldberg spent a semester with one of the country’s top sports attorneys, who happens to be an FIU alumnus.

BSI researchers discover protein that guards against prostate cancer, fatty liver disease, diabetes

Chrystian Tejedor — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 09:58:00 -0400

An FIU researcher was awarded nearly $1.6 million to investigate new ways to battle deadly diseases including COVID-19 and future pandemics.

Yuk-Ching Tse-Dinh, director of FIU’s Biomolecular Sciences Institute, will use the support from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences of NIH to unravel how certain proteins —topoisomerases — are used to untangle DNA and RNA while they replicate.

Stopping the replication process can keep viruses from converting cells into virus factories and it can keep harmful bacteria from spreading.

Even the earliest and smallest forms of life on Earth — archaea and bacteria — rely on topoisomerase protein TOP1A to spread. Some bacteria have become immune to today’s antibiotic drugs so finding a new drug against a target such as TOP1A to protect people from these superbugs is crucial.

“It’s not only to advance our understanding of how life starts and is maintained,” Tse-Dinh said. “It also has implications for the discovery of important therapeutics for treatment of multi-drug-resistant bacteria and viral pathogens that may come up in future pandemics.”

The problem of drug resistance is particularly vexing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention noted in a 2019 report that 2.8 million antibiotic-resistant infections occur in the U.S. annually resulting in 35,000 deaths.

Of particular interest for Tse-Dinh with this renewal is the opportunity to further explore a human protein, TOP3B, that belongs to the same topoisomerase family as bacterial TOP1A. This protein is used by flaviviruses and coronaviruses including Dengue, Zika and COVID-19 to turn infected human cells into virus factories.

The hope for Tse-Dinh is to help develop a drug that blocks a coronavirus’ ability to hijack host TOP3B to aid in its replication. Such drug can potentially be used in a cocktail in tandem with other drugs that block the viral proteins or modulate the human immune response.

Funding from this project also will cover collaborator’s work at the Argonne National Lab to use X-ray crystallography to provide a map for the potential drug binding sites on topoisomerase proteins in the drug discovery process.

This MIRA grant, awarded for five years, provides researchers with greater stability and flexibility, enhancing scientific productivity and the chances for important breakthroughs. This marks the ninth time Tse-Dinh has received a grant award from NIH to conduct her research on topoisomerases.

In addition to leading the Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Tse-Dinh also directs the university’s Translational Molecular Discoveries initiative, an emerging pre-eminent program.

Famous South Beach event started at FIU by legendary professor

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 00:00:00 -0400

South Beach Wine & Food Festival® marks it's 20th anniversary

Alumna brings new brand of leadership to FIU Board of Trustees

Alexandra Pecharich — Thu, 29 Apr 2021 15:00:00 -0400

Celebrated College of Law grad Chanel Rowe is one of the newest members of the university’s governing body.

Get ready for new and refreshed dining options

David Drucker — Thu, 29 Apr 2021 15:00:00 -0400

In the summer and fall of 2021, Pincho Factory, a refreshed Chili's and a new Caribbean concept will be available.

FIU launches new global sustainable tourism program

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Thu, 29 Apr 2021 11:35:00 -0400

Panelists provide young female engineers strategies for success

Diana Hernandez-Alende — Thu, 29 Apr 2021 11:30:00 -0400

Panelists of the Women in Engineering, Academics, and the Corporate World event provided FIU female engineering and computing students with strategies for success.

April 2021 in photos: Commencement in person, Roarthon and a labor of love

David Drucker — Thu, 29 Apr 2021 10:40:00 -0400

Check out our full story to learn more about Boren's exhibit.

The Pink Tank: Launching a new chapter for women tech talent

Ellen Forman — Wed, 28 Apr 2021 15:27:00 -0400

FIU Business has launched the Pink Tank, a mentoring, networking and competition experience designed to reduce the gender gap in STEM fields.

Frost Art Museum FIU presents “Place and Purpose: Art Transformation in Coconut Grove”

Erica Corsano — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 12:35:00 -0400

On May 29, 2021, Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum FIU will present “Place and Purpose: Art Transformation in Coconut Grove.” For decades, Coconut Grove has attracted artists, writers, and musicians. Through a select group of visual artists, the Frost will tell the story of the Grove’s rich history and how the spirit of this community has contributed to the Grove’s reputation as a wellspring of creativity.

Coconut Grove established itself in the 1960’s as the local haven for a diverse group of artists, writers, musicians, and art galleries. Many artist-activist community leaders have left their marks on the Grove through the art and the spaces they created, such as the Miami Black Arts Workshop in historic Bahamian Coconut Grove. “Place and Purpose: Art Transformation in Coconut Grove” celebrates the role of a community as a creative space as well as a key driver behind a young city’s evolution.

“This exhibition plays tribute to a Miami community whose history and present are rich in art and culture, including the founding of the Miami Black Arts Workshop and the Coconut Grove Arts Festival,” said Museum Director Jordana Pomeroy. “Coconut Grove was home to artists like Annette Rawlings, who combined interests in fashion, painting, and ceramics; as well as Owen Lee, a prolific, self-taught artist who worked with paper, tapestries, and sail cloth; and countless artists that have worked, and many who continue to work, in the Grove. We are pleased and honored to share many of their works and to tell the story of this artistic mecca in Miami-Dade County.”

Some of the artists represented include Roland Woods, Jr., Robert McKnight, Donald McKnight, Dinizulu Gene Tinnie, and Pamela Kabuya Bowens-Saffo, among others. Community activists, as well as artists, these leaders created a powerful space in Coconut Grove through the MBAW, a venue that welcomed young people to learn about art and activism.

The Grove’s rich history has contributed to the complex narrative of Miami as a home for myriad cultures and the arts. Community events such as the Coconut Grove Arts Festival (dating back to 1963), the Goombay Festival (established in 1977), and the King Mango Strut Parade (founded in 1982) became signature events of the Grove that continue today. While most art galleries have long since moved out of the Grove and today’s prohibitive real estate prices discourage artists and musicians from living in the Grove, the neighborhood’s legacy as an art haven remain.

“Coconut Grove possesses many untold histories, as does South Florida more broadly. This exhibition seeks to build a dynamic and unexpected narrative that honors artists affiliated with the Miami Black Arts Workshop and Grove House as well as artists who called Coconut Grove home for many decades,” said Frost Museum Head Art Curator Amy Galpin. “Our exhibition hopes to honor this geographic space as a site for artistic transformation while revealing complex ways in which our communities morph and change.”

The exhibition was made possible with support from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, the Art Dealers Association of America Foundation, PNC Bank, the Office of Miami Commissioner Ken Russell, the Coconut Grove Business Improvement District, and the members of the Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum.

The exhibition will be on display from May 29, 2021 — September 19, 2021, for more information, please visit frost.fiu.edu.

FIU launches Museums Insiders program

Contributing Author — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 13:45:00 -0400

The free student group for culture-loving Panthers recently gathered at the Frost Art Museum for an exclusive tour.

Dr. Spider-Man: Alumna is a superhero who wears a white coat

Ileana Varela — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 13:00:00 -0400

Alumna Jennifer Thompson, MD '18 is a pediatric resident who dresses up as Spider-Man to comfort her young patients.

Got my first job! Working as marketing manager at Groot Hospitality

Contributing Author — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 13:00:00 -0400

The Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management student landed her first job out of college with acclaimed "Miami's King of Hospitality."

FIU receives grant to help increase representation in undergraduate computing

Ashley Garcia — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 12:30:00 -0400

The grant will allow the Knight Foundation School of Computing and Information Sciences to work toward making all students feel included.

FIU and Florida lawmakers establish center to study free markets, economic policy on a global scale

Morgan Hughes — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 10:45:00 -0400

FIU is launching a new podcast. Here's how to listen

David Drucker — Fri, 23 Apr 2021 11:40:00 -0400

Panther Personalities is a talk-show style podcast where ‘students are stars, research is relatable and FIU tells its own stories.’

Overcoming darkness: FIU mental health expert discusses suicide prevention on the eve of statewide virtual campus walk

Contributing Author — Fri, 23 Apr 2021 08:51:00 -0400

Awareness events throughout the country aim to encourage important discussions while memorializing the lost.

6 local firefighters to graduate from FIU this weekend

Contributing Author — Fri, 23 Apr 2021 08:50:00 -0400

The first responders have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic while keeping up their studies in the Stempel College to earn bachelor’s degrees in disaster management.

FIU and ESnet receive NSF grant for high-speed data transfer research project

Lourdes Perez — Fri, 23 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Florida International University (FIU) and Energy Science Network (ESnet) have been awarded a two-year, $760,000 National Science Foundation (NSF) Office of Advanced Cyberinfrastructure research grant for Q-Factor, a framework that enables high-speed data transfer optimization.

Q-Factor, a concept developed by FIU and ESnet, will help automate the data transfer speed between computers at end points. The technology, for example, will help increase the speed with which an office computer (one end point) receives a large data file from a web server (another end point). This optimization will allow for smoother data transfer across a high-speed network.

As the trend towards data-intensive research continues, scientists and university IT experts are investing significant resources to facilitate the efficient movement of large amounts of data from computers that are far apart from each other. Because many university campus networks are not currently configured to support the data movement requirements of data-heavy science, campus researchers require new tools to address poor network performance.

To help address this problem, FIU and ESnet are planning to research, prototype, and deploy the new Q-Factor technology. Q-Factor will enhance inter-campus data transfers performed over regional, national, and international networks without requiring changes to end-user applications, like work computers and laptops.

Science applications, such as the Vera Rubin Observatory, the Open Science Grid, the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) high luminosity experiments, and big data science drivers will benefit from the increased bandwidth utilization provided by Q-Factor.

“The cost of achieving effective end-to-end performance is high for network operators, because of the lack of real-time network state information. Q-Factor is an exciting research opportunity for FIU and ESnet to create knowledge that will benefit domain scientists and their network-dependent applications,” said Julio Ibarra, Q-Factor co-principal investigator and assistant vice president of technology augmented research at FIU.

"At ESnet, we are excited to partner with FIU to further advance our network's capabilities, increase the performance of scientific data transfers and unleash the potential in programmable data plane telemetry," said Richard Cziva, Q-Factor co-principal investigator and software engineer at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.

FIU ranks No. 6 U.S. public university in Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, top 50 in all 17 categories

Morgan Hughes — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 16:00:00 -0400

Times Higher Education Impact Rankings place FIU in the top 50 of all 17 categories.

FIU graduates celebrate real triumphs at first in-person commencement since pandemic began

Lourdes Perez — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 09:45:00 -0400

Money alone can't fix Central America—or stop migration to US

Contributing Author — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0400

This article is written by Luis Guillermo Solis, republished from The Conversation.

President Rosenberg receives 'superior' performance rating by Board of Trustees

Contributing Author — Wed, 21 Apr 2021 15:00:00 -0400

The FIU Board of Trustees on Wednesday unanimously voted to give President Mark B. Rosenberg a “superior” performance rating for his accomplishments and leadership.

FIU Online awards more than $200,000 in scholarships

Monica Smith — Wed, 21 Apr 2021 11:00:00 -0400

52 days at sea — with someone else’s research

Angela Nicoletti — Wed, 21 Apr 2021 09:57:00 -0400

Christian Lopes wasn’t supposed to join a journey to study the Indian Ocean, but a chance opportunity landed him on the trip.

FIU Online MBA program ranked No. 2 among U.S. public universities, No. 10 in the world

Cynthia Corzo — Wed, 21 Apr 2021 09:00:00 -0400

The Professional MBA Online program at FIU’s College of Business (FIU Business) is ranked No. 10 in the world in the 2021 QS Online MBA Rankings, released April 21. The QS rankings, recognized among the most widely watched international university rankings, also place the FIU Business program at No. 2 among all U.S. public school programs ranked.

The rankings are based on such factors as academic reputation, quality and diversity of enrolled students, reputation among employers and the class experience.

“FIU Business has been a leader in online business education for more than two decades and we are delighted to be recognized among the best globally in the QS World University Rankings,” said Joanne Li, dean of the college. “FIU Business will continue to be an innovator in online business education, which is more important now than ever.”

The QS online MBA ranking follows a strong showing among public universities for other FIU Business online programs in the U.S. News & World Report online program rankings released in January. In those rankings, the college’s online undergraduate program was ranked No. 10 in the U.S. Its online specialty master’s programs were ranked No. 10.

Recently, FIU’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management was also ranked as a top 10 U.S. public university program. The hospitality and tourism management program ranked No. 10 among U.S. public universities in the 2021 QS World Rankings by Subject.

“Our success in the QS rankings is a testament to our dedication to innovative student-centered learning,” said FIU Provost and Executive Vice President Kenneth G. Furton. “We are committed to making sure our academic programs foster exceptional student experience and employment outcomes.”

In addition to its Professional MBA Online program, FIU Business’s online graduate programs include an Online Healthcare MBA program and online master’s programs in accounting, finance, international business, health informatics and analytics, human resource management, international real estate and marketing. Six Bachelor in Business Administration majors are offered online, including those in finance, human resource management, international business, logistics and supply chain management, management and marketing.

President Rosenberg: 'You are not alone during these difficult times'

Contributing Author — Tue, 20 Apr 2021 16:45:00 -0400

FIU President Mark B. Rosenberg and El pagnier Kay “EK” Hudson sent the following message to the university community this afternoon.

Panthers earn prestigious NSF Graduate Research Fellowships, enter exclusive group of scholars

Gisela Maria Valencia — Tue, 20 Apr 2021 14:21:00 -0400

Eleven students, plus one alumna returning to FIU for her graduate studies, were awarded prestigious National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships or selected as honorable mentions.

All the ways Panthers can get vaccinated this week

Gisela Maria Valencia — Tue, 20 Apr 2021 12:09:00 -0400

Trying to get vaccinated? Here are all the options you've got this week, including two locations at FIU.

FIU family invited to the South Beach Wine & Food Festival®

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Tue, 20 Apr 2021 10:55:00 -0400

FIU discount codes to the South Beach Wine & Food Festival(R) are now live to some of the Festival's 60+ events

My internship with NPR’s All Things Considered

Tatianna Basanta — Tue, 20 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0400

Journalism student Alejandra Marquez Janse spent her spring semester interning with NPR's evening show All Things Considered

Engineering doctoral student receives prestigious national fellowship

Ashley Garcia — Mon, 19 Apr 2021 14:49:00 -0400

Melany Gutierrez Hernandez will be working this summer with the Commonwealth Edison Company, which provides electric service to 70 percent of Illinois.

FIU partners with state to bring COVID-19 vaccine bus to MMC April 20-22

Contributing Author — Mon, 19 Apr 2021 12:29:00 -0400

FIU has partnered with the office of state Rep. Daniel Perez and the Florida Department of Health to bring a vaccine bus to MMC this week.

Watch: Town hall addresses summer and fall semester questions

Contributing Author — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 15:00:00 -0400

FIU leaders discussed physical distancing, vaccines, masks, food options, events, DEI, research, advancement and construction.

Remote work is on the rise and an alumnus is helping supply the tools necessary for success

Contributing Author — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Rick Feijoo, a vice president and engineering fellow at Citrix, leads the architecture and design for Citrix Cloud Platform.

FIU partners with Jackson Health System on COVID-19 vaccination initiative

Contributing Author — Thu, 15 Apr 2021 12:30:00 -0400

All students age 18 and older can sign up for a vaccine appointment at Jackson.

5 things shaping the future of health services

Monica Smith — Thu, 15 Apr 2021 09:30:00 -0400

Professors pen key journal article that defines and outlines the influences driving health services education and care.

Maurice A. Ferré Foundation gift to establish Maurice A. Ferré Institute for Civic Leadership at FIU

Amy Ellis — Thu, 15 Apr 2021 08:00:00 -0400

FIU receives $2 million gift to establish the Maurice A. Ferré Institute for Civic Leadership at the Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs.

FIU hosts national dialogues to explore challenges, solutions in environmental resilience

Federal Relations — Wed, 14 Apr 2021 11:30:00 -0400

Attendees discussed recommendations for the administration and Congress to address coastal resilience and disaster mitigation.

7 tips for what students can do when the unexpected happens

Monica Smith — Wed, 14 Apr 2021 09:45:00 -0400

Sometimes the unexpected happens. Learn what students can do for support when things don't go as planned.

Four-time Emmy award winner shares his journey from the classroom to the newsroom

Tatianna Basanta — Wed, 14 Apr 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Fabian Galvis ’15 won his first Emmy in 2015 for Outstanding Sports Coverage in Spanish.

Alumni create pop-up art studios around South Florida

Zion Sealy — Tue, 13 Apr 2021 11:25:00 -0400

Alumni created pop-up shops, galleries and exhibitions in Miami Beach and Coral Gables.

Mix up your exercise routine and see big results

Contributing Author — Tue, 13 Apr 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Bored with your workout routine? Troy Moore from the Wellness and Recreation Center shares simple tips on how to spruce up your workout.

Wall of Wind competition inspires high school students to become engineers, tackle real-world problems

Contributing Author — Tue, 13 Apr 2021 10:35:00 -0400

The 2021 challenge tasked five student teams with designing a concept to reduce the impact of wind scour on a building’s flat roof.

Going Places: The Comeback Kid

Alexandra Pecharich — Mon, 12 Apr 2021 13:20:00 -0400

Oliver, pictured here in March on campus prior to the rollout of pandemic protocols, graduated on Dec. 13.

Broward County and Orlando area state attorneys join FIU’s prosecutorial performance project

Amy Ellis — Fri, 09 Apr 2021 14:00:00 -0400

Florida International University and Loyola University Chicago recently added state attorneys’ offices in Broward County and Orange and Osceola counties (Orlando area) to their network of nationally recognized prosecutors using data to gauge effectiveness, efficiency and fairness in prosecution.

Participants in the Prosecutorial Performance Indicators (PPI) project commit to increasing transparency and accountability by objectively measuring and analyzing prosecutorial practices. Key indicators include increasing timely handling of cases, reducing racial and ethnic disparities, and expanding community outreach and engagement.

With Broward and Orlando area joining prosecutors in Jacksonville and Tampa, the project now includes four prosecutor’s offices in Florida.

“Prosecutors in Florida are paving the way for a more race-equitable, transparent and data-driven criminal-justice system,” said Melba Pearson, director of policy and programs for the Center for the Administration of Justice at FIU and a co-manager of the PPI project. “It is an honor to assist them in their efforts to provide more transparency as we strive to make data culture in prosecution the norm.”

The project’s eight partners from around the nation are working to create public online data dashboards that will offer a multilayered and holistic assessment to move beyond individual cases to determine broader impacts and effectiveness.

The PPI includes 55 performance measures that challenge and expand traditional measures of success in the field of prosecution. The priorities include safety, community well-being, justice, equity and fairness for everyone affected by the criminal justice system.

“FIU offers prosecutors an evidence-based framework with which to use data to create a more equitable vision of justice. Now is the time for researchers and prosecutors to work closely together as partners, and we look forward to working with the state attorneys in Broward and Orlando,” said Besiki Kutateladze, criminology professor at FIU and the project’s lead researcher.

The PPI is funded by a $3.7 million grant from the MacArthur Foundation and overseen at FIU by the Center for the Administration of Justice, part of the Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs.

“Success for prosecutors should be associated with more than convictions and harsh sentences,” said Aisha Edwards, program officer at the MacArthur Foundation. “The Prosecutorial Performance Indicators offer a holistic way to define success, collects data to measure progress, encourages collaboration with community members, and provides the tools needed to tackle racial inequities. Our goal is to help create a more equitable and effective criminal justice system.”

Accelerated program allows students to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree at Broward College and FIU in five years

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Fri, 09 Apr 2021 09:40:00 -0400

A worldwide epidemic decades before the pandemic: 40 years of AIDS artifacts and stories aim to teach recent history and honor millions lost

Alexandra Pecharich — Thu, 08 Apr 2021 15:45:00 -0400

Social work professor Shed Boren’s labor of love offers lessons and memories through an ambitious new exhibition at the Coral Gables Museum.

Couple says "I Do" at FIU

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Thu, 08 Apr 2021 15:40:00 -0400

Two FIU hospitality classes plan and produce a free wedding for a deserving couple, who won a video contest.

New book on cancer research highlights discoveries by physicists

Chrystian Tejedor — Thu, 08 Apr 2021 13:03:00 -0400

An FIU physicist has published a book on cancer research conducted by physicists that provides new information in the long-term battle against the deadly disease.

FIU is among three universities receiving NSF funds to study climate change in the tropics

Contributing Author — Thu, 08 Apr 2021 10:57:00 -0400

In an unprecedented move, the National Science Foundation is providing $300,000 to three universities including FIU to better understand the impact of global climate change on tropical ecosystems.

Rx for law and medical students: teaching those under unique pressures how to care for themselves

Gisela Maria Valencia — Thu, 08 Apr 2021 10:47:00 -0400

Future doctors and lawyers are learning how to safeguard their mental health as they navigate demanding academics and enter high-intensity professions.

5 things to know about the environmental threats facing Tampa Bay

Chrystian Tejedor — Wed, 07 Apr 2021 16:16:00 -0400

While the threat to life and property from a leaky reservoir near Tampa Bay has diminished, the toll on the environment won’t be known for a while, according to experts from FIU’s Institute of Environ

FIU professors awarded Stevens Initiative grant to build virtual reality experience in support of second language acquisition

Contributing Author — Wed, 07 Apr 2021 14:44:00 -0400

The multidisciplinary Tabadul project will gather evidence-based research on how virtual learning in support of a second language compares to traditional classroom instruction.

College of Medicine pipeline program paves way for future docs

Ileana Varela — Tue, 06 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0400

The Graduate Certificate Program was created as a pipeline to HWCOM. Fourteen will graduate this year.

SIPA professor discusses digital self-harm on Academic Minute

Madeline Baro — Tue, 06 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0400

Ryan Meldrum discusses digital self-harm on Academic Minute.

My internship with iconic brand Bacardi

Contributing Author — Tue, 06 Apr 2021 09:30:00 -0400

The Chaplin School of Hospitality student shares details of her eight month internship at Bacardi.

Carlos Trujillo appointed to FIU Board of Trustees

Lourdes Perez — Mon, 05 Apr 2021 16:05:00 -0400

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has appointed former United States Ambassador Carlos Trujillo to a five-year term on the FIU Board of Trustees. The appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.

“I am thrilled to welcome Ambassador Carlos Trujillo to the FIU Board of Trustees. His experience in the state, federal and international arenas is an incredible asset to our institution,” said Board Chair Dean C. Colson.

Trujillo served as United States Ambassador to the Organization of American States and was an assistant state attorney for the 11th Judicial Circuit of Florida as well as a member of the Florida House of Representatives.

Trujillo was also appointed by President Donald J. Trump as a representative of the U.S. to the 72^nd General Assembly of the United Nations under former Ambassador Nikki Haley in 2017, and in 2020, was nominated, again by President Trump, to serve as the U.S. Department of State Assistant Secretary for the Western Hemisphere.

“FIU is a vital institution in South Florida that generates knowledge and uplifts our community,” Trujillo said. “I look forward to working with fellow board members and the professional team at the university to help FIU continue its ascent as one of the top public universities in the nation.”

Trujillo earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Spring Hill College and his Juris Doctor from the Florida State University College of Law. He was a founding member of Trujillo, Vargas, Gonzalez and Hevia, LLP, in Coral Gables, and is currently a partner at Continental Strategy, LLC. Trujillo previously served as a board member of the Public Health Trust of Jackson Memorial Hospital.

Trujillo replaces Claudia Puig who served from 2003 – 2021.

Outstanding Student Life Award winners serve as a source of pride, inspiration

Cristina Jaramillo — Mon, 05 Apr 2021 13:30:00 -0400

These student leaders embody the spirit of FIU by giving unselfishly of themselves to enhance life on campus and to make the university a better place.

At just 28, alumna designs New Yorker cover

Angela Nicoletti — Mon, 05 Apr 2021 11:18:00 -0400

Alumna and artist empowers women, brings joy to others through her art.

That's a wrap: David Grutman's popular hospitality course ends with guest appearance from President Rosenberg

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Fri, 02 Apr 2021 18:00:00 -0400

Popular FIU Hospitality course, The David Grutman Experience: The Class, is over

LGBTQA Initiatives has been renamed the Pride Center at FIU just in time to celebrate Pride Week

Cristina Jaramillo — Fri, 02 Apr 2021 09:00:00 -0400

LGBTQA Initiatives has been renamed Pride Center at FIU to better represent the department’s commitment to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion

The Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU reopens its doors

Erica Corsano — Fri, 02 Apr 2021 08:00:00 -0400

On Tuesday, April 6, the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU (JMOF-FIU) will reopen its doors to the community. Last March, JMOF-FIU temporarily closed in response to the coronavirus pandemic, and transitioned to virtual tours, digital content and social media outreach.

While the museum’s virtual and digital programs will continue in full force, JMOF-FIU is welcoming back guests safely, by appointment.

Currently on view at the museum are “Will Eisner: Comic Creator, Illustrator and Innovator,” “The Sanctuary,” and “Jews of the Florida Panhandle.”

“Will Eisner: Comic Creator, Illustrator and Innovator,” features Eisner’s work, a career of seven decades, including original illustrations, first edition comic books from The Spirit comic book series, works from his army days, graphic novels and self-portraits.

“The Sanctuary” is the premier exhibition in JMOF-FIU’s newly restored main gallery. The exhibition showcases 80 magnificent stained-glass windows that surround the gallery, and other historic Art Deco features within the museum’s main building. The exhibition also includes artifacts – which illustrate Jewish customs, holidays and lifecycles – that were selected from the Collections of the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU, originated by Marcia Jo Zerivitz, founding executive director.

Also on display in “The Sanctuary,” is the recent promised gift of Robert B. Feldman, a New York-based art collector, of a large-scale installation by Mira Lehr. The artwork, titled Sacred Dreams, is comprised of 183 aerial sculptures that descend from the ceiling of the museum, and is estimated at a value of $300,000. The installation is currently on view at the museum as a temporary loan from Feldman, and will become part of the museum’s permanent collection in September.

“We are housed in a building that was once a synagogue and this particular gallery was once its sanctuary. We have now curated this space to enhance the feeling of peace and community the room has always exuded, when it was a congregation and now as part of our museum,” said Susan Gladstone Pasternack, the museum’s director.

“Jews of the Florida Panhandle” is part of a series showcasing the history of Jews throughout the state of Florida. The series launches with the Northern part of the state as this is where the first documented Jews arrived in 1763 in Pensacola, Florida.

“We are part of the cultural fabric of FIU and of the state of Florida, and are thrilled to welcome guests back safely and continue our important storytelling in person as well as online, with our globally-reaching virtual programming,” Pasternack said.

Before visiting in person, guests must review the museum's safety guidelines. Appointments can be scheduled by completing the reservation request form.

“We are pleased to have JMOF-FIU as part of our university’s family of museums. Their work is crucial to both our students and to our vast local, state, national and international communities. While they have done a remarkable job with virtual programming, experiencing this fine cultural institution in person is essential to their work exploring the challenges and stories of all immigrants, as seen through the lens of Jewish history and heritage,” said FIU President Mark B. Rosenberg. “See you soon at the Jewish Museum!”

Environmental researchers uncover the story of the Amazon’s understory

Chrystian Tejedor — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Researchers from Florida International University played a part in helping scientists know what trees are dominant in the overstory and the understory of the Amazon.

Trimble and FIU establish Trimble Technology Lab at the Moss School of Construction, Infrastructure and Sustainability

Elizabeth Calzadilla — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 09:10:00 -0400

Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine ranked one of the most diverse medical schools in the nation

Ileana Varela — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 00:00:00 -0400

U.S. News and World Report ranked the College of Medicine as one of the most diverse schools in the nation.

Medical student sets up scholarship test fund to help other students

Ileana Varela — Wed, 31 Mar 2021 15:00:00 -0400

Med student Jorge Fleites established a scholarship test fund to help underserved pre-medical and medical students pay for their MCAT and USLME exams.

FIU women leading on COVID-19

Contributing Author — Wed, 31 Mar 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Five FIU women leaders are raising the bar this March for Women’s History Month.

March 2021 in photos: Commencement caravan, Relay For Life and Match Day

David Drucker — Wed, 31 Mar 2021 11:40:00 -0400

The university came together with cheer to celebrate the achievements of Panthers this month. Here are some of our favorite photos from March, as captured by FIU photographers Margi Rentis, Carl Frederick-Francois, Doug Garland and Vince Rives.

Our news team has a full recap of the caravan that kicked off commencement celebrations.Beckham spoke with the students about how to build a brand and legacy. For more takeaways from the visit, check out our story.

More than 150 individuals gathered in-person for Relay. Attendees had the option to partake in the ceremony from socially distanced sitting pods or from the comfort of their vehicles via tuning into a live stream. Check out our event recap here.

Check out our full recap of match day here.

For more information about the Knight Foundation's gift, check out our full story.

Engineering course explores ethical, social responsibilities in solving real-world challenges

Diana Hernandez-Alende — Tue, 30 Mar 2021 14:00:00 -0400

Through humanistic engineering, the course encourages collaboration and self-discovery in responding to society's needs.

Caravan marks start of commencement celebration

Contributing Author — Tue, 30 Mar 2021 14:00:00 -0400

Soon-to-be grads joined a car caravan between the Blue and Gold Garages at MMC earlier today to celebrate their accomplishments alongside family and friends.

Talent Lab programs prepare students for real-world advocacy

Federal Relations — Tue, 30 Mar 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Two students who participated in FIU in DC programs went on to advocate directly to members of Congress.

FIU graduate programs ranked top 50 among U.S. public universities in 15 categories

Morgan Hughes — Tue, 30 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0400

Graduate programs in seven FIU colleges are ranked among the top 50 in public universities, according to recent U.S. News & World Report rankings released Tuesday.

Master's student prioritizes widening health care access within her Black community

Alexandra Pecharich — Mon, 29 Mar 2021 13:25:00 -0400

Agonizing societal and personal challenges could not keep down a Stempel College MPH student who vows to use her communication skills and newfound knowledge in support of those too often left behind.

Are you ready to pursue a master’s degree, online?

Monica Smith — Mon, 29 Mar 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Dr. Jorge Camilo Mora receives national geriatrics educator award

Ileana Varela — Mon, 29 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0400

The American Geriatrics Society has selected Dr. Jorge Camilo Mora as its 2021 American Geriatrics Society Outstanding Mid-Career Clinician Educator of the Year Award.

FIU Theatre heads back to the stage for the first time since the pandemic

Tatianna Basanta — Fri, 26 Mar 2021 12:40:00 -0400

“Sonnets for an Old Century is different because we don't have as many limitations as we do over Zoom,” says lighting designer Bryan Pivaral. “Over Zoom, we faced the issue of every actor not having the same space, camera quality or access to the same lighting fixtures - which makes it difficult to coordinate the same look and feel on everyone’s screens. Now that we have the chance to do it in person, there is more control and unification.”

Students left class feeling inspired after a surprise visit from Pharrell Williams and Anthony Joshua, heavyweight champion of the world

Contributing Author — Thu, 25 Mar 2021 16:00:00 -0400

Special guests Pharrell Williams, Anthony Joshua join The David Grutman Experience: The Class at the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University (FIU).

4 tips on leadership from Shane Battier's speech at FIU Hillel

David Drucker — Thu, 25 Mar 2021 15:45:00 -0400

Miami Heat Vice President of Basketball Development & Analytics Shane Battier joined FIU Hillel and members of the university community virtually on March 24 for a discussion about leadership.

Ocean's mammals at crucial crossroads

Chrystian Tejedor — Thu, 25 Mar 2021 10:01:00 -0400

The ocean’s mammals are at a crucial crossroads – with some at risk of extinction and others showing signs of recovery, a team of international researchers say.

Despite fighting imposter syndrome, these alumnae know their worth in the workforce

Contributing Author — Thu, 25 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0400

Two Honors College alumnae share their personal experiences and challenges working toward success.

Professor Xuan Jiang asks Panthers to invest resources, show solidarity with their Asian faculty, staff and students

Contributing Author — Wed, 24 Mar 2021 09:50:00 -0400

Professor Xuan Jiang says it is important that university programs go beyond Asian Studies or Women’s Studies departments to be truly interdisciplinary collaborations.

FIU will be offering a robust and safe on-campus experience for students in the summer, fall semesters

Contributing Author — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 14:35:00 -0400

Beginning Summer 2021, all courses are being scheduled utilizing the pre-COVID-19 modalities of Fully In-Person, Certified Hybrid, and Fully Online.

Medical school hosts drive-in Match Day

Ileana Varela — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 12:00:00 -0400

College of medicine held first in-person drive-in Match Day ceremony since the pandemic.

Panthers get answers to COVID-19 concerns, repopulation efforts at SGA student forum

Cristina Jaramillo — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 11:00:00 -0400

The SGA president led a student forum with top university leaders and administrators to discuss students’ concerns about repopulation efforts.

Institute of Environment student becomes first Panther to accept NOAA’s Knauss fellowship

Giselle Cancio — Mon, 22 Mar 2021 14:15:00 -0400

FIU Ph.D. candidate in the Institute of Environment is the first FIU student to accept a NOAA John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship.

FIU to establish Center of Excellence for Veteran Student Success

Cristina Jaramillo — Mon, 22 Mar 2021 13:00:00 -0400

The Office of Veteran and Military Affairs has been awarded a three-year $450,000 grant from the U.S. Office of Post-Secondary Education.

5 students win Clinton Global Initiative U awards

David Drucker — Mon, 22 Mar 2021 11:48:00 -0400

The awardees will receive leadership training for their ideas to improve life for humanity both locally and globally.

Uncovering the evolutionary history of a snake through its markings

Angela Nicoletti — Mon, 22 Mar 2021 10:41:00 -0400

Researchers find that some ground snakes once used coral snake mimicry — even if it's not immediately obvious.

Back on the sand: Tickets on sale for SOBEWFF®

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Mon, 22 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0400

Tickets go on sale for SOBEWFF® to benefit the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management.

Student testifies before Congress on the impact of COVID-19 stimulus funds

Contributing Author — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 15:15:00 -0400

Keith Thornton Jr. spoke on how the CARES Act and Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplement Appropriations Act helped him stay on track to graduate.

CARTA professor discusses colorism research on Academic Minute

Madeline Baro — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 12:26:00 -0400

Rokeshia Renné Ashley, assistant professor of communication in CARTA, featured in Academic Minute segment on colorism.

International institute recognizes FIU chemist for his combustion research

Chrystian Tejedor — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 09:39:00 -0400

FIU chemist Alexander Mebel was recently selected as a fellow of the Combustion Institute.

President Rosenberg: 'We join you in feeling outraged at the recent killings and other acts of violence against members of our nation’s Asian community'

Contributing Author — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0400

FIU will host a virtual teach-in—"I'm Not a Virus," sponsored by the Center for Humanities in an Urban Environment with the Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and the Asian Studies program.

5 areas that will shape the future of nursing

Monica Smith — Thu, 18 Mar 2021 14:19:00 -0400

Professor says changes in society will continue to influence the nursing education universities provide.

‘Women in Politics’ seminar features prominent alumni

Contributing Author — Thu, 18 Mar 2021 11:30:00 -0400

The second annual Women in Politics and Policy Fly-In featured seven alumni, including former Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen.

FIU recognized with Simon Award for international education success

Morgan Hughes — Wed, 17 Mar 2021 14:19:00 -0400

NAFSA, the world’s leading nonprofit association for international education, has awarded FIU the 2021 Senator Paul Simon Award for Campus Internationalization, recognizing its efforts in making international education part of the university experience.

The award distinguishes overall excellence in integrating international education throughout all facets of university and college campuses. FIU is one of five U.S. institutions to earn the award.

“We push our students to reach across the world to learn, teach, and collaborate so that they graduate as global citizens ready to make a difference,” said Pablo G. Ortiz, vice president for FIU Global. “We also host thousands of students and faculty from around the world each year, who share ideas and knowledge that result in sustainable solutions for our interconnected communities. These are just some of the things that put the “international” in FIU and make us a center for global learning.”

At the core of FIU’s international education success is the Global Learning for Global Citizenship initiative, an award-winning, national model that includes global learning course requirements for undergraduate students, high-impact global opportunities including internships and fellowships, scholarships for global engagement and research, and more. More than 150,000 of FIU’s students have benefitted from global learning courses taught by more than 1,100 faculty across all disciplines.

In the last five years, over 4,000 FIU students have gone abroad, either as part of an exchange program at a partner university or a faculty-led course. Over 200 of these faculty-led programs have been led by dozens of professors across various subjects to more than 50 countries. FIU was named among the top 21 U.S. doctoral institutions in 2020 and 2021 for producing the most Fulbright U.S. Scholars.

The late Senator Paul Simon, a strong advocate for international education and cross-cultural learning, is also the namesake of the Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program Act. The Simon bill aims to increase the number and diversity of students who complete a study abroad experience prior to graduation and make study abroad an integral part of higher education by offering competitive grants to U.S. higher education institutions.

Institutions selected for the Simon Awards will be featured in NAFSA's report, Internationalizing the Campus: Profiles of Success at Colleges and Universities, to be published this fall, and honored during International Education Week in November. To learn more about NAFSA’s Senator Paul Simon Awards, visit www.nafsa.org/SimonAward.

FIU offers vaccines to most vulnerable population served by college of medicine program

Ileana Varela — Wed, 17 Mar 2021 13:30:00 -0400

FIU offered vaccines to members of the college's NeighborhoodHELP program, which serves underserved, minority communities.

Students launch sewing festival to make masks for the speech and hearing-impaired

Zion Sealy — Wed, 17 Mar 2021 11:03:00 -0400

Masks have now become an integral part of our “new normal." Students are working to ensure everyone can still communicate effectively.

Doctoral student researches family separation, guardianship in immigrant communities

Gisela Maria Valencia — Tue, 16 Mar 2021 15:42:00 -0400

Maryam Rafieifar is studying how undocumented immigrants navigate guardianship of their U.S.-born children.

Cyberstalkers can hack into HDMI ports – FIU researchers are studying a way to detect these attacks

Morgan Hughes — Tue, 16 Mar 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Researchers are studying how to prevent individuals and businesses from an unsuspected vulnerability — HDMI ports.

Got questions about COVID-19 vaccines? We’ve got answers.

Ileana Varela — Mon, 15 Mar 2021 15:15:00 -0400

Dr. Eneida Roldan answers frequently asked questions—from vaccine efficacy to cost.

Assistant professor honored by South Florida Hispanic Chamber for leadership, service to the community

Gisela Maria Valencia — Mon, 15 Mar 2021 14:39:00 -0400

Florence Greer has been selected as a recipient of the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s Outstanding Community Leader award.

FIU partners with Dream in Green to mentor STEM-focused high school students

Tatianna Basanta — Mon, 15 Mar 2021 14:30:00 -0400

Dream in Green develops, implements and oversees educational programs workshops that promote environmentally sustainable behaviors .

Power Up 2021 encourages business women to reinvent themselves

Cynthia Corzo — Mon, 15 Mar 2021 12:00:00 -0400

The summit featured presentations by students, faculty and mentors of the first ATOM Pink Tank, which helps women enter STEM fields.

Students taking hospitality class get a surprise visit (and a selfie) from David Beckham

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 19:00:00 -0500

Students get a surprise visit from David Beckham during The David Grutman Experience: The Class

On UN International Law Commission, professor tackles world’s biggest issues through teamwork

David Drucker — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 13:30:00 -0500

In 2016, Charles Jalloh became the second person ever from Sierra Leone to serve on the United Nations International Law Commission. He has now been nominated for a second term.

Engineers create break-through technology to detect illegal Bitcoin mining on everyday users’ computers

Gisela Maria Valencia — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 12:15:00 -0500

A team of researchers has created a software to detect illegal mining of cryptocurrency on computers.

FIU kicks-off first national American Cancer Society fundraising event since the start of the pandemic

Cristina Jaramillo — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 11:00:00 -0500

FIU’s Relay for Life has raised over $1 million for breakthrough research since it began 16 years ago.

Social work honor society receives national service award

Gisela Maria Valencia — Thu, 11 Mar 2021 14:00:00 -0500

Stempel College students annually invest time and effort in support of the greater community.

COVID-19 update: Face coverings, P3 app and travel

Contributing Author — Wed, 10 Mar 2021 11:00:00 -0500

The following message was sent to the university community on March 10.

Professor receives patent for optical technologies system to identify preterm labor

Ashley Garcia — Wed, 10 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0500

Jessica Ramella-Roman developed a system that uses light to examine the structure of cervical tissue.

FIU will host in-person, physically distanced commencement ceremonies this spring

Contributing Author — Tue, 09 Mar 2021 19:00:00 -0500

Spring grads will join fellow classmates in outdoor ceremonies on April 24 and April 25 at the Riccardo Silva Stadium.

The Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU presents #BeWell, a wellness event series

Erica Corsano — Tue, 09 Mar 2021 17:00:00 -0500

From March 9 - May 25, the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU will present #BeWell, a series of five virtual workshops on health and wellness. This series will provide arts and culture programs that examine practices of mindfulness, healing, and wellbeing, through a range of offerings such as aromatherapy and Feng Shui workshops as well as more traditional modes like meditation and artmaking.

The #BeWell series aims to help people develop a mindfulness practice and learn about healing arts from wellness experts working in various fields. The series features events from “Feng Shui Your Home & Change Your Life,” which allows guests to explore Westernized Feng Shui and discover new ways to shift the energy of one’s home and life; to “The Magic of Artmaking and Mindfulness,” an hour-long workshop that works with participants to create wellbeing-themed mandalas with simple art materials.

“In this time of uncertainty and hardship, we at the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU have been reflecting on our history and role as a place of refuge, community building, and resilience. Built from these values, the #BeWell Series aims to bring together members of our community, who come from many different backgrounds, yet are seeking similar things – to feel connected to a community, to develop a mindfulness practice tied to Jewish roots, and to cultivate a range of tools to cope with the increased stress and sense of isolation resulting from the pandemic,” said Luna Goldberg, education manager at JMOF-FIU.

The #BeWell series is sponsored by the Greater Miami Jewish Federation's Incubator Grant, FIU’s Steven J. Green School of International and Public Affairs, and the Program in the Study of Spirituality at the Green School.

“We are keenly aware that it is especially important that people are nurturing their inner lives and well-being during these challenging and uncertain times,” said Erin Weston, assistant teaching professor in the Department of Religious Studies and director of the Program in the Study of Spirituality at FIU. “The Program in the Study of Spirituality at FIU is committed to helping our students and community members to find practices that facilitate personal growth and peace.”

FIU partners with Barnes & Noble College to provide affordable book package to students

Gabriela Aguirrechu — Tue, 09 Mar 2021 16:00:00 -0500

FIU and Barnes & Noble will launch the Panther Book Pack this fall, granting students access to required course materials for $20 per credit hour.

20 FIU programs ranked among world’s best

Morgan Hughes — Tue, 09 Mar 2021 14:15:00 -0500

Twenty FIU programs were ranked among the world’s best, according to the 2021 QS World University Rankings by Subject.

It’s Women’s History month. Here are events at FIU to celebrate

David Drucker — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 15:40:00 -0500

The university observes Women’s History Month to the fullest with a slate of in-person and online events.

The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum FIU Celebrates National Deaf History Month

Erica Corsano — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 14:00:00 -0500

Frost Art Museum-FIU is hosting a virtual event in partnership with the ASL Panthers at FIU Honors College in celebration of National Deaf History Month.

Doctoral student on a mission to prevent intimate partner violence

Angela Nicoletti — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 09:56:00 -0500

Ph.D. candidate Yanet Ruvalcaba earned a fellowship at the CDC where she's working on a project to address intimate partner violence.

Medical student discusses research on women’s vulnerability to COVID-19 on Academic Minute

Madeline Baro — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0500

Academic Minute ran a segment featuring FIU medical student and researcher Chitra Gotluru.

Cultural expectations may keep Western women from pursuing physics degrees

Chrystian Tejedor — Sun, 07 Mar 2021 11:37:00 -0500

Western countries might have fewer women in pursuing physics degrees compared to Muslim-majority countries because of identity conflicts caused by cultural expectations in the physics community.

Students head back to campus for David Grutman Experience: The Class

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Fri, 05 Mar 2021 15:00:00 -0500

Students head back to campus for Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management class, the David Grutman Experience: The Class.

Panthers picnic on the lawn for Employee Appreciation Day

David Drucker — Fri, 05 Mar 2021 14:00:00 -0500

The Division of Human Resources invited staff members to enjoy an afternoon of music and community outside.

Illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing is a growing issue worldwide. FIU hosts conference in search of solutions

Katherine Dagand — Thu, 04 Mar 2021 16:08:00 -0500

Hosted by FIU’s Jack D. Gordon Institute for Public Policy, the Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing Conference on Feb. 3 reached over 3,000 viewers from more than 49 countries.

Leadership program receives platinum national diversity award

Ashley Garcia — Thu, 04 Mar 2021 15:55:00 -0500

The FIU ADVANCE Bystander Leadership Program won the 2020 CASE Platinum Award for Best Practices in Diversity Programming.

Alumni turn love of plants into budding business

David Drucker — Thu, 04 Mar 2021 13:30:00 -0500

David Camargo '05, MBA '15 and Pablo Zepeda '13 met at FIU and went on to become business partners.

Proceeds from medical student fundraiser will provide free mammograms to more than 100 uninsured women

Ileana Varela — Thu, 04 Mar 2021 13:15:00 -0500

Medical students raised a record sum of $17K in their annual art show and auction. Proceeds provide free mammograms to uninsured women.

W.K. Kellogg Foundation supports StartUP FIU Food program to help entrepreneurs of color digitally transform their businesses

Clara-Meretan Kiah — Thu, 04 Mar 2021 09:20:00 -0500

The program is designed for low-moderate income entrepreneurs in the food industry, especially entrepreneurs of color, who are disproportionately affected as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

River connectivity inspires collaborative research efforts

Angela Nicoletti — Wed, 03 Mar 2021 11:23:00 -0500

FIU researcher Elizabeth Anderson has long had a dream that’s both simple and complex — keep rivers in the Amazon free-flowing.

International experts discuss COVID-19 vaccines at FIU symposium

Gisela Maria Valencia — Wed, 03 Mar 2021 10:32:00 -0500

The Global Health Consortium within the Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work and the Office of the President hosted a virtual symposium focused on COVID-19 vaccines.

FIU and Cleveland Clinic Florida to collaborate on personalized cancer treatment research

Contributing Author — Wed, 03 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Diana Azzam, a researcher in the Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, will collaborate with Cleveland Clinic Florida on a study to find new treatment options for cancer patients.

The research, funded by a $350,000 grant from the Scott R. MacKenzie Foundation, focuses on the clinical utility of drug sensitivity testing and genomic profiling to treat sarcomas, one of the most common types of aggressive, malignant tumors.

Azzam, assistant professor in the Department of Environmental Health Sciences, will test the efficacy of a series of clinically approved compounds on tumor tissue samples. The drugs she determines to be most effective on the patient’s tumor cells will be used to guide treatments in the clinic.

The study, the first that FIU has conducted with Cleveland Clinic Florida, will recruit advanced adult sarcoma patients, and follow up with them over two years to assess their clinical outcomes. After completion of the study, results will be used to implement functional drug testing in larger-scale precision medicine clinical trials.

“Functional precision medicine approaches are critical to match the right patient and right sarcoma with the most effective treatment to improve outcomes,” Azzam said.

For more than a decade, Azzam has conducted translational cancer research, focusing on the development of novel and more effective approaches for cancers that are difficult to treat. Her goal is to adopt drug sensitivity testing in cancer patients to guide clinical decision-making while also providing novel therapeutic options for patients.

“I am particularly interested in this project as it aligns with personalized healthcare strategies for Cleveland Clinic,” said Dr. Jorge Manrique Succar, head of the sarcoma program at Cleveland Clinic Florida.

The Jacksonville, Florida-based Scott R. MacKenzie Foundation funds leading-edge human genetic sequencing and research (DNA, RNA, protein) to advance cures for cancer, lung disease, diabetes and heart disease.

“Our niche is providing funding very early on to researchers who show promise, but might not yet qualify for funding from larger sources, such as NIH. We believe this project with FIU closely aligns with our overall mission of finding cures and look forward to watching Dr. Azzam’s research unfold,” said Scott MacKenzie, chairman and founder of The Scott R. MacKenzie Foundation.

FIU launches new master’s degree in the Internet of Things

Elizabeth Calzadilla — Tue, 02 Mar 2021 13:00:00 -0500

Starting in the fall of 2021, FIU is offering a master’s degree in the Internet of Things (IoT) that will prepare graduates for careers in the ever-evolving tech industry, including smart homes, smart grid, smart transportation and smart medical devices.

As part of FIU’s College of Engineering & Computing degree offerings, the graduate program aims to prepare students for jobs in IoT hardware, programming, cybersecurity, communications and entrepreneurship. Graduates of the degree program will be equipped to implement IoT technologies used in daily life, including electric and smart cars, homes, medical devices and city infrastructure. The curriculum further expands on FIU’s bachelor’s degree in Internet of Things, which the university launched in the spring of 2018, becoming one of the first in the nation to offer a bachelor’s degree in the IoT area.

“The Internet of Things is changing the way the world works,” said John L. Volakis, dean of the College of Engineering & Computing. “The college has remained at the forefront of this significant technological shift, and we are dedicated in ensuring that our students are prepared for and will strongly contribute toward the technology-driven jobs of today and the future.”

The Master of Science in IoT degree provides a sought-after set of technological skills to build a combined network of hardware, software and services that turns data into intelligence. Throughout their graduate studies, program students will conduct research on the fundamental underlining concepts associated with IoT technology and have research funding opportunities in various areas, such as nanotechnology, wireless communications, power sources and security.

“It is difficult to identify any aspects of society that do not involve the use of IoT from medical, to manufacturing, in our home, or even on ourselves,” said Alexander Perez-Pons, program director. “These IoT devices are and will continue to encompass our existence in ways we have not yet imagined, and given their rapidly increasing deployment by leading corporations, it will be an IoT world.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the occupational outlook for 2019-2029 for those working in the area of software development, which is the closest area to IoT-related job opportunities, is estimated at 316,000 new jobs at a median pay of $107,510 per year.

Local leaders provide roadmap for public administration during the pandemic

Monica Smith — Tue, 02 Mar 2021 12:00:00 -0500

Executive Master of Public Administration COVID-19 Capstone Summit exposes students to local policy leaders to enrich knowledge and skills.

Three generations of FIU artists bring 'Migrating Clotheslines' exhibit to life

Tatianna Basanta — Tue, 02 Mar 2021 11:45:00 -0500

Three generations of FIU artists bring Maria Lino's exhibition on the plight of immigrants to life

Online early childhood education program earns a top ranking for return on investment

Chrystian Tejedor — Mon, 01 Mar 2021 13:47:00 -0500

FIU’s online bachelor’s degree in early childhood education is No. 2 in the nation for return on investment according to OnlineU.

2021 Salute to Women in FIU History

Alexandra Pecharich — Mon, 01 Mar 2021 09:50:00 -0500

It’s Women’s History Month, and FIU has plenty of remarkable ladies to credit for its success. The individuals featured here join an impressive list of trailblazers who embraced great challenges, led by example and established legacies that still impact us today.

Know of another FIU legend who deserves a shout-out? Mention her in a comment below. (But first check out a list of those we’ve featured in the past.)

How MLK's assassination changed an NBA player's destiny

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Mon, 01 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0500

The day after MLK Jr. was assassinated, the world was in shock, but players, like Wali Wonder Jones had to play in the NBA playoffs. His decision led him to become a civil rights activist.

NSF renews long-term Everglades research program based at FIU

Chrystian Tejedor — Sun, 28 Feb 2021 11:20:00 -0500

The National Science Foundation is providing a four-year $4.75 million renewal of the FIU Institute of Environment’s Florida Coastal Everglades Long Term Ecological Research (FCE LTER) program.

Faculty and staff giving reaches $30 million over 10 years

Clara-Meretan Kiah — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 13:25:00 -0500

FIU leads the State University System in employee contributions, a fact celebrated in the recent Ignite Campaign “A Decade of Giving” virtual celebration that marked the 2021 kickoff.

February 2021 in photos: Events on campus, a great gift and sports starting up

David Drucker — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 09:00:00 -0500

For more information about the Knight Foundation's gift, check out our full story.

This year, the commitee that plans the Martin Luther King Jr. commemoration secured Bernice King to speak to the university community. For more information on how a group of Panthers is working to honor MLK's legacy at FIU, check out our full story.

Students were back on campus this month and ready to hit the ground runnning. Photographer Margi Rentis caught up with some Panthers to take their photos and ask how they were doing. (Click on individual photos above to see what each student had to say.)

For a complete recap of the welcome back event, check out our writer's story.

Fellowship valued up to $96K will support alumna's quest to work in international development

Emily Castellanos — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 08:30:00 -0500

Recent international relations and Honors College grad Pierina Anton Lopez becomes first FIU recipient of the Payne Fellowship.

Alumna teaches students the history that's not in the books

Contributing Author — Thu, 25 Feb 2021 13:44:00 -0500

FIU alumna and teacher aims to change a system that covers the Black history narrative of slavery and the civil rights movement without making important connections to the present day.

New FIU book shows how America’s best entrepreneurs financed business launches without venture capital

Ellen Forman — Thu, 25 Feb 2021 09:40:00 -0500

First title published by the new FIU Business press encourages startup founders to build their skill sets and move forward even without venture capital.

When devastation strikes the oceans, sharks can hold the key to recovery

Angela Nicoletti — Thu, 25 Feb 2021 09:27:00 -0500

Clubs and organizations to be overseen by one unified council

Cristina Jaramillo — Thu, 25 Feb 2021 09:25:00 -0500

The merger is expected to streamline communication between campuses while standardizing processes and policies.

Ignoring the naysayers, photo producer pursues and lands her dream job at Apple

Tatianna Basanta — Wed, 24 Feb 2021 15:15:00 -0500

Undeterred by “no,” Maria Soledad Lorenzino ’15 stuck to her career ambition to work for the world’s largest tech company.

Future FIU docs celebrate early residency matches

Ileana Varela — Wed, 24 Feb 2021 14:00:00 -0500

Urology and opthalmology are two medical specialties that hold an "early match" for residencies, and five FIU med students successfully early matched into those residencies.

Knight Foundation, FIU to accelerate growth of Miami’s tech ecosystem, name School of Computing and Information Sciences

Morgan Hughes — Wed, 24 Feb 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Building on South Florida’s momentum around technology and entrepreneurship, the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation has made a $10 million gift to FIU’s School of Computing and Information Sciences to develop technical talent at scale to meet the demands of industry and Miamians seeking to advance their tech skills.

The investment will catalyze the development of the local tech ecosystem by attracting top faculty researchers in areas such as artificial intelligence, smart robotics, bioinformatics, biodevices, and digital forensics, increase the number of FIU graduates entering these sectors, and strengthen collaboration with industry. In recognition of this gift, FIU will name the Knight Foundation School of Computing and Information Sciences in the College of Engineering & Computing (CEC).

“FIU is Miami. Together with the Knight Foundation and our local and state elected officials, we are seizing this opportunity,” said FIU President Mark B. Rosenberg. “This partnership will help us leverage all that already exists at FIU, add important intellectual capital, work with industry and give our city and our state a key hub of talent and innovation.”

Already a top producer of minority graduates in science, technology, engineering and math and with nearly $200 million of annual research expenditures in this area, FIU is committed to making an additional investment of $106 million over the next decade in this advanced computation initiative, which includes the construction of a new multi-disciplinary engineering building on the corner of Southwest 8^th Street and 107^th Avenue on FIU’s main campus. With a $38.9 million appropriation from the Florida Legislature and $16 million in philanthropy and research funding, the approximately 90,000-square-foot facility is set to break ground this year.

The new engineering building will be equipped with makerspace labs, active learning classrooms and research laboratories in proximity to university talent, including the Academic Health Center. Of the Knight Foundation’s investment, $3.5 million will outfit 20,000 square feet of interactive research and teaching space with best-in-class computing and prototyping equipment.

“Miami is emerging as an international tech hub, both through the success of local startups and the recent influx of companies and investors. Demand for technical talent is rising, and we’re just at the beginning of the trajectory,” said Alberto Ibargüen, Knight president and CEO. “This investment will assure that there will be a deep pool of talent for Miami’s growing tech sector while creating opportunities for Miamians of all backgrounds.”

“FIU is invested in the people of Miami and providing them the tools to succeed in the local and global tech and innovation economy,” said Raul Moas, director of Knight’s Miami program.

“They are boosting the supply of exceptional talent -- which when combined with accessible capital -- help entrepreneurship and innovation thrive. In collaboration with FIU, Knight is also betting big on Miami’s greatest asset, its people, who increasingly seek to contribute to the city as tech entrepreneurs and venture builders.”

A Knight Foundation representative will be appointed to the school’s new leadership board, which is actively recruiting industry leaders committed to strengthening South Florida’s tech sector.

"Now more than ever, technology and innovation are propelling economic growth and crossing barriers to overcome global challenges,” said John. L. Volakis, dean of the College of Engineering & Computing at FIU. “These investments will ensure that the talent we cultivate, the interdisciplinary research we participate in and our industry collaborations drive the innovative solutions of tomorrow.”

Knight’s grant also will support the redesign of the engineering career advising programs, enhance the undergraduate curriculum and boost the school’s four-year graduation rate to accelerate the flow of talent to industry. FIU also regularly evaluates its degree offerings to meet industry needs. For example, in 2017, FIU launched the first bachelor’s degree in the Internet of Things (IoT). Since then, other new academic paths include a graduate degree in IoT as well as cybersecurity, data analytics and digital media. Through the Office of Micro-Credentials, students can access skills that reflect the rapidly changing landscape of the world of work. In addition, university-wide efforts around artificial intelligence, data analysis and emotional intelligence are underway.

The grant will support the community and national demand for increased research and top-flight professionals in the fields of engineering and computer sciences, thereby contributing to Miami’s tech and innovation economy. It includes the hiring of 20 new faculty members, which is projected to facilitate a 160 percent increase in sponsored research and attract 80 additional Ph.D. students. The school will integrate its activities with industry to ensure that its curriculum, research, graduates and other programs spur the field forward. This grant builds upon research efforts already underway. The FIU Center for Internet Augmented Research and Assessment was recently awarded $10.3 million from the National Science Foundation for network infrastructure and software projects that will help scientists around the world share more data faster.

“The Knight Foundation has a long-standing commitment to strategic, community-focused philanthropy that has transformational potential for Miami,” said Howard R. Lipman, CEO of the FIU Foundation, Inc. “This grant lets every community stakeholder know that an investment in our public university is an investment in this city, and it aligns with the student success and research preeminence pillars of our Next Horizon campaign.”

The Knight Foundation School of Computing and Information Sciences’ undergraduate student demographics reflect the local community, making it a local gateway to opportunity and a pipeline of talent for the state economy. FIU is a top 50 public university with multiple national rankings in tech and engineering education and an award-winning student organization focused on technology. Upsilon Pi Epsilon (UPE) hosts ShellHacks, the largest hackathon in Florida, which draws 1,300 students from around the world.

“This grant will allow us to build the Knight Foundation School into a top-ranked school in the state,” said Kenneth G. Furton, Provost and Executive Vice President of FIU.

Opera about civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer takes center stage

Michelle Vires — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 15:15:00 -0500

The one-act drama is a partnership between the School of Music and Santa Fe Opera.

Feb. 26 FIU Global Experts’ Summit on COVID-19 to welcome thousands of online attendees

Alexandra Pecharich — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 12:40:00 -0500

World health leaders will share the latest information around COVID-19 vaccines with an international audience.

Truist Foundation awards FIU’s College of Business $1.7 million to expand financial literacy program

Cynthia Corzo — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0500

The Truist Foundation has awarded a $1.7 million grant to Florida International University's College of Business (FIU Business) to expand the reach of a high school financial literacy program to school systems across the U.S.

Currently, students of four public high schools in Miami-Dade County and parents participate in the National Academy Foundation’s (NAF) Academy of Finance (AOF) program, learning through the Truist FIU Financial Wellness Clinic. The five-year grant will allow the clinic team to deliver the Truist-FIU Finance curriculum to eight high schools in Miami-Dade County Public Schools.

Additionally, the program, which began in person and is now offered virtually, will be made available to schools in other Florida districts and nationally. On the national level, teachers and high school students in at least 140 U.S. cities will have access to the curriculum.

The technology-intensive Truist FIU Financial Wellness Clinic aims to increase college readiness and financial literacy for participants, who learn how to responsibly spend, save, borrow, and be smart consumers when shopping for financial services and insurance.

“Financial literacy skills are vitally important for both students and their parents, who must make prudent, well-informed financial decisions as they approach college and careers,” said FIU Business Dean Joanne Li. “We are grateful for the support of the Truist Foundation, which has enabled FIU Business to share our knowledge base of financial planning skills with not only our South Florida community but also with families across the nation.”

The expansion of the program will begin virtually in spring 2021. As FIU’s campus repopulation allows, students from selected schools will be able to visit the Truist FIU Financial Wellness Clinic several times per year for workshops on various financial literacy topics.

“At Truist, we understand the importance of building wealth to improve economic mobility, and we want to instill those concepts in students as early in life as possible,” said Tony Coley, South Florida regional president for Truist, speaking on behalf of the Truist Foundation. “Our purpose is to inspire and build better lives and communities, and we know financial wellness leads to happiness and future success.”

FIU Business will continue to host students from Academy of Finance schools in South Florida at the “I am C²” College & Career Ready Conference, to be held virtually as needed, in partnership with the National Academy Foundation. They also will be invited to complete the Bloomberg Market Concepts Certification, a 10-hour self-paced e-learning course on financial markets, including core concepts and portfolio management.

Lillian Lodge Kopenhaver Center for the Advancement of Women in Communication launches an affiliate at Stephens College

Tatianna Basanta — Mon, 22 Feb 2021 15:50:00 -0500

The center is bringing new opportunities to one of the oldest women's colleges in the United States.

Open for business: Student-run restaurant at BBC serves up delicious meals

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Mon, 22 Feb 2021 15:50:00 -0500

The FIU Bistro at the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management follows COVID-19 protocols while teaching students how to operate a business.

FIU to celebrate the increased opportunities made possible by federal programs

Cristina Jaramillo — Mon, 22 Feb 2021 12:25:00 -0500

National TRIO Day is a day of reflection and action around increased access to higher education for disadvantaged students.

Watch HR's Repopulation Webinar Part 2, held Feb. 19

Contributing Author — Fri, 19 Feb 2021 16:53:00 -0500

As FIU continues to repopulate campuses and centers, the second informational webinar provided a forum to get Panthers' questions answered by representatives from all areas of the university.

Nurse who frequently deploys to disasters pursues online master's so she can be even more amazing

Alexandra Pecharich — Fri, 19 Feb 2021 15:58:00 -0500

A critical care nurse who accompanies sick children to specialty facilities, Wendy Wheeler also serves on one of the federal government’s Disaster Medical Assistance Teams.

Ancient Greek play brings comedic relief, new performance medium and a twist to end the Peloponnesian War

Tatianna Basanta — Fri, 19 Feb 2021 09:15:00 -0500

FIU Theatre's latest virtual offering uses technology to bring socially distanced actors together and share a classic comedy about women finding their power.

Researchers study impact of COVID-19 pandemic on vaping, e-cigarette use among Hispanic teens

Rosanna Castro — Thu, 18 Feb 2021 14:01:00 -0500

Researchers are investigating how the COVID-19 pandemic is contributing to increased substance use and growing mental health concerns among Hispanic adolescents.

Florida Heart Research Foundation supports biomedical engineering students’ research, establishes new grant

Diana Hernandez-Alende — Thu, 18 Feb 2021 13:40:00 -0500

To raise awareness of heart disease locally, the Department of Biomedical Engineering had cardiovascular disease experts present their research to current biomedical engineering students.

Theatre students recognized for excellence at regional Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival

Ivan Lopez — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 11:50:00 -0500

Five theatre students received awards at the prestigious Kennedy Center festival and FIU's production of "Pipeline" was streamed after the keynote.

Report: some women may be at higher risk of death from COVID-19

Ileana Varela — Tue, 16 Feb 2021 13:30:00 -0500

Literature review reveals three types of women who may be at higher risk for dying from COVID-19.

Rare opportunity: Sophomores gain early acceptance to medical school

Contributing Author — Tue, 16 Feb 2021 11:00:00 -0500

Participants in the Honors College's Early Assurance Program are considered for guaranteed admission at the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine.

How to exercise with a face mask

Contributing Author — Mon, 15 Feb 2021 15:15:00 -0500

Certified exercise physiologist Troy Moore offers tips on the do's and don'ts of face masks and exercise.

Elementary education program recognized for driving greater teacher diversity, selective admissions requirements

Chrystian Tejedor — Mon, 15 Feb 2021 15:06:00 -0500

The undergraduate elementary education program is a national and statewide leader in driving greater teacher diversity and maintaining selective academic admissions requirements: NCTQ.

Valentine’s Day at home? Here’s how you can whip up dinner to wow your special someone

Gisela Maria Valencia — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 10:45:00 -0500

Hospitality faculty share their tips for serving up some restaurant-worthy dishes right from home.

Moray eels thrive on coral reefs close to people

Angela Nicoletti — Thu, 11 Feb 2021 14:49:00 -0500

Coral reefs that are in close proximity to larger populations of people tend to have fewer sharks and other fish due to higher fishing pressure. But new research shows there’s one group of predators that’s the exception — moray eels.

Scientists from FIU’s Institute of Environment used a combination of video data from Global FinPrint — the world’s first and largest shark and ray survey — and environmental DNA analysis to conduct the largest study in the Caribbean on moray eel populations.

Reefs located closer to humans usually have higher levels of fishing, which depletes sharks and other large predatory fish. Morays, though, don’t taste very good to people and have little commercial value. Not being a good catch works to their advantage.

“Global FinPrint was set up to study sharks but an added benefit was that moray eels also went after the bait. They were often very aggressive, sometimes biting at stingrays, reef fish and even small sharks,” said Demian Chapman, Global FinPrint co-lead and FIU associate professor.

Moray eels are mysterious and notoriously difficult to study. They are usually lurking in even the smallest crevices of coral reefs, stalking their prey — fish, octopuses, crabs and lobsters — and launching a sneak attack from below. This is where the Global FinPrint data became helpful and provided a never-before-seen look at just how common these hidden predators are on certain reefs.

Baited underwater cameras were used to survey 67 reefs in 12 Caribbean nations. On reefs further from humans where sharks and other large predatory fish are still common, morays were less common or stayed hidden for the most part. On reefs closer to people, where sharks and other large predators are fished, the morays were more common and weren’t afraid to creep out and start snapping at anything in the way of a meal.

In addition to the video data, this study also relied on environmental DNA — or eDNA — analysis to trace whether morays were around, even if they were hiding and didn’t make an appearance on camera.

Water samples were taken from several of the Global FinPrint sites. DNA was then extracted from feces or sloughed off skin particles in the water to determine what eel species were around. Analysis followed the patterns documented in the video data. On the reefs closer to people, there were more morays present.

The scientists can’t yet draw a definite cause-and-effect connection between fewer sharks leading to more morays. However, they emphasize the need for more research. After all, when the balance of the reef is disrupted, growing populations of morays could have unknown consequences for the entire ecosystem.

"We know sharks prey upon moray eels and likely compete with them for prey, but now we have to ask how important are these interactions in driving moray eel populations and behavior on coral reefs,” said Gina Clementi, a marine ecologist and co-lead author of the study in FIU’s Predator Ecology and Conservation Lab. “There is more work to be done in answering these questions about morays, and I'm excited to see future research dig deeper into the ecology of these cryptic reef predators."

Global FinPrint received core funding support from the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation and was led by FIU scientists Chapman and Dean of the College of Arts, Sciences & Education Mike Heithaus. The work was conducted by hundreds of scientists, researchers, and conservationists organized by a network of collaborators. Earlier this summer, the Global FinPrint team published their first set of findings, revealing sharks are functionally extinct along 20 percent of the reefs surveyed.

The moray study was recently published in iScience. Collaborators include the University of Miami, the Australian Institute of Marine Science, Curtin University, Dalhousie University, James Cook University, the Bay Academy, the University of the West Indies, and the Australian Institute of Marine Science.

The baited camera and eDNA analyses on morays were led by Clementi and Chapman, as well as FIU scientists Diego Cardeñosa, Kathryn Flowers, Bautisse Postaire and Judith Bakker (co-lead author). A contribution of Global FinPrint and the Shark Conservation Fund, the study also received support from the Earthwatch Institute, Moore Bahamas Foundation, Roe Foundation, Waitt Foundation and the Mays Family Foundation.

Biomedical engineering professor working on impactful innovations in medical imaging named National Academy of Inventors Senior Member

Elizabeth Calzadilla — Thu, 11 Feb 2021 13:12:00 -0500

Anuradha Godavarty is a multi-patent holder and principal investigator in FIU’s Optimal Imaging Lab.

Real-life theatre love stories that found their fairy-tale endings

Ivan Lopez — Thu, 11 Feb 2021 10:07:00 -0500

Over the course of four decades, Florida International University’s department of theatre has brought many couples together.

People could learn a thing or 2 from spiny lobsters, like how to stop the spread of COVID-19

Angela Nicoletti — Thu, 11 Feb 2021 09:14:00 -0500

These lobsters don't need anyone to sell them on the benefits of social distancing.

Student Food Pantry at BBC upgrades to new space thanks to generous donation amid pandemic

Clara-Meretan Kiah — Thu, 11 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Philanthropist Herb Gruber and alumna Donna Steffens '06 made a gift to support student needs at BBC.

Growing our way out of nutrient problems on our waterways

Chrystian Tejedor — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 14:31:00 -0500

An FIU Institute of Environment Ph.D. student is investigating whether growing plants on floating mats in the middle of canals can help reduce the number of pollutants pouring into Biscayne Bay.

Transformation Contest winner shares her transformative experience

Contributing Author — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 14:30:00 -0500

Kamisha Kumarasri shares her transformative experience as the winner of last year's Transformation Contest.

Watch HR's Repopulation Webinar held Feb. 10

Contributing Author — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 12:00:00 -0500

FIU is increasing on-campus presence starting Feb. 15. To help set capacity goals, Human Resources hosted an informational webinar Feb. 10

$1.6 million grant helps FIU researcher target protein needed for replication of infectious viruses, bacteria

Chrystian Tejedor — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 10:25:00 -0500

Students help light up Coral Gables in South Florida’s first art and light exhibition

Zion Sealy — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 10:00:00 -0500

The city of Coral Gables is turning on the lights, and FIU’s Department of Art + Art History is helping them do it.

State of the World 2021 highlights struggle for democracy around the globe

Amy Ellis — Tue, 09 Feb 2021 11:30:00 -0500

State of the World 2021 highlights struggle for democracy around the world

Fulbright Scholars undeterred by COVID-19 pandemic

Birgitta Rausch-Montoto — Tue, 09 Feb 2021 09:00:00 -0500

FIU 2020-2021 Fulbright Scholars undeterred by global pandemic.

President Rosenberg: 'We need to redouble our on-campus efforts'

Contributing Author — Mon, 08 Feb 2021 22:00:00 -0500

President Rosenberg asks faculty and professional staff to increase physical presence on campus effective Monday, Feb. 15.

2022 Teacher of the Year is more than just a teacher – she’s a warrior

Christine Calvo — Mon, 08 Feb 2021 15:00:00 -0500

Vanessa Valle (left) celebrates her 2021 Miami-Dade County Teacher of the Year win with FIU instructor Melanie Morales.

College of Medicine wins national award for diversity

Ileana Varela — Mon, 08 Feb 2021 12:00:00 -0500

The Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society recognized HWCOM with its 2020 Award for Excellence in Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity in Medical Education and Patient Care.

COVID-19 has made an often-tough situation even harder for women researchers in the sciences

Alexandra Pecharich — Mon, 08 Feb 2021 11:30:00 -0500

The pandemic has negatively affected women’s work lives, and those in higher education have seen an impact as well.

New tool tracks COVID economic recovery in South Florida

Lourdes Perez — Mon, 08 Feb 2021 09:00:00 -0500

FIU researchers have developed a tool to track the local economy’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The monthly COVID Economic Recovery Index, developed by researchers at the FIU Jorge M. Pérez Metropolitan Center, is aimed at assisting local policymakers and economic and community development officials in strategy and program development. The Metropolitan Center plans to roll out the index during a webinar on Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2021.

The index tracks key performance indicators at the county level against state and national statistics, in three categories essential for the recovery of the region: health, economy, and housing.

A score is given to each category based on the level of recovery out of a total of 100 points - a higher score indicates a more positive recovery. The health indicator tracks infection rates, death rates, and vaccination rates. The economy category tracks job loss/gain, wages, monthly job postings, first-time unemployment insurance claimants, and the unemployment rate. The housing category tracks sales activity, evictions, and foreclosures.

“The impact of COVID-19 on our region is unprecedented,” said Ned Murray, associate director of the Jorge M. Pérez FIU Metropolitan Center. “We hope to quantify the impact of the pandemic through this index and guide policymakers in their decisions during the economic recovery.”

The index is currently focused on Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties. All three counties experienced major economic declines in April and July due first to the initial economic shock and then the escalating number of COVID-19 cases in Florida during the summer. The most recent spike in infections has halted modest improvements in the economy, triggering an index drop of more than 20 points since October across the tri-county area.

The plan is to extend the index to other major counties in Florida.

The COVID-19 Economic Recovery Index will be supplemented by a quarterly “COVID-19 Economic Recovery: Behind the Numbers” series which will provide readers with a deep dive analysis and narrative on employment figures, industry sectors and housing market trends. The first quarterly report will be published in April.

Behind-the-scenes at the Super Bowl

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Fri, 05 Feb 2021 15:32:00 -0500

Students at the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management hear from Super Bowl event producers.

FIU successfully administers first round of allotted COVID-19 vaccines

Gisela Maria Valencia — Fri, 05 Feb 2021 10:23:00 -0500

The university has successfully administered every single first dose of the vaccinations which were allocated to FIU to be used in accordance with Gov. Ron DeSantis’ executive order.

My volunteer position as a student-editor for a science and technology newsletter

Elizabeth Calzadilla — Fri, 05 Feb 2021 09:15:00 -0500

Ph.D. student Naznin Akter works in photonics—the science of light generation, detection and manipulation—and her knowledge has landed her a unique opportunity to cover activities in her field.

Got my first job! Working as a junior architect

Andrea Perez — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 14:11:00 -0500

Alumnus Ernesto Medina shares his experience working as an junior architect at Red Design Group.

Let us know if you received an FIU Alert. Take a brief survey here

Contributing Author — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 14:03:00 -0500

The short survey will provide emergency managers with important feedback regarding the success of this test of the university's Emergency Notification System.

The Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU presents exhibition on the work of an illustration genius and father of the graphic novel

Erica Corsano — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 14:00:00 -0500

The Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU presents a new exhibition “Will Eisner: Comic Creator, Illustrator and Innovator”

These are the students free community college programs help the most

Angela Nicoletti — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 12:04:00 -0500

FIU assistant professor of educational policy studies Amy Li wrote a piece for The Conversation about her recent research.

Student achieves her dreams while caring for her mom, thanks to online learning

Contributing Author — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 11:53:00 -0500

FIU Online, a success coach and caring professors helped Christina Casseus fulfill her educational goal as she cared for herself and her ill mother.

FIU is No. 1 in the nation for Quality Matters certified online courses

Monica Smith — Wed, 03 Feb 2021 09:00:00 -0500

What's happening with GameStop and the stock market?

David Drucker — Tue, 02 Feb 2021 17:00:00 -0500

Flavio Carrillo, director of FIU's Capital Markets Lab, caught up with FIU News to discuss what is going on.

Poor nutrition can have dire consequences

Gisela Maria Valencia — Tue, 02 Feb 2021 14:57:00 -0500

After her own experience with stunted growth, this graduate student is on a mission to educate others about the importance of healthy food choices.

8 questions with Karla Kennedy, free speech and student voice advocate

Tatianna Basanta — Tue, 02 Feb 2021 14:00:00 -0500

Karla Kennedy has spent her career teaching students the importance of speech and helping them find their voice.

Brown is the new gold — when it comes to determining a shark's diet

Angela Nicoletti — Tue, 02 Feb 2021 11:42:00 -0500

FIU scientists developed a new, minimally invasive way to reveal exactly what a shark has eaten — with a swab from, well, you know where.

State of the World 2021 kicks off with Albright, FIU experts and more

Amy Ellis — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 16:55:00 -0500

FIU’s fourth State of the World conference opened Monday with leading experts speaking on the global pandemic, the future of democracy and polarization across the nation.

Real innovation presented at virtual engineering and computing showcase

Diana Hernandez-Alende — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 14:12:00 -0500

The College of Engineering & Computing transformed its bi-annual showcase into a virtual event for graduating seniors to present their capstone projects.

January 2021 in photos: Back on campus, MLK celebration and students speak about the new semester

David Drucker — Fri, 29 Jan 2021 11:57:00 -0500

For a complete recap of the welcome back event, check out our writer's story.

Wall of Wind receives a $5.62 million NSF grant for hurricane research

Morgan Hughes — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 15:30:00 -0500

The Wall of Wind (WOW), a large-scale hurricane simulator capable of generating 157 mph wind speeds with rain intrusion, received a $5.62 million award from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to continue as a national “Experimental Facility” under the Natural Hazards Engineering Research Infrastructure program.

The funding will support WOW’s service to the U.S. scientific research community into late 2025. The Wall of Wind has a 12-fan 8,400 horsepower system and was inaugurated in August 2012 by FIU’s International Hurricane Research Center on the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Andrew’s devastating passage through South Florida.

Use of this climate technology has led to improved codes and safer buildings. Basic research at the WOW, which is part of FIU’s Extreme Events Institute, has helped researchers from all across the country refine designs and experiments for repair and retrofit of existing and new buildings, systems, and components.

There are only eight NSF-supported Experimental Facilities in the United States, and only two for wind engineering. This new award will help make the facility available at a reasonable cost to NSF-supported researchers across the U.S.

“This award comes at a crucial time in U.S, history, where we are facing more storms of increasing intensity impacting vulnerable coastal communities,” said FIU Professor Arindam Gan Chowdhury, principal investigator and chair of the FIU Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering in the FIU College of Engineering and Computing. “It’s a race against time, and my colleagues and I are committed to providing a research and testing facility capable of reducing what I fear will be catastrophic losses.”

In 2015, NSF awarded FIU an initial $4.1 million that established the Wall of Wind as a national Experimental Facility under the NHERI program, a research network that includes the University of California-San Diego, Oregon State University, the University of Texas-Austin, the University of Florida, Purdue University, Lehigh University, the University of California-Davis, the University of California at Berkeley, and the University of Washington. The earlier award cemented FIU’s place as a hub for research into making homes, businesses, and communities safer in extreme wind events.

“This new award confirms the confidence that NSF has in the great science and effective management of this unique facility,” said Richard Olson, director of FIU’s Extreme Events Institute, an FIU Preeminent Program. “We are proud that the Wall of Wind continues to serve its intended purpose: to allow a multidisciplinary research community to help prevent massive losses of life and property during extreme natural events.”

The co-principal investigators on the grant include professor Ioannis Zisis, Amal Elawady, Peter Irwin, and Seung Jae Lee.

The award number is CMMI-2037899.

'The seas are where inhumanities occur,' says Pulitzer Prize winner Ian Urbina

Katherine Dagand — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 14:45:00 -0500

Investigative journalist Ian Urbina discussed the dangers of the oceans at a panel discussion, hosted at FIU in anticipation of the IUU Fishing Conference on Feb. 3.

Got my first job! Working as an engineer at Boeing in the Research and Technology Division

Elizabeth Calzadilla — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 14:15:00 -0500

After two internships, Juliette Dubon landed a full-time with Boeing.

Alumna Chanel T. Rowe appointed to FIU Board of Trustees

Gabriela Aguirrechu — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 13:00:00 -0500

The Florida Board of Governors has appointed Chanel T. Rowe to the Florida International University Board of Trustees for a five-year term.

“We are thrilled to have our very own law graduate Chanel Rowe join FIU’s Board of Trustees,” said Board of Trustees Chair Dean C. Colson, who was recently reappointed to the board. “Ms. Rowe brings impressive personal and professional accomplishments, she’s of this community and understands our mission as a top 50 public university.”

Rowe succeeds Gerald Grant, who is not eligible for reappointment after completing his second term on the board.

She is currently an enforcement attorney at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Miami Regional Office. Previously, she was a judicial law clerk to a Senior Judge in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida. Prior to that, she practiced at two AmLaw 100 firms, Akerman LLP and Shook, Hardy & Bacon L.L.P where she represented companies in complex commercial litigation and defended pharmaceutical companies in product liability actions, respectively.

Rowe received a Juris Doctorate degree from the FIU College of Law in 2014 as class valedictorian. Her involvement with the university began nearly a decade ago as a student where she served as an ambassador for FIU’s College of Law and held leadership positions in several student organizations, including the FIU Law Review. After graduating, Rowe continued serving the university by holding director and executive committee positions on the FIU Alumni Association Board of Directors since 2016. Most recently, she served as the Vice President of FIU’s Alumni Association. Rowe graduated summa cum laude from Florida Atlantic University with a bachelor’s degree in economics.

“I am elated to join the distinguished members of FIU’s Board of Trustees,” said Rowe. “My service to FIU over the years has been a true labor of love. As a Trustee, I will continue that endeavor to ensure the growth, success, and sustainability of our FIU.”

Rowe has also served on several Florida Bar committees, including the Standing Committee on Student Education and Admission to the Bar, the Grievance Committee, and the Diversity and Inclusion Committee. She was recently recognized by The National Black Lawyers in their Class of 2020 “Top 40 Under 40.” In 2017, she was named a Super Lawyers Rising Star.

FIU Bacardi Center of Excellence announces Mission New Normal: Bar Project 2021

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0500

The Bacardi Center of Excellence, a partnership between the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management and Bacardi USA, has launched its latest initiative, Mission New Normal: Bar Project 2021.

The nine-week program, a combination of online content and live virtual sessions includes a competition and combines academia with industry expertise. The challenge: create a blueprint to redesign the hospitality experience to fit the current pandemic reality. The program kicks off on Feb. 3 and ends with the selection of an Innovation Challenge Competition winner, who will have the chance to bring their idea to life at an exclusive, pop-up activation at the nation's premier food and beverage event, the Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One (SOBEWFF®).

Culinary experts, enterprising restaurateurs, top mixologists, and hospitality innovators including Andrew Zimmern, James Kent, Akino West, Jamila Ross and Leo Robitshek, will lead workshops designed to inspire innovation and solutions among some of FIU’s most talented students.

The Bar Project 2021 is an opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience, tackling real industry challenges under the guidance of seasoned experts.

FIU students will complete a series of interactive workshops led by an industry mentor. Every course is tailored to topics pertinent to the world of food, beverage, and hospitality, including sustainability, design thinking, diversity and inclusion, guest experience, data and analytics, marketing and social impact.

Students will be challenged to think critically about industry obstacles introduced by the COVID-19 crisis and to create sustainable and innovative solutions, building upon concepts like contactless delivery, mobile ordering, unique outdoor dining infrastructures and alternative payment solutions.

"The goal is to inspire students to think creatively about new hospitality experiences that revolve around evolving health and safety regulations, and add value to the bar, restaurant, and hotel industries in a post-pandemic world," said Brian Connors, FIU Bacardi Center of Excellence director. "This tactical challenge is an opportunity for students to play a significant role in shaping the future of the hospitality industry and their community."

At the conclusion of the program, the students will use what they learned in a five-day competition, where teams of four students will present innovative business concepts to a panel of industry judges.

The judges will select the top three winning teams who best showcase the hospitality industry’s “new normal.” The winning teams will receive scholarships in the amounts of $4,800, $2,000 and $1,000. In addition to scholarships, the winning team will have a chance to see their concept implemented in FIU's tent at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival®.

The Bacardi Center of Excellence was launched in 2020, following a $5 million gift from Bacardi USA to create a new and unique educational program tailored for the spirits industry.

Students from any bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral program at FIU can apply at FIU's Bar Project 2021.

Vice President Saif Ishoof to advise mayor of Miami on innovation and entrepreneurship

Maydel Santana — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 17:00:00 -0500

Fewer kids entering foster care raises concerns for psychologist

Angela Nicoletti — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 15:46:00 -0500

FIU researcher leads new study finding more Florida children are being placed in foster care during the pandemic due to maltreatment.

3 tips to keep your finances in shape while still in college

Gisela Maria Valencia — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 12:33:00 -0500

Get the scoop on managing your finances from Kimberly Noy, manager of FIU’s Financial Wellness Program.

FIU joins USF and UCF to launch diversity, equity and inclusion collaboration

Madeline Baro — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 09:00:00 -0500

This week, the Florida Consortium officially launched the Year of Reflection with a panel discussion on social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion programming.

What if you could be healthier and save the planet?

Contributing Author — Tue, 26 Jan 2021 16:10:00 -0500

Experts at a Chaplin School panel discussion say a more sustainable future could stem from plant-based diets.

2 Ph.D.s, 1 dual-degree program and a world-class flooding model

Angela Nicoletti — Tue, 26 Jan 2021 11:51:00 -0500

Francisco Febronio Peña is the first student to take part in a new dual-degree program between FIU and another international university.

Center for Internet Augmented Research receives $10.3M NSF grant to improve data sharing globally

Lourdes Perez — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 14:50:00 -0500

CIARA was awarded two grants that will help scientists around the world share more data at a faster rate.

What role do the humanities play in 2021?

Angela Nicoletti — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 14:48:00 -0500

FIU is training dogs to detect COVID-19

Lourdes Perez — Fri, 22 Jan 2021 16:32:00 -0500

Survivor Suly Chenkin to share her harrowing story as part of Holocaust and Genocide Awareness Week

Erica Corsano — Fri, 22 Jan 2021 16:00:00 -0500

FIU observes Holocaust and Genocide Awareness Week Jan. 25-29

FIU Business partners with Real Madrid Graduate School to offer sports management specialization

Cynthia Corzo — Thu, 21 Jan 2021 13:00:00 -0500

Florida International University’s College of Business (FIU Business) has introduced a Professional MBA Online in Sports Management developed in partnership with Real Madrid Graduate School - Universidad Europea (EURM UE).

The program begins March 2021 and will cover finance, marketing, management, human resources, entrepreneurship, competitive strategy, analytics, information systems and operations. The focus is to prepare graduates to successfully and responsibly manage sports institutions in a fast-changing landscape internationally.

“We are delighted to jointly deliver a unique program that combines our highly-regarded Professional Online MBA program with the prestigious Executive MBA in Sports Management program of the Real Madrid Graduate School at Universidad Europea,” said Joanne Li, dean of FIU’s College of Business. “This partnership articulates our vision of optimizing resources to effectively prepare students to pursue exciting careers in the new economy.”

The 17-month fully online program will include nine courses from FIU Business and five from EURM UE, a top-ranked graduate school for sports programs internationally. Students will learn about sports management models and their implementation from 10 Real Madrid C.F. executives plus others from various sports institutions will collaborate with the sports management program. Also, at an additional cost, students who successfully complete the sixth optional finance course qualify to earn the Executive MBA in Sports Management from EURM UE, earning two degrees from FIU and EURM UE.

“This agreement is part of an international orientation at Universidad Europea, framed within the International Strategic Plan for 2020 which we hope will enable us to advance our business towards powerful markets such as the USA and to continue growing sustainably,” said Belén Mariño, international director of Universidad Europea.

Students in the program will have the opportunity to participate in a residency in Madrid where they will visit the headquarters of the Real Madrid C.F. professional soccer club, network with sports executives and attend masterclasses.

A pioneer in online education, FIU Business has offered programs online for two decades. The Professional MBA Online was ranked No. 9 in the world in the 2020 QS Online MBA Rankings. These place the FIU Business program No. 2 among U.S. public school online MBA programs. Also, the MBA in Sports Management at EURM UE was ranked No. 10 in the world, No. 3 in Europe and No. 1 in Spain in the 2020 SportsBusiness Postgraduate Rankings.

FIU's Suzanne Hollander recognized as one of the finest female professionals in South Florida

Ashley Garcia — Thu, 21 Jan 2021 11:35:00 -0500

Hollander was named a 2021 Prestigious Woman by South Florida Business & Wealth

A new administration: Crisis communication in the aftermath of the Capitol incident

Contributing Author — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 18:00:00 -0500

By Aileen Izquierdo, Heather Radi-Bermudez, APR; Raquel Perez, Ph.D.

The concept of crisis communications can elicit images of Olivia Pope rattling off a monologue to a slew of reporters. Though not quite as sexy in reality, crisis communication is at the heart of any professional communication enterprise. The recent crisis at our nation's Capitol further illustrates the importance of strategic communication planning in an effort to manage challenging, scary and sometimes unthinkable situations.

Regardless of one’s political opinions or ideology, what happened at the U.S. Capitol is a moment that will be chronicled in history books, and each individual involved has a different story to tell.

If we look at the U.S. Capitol as the point of interest for this analysis, it is important to recognize that there are no shortages of vulnerabilities that could impact this U.S. institution. Those who oversee this magnificent structure understand its critical role, not only in history but in the day-to-day lives of citizens, workers and other individuals.

It's not our place to question how the Capitol police and other police agencies managed the situation, but the optics shared around the world tell a very particular story. In the coming days, it will become increasingly important to share facts associated with what happened in terms of breaching the Capitol structure. With that information, it will be the responsibility of the team who oversees the Capitol to assess what happened and how, as well as review and revise the processes that failed and those that were successful. This includes the way messages were shared with the internal constituents of the U.S. Capitol, the news organizations that have been covering this story since it started, and the American people.

It is in this crucial management and retrospect of the crisis that we find the learnings and key takeaways that strengthen us and our teams. In rapidly developing situations like the one we witnessed last week, we can be shocked, but we cannot be surprised. Equally important to evaluating vulnerabilities is recognizing opportunities in times of crisis – particularly when it comes to leadership. Leaders within an organization must act quickly to check the pulse of their most important stakeholders, employees.

Jarring events can be traumatic for employees to process and cope with and it is natural for many to look to leadership for clarity. When leaders are bold, proactive and tapped into the sentiments of their people, they can strengthen (or build) community and demonstrate a supportive culture. In the wake of the Capitol incident, many leaders are using this opportunity to help heal and listen. When there is a rift of viewpoints, leaders can be the bridge to understanding, balance and more open and honest dialogue. Working in tandem with leadership, communicators can be the catalyst for this effort. Leading with empathy, compassion and authenticity in moments of crisis will undoubtedly yield positive, long-term results that will have a far-reaching impact long after the crisis "dust" has settled.

As communicators, we must remember our duty to disseminate truth in a timely manner and engage in transparency. The responsibility to our public is to act morally, ethically and with civility. These events can be controversial, messy, uncomfortable and there can be a backlash. But we must listen, build community and use our analysis to help us shape strategy and stand ready for what lies ahead.

From singer to paratrooper to mathematician, this alum took a different route to NASA

David Drucker — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 11:00:00 -0500

Michael Lopez '20 developed his mathematical maturity by traveling the world and trying new things.

Newly graduated Stempel Ph.D. takes on the world as a professor and researcher dedicated to bettering the lives of refugees

Alexandra Pecharich — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 10:22:00 -0500

Mitra Naseh grew up in Iran and had a first-hand view of what those fleeing neighboring war-torn Afghanistan experienced.

MLK Day of Service: day on, not a day off

Cristina Jaramillo — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 09:40:00 -0500

FIU students chose to honor Dr. King's teachings by volunteering to create solutions to South Florida's social issues.

FIU awarded $1M by The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to help preserve oral history of local communities

Lourdes Perez — Tue, 19 Jan 2021 17:00:00 -0500

'Violence is not the answer,' Bernice A. King tells FIU community

Cristina Jaramillo — Fri, 15 Jan 2021 14:00:00 -0500

Bernice A. King addressed students, faculty, staff and community members at FIU’s 30th MLK Commemorative Celebration.

Food counseling in a diverse world: It’s complicated

Alexandra Pecharich — Fri, 15 Jan 2021 12:45:00 -0500

A professor of dietetics and nutrition addresses the need to serve cultural understanding alongside advice to eat more fruits and vegetables.

Public speaking course connects Panthers globally

Zion Sealy — Fri, 15 Jan 2021 12:00:00 -0500

To master public speaking, FIU students are meeting from more than 17 countries across the globe.

National student publication says FIU best for making difference in climate crisis

JoAnn Adkins — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 11:30:00 -0500

College Magazine ranks FIU as the best place to go for students who want to make a difference in the climate crisis.

FIU partners with NBCUniversal for NBCU Academy

Tatianna Basanta — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 11:00:00 -0500

FIU was selected as one of 17 academic partners nationwide to participate in NBCUniversal News Group's NBCU Academy

Mellon Foundation awards FIU $4.63M to help vulnerable communities prepare for, recover from disasters

Lourdes Perez — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 09:48:00 -0500

Vulnerable communities, which include Black and Hispanic South Florida residents, are often disproportionately impacted by disasters such as hurricanes, floods and, more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic.

FIU researchers plan to study and address these racial and ethnic disparities over the next three years with a $4.63 million grant from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. The Commons for Justice (CfJ) project will look for solutions to address disparities in preparing for a disaster and increasing a community’s ability to survive and recover. The project was funded as part of the Mellon Foundation’s Just Futures Initiative, in collaboration with 10 community organizations and two FIU museums.

“Disaster research shows consistently that the poor are hit harder than the better-off, and in the U.S., that often means populations of color,” said Professor Richard Olson, the project’s principal investigator and director of FIU’s Extreme Events Institute and International Hurricane Research Center. “We are seeing that again with this pandemic, with our vulnerable populations taking disproportionate losses. We have to openly admit, detail and honestly address the problem. Our Commons for Justice project will do exactly that.”

The CfJ will bring together a cross-disciplinary team of FIU faculty, led by FIU’s Extreme Events Institute and the Wolfsonian Public Humanities Lab. It also will include the Jorge M. Pérez Metropolitan Center, the Kimberly Green Latin American and Caribbean Center, and the Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs. Team members have longstanding and extensive experience with community organizations and stakeholders, who will be key partners in the project’s design and implementation.

Among the CfJ’s activities, faculty will research the most pressing disaster risk and resilience problems in predominantly vulnerable neighborhoods – from the perspective of the neighborhoods themselves – and how these problems are layered on top of other racial and ethnic injustices. Throughout the project, there will be “solution sessions” where FIU faculty and local community leaders will come together to discuss measures that can reduce disaster risk and improve resilience and advocacy for the vulnerable communities.

“At FIU we pride ourselves in making a real difference in our community,” said FIU President Mark B. Rosenberg. “This grant from the Mellon Foundation comes at a critical time. We will use it to uplift the most vulnerable and establish a framework to address longstanding racial and ethnic unfairness in preparing for – and surviving – a disaster.”

While the CfJ will focus on South Florida’s vulnerable neighborhoods and communities, the project also will work with Caribbean Basin communities and a worldwide virtual network that advocates for indigenous populations and minorities in communities that are vulnerable to disasters.

“FIU is committed to addressing and helping to solve disparities that persist due to systemic racism,” said Howard R. Lipman, CEO of the FIU Foundation, Inc. “We are thankful for this partnership with The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to help eliminate inequities related to disasters and for their past strong support to bolster student success in the humanities.”

FIU starts COVID-19 vaccinations

Sissi Garland — Wed, 13 Jan 2021 16:50:00 -0500

On Jan. 13, the university began administering vaccinations to FIU health care faculty and staff with direct patient contact—and faculty, staff and students 65 and older.

My internship protecting the reefs in Bermuda

Yenisleidy Simon Mengana — Wed, 13 Jan 2021 14:45:00 -0500

Natalia E. Padillo-Anthemides interned at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences.

Fully online program allows student to manage new job, degree and giving birth

Monica Smith — Wed, 13 Jan 2021 11:55:00 -0500

Maria Gallo, who is pursuing her bachelor’s degree, had a healthy, baby girl and managed to achieve top grades with online learning.

Welcome back! Students enjoy a socially distanced concert to celebrate the beginning of the semester

Gisela Maria Valencia — Tue, 12 Jan 2021 16:37:00 -0500

The semester kicked off with a one-of-a-kind, in-person welcome back concert to refresh students.

Business students develop marketing research project with counterparts in Poland

Cynthia Corzo — Tue, 12 Jan 2021 13:00:00 -0500

Students from FIU and PUT worked on a project that analyzed small businesses in Poland and Florida, assessing the economic impact from COVID-19 on family-owned businesses.

COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy: where it's originating from and how to overcome it

Contributing Author — Tue, 12 Jan 2021 10:30:00 -0500

Science communication experts shed light on COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy.

FIU, Women’s Hospitality Initiative partner to launch groundbreaking hospitality leadership course

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Mon, 11 Jan 2021 15:50:00 -0500

The Chaplin School and WHI have a new course: “From the Classroom to the Boardroom: Leadership for Women in Hospitality.”

FIU’s 30th MLK celebration to feature Martin Luther King Jr.’s daughter

Cristina Jaramillo — Mon, 11 Jan 2021 14:34:00 -0500

FIU continues efforts to facilitate COVID-19 vaccinations

Contributing Author — Sat, 09 Jan 2021 09:00:00 -0500

In addition to the vaccination initiative started last week, a limited number of vaccines have been allocated to the university.

Democracy under siege: How did we get here and what is next?

Contributing Author — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 21:00:00 -0500

Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs hosted an FIU Insights panel Friday addressing the issues that led to the storming of the U.S. Capitol. Watch the conversation in its entirety above.

Week of Welcome features exciting student events, activities

Cristina Jaramillo — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 15:15:00 -0500

Make the most out of your first week back to school with this comprehensive guide.

Medical student fundraiser addresses transportation insecurity in underserved neighborhoods

Ileana Varela — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 13:03:00 -0500

Medical students are organizing a fundraiser to buy bus passes for NeighborhoodHELP household members.

High-quality data and health informatics are increasingly central to addressing complex women’s health issues

Cynthia Corzo — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 11:28:00 -0500

At a panel discussion held in December, information systems professors highlighted technology’s role in women’s health care.

Analyzing university-wide trends to improve student success

David Drucker — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 10:15:00 -0500

“What we do is focus on conducting in-depth analysis of our data in order to identify roadblocks that departments might not necessarily be able to deal with. A lot of colleges here are like mini universities. Many of them don’t have the infrastructure necessary to assess interventions that they have implemented,” says Lilia Minaya '05 MSF ’08 Ph.D. ’20, who was hired as director of the Office of Retention and Graduation Success (ORGS) with AIM last year.

The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum FIU presents two dynamic spring exhibitions

Erica Corsano — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 10:00:00 -0500

This January, The Patricia and Phillip Frost Art Museum FIU will launch its spring programming, celebrating topics that include Afrofuturism and the concept of cyclical time.

Associate professor examines harsh, dangerous realities of social media explored in Netflix's The Social Dilemma

Tatianna Basanta — Thu, 07 Jan 2021 14:00:00 -0500

Allan Richards discusses the documentary "The Social Dilemma" and how social media's design is meant to foster and nurture an addiction in its users.

Bernice King to speak at 30th MLK Commemorative Celebration

David Drucker — Wed, 06 Jan 2021 11:30:00 -0500

The architects of FIU's celebration reflect on three decades of honoring King's ideals.

My internship at the FIU NASA MIRO CRE2DO Center

Jacqueline Herrera — Wed, 06 Jan 2021 11:00:00 -0500

Biomedical engineering student Melissa Venedicto is working on projects focused on nanomaterials.

Drop-in series: New course studies the visual arts of the African World

Zion Sealy — Wed, 06 Jan 2021 10:00:00 -0500

Students in a new Art + Art History Department course examine the continuities between African arts and the arts within an African diaspora.

First-gen construction management scholarship recipients see real results

Diana Hernandez-Alende — Tue, 05 Jan 2021 10:30:00 -0500

Three Moss Foundation endowments are dedicated to helping first-generation students.

Pollutants cause quick growth, leave less for the future

Chrystian Tejedor — Tue, 05 Jan 2021 09:20:00 -0500

FIU Institute of Environment ecologist and research team discover that adding more nutrients to rivers and streams leads to a rapid growth of organic matter plants and animals use for fuel.

Alumnus' short film gaining film festival buzz

Ivan Lopez — Mon, 04 Jan 2021 13:26:00 -0500

JC Gutierrez's first film is nominated for two awards at Los Angeles International Film Festival.

What you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccine availability at FIU

Contributing Author — Mon, 04 Jan 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Faculty and staff 65 years old and older will have access to a limited number of appointments that are being allocated on a first-come, first-served basis starting today.