FIU News - 2024

Commencement in pictures: See the pride!

Contributing Author — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 13:00:00 -0500

During graduation ceremonies this week, some 5,500 new alumni joined the more than 11,000 others who earned their degrees earlier this year. Congratulations to everyone in the Class of 2024.

Taking advantage of every opportunity gave this student a jumpstart on her career

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 09:06:00 -0500

The new Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management alumna, who graduated recently and headed straight into a job, talks about the power of saying "yes."

FIU seeks to commercialize defense technologies

Contributing Author — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 11:29:00 -0500

FIU featured several Department of Defense-funded research projects at the recent Association of the United States Army conference in Washington, D.C.

A few tips to ward off the holiday pounds

Contributing Author — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 10:50:00 -0500

FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management professor and chef offers suggestions for healthy eating during the upcoming days.

The year that was! Take our 2024 FIU News quiz

Contributing Author — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 09:30:00 -0500

We're reliving the top stories of the past 12 months as we share what caught readers attention and the most important news you might have missed. Plus, watch the year-end video.

“The most underrated Christmas movie of the 21st century” is based on professor’s book

Alexandra Pecharich — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0500

Creative writing program director Les Standiford’s “The Man Who Invented Christmas,” about Charles Dickens, is the basis for the 2017 film of the same name, which is quickly becoming a classic.

Alumna is a YouTube star

Gisela Maria Valencia — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 10:42:00 -0500

Jenny Hoyos ’24 is a recognized content creator with millions of fans who devour her fun videos.

Medical students address health care needs of Miami’s homeless

Brianchelis Hernandez — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 15:16:00 -0500

A new student-led initiative delivers compassionate care to the unhoused while teaching aspiring physicians to provide critical care in resource-limited settings.

Pure joy! Watch these future Panthers react to getting into FIU

Contributing Author — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 14:06:00 -0500

Fall decision day: Class of 2029 prospects set an historically high academic bar, and yesterday thousands of them celebrated their admission to FIU.

FIU and Baptist Health South Florida hire world-renowned robotic cardiac surgeon

Ileana Varela — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0500

Dr. Makoto Hashimoto will serve as a professor and a director at the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine and see patients at Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute.

FIU graduates break barriers, lead the way in innovation

Jonathan Ruadez — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 10:44:00 -0500

FIU will celebrate the achievements of more than 5,500 students with eight fall commencement ceremonies. They include go-getters who are shaping the future with groundbreaking ideas.

Trailblazer leads the charge to make the NFL safer

Alexandra Pecharich — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Taylor Langon has the job of turning concussions, strains and other sports injuries into a thing of the past.

New head football coach has fans dreaming of victory

Alexandra Pecharich — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 15:56:00 -0500

Willie Simmons has plans to turn the score around while “igniting South Florida” and “establishing deep, authentic relationships” with players.

Got my first job as a TV reporter

Zion Sealy — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 15:45:00 -0500

Lee Caplin School of Journalism & Media alumna Christina Harris '24 shares her experience going from student journalist to full-time professional.

Top tips for last-minute holiday shoppers

Gisela Maria Valencia — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 15:16:00 -0500

Marketing Professor Anthony Miyazaki shares his advice for cutting through the commercial noise and making the best gift choices.

Teacher recognizes a need for school psychologists and turns to FIU for a degree

Tiffany Woods — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 10:23:00 -0500

With a scholarship in hand, third-grade teacher Amy Ratigan is prepared to complete her master's so she can help the growing number of youngsters struggling with stress and mental health crises.

An internship at an oyster farm taught me about sustainability

Contributing Author — Thu, 05 Dec 2024 16:15:00 -0500

An experience that included work in an oyster marsh and at a high-end restaurant that features the delicacy gave an aspiring hospitality leader direct knowledge of the farm-to-table movement.

New FIU-led coastal and inland flood loss model certified by the state

Contributing Author — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 11:55:00 -0500

Months after hurricanes Helene and Milton delivered record flood and storm surge levels to cities in Florida, FIU has helped design a tool for assessing financial risks faced by insurance companies.

The right fit: an expert in electronics packaging advances the science of tight space

Contributing Author — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 16:30:00 -0500

Few of us give thought to the packed, precisely placed elements inside our smart phones and watches. An engineering professor is on the frontlines of establishing how the puzzle pieces work together.

Billie Zangewa: Field of Dreams opens at the Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum FIU

Daniel Zayas — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 16:24:00 -0500

An attitude of gratitude: What science says about being thankful

Gisela Maria Valencia — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 12:55:00 -0500

Appreciating what you have goes a long way toward better mental health and a happier life, FIU psychology experts explain.

FIU entrepreneurship programs ranked among the Top 50 by Princeton Review

Contributing Author — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 16:36:00 -0500

The graduate and undergraduate entrepreneurship programs at FIU have been ranked No. 31 and No. 46, respectively, among universities in North America and Europe.

FIU Experts Ready to Discuss Cyber Monday Trends, Supply Chain Challenges, and Holiday Shopping Insights

Media Relations — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 16:00:00 -0500

FIU experts offer insights on supply chain disruptions, cybersecurity, marketing trends and consumer behavior for Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2024.

Professor trains AI to detect foreign interference online

David Drucker — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 12:01:00 -0500

The groundbreaking work aims to identify disinformation rooted in persuasive storytelling.

My FIU in DC experience opened up career possibilities

Contributing Author — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 11:30:00 -0500

A student with an interest in an international-facing career gained new insight during a recent visit to the nation’s capital.

FIU Medicine launches innovative approach to academic advising

Contributing Author — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 14:43:00 -0500

The most valuable guidance often comes from those who have walked the same path. FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine is harnessing this insight by inviting its graduates to serve as mentors.

North Miami BrewFest announces the winners of its fan favorites awards

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 14:07:00 -0500

Attendees of the annual fundraiser weighed in on offerings from 35 craft breweries and nearly two dozen South Florida’s eateries and food trucks.

Arts incubator to serve even more students with new funding

Contributing Author — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 13:00:00 -0500

Those looking to make a career from their creative talents get business training and other support to help them achieve success in the marketplace.

U.S. Department of State recognizes FIU as Hispanic-Serving Leader for fourth time

Contributing Author — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Fulbright Specialist Emmanuel Roussakis: Colombia
That’s a wrap – or is it? The upcoming Fulbright Specialist project at Uni-Norte, Barranquilla, Colombia, this fall will be Emmanuel Roussakis’s final Fulbright stint – so he says. All while holding the title of professor emeritus of finance, the now-88-year-old has served as a Fulbright Scholar to Romania (2010) and a Fulbright Specialist to Russia (2012), Indonesia (2013), Morocco (2014), Kuwait (2017), Tunisia (2020) and Cyprus (2022). Uni-Norte invited him to offer lectures to undergraduate students on international financial management, to graduate and postgraduate students on global banking and to faculty on case-study writing techniques, in addition to sharing his teaching expertise with members of the academic community.

Untreated sewage and fertilizer runoff threaten the Florida manatee’s main food source, contributing to malnutrition

Contributing Author — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 11:09:00 -0500

The gentle, slow-moving Florida manatee has no natural predators. And yet, these charismatic mammals face numerous threats.

Researchers recognized among top experts, scholars

Angela Nicoletti — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 11:00:00 -0500

They have been commended for their impactful work in addressing society’s biggest environmental, health and technological challenges.

DNA reveals hidden threats to global shark populations

Ayleen Barbel Fattal — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 11:05:00 -0500

Overfishing is driving reef sharks toward extinction, according to a new study published today in Science.

The five main shark species that live on coral reefs — grey reef, blacktip reef, whitetip reef, nurse and Caribbean reef sharks — have declined globally by an average of 63%, according to the scientists of Global FinPrint, a five-year international study supported by the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation and co-led by researchers at Florida International University (FIU).

“These are some of the best estimates of population decline of widespread shark species because of the very large number of reefs and countries sampled,” according to Colin Simpfendorfer, lead author of the study and adjunct professor of Marine and Aquaculture Science at James Cook University in Australia. “This tells us the problem for sharks on coral reefs is far worse and more widespread than anyone thought.”

Results from this latest research, which includes 22,000 hours of video footage from baited underwater video stations across 391 reefs in 67 nations and territories, indicates widespread overfishing is the main culprit driving reef sharks toward extinction and changing how coral reefs function.

“People need healthy coral reefs,” said Mike Heithaus, co-author of the study and executive dean of FIU’s College of Arts, Sciences & Education. “We are seeing that when sharks disappear, that causes other changes in these ecosystems. Keeping shark populations healthy, or rebuilding them, is important for maintaining their roles for healthy reefs.”

The scientists observed many reefs have become stripped of both shark and ray species or stripped of just shark species, leaving the ecosystem dominated by rays. The exception is Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), a defined region designated and managed for the long-term conservation of marine resources.

“While overfishing and poor governance is associated with the absence of these species, they are still common in MPAs and places where shark fishing was banned or highly regulated,” said Demian Chapman, lead scientist of Global FinPrint and director of the Sharks and Rays Conservation Program at Mote Marine Laboratory. “Reef sharks can be important for human livelihoods through dive tourism and if fished carefully. An investment in reef shark conservation can therefore be good for people, too”.

Early results from this study were previously used to update the status of four of these species to more threatened categories on the International Union for the Conservation of Natures (IUCN) Red List. They were also presented during the most recent Conference of the Parties of the Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), helping world governments to make the groundbreaking decision to better regulate trade in these and more than 50 additional species of sharks.

“This means no trade should come from nations where the take of the species will threaten its survival,” Simpfendorfer said. “This study can be used to help identify those nations where such catches would be detrimental. We need to act now to stop widespread extinction of shark species in many parts of the world.”

More than 150 researchers from more than 120 institutions across the world contributed to the research.

FIU leads collaborative diabetes study focused on underserved communities in Bangladesh

Stephanie Rendon — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 10:23:00 -0500

During Diabetes Awareness Month comes news of researchers’ work to implement World Health Organization guidelines to strengthen care in a country with one of the highest rates of diabetes.

Green School celebrates the opening of a second building

Alex Bassil — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 09:44:00 -0500

The “West Wing” connects to the original facility and now unites all the departments and institutes of the Green School of International & Public Affairs under a single roof.

Celebrating a legacy: Architecture students compete in 35th annual Walk on Water

Jacqueline Ikem — Thu, 07 Nov 2024 21:00:00 -0500

Students tested their design skills as they walked across the lake in back of the MMC library in self-constructed "shoes."

FIU named a Military Times “2024 Best for Vets” university ahead of Veterans Day

Clara-Meretan Kiah — Thu, 07 Nov 2024 16:18:00 -0500

The university has earned five distinctions for excellence in veterans’ education this academic year

Univision Foundation announces new scholarship aimed at helping FIU’s first-generation students cross the finish line

Clara-Meretan Kiah — Thu, 07 Nov 2024 16:13:00 -0500

The award will ensure that financial difficulties do not inhibit a student’s potential to complete their studies and graduate on time.

Want a better night’s sleep? Try ‘savoring’

Angela Nicoletti — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 10:57:00 -0500

Psychologist Dana McMakin studies the link between sleep and kids’ mental health. Her advice for young and old alike: recall a happy memory at bedtime to help the brain process memories and emotions.

From model bridges to making history: SGA President Francesca Casanova’s inspiring journey

Contributing Author — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 09:30:00 -0500

She is the first female engineering major to lead FIU's student government.

National leaders, universities convene to discuss greater adoption of climate technology

Contributing Author — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 16:11:00 -0500

Florida International University is leading a coalition around the commercialization of technology to create a more resilient world.

Indian women’s stories of violence and ultimate resilience touch business students, professor

Cynthia Corzo — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 13:33:00 -0500

They have reclaimed their shattered lives as employees of a remarkable social enterprise – and now their hard work features in a case study that elevates them as an example of what’s possible.

It’s literally raining “forever chemicals” in Miami

Angela Nicoletti — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 10:00:00 -0500

Some say, the world is your oyster, but the world — especially human impacts on the environment — can actually be found inside an oyster, according to a new study.

When FIU Institute of Environment scientists sampled 156 oysters from Biscayne Bay, Marco Island and Tampa Bay, they detected contaminants — perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) and phthalate esters (PAEs) — in every single one. These contaminants pose serious health risks to people and wildlife, and the oysters prove they are in the water and have crept into the food chain. The findings were recently published in Science of the Total Environment.

“I wanted to look into what we’re eating and if it might be contaminating us,” said Leila Lemos, the study’s lead author and an FIU distinguished postdoctoral scholar. “These findings are definitely a red flag, especially for areas like Biscayne Bay.”

As filter-feeders, oysters are among the best sentinels and can reveal a lot about the overall health of an ecosystem including levels of contamination.

Biscayne Bay oysters had the highest concentrations of contaminants compared to the other study sites. Lemos says this was somewhat surprising since they were among the smallest oysters sampled. The more time an oyster has to grow, the more time it also has to accumulate toxic chemicals. Tampa Bay oysters were among the largest in the study, but they didn’t have nearly the amount of PFAS or PAEs as the tinier Biscayne Bay oysters. This means Biscayne Bay could be so contaminated, the oysters are bombarded with such high concentrations they accumulate contaminants more quickly, Lemos said.

What to watch for as the polls close on election night - and beyond

Contributing Author — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 11:34:00 -0400

It might not be over when it’s over, say a pair of political science professors. They share insights on the presidential race and congressional contests that have riveted the nation.

FIU Poll: More than 80 percent of Latinos say they are ‘very likely’ to vote, could tip the scales in Tuesday’s election

Dianne Fernandez — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 10:39:00 -0400

The voting bloc, which is growing nationally, will play a pivotal role in the 2024 U.S. presidential election.

Take the October FIU News quiz

Contributing Author — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 14:50:00 -0400

Test your memory with four questions sure to have you reminiscing about the month that was.

New study reinforces the benefits of behavioral therapy first for treating kids with ADHD

Rosanna Castro — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 11:24:00 -0400

Groundbreaking research by ADHD pioneer William E. Pelham, Jr., who passed away last year, found that behavioral therapy – when used first – was less expensive and more effective than medication in treating children with ADHD.

Building on this foundation, a new study by Pelham's team at the FIU Center for Children and Families, published in Evidence-Based Practice in Child and Adolescent Mental Health, sought to explore whether adding medication to the initial behavioral therapy—known to be the most effective first-step treatment—would improve outcomes.

The findings revealed that children who started treatment with both behavioral therapy and medication showed more disruptive behaviors after the medication was discontinued compared to those who initially received only behavioral therapy and then added medication later in the treatment.

“We were shocked to discover that starting with a combined treatment approach could actually reduce the effectiveness of behavioral strategies,” said Marcela Ramos, research assistant professor and lead author of the study. “Introducing medication alongside behavioral therapy may limit children’s opportunities to fully engage with and benefit from behavior management techniques.”

The study involved 248 children, predominantly male (77%) and Hispanic (85%), who participated in CCF’s eight-week Summer Treatment Program, designed for children with ADHD and related challenges. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups: one group received intensive behavior therapy with medication, while the other received behavior therapy with a placebo. After three weeks, the groups switched treatments for three additional weeks.

The findings suggest that starting with medication might hinder the effectiveness of behavioral therapy by reducing opportunities for children to develop self-regulation skills. Children who began with the combined approach showed more behavioral issues after medication was withdrawn compared to those who started with behavioral therapy alone.

“Medication is often the first treatment choice for ADHD, but our results indicate that starting with behavioral therapy and then introducing medication could lead to better behavioral outcomes,” said Dr. Ramos. “These findings might prompt a re-evaluation of current ADHD treatment practices to achieve more lasting improvements in behavior.”

This study builds on the legacy of William E. Pelham, Jr., whose research and ADHD treatment approach – behavior therapy, medications and a combination of the two – is the foundation of today’s standard ADHD treatment. His recent studies also highlighted that ADHD medication alone does not improve classroom learning for children.

“For decades, Dr. Pelham’s groundbreaking research established the combined treatment approach as a standard in ADHD care, influencing clinical guidelines worldwide,” Dr. Ramos said. “Our recent findings suggest that the order in which treatments are administered could be crucial. This insight highlights the need for further research, and I am honored to continue building on Dr. Pelham’s legacy to enhance our understanding of ADHD treatment strategies.”

FIU Hospitality is brewing up a great lineup for this year’s North Miami BrewFest

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 16:22:00 -0400

The annual event is slated for 4-8 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 16, at the Nomi Village on 123rd Street and NW 7th Avenue in North Miami. Panthers (21 and older) can attend with a discount.

The Small Business Development Center at FIU: Boosting local entrepreneurs for 10 years and counting

Contributing Author — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 12:00:00 -0400

With SBDC at FIU’s no-cost consulting, small business owners have accessed hundreds of millions of dollars in capital and learned best practices for winning lucrative government contracts.

Music fest opens this weekend with Latin-inspired shows

Alexandra Pecharich — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 18:30:00 -0400

Challenge yourself to a new experience when you get your groove on at the FIU Music Festival, featuring Grammy winners, student and faculty musicians and “the Taylor Swift of Chamber Music."

FIU Cuba Poll 2024: Cuban American voters’ support for Trump at an all-time high

Madeline Baro — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 10:47:00 -0400

Student influencers take to social media to share their love for FIU

Gisela Maria Valencia — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 15:50:00 -0400

The university's social media ambassador program is equipping students to become content creation experts — and students are spotlighting their Panther pride.

Early voting begins today on campus

Contributing Author — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0400

MMC is a Miami-Dade County early voting site. Registered voters can cast their ballots for U.S. president, U.S. Senate and congressional races, state and local offices and state amendments.

Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum-FIU opens "Fighters for Freedom: William H. Johnson Picturing Justice"

Daniel Zayas — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 14:59:00 -0400

A blockbuster night: student orchestra plays backup for Latin Grammy-winning singer at album-release concert

Zion Sealy — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 16:01:00 -0400

The collaboration with Warner Music Latina had the music majors sharing the stage with popular reggaeton artist Yandel in front of a standing room-only crowd at The Wertheim.

Professor serves up a new kind of office hours

Christine Calvo — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 09:41:00 -0400

Rebranding the traditional after-class meetings as “happy hours” – featuring personal attention, extra resources and plenty of fun in lieu of libations – Ana Benaduce has students showing up in droves

How Taylor Swift's Eras tour is shaking up South Florida's hospitality scene

Contributing Author — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 12:27:00 -0400

An expert in the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management breaks down the positive economic impact of Tay Tay’s upcoming concert series.

FIU’s Adam Smith Center names five distinguished global leaders to serve as Senior Leadership Fellows for fall

Megan Nunez — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 16:16:00 -0400

They include a former president of Mexico, the former defense secretary general of Nicaragua, the former president of the Central Bank of Argentina and a member of Mexico’s congress, among others.

Veggies and voting: What your produce basket says about your ballot

Alexandra Pecharich — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 12:01:00 -0400

Picking only aesthetically pleasing plums and potatoes linked to conservatism, says business professor, whose research correlates political leanings with the quality of produce in one’s grocery cart.

It's always Hispanic Heritage Month at the FIU Bistro

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 08:39:00 -0400

FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management's talented Chef Patricia Falcon shares her delicious rum-infused flan recipe.

Hurricane Milton update No. 4: FIU resumes normal operations on Friday, October 11

Contributing Author — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 14:28:00 -0400

Initial assessments have determined that FIU facilities and grounds sustained very little damage. Normal FIU operations will resume on Friday.

Hurricane Milton update No. 3: South Florida is under a tropical storm warning and a tornado watch

Contributing Author — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 14:57:00 -0400

South Florida remains under a tropical storm warning. In addition, the National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch through 9 p.m. on October 9.

Hurricane Milton update No. 2: FIU will close through Thursday

Contributing Author — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 16:24:00 -0400

FIU campuses will close at 5 p.m. Tuesday, all day Wednesday and all day Thursday.

Hurricane Milton update No. 1: FIU campuses will close at 5 p.m. Tuesday

Contributing Author — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 16:29:00 -0400

The following message was sent to the university community on Monday, October 7.

Alumnus leads nonprofit to ensure clean water access for communities in Latin America

Contributing Author — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 11:28:00 -0400

Daniel Rodriguez, co-founder and CEO of BLUE Missions, is putting his business degree to use for the good of humanity.

Inside a hackathon: Tips and insights for success

David Drucker — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 13:30:00 -0400

Student experts give us the scoop on what it takes to thrive at a big-time hackathon.

Trees’ own beneficial microbiome could lead to discovery of new treatments to fight citrus greening disease

Contributing Author — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 10:27:00 -0400

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license.

Breaking barriers: the power of empathy in medicine

Contributing Author — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 10:12:00 -0400

Medical student Mona Roshan shares her heartfelt experience providing care through FIU's NeighborhoodHELP mobile clinic.

Happy International Coffee Day!

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 16:39:00 -0400

FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management launches Coffee Academy, a new certification program, in partnership with Lavazza North America.

Alumna establishes fellowship to support Ph.D. students in legal field

Tiffany Woods — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 13:12:00 -0400

Litigation consultant Geri Fischman Ph.D. ’17 creates a real-world opportunity for psychology doctoral students interested in pursuing trial consulting as a career.

FIU Wertheim School of Music announces 2024/2025 season

Contributing Author — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 09:57:00 -0400

As patrons step into the concert hall this season, they will immediately notice that FIU’s ensembles are as diverse as the city they call home. Performers from various disciplines and backgrounds—students, faculty, guest artists and alumni—come together to inspire, reconnect and create. Through a variety of community-focused initiatives, FIU is inviting Miami’s cultural scene to take part in its story. Come out and experience firsthand the energy that only music can bring.

Click here to view the full season schedule and find out how you can be part of this extraordinary season. Discounted tickets are available for FIU faculty, staff, alumni, students, and seniors. Follow @fiumusic.

Florida legislators present $168M in new funds to FIU

Gisela Maria Valencia — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 16:12:00 -0400

Funds include $100 million to create a cutting-edge medical facility on campus and another $25 million in Preeminent Research University funding.

Take the September quiz

Contributing Author — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 09:35:00 -0400

It was a very busy month at FIU. How much do you recall?

FIU Theatre students find their voice in “John Proctor is the Villain”

Ivan Lopez — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 10:22:00 -0400

The new campus production tells the story of a group of teens in rural Georgia who study “The Crucible” while navigating young love and school scandals.

Teen vaping crisis: Q&A with a substance use expert

Rosanna Castro — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 16:45:00 -0400

Psychology Associate Professor Elisa Trucco explains why teens are drawn to e-cigarettes and what can be done to address the growing problem.

Take a quick survey about the FIU alert

Contributing Author — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 10:05:00 -0400

Please complete a brief survey to provide feedback to emergency managers.

A day to remember: FIU celebrates Top 50

Alexandra Pecharich — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 16:00:00 -0400

Read how members of the university community reacted to the announcement of FIU's stellar climb in the national rankings.

FIU soars to Top 50 in U.S. News public university rankings

Contributing Author — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Message from the President: FIU is a Top 50 public university – and a Top 100 university – nationwide

Contributing Author — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0400

The U.S. News & World Report ranking is the latest in a string of accolades for FIU.

New shark species identified by FIU scientists named for late Microsoft co-founder

JoAnn Adkins — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 10:54:00 -0400

Small 'no-take zone' can help protect critically endangered hammerhead shark

Ayleen Barbel Fattal — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0400

An unexpected lesson: FIU’s Adam Smith Center changed everything for me

Contributing Author — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 14:37:00 -0400

An undergraduate business student sought to expand his knowledge of global markets. What he learned led instead to his founding an educational organization for Afghan girls.

8th Street pedestrian bridge construction begins next month

Contributing Author — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 14:30:00 -0400

An FDOT public meeting on Thursday will detail plans for the span, which is intended to make crossing the heavy traveled road between MMC and Sweetwater safer for students.

FIU convenes national dialogue on corruption in Latin America

Contributing Author — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 09:40:00 -0400

Representatives from federal agencies, startups, academia and civil society organizations received a briefing on FIU’s work to decrease corruption in Central and South America.

Come for the camaraderie, stay for the game

Contributing Author — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 10:17:00 -0400

Panthers eagerly join family and friends at a variety of Homecoming events this week in a lead up to the contest on Saturday, when hopes will be pinned on a second win in newly renamed Pitbull Stadium

Best career advice no matter your major: an FIU founder and hospitality industry legend tells it like it is

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 11:17:00 -0400

50 years later, Rocco Angelo of the Chaplin School still mentors students and stays connected with the hospitality leaders he has taught over the decades. Learn his tips for professional success.

Top-of-the-line esports lounge opens at FIU in partnership with Alienware

Clara-Meretan Kiah — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 10:00:00 -0400

The state-of-the-art gaming facility gives students a chance to explore the intersection between personal interests and career goals as the multibillion-dollar industry continues to heat up.

Horticulture professor named a USDA fellow

Ayleen Barbel Fattal — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 09:16:00 -0400

Amir A. Khoddamzadeh is one of just nine scientists selected for the special fellowship, which is awarded to individuals who work at Hispanic-Serving Institutions.

Caring for the aging population of 9/11 responders

Alexandra Pecharich — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 09:30:00 -0400

As a growing number of those who served in the wake of the World Trade Center attack move to Florida, FIU researchers look to address their ongoing needs.

FIU scores high marks in Wall Street Journal rankings

Contributing Author — Sat, 07 Sep 2024 10:39:00 -0400

FIU ranks No. 1 in the nation among public universities in "student experience."

Welcome to the future: robot chef whips up tasty meals at FIU

Gisela Maria Valencia — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 10:25:00 -0400

Move over Wall-E, R2D2 and Terminator. There’s a new robot in town — and it’s making quick Panther meals.

Aggressive seagrass species discovered in Biscayne Bay

JoAnn Adkins — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 17:30:00 -0400

An invasive species of seagrass has been found in Biscayne Bay, the first time this aggressive species has been found in waters along the continental United States.

Students, interested in Washington, D.C.? FIU can get you there

Contributing Author — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 15:30:00 -0400

No matter your major, opportunities await you in the nation’s capital. FIU’s center on Capitol Hill introduces you to the workings of the federal government and can help you land an internship or job.

Where in the world are FIU's Fulbrighters?

Birgitta Rausch-Montoto — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 13:45:00 -0400

FIU researchers featured on national program

Madeline Baro — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 13:37:00 -0400

FIU researchers are sharing their findings with a national audience during FIU Week (Sept. 2-6, 2024) on The Academic Minute, a radio show and podcast.

Take our August quiz

Contributing Author — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 11:38:00 -0400

What's been happening around here? A lot! Catch up by testing your knowledge.

Mitochondria keep your brain cells alive − helping them run smoothly may protect against Parkinson’s disease

Contributing Author — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 13:04:00 -0400

Rebecca Zhangqiuzi Fan and Kim Tieu, researchers in environmental health sciences at FIU, write in The Conversation.

College of Business and Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management team up to add a concentration to the doctoral program

Cynthia Corzo — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 16:06:00 -0400

The doctorate in business administration program features a new hospitality concentration, which aims to develop executives who can conduct both academic and industry research.

FIU rated a “Best Value” university by Princeton Review

Contributing Author — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 13:26:00 -0400

The good news just keeps on coming. A day after welcoming 5,300 new students to campus, FIU has received a second top national ranking this week.

Class of 2028: Scholars, leaders and champions start their journey

Gisela Maria Valencia — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 11:29:00 -0400

The new class ushers in a wave of outstanding academic, community and artistic achievement that is fueling the Panther community to reach new heights.

Four freshmen on fast track to med school at FIU

Gisela Maria Valencia — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 16:04:00 -0400

The students inaugurate a program that will allow them to earn a bachelor’s in biology and an M.D. in seven years.

FIU is No. 3 in the nation among public universities, according to Washington Monthly

Media Relations — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 10:51:00 -0400

The publication’s annual College Guide and Rankings recognizes universities for both research excellence and their efforts to ensure the success of students of all backgrounds.

And we're back! A student's guide to academic success and campus life at FIU

Clara-Meretan Kiah — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 09:26:00 -0400

The college experience is about so much more than just taking classes. You have endless opportunities to make friends, explore personal and professional interests, and prepare for your future career.

Welcome to Fall 2024

Contributing Author — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 08:58:00 -0400

President Kenneth A. Jessell extends a greeting to new and returning students as well as faculty and staff, and he shares FIU’s new ranking by Washington Monthly: No. 3 among public universities.

Freshman dazzle: artistry, STEM and entrepreneurship

Gisela Maria Valencia — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 15:30:00 -0400

To celebrate fall, we feature three freshmen who run the gamut from accomplished performer to baker-mathematician and lover of STEM.

Conservation biologist earns prestigious title and research support from renowned biodiversity foundation

Christine Calvo — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 10:08:00 -0400

Amphibians are in trouble and in desperate need of conservation action, according to a new global assessment of the world’s amphibian population.

Salamanders are experiencing the greatest decline in numbers, but frogs, toads, newts and salamanders throughout the Neotropics — extending from South Florida and Caribbean islands to Central and South America — are of particular concern, according to Alessandro Catenazzi, FIU biologist and one of the primary researchers on the international project. The team evaluated the status of 8,011 species of amphibians tracked by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Their findings, published this week in Nature, indicate nearly 41 percent of amphibian species are threatened with extinction, making them the most imperiled class of vertebrates on the planet. Since 1980, at least 37 species have gone extinct, with disease and habitat loss being the primary culprits. The scientists warn climate change is quickly emerging as a major threat, attributing to 39 percent of populations declines since 2004.

“Global emerging diseases increasingly threaten biodiversity worldwide, and amphibians are one of the most dramatic examples of species extinctions caused by disease,” Catenazzi said. “No other group of vertebrates has been so negatively affected by a single disease. We urgently need better strategies to prevent pandemics and mitigate the effects of introduced disease.”

While the news is not good for amphibians, the scientists do offer hope in this latest assessment. Enforced habitat protections resulted in status improvements for some species, indicating this should be a conservation priority, especially in regions where agriculture, timber, plant harvesting, and infrastructure development are ever-present.

The Global Amphibian Assessment is the second of its kind. The first assessment was completed in 2004, offering scientists a baseline of data to measure extinction risk for this latest study. Throughout the world, there are 8,615 known species of amphibians with 8,011 being listed on the IUCN’s Red List, a comprehensive information source on the global conservation status of animals, fungi and plants.

“The Global Amphibian Assessment is our best tool to monitor changes in the conservation status of amphibian biodiversity, and to provide highly vetted and curated information that can form the basis for management and conservation actions aimed at preventing the extinction of species,” he said.

The current assessment focused on population trends, ecological requirements, threats and distributional boundaries of amphibians worldwide. While the number of threatened and extinct species is increasing, the scientists hope this latest research will motivate governments and conservation agencies to substantially increase their investment and political will for conservation efforts of the world’s amphibians.

Panthers’ F1RST NIGHT to kick off school year in Pitbull Stadium

Clara-Meretan Kiah — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 11:30:00 -0400

The celebration tonight is open to everyone and this year also includes the annual Panther Convocation for incoming students and their parents. It’s one of dozens of events planned for welcome week.

Health care MBA students, alumni visit Iberia, Morocco to learn about innovation

Michelle Lopez — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 15:37:00 -0400

The trip introduced the group to advances they might bring home as well as the challenges facing systems abroad.

Handing business a compass to navigate Latin America's complex political and economic landscape

Contributing Author — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 10:15:00 -0400

FIU’s Adam Smith Center conducts research to help multinational companies and policymakers achieve success in the often-volatile region.

FIU awarded $2 million to combat illegal wildlife trade

Ayleen Barbel Fattal — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 10:01:00 -0400

FIU researcher to combat illegal wildlife trade of sharks, rays and turtles with $2M grant from NSF and the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation

PhD candidate Joanne Pérodin appointed to White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council

Alex Bassil — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 11:45:00 -0400

Joanne Pérodin, a PhD candidate in the Department of Public Policy and Administration at the Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs, is among 12 members recently appointed.

La dolce vita: exploring Italy by creating art

Contributing Author — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 11:00:00 -0400

Students had an unforgettable experience as they studied with Professor of Art and Art History David Chang in Italy, where they learned centuries-old techniques and interacted with foreign peers.

Alumna prepares Miami-Dade communities for disasters

Stephanie Rendon — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 17:15:00 -0400

She graduated with a BA in disaster management from FIU’s Academy for International Disaster Preparedness.

Oceans without sharks would be far less healthy – new research

Contributing Author — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 16:05:00 -0400

Michael Heithaus, executive dean of the college of arts, sciences & education and professor of biological sciences at FIU, writes in The Conversation.

White coat ceremony officially welcomes new class of medical students

Contributing Author — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 14:04:00 -0400

The newest group of med students began their journey at FIU.

Return on investment of an FIU MBA degree ranks top 10 in the country

Cynthia Corzo — Fri, 09 Aug 2024 10:25:00 -0400

An MBA from FIU will deliver a 17.7% ROI annually on a student’s investment, including tuition and other expenses, according to the latest Bloomberg’s Business School ROI Calculator report.

Don’t miss it: North Miami BrewFest puts the fun in fundraiser

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 14:56:00 -0400

Artisanal breweries and creative eateries will offer their best on Saturday, which promises perfect weather. Discounted tix are on sale now for the annual event run by Chaplin hospitality students.

FIU Athletics, Pitbull announce unprecedented partnership and naming of football stadium

Contributing Author — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 13:54:00 -0400

The 305’s university officially partners with Mr. 305 to bring the Panthers worldwide.

Naming of Pitbull Stadium launches exciting partnership with Mr. 305

Alexandra Pecharich — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 11:45:00 -0400

The partnership with one of the world’s most famous entertainers will showcase the university’s ascent on the national and international stages.

Big sharks equal big impact, but there’s a big problem

JoAnn Adkins — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 14:00:00 -0400

Great white sharks secretly roam through Bahamas

JoAnn Adkins — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0400

It’s incredibly rare to spot a great white shark in the waters around the Bahamas, but new research shows they visit the area more often than people realize.

Take our July quiz

Alexandra Pecharich — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0400

Test your knowledge of FIU when you answer five questions about news on campus.

They’re all that: New distinguished university professors named

Alexandra Pecharich — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0400

Interesting people do interesting things. Meet five outstanding faculty members who prove the point.

Students learn about climate technologies in D.C.

Contributing Author — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 09:30:00 -0400

FIU’s center in the nation’s capital convened a panel to discuss how climate change with affect students’ chosen careers and the advances the South Florida ClimateReady is working on.

Students gain hands-on experience at FEMA disaster prep exercise

Stephanie Rendon — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 15:10:00 -0400

Enrollees in FIU’s Academy for International Disaster Preparedness participated in the event to get a firsthand look at pre-disaster operations.

Florida Congressional delegation delivers millions in support of FIU’s climate tech research

Gisela Maria Valencia — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 17:50:00 -0400

For the third consecutive year, Florida’s members of Congress have secured increased appropriations for the federal agencies that support and collaborate with FIU in several strategic areas.

New research initiative to aid in Biscayne Bay preservation

Tiffany Woods — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 16:18:00 -0400

A pilot study using “environmental DNA” can track changes in the diversity of organisms living in the water.

Graduates use their passion, research to impact their fields

Elizabeth Ferrer-Alfonso — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 11:35:00 -0400

This summer, FIU will celebrate the accomplishments of more than 4,500 students during eight commencement ceremonies July 29 – Aug. 1.

FIU Business hosts meeting of federal strike force and exporters

Contributing Author — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 12:13:00 -0400

The Feds' message to business leaders: Stay vigilant as unscrupulous employees can undermine companies - and national security.

Alumna travel influencer shares her story — and top travel tips

Gisela Maria Valencia — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:31:00 -0400

Jen Ruiz '09 is a lawyer-turned-travel expert whose goal to take 12 trips in 12 months changed her life.

Complete a brief survey of FIU's emergency alert system

Contributing Author — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 11:20:00 -0400

Please take a moment to fill out a short survey, which will provide emergency managers important feedback regarding the success of today's test.

Anonymous gift to fund training of next-generation tropical scientists

Tiffany Woods — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 16:00:00 -0400

Half a million dollars will go toward preparing students to conduct plant research in the field and in the lab with the potential to improve lives.

New intensive language study abroad program in Taiwan teaches Mandarin

Alex Bassil — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0400

FIU has established a partnership to ensure that students get the language training needed to pursue diplomatic and other careers.

Grab your joystick: Panthers feature in EA Sports College Football 25 video game

Alexandra Pecharich — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 17:00:00 -0400

The real-life FIU football team now has a virtual counterpart playing on a screen near you.

FIU Alumni Board of Directors elects new president, welcomes new board members

Elizabeth Ferrer-Alfonso — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 10:32:00 -0400

The FIU Alumni Board of Directors has elected Sean Gazitúa to serve as president for a two-year term, along with newly elected officers and directors.

Law and Order: Under the influence?

Angela Nicoletti — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0400

"People might assume if you’re drunk, you can’t be questioned by the police until you’re sober, but they would be wrong,” says researcher and associate professor of legal psychology Jacqueline Evans.

Summer concert at MMC a rave to remember

Alexandra Pecharich — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 17:00:00 -0400

Thousands of young people – plenty of them from FIU – this past weekend crowded onto a campus parking lot transformed into the hottest music venue in town.

FIU Olympic swimmer will compete in summer games for the second time

Gisela Maria Valencia — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 11:55:00 -0400

Student Nicole Frank will be representing Uruguay at the Olympics.

Dr. Alberto Taño joins FIU Board of Trustees

Elizabeth Ferrer-Alfonso — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 13:28:00 -0400

Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed Dr. Alberto Taño to the Florida International University Board of Trustees.

“Dr. Taño brings invaluable expertise to our Board of Trustees,” said FIU President Kenneth A. Jessell. “His extensive experience within the university and the medical community will be instrumental as we continue to elevate FIU’s excellence in higher education.”

Dr. Taño is the co-founder and medical director of KIDZ Medical Services and Emergency Pediatric Services, where he focuses on contributing to quality neonatal medicine. He underwent fellowship training in neonatal-perinatal medicine at Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, D.C. and completed his residency in pediatrics at the John R. Oishei Children's Hospital of Buffalo in New York.

Active in shaping FIU’s role in the future of the medical community, Dr. Taño currently serves on the FIU Foundation Board of Directors and the FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine Dean’s Advisory Council. He is also a clinical professor of pediatrics at FIU.

“I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Alberto Taño to the FIU Board of Trustees. His experience in pediatric and neonatal medicine is an incredible asset to our institution. It is also important to note that we are adding a board member that has historically been very involved at FIU and has been supportive and passionate about FIU and understands the importance of what FIU means to our South Florida community, ” said Rogelio Tovar, chair of the FIU Board of Trustees.

Tovar went on to say “Dr. Taño succeeds Cesar L. Alvarez, previously on the board for 16 years. Cesar was one of our longest serving board members who has been a constant and unwavering leader committed to achieving the excellence that we are experiencing today. We thank Cesar for his hard work and many years of service to FIU and South Florida.”

Dr. Taño is a graduate of Cetec University, where he received his Doctor of Medicine degree.

“As someone deeply active in the medical community, I am honored to join the FIU Board of Trustees,” Dr. Taño said. “My extensive experience with FIU has given me insight into the transformative impact of this institution. I am eager to contribute to its continued success and growth.”

Dr. Taño’s appointment, to a term ending on January 6, 2028, is pending confirmation by the Florida Senate.

FIU swimmer to compete at Olympics

Gisela Maria Valencia — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 13:05:00 -0400

Sophomore Oumy Diop will represent Senegal at the greatest sporting event in the world.

Dig safely when building sandcastles and tunnels this summer – collapsing sand holes can cause suffocation and even death

Contributing Author — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 09:05:00 -0400

Stephen P. Leatherman, professor of coastal science, shares information - and a new video - to keep children and families safe this summer.

Study abroad in Japan expanded my understanding of hospitality

Contributing Author — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 16:17:00 -0400

A Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management graduate student shares how her travels complemented classroom lessons and even redefined her thinking about the industry she plans to enter.

Model UN team once again in the Top 10

Alex Bassil — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 16:03:00 -0400

FIU’s student delegation has been among the best in the country for well over a decade.

Department of Commerce funds South Florida ClimateReady Tech Hub

Contributing Author — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 17:09:00 -0400

U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo was in Miami on Tuesday to announce $19 million in funding for the Tech Hubs program.

AI is a “game changer” in construction, students learn in innovative class

David Drucker — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 10:08:00 -0400

Panthers apply AI to their work and see the possibility of revolutionizing results.

Panther preeminence: It’s a thing

Alexandra Pecharich — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 15:02:00 -0400

Learn more about FIU’s new status as a Preeminent State Research University when you take our short quiz.

Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum-FIU and FIU CasaCuba collaborate on new exhibition

Contributing Author — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 16:32:00 -0400

The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum-FIU announces a new exhibition, The Lost Generation: Women Ceramicists and the Cuban Avant-Gard, presented by Cernuda Arte. On view through September 29, 2024, the exhibition examines the artistic output from 1949-1959 of the Taller de Santiago de las Vegas, a ceramic workshop on the outskirts of Havana. It focuses on the pioneering women ceramists and their contributions to the Cuban avant-garde movement.

"The Frost Art Museum has been a vibrant center for artistic expression across diverse cultures and backgrounds for many years,” said Miriam Machado, Interim Director of the Frost Art Museum. “It is a distinct honor to present remarkable exhibitions like The Lost Generation to a community that will deeply resonate with its themes. We look forward to our extensive programming offerings during the exhibition's run."

Following the trajectory of the Taller de Santiago de las Vegas to national and international notoriety, The Lost Generation presents ceramics and paintings by artists who were instrumental in the commercialization of fine art from Cuba. Featuring vases, mugs, water jugs, murals, and plates drawn from both private and gallery collections. The exhibition is first time many of the Taller’s finest ceramics will be on display in conversation with dozens of paintings by Peláez, Portocarrero, Lam, Martínez Pedro, Mariano, and others. Exhibitions like this one are what can be expected of FIU CasaCuba, instrumental in furthering the conversation of Cuban influence and culture.

"This exhibition is an example of the important, vibrant cultural and academic activations visitors can expect to see at CasaCuba,” said Lilli Bentacourt Space, Executive Director of CasaCuba. “FIU looks forward to many more collaborations between the Frost Art Museum and CasaCuba, sharing FIU’s cultural treasures and expertise with the community. We are enormously grateful to Cernuda Arte for their generosity and leadership in the Cuban art space."

The Frost Art Museum FIU will host an opening reception for The Lost Generation on June 29, 2024. For more information visit the Frost Art Museum’s website here.

Panther Preeminence: FIU earns Florida’s highest public university designation

Alexandra Pecharich — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 09:40:00 -0400

With a roar heard from Miami to Tallahassee, FIU cheers its distinction as a Preeminent State Research University.

FIU designated “preeminent,” joins elite group of universities

Maydel Santana — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 08:48:00 -0400

The Florida Board of Governors has designated FIU a Preeminent State Research University.

FIU scientists to be featured during National Geographic's SharkFest 2024

JoAnn Adkins — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 09:32:00 -0400

The shark experts will appear in multiple programs as they go in search of the ocean’s top predators, investigate when and why sharks attack and more.

Student-led, AI-based innovation wins $25K in Ford Philanthropy competition

Irene Ferradaz — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 11:24:00 -0400

The engineering undergrads are looking to revolutionize the way small farms connect with businesses and communities to deliver locally sourced produce.

College of medicine founding professor Madhavan Nair retires

Ileana Varela — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 09:30:00 -0400

The distinguished university professor and prolific researcher has left a mark in the fields of nanomedicine, biomedical research and neuroimmunology. He has 17 patents to his credit and one pending.

Alumna is one of the top figure skaters in the country

Gisela Maria Valencia — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 13:12:00 -0400

Valentina Plazas Medina and her pairs partner are the U.S. national bronze medalists. The duo recently became the first Hispanic team in U.S. pairs history to compete at the World Championships.

Fraternity and sorority recruitment invites undergrads to join for fun and so much more

Alexandra Pecharich — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 10:28:00 -0400

Campus explodes with excitement this week as students explore the 42 fraternities and sororities at FIU, each offering leadership and service opportunities, job networking and plenty of new friends.

FIU offers new degree to give graduates a competitive edge in AI

David Drucker — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 10:39:00 -0400

FIU is launching a bachelor’s degree in data science and artificial intelligence to strategically position students for success in the evolving technology landscape.

Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum-FIU features three Miami-based women artists in new exhibition

Contributing Author — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 16:01:00 -0400

The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum-FIU announces a new exhibition, Of what surrounds me: Amanda Bradley, Cristina Lei Rodriguez, and Mette Tommerup.

Entrepreneurial Panthers come on strong at campus “pitch day” attended by Florida officials

Irene Ferradaz — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 16:08:00 -0400

They led a pack of enterprising company founders - each with earnings or investments of $1 million+ – who presented to movers and shakers eager to understand the future of tech and innovation.

Art inspired by science: student researchers unleash their creative side

Gisela Maria Valencia — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 12:09:00 -0400

Students are bursting through stereotypes and using their love of science to fuel their creation of paintings, crafts and other works.

Alumna art executive lifts up culturally diverse artists

Tiffany Woods — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 16:00:00 -0400

Her work-study job at the Frost Art Museum in the 1990s reinforced the value of featuring the stories and works of artists of color - something she does in a recent PBS documentary.

FIU among 25 universities recognized for leadership for public purpose

Elizabeth Ferrer-Alfonso — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 11:14:00 -0400

Florida International University has earned the Carnegie Elective Classification for Leadership for Public Purpose designation for its exemplary commitment to cultivating leadership skills across the university community and fostering a commitment to tackling some of the greatest challenges of our time. FIU is one of only 25 institutions worldwide to receive this recognition in its inaugural year.

“Congratulations to these pioneering recipients of the inaugural Carnegie Leadership for Public Purpose Classification,” said Carnegie Foundation President Timothy F.C. Knowles. “These institutions have demonstrated a relentless commitment to fostering leaders dedicated to the pursuit of vital public goods. Students from these institutions will undoubtedly shape a brighter future for us all, upholding fundamental American values and advancing opportunity for the nation.”

This recognition comes on the heels of FIU ranking No. 2 in the U.S. and No. 13 in the world for impact in the 2024 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings.

“Carnegie’s recognition is yet another indication of the profound impact and exceptional return on investment FIU offers our students, our community, the State of Florida and the world,” said President Kenneth A. Jessell. “Being one of only 25 institutions worldwide to receive this recognition makes it all the more special.”

FIU's commitment to leadership for public purpose is evident in several key areas:

Student Development: FIU’s Center for Leadership and Service provides developmental and experiential learning opportunities for students through various programs, including the Certified Leader Program, the Excellence in Civic Engagement Medallion of Distinction, and the Academy of Leaders (AOL). Additionally, students can build leadership skills through seminars and internship placements focused on public service through FIU in D.C.

Research & Scholarship: FIU’s notable research in environmental resilience with a long-term restoration project in the Florida Everglades, and in utilizing new approaches in pediatric cancer treatments through the innovative work of researcher Diana Azzam demonstrates leadership for public purpose.

Service & Engagement: FIU invests in its community, leading programs and initiatives that contribute to the common good. FIU’s Center for Community Impact and Public Purpose (CCIPP) cultivates and incubates partnerships across the university and the community. FIU's Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine's NeighborhoodHELP program delivers healthcare services to thousands of community members via mobile health centers and a mammography van. FIU’s College of Law’s Pro Bono program instills a commitment to public service in future lawyers through experiential learning requirements and legal clinics.

From glowing corals to vomiting shrimp, animals have used bioluminescence to communicate for millions of years – here’s what scientists still don’t know about it

Contributing Author — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 09:54:00 -0400

Danielle DeLeo, postdoctoral associate in biological sciences at FIU writes in The Conversation.

In the wild: It starts with an owl in the Everglades

Gisela Maria Valencia — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 08:23:00 -0400

To celebrate Nature Photography Day on June 15, sophomore Luca Martinez shares three of his favorite photos and discusses how the images tell an important story.

In the Wild: Discover the wonders hidden within Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula

Gisela Maria Valencia — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 10:43:00 -0400

Postdoctoral researcher Brandon A. Güell shares some of the stories behind his photos and how he uses photography in his research.

FIU mourns Harvey R. Chaplin, namesake of hospitality school and iconic industry pioneer

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 09:40:00 -0400

The Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management remains indebted to the man whose company helped launch and continues to cohost the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival (SOBEWFF®).

June 13 update: Biscayne Bay Campus will reopen at 1 p.m. today

Contributing Author — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 09:02:00 -0400

Flood waters have receded sufficiently on Northeast 151st Street to allow traffic to enter campus.

June 12: Classes are canceled at all FIU locations this evening

Contributing Author — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 18:31:00 -0400

The university has taken the measure due to heavy rain in the region.

In the wild: Finding the bright stars in the night sky

Gisela Maria Valencia — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 09:55:00 -0400

Staff member Anthony Sleiman '18 takes us behind the scenes of his nighttime photography.

FIU ranks No. 2 most impactful university in the U.S.

JoAnn Adkins — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 09:18:00 -0400

And it ranks No. 13 in the world, as announced in the 2024 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings.

In the wild: Panther captures stunning photos of nature

Gisela Maria Valencia — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 11:03:00 -0400

To celebrate Nature Photography Day this week, we're going behind the scenes with Panther photographers. Enter a journey into the natural world through alumna Kirsten Hines' photography.

FIU students get hands-on experience in large-scale disaster response

Stephanie Rendon — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 14:49:00 -0400

FIU recently hosted a dynamic, two-day disaster field course at its Biscayne Bay Campus that brought together professionals from local agencies and nongovernmental organizations with elected officials to help run high-level exercises intended to prepare graduate students soon to step into leadership roles to be ready for anything. Offered through FIU’s Academy for International Disaster Preparedness, the activity served to give those studying for advanced degrees a high-level simulated experience.

“This exercise is the linchpin of our program and critical to our students graduating prepared to lead in a disaster scenario,” said Javier I. Marques, Executive Director for AIDP and Vice President for Operations and Safety and Chief of Staff. “We appreciate our partners with whom we train and form bonds of trust that are essential in navigating the uncertainty that comes with disasters.”

Each year, natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornados, wildfires, and floods impact communities across the U.S. and around the world. With NOAA National Weather Service forecasters predicting an above average 2024 hurricane season, the demand for a well-prepared disaster management workforce that can meet the needs of affected communities has never been greater.

“Florida International University is a leader in operations-based disaster response, demonstrated here today during their full-scale exercise, which rises to the level of the highest standard in Florida, if not the U.S.,” said Florida Division of Emergency Management Executive Director Kevin Guthrie, who attended the exercise and spoke to students. “These exercises are where people get their boots dirty, and they are incredibly important to not only practice onsite incident management, but also improve everyone's understanding of the intricacies involved in the response and recovery process.”

The field course is part of FIU’s Master of Arts in Disaster Management, a 30-credit graduate program focusing on disaster preparedness, emergency management and humanitarian assistance/coordination. The program’s curriculum is interdisciplinary and designed to improve the skills and theoretical base of disaster practitioners and those interested in entering the field of disaster management.

“This program has provided me with the tools that I needed in my toolbox to help me get out there and be a better responder,” said Michael Stacks, an FIU student participating in the field course, which puts students to the test under grueling conditions. “The biggest 800-pound gorilla in the room will be the weather—if we can manage the weather, we’ll be fine. We have the knowledge and the skills, it’s a matter of applying them.”

Responding to a hurricane

During the first day of the field course, participants transform into disaster coordinators tasked with responding to the aftermath of a fictional category 5 hurricane that pummeled the Caribbean. From getting briefed ahead of deployment to making landfall at ground zero, participants are taken through the stages of a full-scale disaster operation. Throughout the day, participants meet with victims and survivors, role-played by volunteers and experts in the disaster management field, to learn about their humanitarian needs and assess the destruction left behind by the storm. The exercise is designed to be as realistic as possible, so participating agencies will lend assets like helicopters, marine vessels, drones, and other resources to help participants get the full experience of managing a large-scale disaster response.

On the second day, roles change, and participants are deployed as humanitarian responders tasked with providing immediate relief to hurricane survivors. Throughout the two days, students will complete several assignments—from conducting damage assessments to writing press releases—to test curriculum objectives and the ability of students to adapt to a disaster scenario.

“It’s important for our students to understand what it’s like to respond to a disaster in different capacities,” said Dulce Suarez, Assistant Director for AIDP. “Whether they are a disaster worker or a humanitarian, they need to walk away from this exercise knowing how to work with diverse teams, manage resources effectively, and communicate clearly under pressure.”

The field course, one of the largest of its kind, is made possible with the support and participation of agencies and organizations across academia, healthcare, public, nonprofit, and private sectors.

Participating agencies and organizations include: Florida Department of Emergency Management (FDEM), Florida State Guard (FSG), Baptist Health South Florida, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR), City of Miami Fire Rescue/Emergency Management/USAR FL - TF-2, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), United States Coast Guard (USCG), Miami-Dade County Emergency Management (OEM), Miami-Dade Police Department (MDPD), Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department (WASD), Village of Key Biscayne Fire Rescue, City of Miami Beach Fire Rescue, U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), United States Agency for International Development (SAID), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Food for the Poor (FFTP), DHL, AT&T, Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), Seminole Office of Emergency Management, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, FIU Parking and Transportation, FIU Police Department and others.

FIU builds its case as an innovator during national Infrastructure Week

Contributing Author — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 13:40:00 -0400

The university showcased its work in sustainability, environmental resilience and climate tech, but it was FIU’s “secret weapon” - SGA President Francesca Casanova - who made the biggest splash.

Faculty inventors recognized for 80+ patents

Gisela Maria Valencia — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 11:52:00 -0400

Trailblazing Panthers are working on projects such as a treatment for prostate cancer, vaccines against malaria transmission and intelligent automated footwear.

80 years later: Remembering the heroes of World War II

Alex Bassil — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 17:00:00 -0400

A professor of history explains why commemorations of D-Day – the beginning of a bloody, protracted battle that concluded with the Nazi surrender of Europe – still draw interest.

Scientists call for conservation of Amazon’s unseen water cycle

Christine Calvo — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 13:58:00 -0400

Beyond the rainforests, scientists are zeroing in on changes occurring to a natural water cycle that could forever alter the Amazon.

FIU team ups with world-renowned marine conservationist to spotlight South Florida’s coastal ecosystems

Media Relations — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 09:41:00 -0400

Sylvia Earle’s Mission Blue organization has identified the Biscayne Bay, Florida Keys and Ten Thousand Islands as a “Hope Spot” critical to the health of oceans.

FIU launches Professional Certificate in Sports Leadership with Argentine Football Association

Alex Bassil — Fri, 31 May 2024 17:00:00 -0400

Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs is partnering with Argentina’s governing body of soccer to offer a concentrated sports management program.

Wall of Wind receives $4 million to expand hurricane and windstorm resilience research

Contributing Author — Fri, 31 May 2024 14:00:00 -0400

U.S. Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart on Friday presented FIU’s Wall of Wind with a $4.05 million federal allocation to support windstorm research. The funds are part of a designation from the National Institute of Standards and Technology, facilitated through the support of Díaz-Balart and his dedication to the Windstorm Research Instrumentation and Testing Enhancement project.

The Wall of Wind is dedicated to researching extreme weather, testing future climate scenarios – particularly for Category 5 storms – through simulations. The large-scale hurricane simulator utilizes a 12-fan 8,400 horsepower system capable of generating 157 mph wind speeds with rain intrusion This research analyzes the potential damage levels and devastation caused by extreme hurricane winds.

Researchers use results from Wall of Wind testing to explore solutions that will help mitigate the destruction caused by powerful windstorms. This research provides key insights for enhancing the resilience of critical infrastructure such as residential and commercial buildings.

The additional funding will allow researchers to expand capacity and continue work that could lead to strengthening building code standards for greater resilience to Category 5 storms for homes, businesses and critical infrastructure.

Thanks to the efforts of the Florida congressional delegation, FIU leads among all universities in Florida for securing congressional earmarks that advance FIU’s leadership in resilient infrastructure, environmental resilience and materials engineering. Members of Congress were successful in securing over $34.5 million in increases at critical research agencies that support FIU research initiatives, including four community project earmarks, such as this one for the Wall of Wind, secured by Diaz-Balart.

Take our May quiz

Alexandra Pecharich — Fri, 31 May 2024 10:00:00 -0400

Did you keep up with FIU this past month?

FIU clinical trial results land on cover of prestigious scientific journal

Contributing Author — Thu, 30 May 2024 17:00:00 -0400

Researcher Diana Azzam’s breakthrough cancer study caught the attention of editors who chose to put her work at the front and center of its publication - with the help of a talented FIU designer.

FIU experts are available to discuss the 2025 hurricane season

Jonathan Ruadez — Wed, 29 May 2024 15:00:00 -0400

FIU experts on various topics surrounding hurricanes and their aftermath are available for media interviews.

The secret lives of Florida wildlife can be real page turners

Tiffany Woods — Tue, 28 May 2024 14:00:00 -0400

Kirsten Hines MS '02 staked out creatures great and small to capture them in intimate photos that she accompanies with essays, the collected volume of which was honored with a Florida Book Award.

Spanish professor translates historic interview with Pope Francis

Todd Ellenberg — Tue, 28 May 2024 12:30:00 -0400

Erik Camayd-Freixas’ latest project, for CBS News’ 60 Minutes program, follows decades of work for national and international broadcasts.

Iran’s intervention in Sudan’s civil war advances its geopolitical goals − but not without risks

Contributing Author — Tue, 28 May 2024 08:51:00 -0400

Eric Lob, associate professor of politics and international relations at FIU writes in The Conversation.

Students invent new sensory system for the visually impaired

Irene Ferradaz — Thu, 23 May 2024 16:30:00 -0400

Engineering undergrads' tech innovation aims to increase the safety and independence of those with blindness - and their startup is attracting attention.

How Iran selects its supreme leader − a political scientist and Iran expert explains

Contributing Author — Thu, 23 May 2024 08:42:00 -0400

Eric Lob, associate professor of politics and international relations at FIU writes in The Conversation.

Hawaii beach takes top spot while NC beach dropped from Dr. Beach’s Top 10

JoAnn Adkins — Tue, 21 May 2024 12:17:00 -0400

Lighthouse Beach, which has been a Top 10 Beach for the past decade, is notably absent from Top 10 Beaches list that is celebrating Hawaii’s Duke Kahanamoku Beach as the top beach of 2024.

Research Snapshot: Growing 3D bone in the lab

Angela Nicoletti — Tue, 21 May 2024 10:44:00 -0400

FIU biomedical engineering researchers created a 3D printable device that can store bone samples for long periods of time. Find out why that matters.

Iran crash: President Raisi’s death leaves Tehran mourning loss of regime loyalist

Contributing Author — Mon, 20 May 2024 08:53:00 -0400

Eric Lob, associate professor of politics and international relations at FIU writes in The Conversation.

Greater innovation at greater speed: Blowing the lid off academic scholarship through “open science”

Alexandra Pecharich — Thu, 16 May 2024 15:04:00 -0400

A leader in collaborative research, FIU hosts NASA-funded meeting on broadening public access to findings.

Thank you, Mom! How a mother's love makes all the difference

Gisela Maria Valencia — Fri, 10 May 2024 14:25:00 -0400

Two Panthers share how their moms help them soar, and a psychology expert discusses the bond between a mother and her child.

Shrimp get a glow-up

JoAnn Adkins — Thu, 09 May 2024 09:55:00 -0400

Scientists are adding to a growing list of deep-sea shrimp found with the ability to emit light.

Classroom to capitol: My experience at FIU in DC

Contributing Author — Tue, 07 May 2024 10:47:00 -0400

A student with aspirations to work in national defense found both a sense of Panther belonging and a path to potential dream jobs during the ultimate in-person experience in Washington.

FIU in Chicago: How a group trip to visit top PR agencies helped me refine my career path

Contributing Author — Thu, 02 May 2024 10:30:00 -0400

A communications major writes about the value of networking with industry executives and getting a firsthand look at what it takes to land a job in the field.

FIU recognized for innovative professional development program that advances global learning

Contributing Author — Wed, 01 May 2024 17:00:00 -0400

Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) brings together students and faculty around the world for shared classes that expand perspectives and promote collaboration.

Take the April FIU News quiz

Alexandra Pecharich — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 12:06:00 -0400

A lot is going on here. How much do you recall of the past month? Test yourself with our four-question quiz to see how well you have kept up with the university that never sleeps!

Under the influence and under arrest − what happens if you’re drunk in the interrogation room?

Contributing Author — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0400

Jacqueline R. Evans, associate professor of psychology at FIU writes in The Conversation.

Cybersecurity researchers spotlight a new ransomware threat – be careful where you upload files

Contributing Author — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0400

Selcuk Uluagac, professor of computing and information science at FIU writes in The Conversation.

FIU expert on national parks: Get out there!

Alexandra Pecharich — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 15:30:00 -0400

He teaches students about the history and politics of the National Park Service and encourages all of us to see some of the country’s most stunning natural landscapes during National Park Week.

The costs of workplace violence are too high to ignore

Contributing Author — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 12:26:00 -0400

Miranda Kitterlin-Lynch, associate professor, Coca-Cola endowed professor at FIU writes in The Conversation.

Celebrities routinely drop in on this Florida university’s hospitality course

Contributing Author — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 11:55:00 -0400

Michael Cheng, dean of hospitality management at FIU writes in The Conversation.

FIU graduates redefine excellence through groundbreaking scholarship

Elizabeth Ferrer-Alfonso — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 15:18:00 -0400

FIU will celebrate the accomplishments of almost 6,000 students during 10 commencement ceremonies April 28 – May 2.

Florida International University’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management ranked in world’s top 1% by QS World University Rankings

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 11:16:00 -0400

The Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University (FIU) is continuing to climb in the rankings. In the 2024 QS World University Rankings by Subject: Hospitality & Leisure Management, the Chaplin School rose two spots from the No. 8 to the No. 6 best hospitality program among U.S. public universities nationwide. Its worldwide ranking also improved from 35 to 31 globally, placing it in the top 1% of hospitality and tourism education institutions of higher learning.

“Our top priority is student success, which is reflected in our rise in academic reputation,” said Michael Cheng, dean of the Chaplin School. “We try to ensure both academic and employer reputation by having top industry leaders teaching our classes, updating curriculum quickly to ensure our graduates attain employment and are on the forefront of industry needs, and offering unique educational programs and experiences to our students, alumni and in the community.”

The QS World University Rankings by Subject identify the world’s strongest universities in 60 individual subject areas. The hospitality and leisure management rankings are based on an independent comparative analysis of 2,255 institutions worldwide with hospitality programs. This year for the first time, the rankings also included Sustainability, Employment Outcomes, and International Research Network. FIU Chaplin School scored two of its highest scores in Sustainability and International Research Network.

“The Chaplin School’s innovative programs, which include important hands-on, real-life experiences, are educating leaders in the hospitality industry,” said FIU Executive Vice President, Provost and Chief Operating Officer Elizabeth M. Béjar. “The QS ranking recognizes how FIU is contributing to this vital industry, which is essential to our region’s economic future.”

The QS ranking evaluates an institution’s academic performance in certain fields, to give students and the institution insight into a program’s strengths, as well as what might need to be prioritized to achieve a better student experience.

FIU Chaplin School’s rankings are a result of concentrating efforts on key performance indicators, such as student success, First Time in College (FTIC), four-year graduation rate, and two-year retention rates. The school also is known for student engagement and unique experiential learning opportunities, such as leadership roles only open to FIU students at the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One (SOBEWFF®), a Bachelor of Arts degree in Global Sustainable Tourism, and a one-of-a-kind Master of Science degree concentrating on Cruise Line Operations Management in the Cruise Capital of the World.

FIU Chaplin School works with more than 100 hospitality employers to ensure students secure employment after graduation. As the country’s leading diverse hospitality program, the Chaplin School also graduates more undergraduate Black, Hispanic, and international students than any other school.

Blue whales: first discovery near Seychelles in decades – what our study found

Contributing Author — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 08:36:00 -0400

Jeremy Kiszka, associate professor of the Institute of Environment, coastlines and oceans division at FIU writes in The Conversation.

FIU hosts Argentine President Javier Milei

Alexis Baez — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 14:20:00 -0400

Next generation of thought leaders, innovators recognized at 2024 Outstanding Student Life Awards

Clara-Meretan Kiah — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 13:00:00 -0400

The 2024 Presidential Awardee is Seyed Saman Khedmatgozar Dolati, a doctoral candidate and researcher in the FIU Accelerated Bridge Construction University Transportation Center. Among an impressive curriculum vitae, Dolati has authored or co-authored more than 20 peer-reviewed journal articles; he holds four U.S. patents with two additional pending review; he has presented at over 15 research conferences; and he has served as teaching assistant in over a dozen engineering classes. He is also recognized for outstanding mentorship of graduate and undergraduate students in the College of Engineering & Computing.

Lessons in networking: a student shares how

Contributing Author — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 11:14:00 -0400

Getting the most out of networking events can be especially beneficial for those just starting out. A few tips on how to best take advantage of such meetups can go a long way toward success.

A global conference, a divisive challenge: Hospitality student faces the fallout of “unaligned values” during group project

Contributing Author — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 10:30:00 -0400

Asking young people from around the world to use their ingenuity to find solutions sounds easy enough. But what happens when some disagree with the premise? An FIU student writes about her experience.

All eyes on FIU at eMerge Americas

Irene Ferradaz — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 09:30:00 -0400

The global tech conference features university leaders as speakers, enterprising students pitching their startup companies and an exhibit booth showcasing brain research.

FIU Law asserts powerhouse status as one of the country’s leading schools

Gisela Maria Valencia — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 11:19:00 -0400

The College of Law has earned a slew of top-notch rankings and is turning out hundreds of successful lawyers.

FIU Law graduates earn highest passage rate on the Florida Bar exam again

Media Relations — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 16:28:00 -0400

FIU College of Law has set the bar once again.

Student earns prestigious Truman Scholarship for impact on homeless youth

Gisela Maria Valencia — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 11:57:00 -0400

Jahneé Smith joins a select group of students across the country who will receive Truman scholarships to help fund grad school.

Freshman helps with groundbreaking cancer research

Angela Nicoletti — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0400

FIU undergraduate Baylee Holcomb is 19 years old. Cancer research she helped with just got published in Nature Medicine.

Personalized cancer treatments based on testing drugs quickly leads to faster treatment, better outcomes

Contributing Author — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 07:06:00 -0400

Diana Azzam, assistant professor of environmental health sciences at FIU writes in The Conversation.

New approach helped Patient 13 reach remission — could it revolutionize how cancer is treated?

Angela Nicoletti — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 06:07:00 -0400

Researchers developed a way to guide effective, timely treatments for children with cancer — 83% of clinical trial patients showed improvement.

FIU graduate programs among the best in the nation in U.S. News rankings

Elizabeth Ferrer-Alfonso — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 10:09:00 -0400

FIU graduate programs were in the top 50 among public universities in U.S. News & World Report's 2024-2025 edition of Best Graduate Schools.

FIU receives $100,000 grant to commemorate Miami's HIV/AIDS history

Alex Bassil — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 14:52:00 -0400

Department of History invited the local community to helping with the planning of local memorials.

An innovation is born: new mom pitches baby bottle monitor on Shark Tank

Irene Ferradaz — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 11:34:00 -0400

A Ph.D. student whose invention solves a problem she encountered after the birth of her son has been featured on the reality show.

Doctoral student’s documentary on Bay of Pigs to air on PBS and streaming services

Todd Ellenberg — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 11:21:00 -0400

The work of Eliecer Jiménez-Almeida has received critical acclaim, and now his film on the failed 1961 CIA-sponsored military operation to overthrow Fidel Castro will be available nationally.

Coastal wetlands can’t keep pace with sea-level rise, and infrastructure is leaving them nowhere to go

Contributing Author — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 11:02:00 -0400

Randall W. Parkinson, research associate professor in coastal geology at FIU writes in The Conversation.

Ready for the future: Bolstering students’ job competitiveness

Alexandra Pecharich — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 10:00:00 -0400

FIU offers strategic micro-credentials as a complement to solid academic degrees. These no-cost resume boosters focus on skills that employers say they look for in potential hires.

Army veteran leverages FIU small business services to scale auto equipment startup

Clara-Meretan Kiah — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 13:40:00 -0400

The startup star and former Army engineer dive officer will pitch his next venture at eMerge Americas in April 2024.

Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management establishes new real estate executive advisory board

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 21:00:00 -0400

New board’s mission: to help the hospitality-focused real estate master’s degree program become the leading choice for students and employers

Students reflect on life-changing “study away from home” experiences with National Student Exchange

Clara-Meretan Kiah — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 16:30:00 -0400

Students needn't cross an ocean to experience a life-changing semester studying away from FIU.

How cool is that: South Florida to experience partial solar eclipse on Monday afternoon

Alexandra Pecharich — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 07:25:00 -0400

FIU astrophysicist James Webb explains the upcoming celestial phenomenon and invites everyone to an eclipse party at 2-4 p.m. on April 8 at FIU’s Stocker AstroScience Center.

Faculty inducted into American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering College of Fellows

Ayleen Barbel Fattal — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 13:30:00 -0400

As Fellows, Angela Laid and Jorge Riera Diaz are among the top 2% of medical and biological engineers in their respective fields.

Come to Mama: Ph.D. student asks Shark Tank investors to fund her baby bottle innovation

Irene Ferradaz — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 08:30:00 -0400

Looking for cash to take her startup to the next level, a founder and mom of one – who also works full-time for Google - made a pitch worthy of national TV. Tune in Friday to see how it all went down.

Fuji music in Nigeria: new documentary shines light on a popular African culture

Contributing Author — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 08:10:00 -0400

Saheed Aderinto, professor of history and African and African diaspora studies at FIU writes in The Conversation.

Take the March quiz

Alexandra Pecharich — Fri, 29 Mar 2024 08:30:00 -0400

How much do you remember about the month that was? Test yourself with four questions that will reveal how well you're keeping up with FIU.

Water pollutant could be soil savior

Christine Calvo — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 16:00:00 -0400

One ecosystem’s trash could be another ecosystem’s treasure, according to scientists studying cyanobacteria, more commonly known as blue-green algae.

FIU and Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce uncover local workforce development trends, business landscape

Gisela Maria Valencia — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 11:39:00 -0400

Survey results highlight the importance of partnerships between employers in Miami-Dade County and higher education institutions to prepare students to meet a changing workforce.

Ph.D. candidate wants to improve science communication so no one ever again writes that sniffing farts prevents cancer

Alexandra Pecharich — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 12:20:00 -0400

Sharing the latest scientific advances should not be so difficult, Ashli Wright says, but too often things go awry in trying to inform the general public.

FIU interdisciplinary team supporting federal investigation into 2021 Surfside condo collapse

Todd Ellenberg — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 12:01:00 -0400

Interdisciplinary FIU team conducts research on 2021 partial collapse of Champlain Towers South in Surfside, FL.

FIU experts tapped for study of possible links between childhood lead exposure and psychiatric diseases

Stephanie Rendon — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 16:00:00 -0400

Multimillion-dollar investigation aims to explore the effects of the toxic metal on neurons, brain circuitry and behavior.

Preserving Goombay: FIU to document iconic Miami festival

Todd Ellenberg — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 11:30:00 -0400

A grant from the Library of Congress American Folklife Center supports a research project that explores the Bahamian community of Coconut Grove and the annual event that celebrates its history.

FIU’s standing in Florida education rises as its enrollment grows

Contributing Author — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 16:00:00 -0400

In an opinion piece for the Miami Herald, the chair of the Florida Board of Governors and President Kenneth A. Jessell highlight the success of Miami's public research university.

Study identifies areas in Mexico City Metro affected by land subsidence

Ayleen Barbel Fattal — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 14:00:00 -0400

Team of geophysicists pinpoints transit system vulnerabilities, provides roadmap for mitigation.

Ransomware can hide in the websites you upload files to

David Drucker — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 13:00:00 -0400

FIU cybersecurity researchers warn that requests to access your files might be able to bypass antivirus software.

Out of my comfort zone: Visit to the nation’s capital has got a student thinking bigger

Contributing Author — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 10:57:00 -0400

Taking part in FIU’s Washington, D.C., “fly-in” opportunity has opened new possibilities for a graduating senior.

Female mosquitoes rely on one another to choose the best breeding sites − and with the arrival of spring, they’re already on the hunt

Contributing Author — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 09:13:00 -0400

Biological sciences researchers at FIU write in The Conversation.

Honors College freshman who appears in ‘Stranger Things’ is crushing campus life

Alexandra Pecharich — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0400

A future star: International business major Alex Wagenman has hurled himself into all things FIU while actively pursuing his next big screen role.

The climate debate: FIU convened a diverse group of leading experts to discuss paths forward

Gisela Maria Valencia — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 14:00:00 -0400

To tackle some of the toughest questions about environmental resilience, FIU hosted scholars and activitists.

The ultimate gift: Honoring the donors who gave their bodies to medical education

Ileana Varela — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 10:25:00 -0500

The Wertheim College of Medicine students held a ceremony of gratitude for those who made possible their training in the anatomy lab.

Got an FIU library fine? Pay it with a food donation to the campus pantry

Adriana Harris — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0500

This month only, you can contribute nonperishables to satisfy what you owe on late books, laptops and more.

Stempel dean joins “medical mysteries” team

Stephanie Rendon — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 10:56:00 -0500

Tomás R. Guilarte has been appointed to the National Institutes of Health network of researchers and physicians working to improve diagnosis and treatment of those with rare diseases.

305 in the 202: FIU brews up the Congressional Cafecito Challenge

Contributing Author — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 15:05:00 -0500

FIU in Washington, D.C., gets to the bottom of the coffee cup by inviting Florida’s Congressional delegation to serve up their best Cuban-style joe.

That's a Wrap on the Perfect Pairing: SOBEWFF® 2024 and FIU

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 16:00:00 -0500

More than 1,500 FIU students help run the South Beach Wine & Food Festival(R), which just celebrated its 23rd edition.

FIU epidemiologist on measles and what you should know

Stephanie Rendon — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 09:51:00 -0500

Measles cases are on the rise in the United States, although numbers remain relatively low.

2024 Salute to Women in FIU History

Alexandra Pecharich — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 07:20:00 -0500

Know of another FIU legend who deserves a shout-out? Email a note to pecharic@fiu.edu. (But first check out a l ist of those featured previously.)

Take the FIU News quiz for February 2024

Alexandra Pecharich — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 07:20:00 -0500

Do you remember what our university community collectively accomplished last month? Test yourself to find out.

FIU receives $2.45 million federal grant to address disparities related to deaths of Black women from pregnancy-related causes

Media Relations — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 09:20:00 -0500

The U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) has awarded a five-year $2.45 million grant to FIU’s Center for Women’s and Gender Studies (CWGS) to further the work of its Black Mothers Care Plan.In recent decades, the U.S. maternal mortality rate, among the highest of any developed nation, has had major disparities – Black women are more than three times as likely as white women to die from pregnancy-related causes.The Black Mothers Care Plan aims to address this issue by building the capacity of minority-serving institutions, such as FIU, to conduct research on disparities in maternal mortality, morbidity and health outcomes, in addition to finding community-based solutions.The grant designates FIU and the Black Mothers Care Plan as one of 16 research centers in a newly organized national Maternal Health Research Collaborative for Minority-Serving Institutions. The Maternal Health Research funding from HRSA will allow FIU researchers and community-based partners to collaboratively investigate how mobile and household-centered doula and midwifery care impacts black maternal health outcomes and experiences. The study seeks to understand and evaluate these care models in order to produce action-oriented data and best practices for maternal service and perinatal education delivery in Miami-Dade County.The project is being conducted in collaboration with FIU's Green Family Foundation NeighborhoodHELP, Magnolia Birth House, Metro Mommy Agency, Southern Birth Justice Network, and Behavioral Science Research Institute.FIU’s efforts will be led by principal investigator Okezi Otovo, associate professor of history and African and African Diaspora Studies and affiliate faculty of the CWGS, along with co-principal investigators Alexandra Cornelius, associate teaching professor and director of the CWGS; Rokeshia Ashley, assistant professor of communication, and Frank Anderson, professor of humanities, health, and society in the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, whose specialty is obstetrics and gynecology.“There's lots of research about community care models and why they help to improve health outcomes for mothers and babies,” Otovo said. “There are fewer community care studies that look directly at the populations that are most at risk of maternal mortality and morbidity in the U.S., which in our country are Black and indigenous mothers.”The project adds a new dimension to existing research: to assess the impact of a mobile and household-centered care model to improve health outcomes. That approach has been successfully deployed by FIU’s innovative NeighborhoodHELP program, which overcomes access barriers and connects people to the health system through mobile health clinics and household-centered care.“This project will allow us to look at Miami-Dade County community-based care models to measure what it is about community-based models that leads to better outcomes and the lessons that this kind of model in Miami can provide nationally,” Otovo said.In 2021, The Children’s Trust awarded a five-year, $1.37 million grant to CWGS to launch the Black Mothers Care Plan, which aimed to combat racial bias in maternal health by bringing together medical practitioners, medical students, midwives, doulas and women who have gone through maternal crises to address gaps in communication between the patient and the health care provider."CWGS is proud to serve as the meeting ground where physicians, scholars, midwives, doulas, and community-based health providers may come together to share their expertise in a collective effort to provide evidence-based solutions that lead to improved birthing outcomes for Black women,” said Cornelius, director of CWGS.Otovo added: “We're hopeful that these studies will assist those looking for evidence to understand the impact of these care models when developing policies. It is important to understand why community-based care and a mobile care delivery system can be so impactful.”

Too often left unsaid: the connection between climate change and health

Contributing Author — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 12:00:00 -0500

As part of FIU's Population Health Initiative, the university recently convened experts in the nation's capital on an issue of growing global concern: how climate change is impacting human health.

Formula Woman winner, architecture student bursts onto the race car scene

Gisela Maria Valencia — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 10:35:00 -0500

Once dreaming of the Olympics as an equestrian athlete, Sara Misir changed courses after tragedy struck and emerged victorious in motorsports.

Securing a future for children with disabilities

Alexandra Pecharich — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0500

Meet FIU Embrace's Class of 2019 and learn how the program changed these students' lives.

Doctoral candidate turns teens in poverty into changemakers

Alexandra Pecharich — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 16:19:00 -0500

His project tasked youth in Colombia to identify problems in their community and make their case to local leaders.

Gnaw more seagrass? Plant-eaters pose threat in climate change struggle

JoAnn Adkins — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 13:30:00 -0500

There’s a hidden threat looming among subtropical seagrass meadows — turtles in search of milder temperatures.

FIU's latest production marks launch of new musical theatre programs

Ivan Lopez — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0500

“Women on the Verge of Nervous Breakdown” is on stage now at The Wertheim.

How Lula’s big-tent pragmatism won over Brazil again – with a little help from a backlash to Bolsonaro

Contributing Author — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 08:54:00 -0500

Anthony Pereira, director of the Kimberly Green Latin American and Caribbean center at FIU writes in The Conversation

FIU a Top 5 producer of Fulbright Scholars

Contributing Author — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 09:03:00 -0500

The State Department recognized FIU for its “deep commitment to international exchange and to building lasting connections between the people of the United States and the people of other countries."

Florida International University launches free online officer safety course targeting dangerous fentanyl and opioid drug trends in America

Contributing Author — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 16:29:00 -0500

Florida International University is launching an officer safety course, developed to help agencies use technology for rapid deployment of field analysis of dangerous drugs, including opioids like fentanyl.

Between 2020 and 2021, opioid-related deaths rose by 15% according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The FIU project is working to arm police officers at the scene with field portable technology that can instantly and accurately identify opioids and other drugs. This could provide prosecutors with reliable results to indict and convict illicit drug offenders.

Funded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), FIU developed the program with police agencies across the country. The training takes less than an hour and can be accessed online, reducing agency budget and time constraints. The course also introduces officers to proper methods to collect, document, and store evidence

“This was truly a partnership between FIU and the pilot agencies,” said David Sylvester, director of Forensic Law Enforcement Programs at FIU’s Global Forensic and Justice Center. “Here at FIU, we could dedicate the lab time and personnel to the test and evaluation and procedure development. The feedback from the field is what made this a useful tool for agencies combatting the opioid crisis.”

Implementing the safety training and new tools introduced in the Academic-based Drug Field Testing and Training Initiative, new analogs of fentanyl or opioids can be determined within minutes at the scene. The unique chemical signature for the drugs can be used to link drug dealers or manufacturers to overdoses and deaths. Backlogs in forensic chemical and toxicology labs can create a wait of up to eight months. The field portable technology can confirm results in less than a minute, providing officers with probable cause and strong investigative leads.

“In investigations, minutes matter,” Sylvester said. “It’s why these new technologies exist. Because the faster agencies can get the drugs off the streets, the less likely they will impact someone in the community.”

Officer and public safety were both taken into consideration. Previous field technology required officers to be within arm’s distance of the unknown substances to place into presumptive colorimetric tests. The technology used now is like a speed radar, a point-and-aim instrument that can detect the chemical composition of an unknown substance from up to six feet away in seconds.

While under the pilot program, three agencies have successfully implemented these instruments in their fieldwork, making potential arrests and strengthening cases against suspected manufacturers.

Starting February 15, 2024, the online training portion is available here for free for any first responder agency or organization that may benefit from this information.

Media assets are available here.

What does it take to be a leader in the 21st century?

Gisela Maria Valencia — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 15:40:00 -0500

Two experts shared key takeaways anyone — whether a student or a top executive — can use to become a more effective leader.

From Lectures to Love: Hospitality alumni who met in class

Contributing Author — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 16:02:00 -0500

Chaplin School graduates share how they got to know their future spouses while studying at FIU.

Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum-FIU opens the exhibition “Sa’dia Rehman: the river runs slow and deep and all the bones of my ancestors / have risen to the surface to knock and click like the sounds of trees in the air”

Contributing Author — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 15:53:00 -0500

The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum-FIU has opened its newest exhibition titled “Sa’dia Rehman: the river runs slow and deep and all the bones of my ancestors / have risen to the surface to knock and click like the sounds of trees in the air.” Created by multidisciplinary artist Sa’dia Rehman, this exhibition reflects the artist’s insistent and urgent inquiry into family histories of place and displacement.

In this new body of work, Rehman explores their family’s displacement in 1974 from Khar Kot, an area near the Indus River in northern Pakistan. The construction of the Tarbela Dam resulted in 135 submerged villages and the permanent relocation of more than 96,000 people, including the artist’s grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins.

The title of the exhibition draws from the last two lines of a poem by Rehman’s sister, Bushra, referencing stories and connections to Pakistan. The work takes the form of the Indus River, which runs through their homeland, and is apparent in its title, materials, and mediums. Rehman uses rebar, rust, clay, denim, cotton rag paper, moving images and sound to capture the shape and history of the Indus, telling the story of time’s passage and human crisis in Pakistan.

The multidisciplinary work, including a collection of drawings, textiles, works on paper, sculpture and a video, is a result of three years of researching information, reading archives, interviewing people and creating the artwork. Rehman describes the result as a “window, doorway, or portal” to or through somewhere in between here and there and something reimagined, caught in the interstices among shifting geographies.

“We are delighted to exhibit Sa’dia Rehman’s work which feels relevant to our shared focus on displacement and humanitarian concerns,” said Jordana Pomeroy, director of the Frost Museum. “As an artist and a teacher, Rehman’s approach to complex ideas asks questions that hover in the air. As a laboratory for experimentation, the Frost serves as a nexus for innovative ideas that connects disciplines as Rehman’s art does so successfully.”

Hailing from Queens, New York, Sa’dia Rehman has previously exhibited work at the Wexner Center for the Arts, Queens Museum, Columbus Museum of Art, The Kitchen, Kentler International Drawing Space, Center for Book Arts, Asian/Pacific/American Institute at NYU and Pakistan National Council of the Arts. Rehman is currently a resident at Harvard University’s Art Lab.

This exhibition is organized by the Wexner Center for the Arts and curated by Director of Learning & Public Practice Dionne Custer Edwards in collaboration with Chief Curator and Director of Exhibitions Kelly Kivland and Film/Video Studio Curator Jennifer Lange.

Hospitality students and alumni supersized their resumes at Super Bowl LVIII

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 14:18:00 -0500

FIU hospitality and online students worked the Big Game.

Flowers grown on polluted waterways can help clean up nutrient runoff

Contributing Author — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 13:20:00 -0500

A professor and post-doctoral associate have turned marigolds into beautiful pollution-fighting agents.

Didn't earn an undergrad degree in science but interested in public health? New master's could be the perfect fit

Stephanie Rendon — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 09:44:00 -0500

This fall, FIU will launch its Master of Public Health with a concentration in global health, a 45-credit degree that will train students on how to respond to health challenges.

FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management welcomes Geralyn Brostrom as Chip Cassidy Distinguished Professor of Wine Studies

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 14:27:00 -0500

The Vidal-Duart Wine Studies program at the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University (FIU) has appointed Geralyn Brostrom as the first Chip Cassidy Distinguished Professor of Wine Studies.

Brostrom has held diverse positions in winery management, import, distribution, retail and the non-profit wine education sector for more than two decades. She brings a unique international perspective to her role. She has authored three books on wine, including “The Business of Wine: An Encyclopedia.”

“We are excited to welcome Geralyn Brostrom as the inaugural professor of wine in our Vidal-Duart Wine Studies program,” said Michael Cheng, dean of the Chaplin School. “With her extensive knowledge and experience in the field of wine studies, Brostrom will elevate our students’ educational journey and achievements and contribute to the school’s overall success.”

Chip Cassidy founded the top-8 hospitality school’s wine program in the 1970s and founded the Florida Extravaganza, a one-day wine and food pairing event on campus. That event has blossomed into the 105+ event The Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One (SOBEWFF®), one of the world’s most renowned wine and food festivals, in partnership with the world’s preeminent alcohol beverage distributor, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. More than 1,500 students help run SOBEWFF® of which the school is a beneficiary. The school is now named after the Chaplin family, who helped found Southern Glazer’s.

FIU alumni Tina Vidal-Duart and Carlos Duart established the Vidal-Duart Wine Studies program in December to continue the school and Cassidy’s legacy. It is the only wine studies program in the country named by a Hispanic family and for a woman. The gift includes support to endow the Chip Cassidy distinguished professor in wine studies and directly benefits students seeking their undergraduate degrees in either beverage or spirits management.

“I am honored to be appointed as the Chip Cassidy Distinguished Professor of Wine Studies at Florida International University and to have this opportunity to support Chip’s legacy,” Brostrom said. “I am inspired to be a part of the talented team of wine and beverage professionals at FIU who are so passionate about preparing the next generation of hospitality leaders. Together we look forward to setting FIU’s future path while continuing to push the boundaries of knowledge and innovation in the field,” she added.

Before joining FIU, Brostrom made significant contributions to wine business education at Sonoma State University and The Culinary Institute of America. Her industry consulting work included collaborations with Vinexpo America, various wine importers and regional wine boards. She is also the co-founder of Italian Wine Central, a wine education and certification organization.

Brostrom holds a BS in management, an MBA in marketing, and she earned her doctorate in business administration from Bocconi University in Milan, Italy. As a dual citizen of the United States and the Italian Republic, she has explored over 20 of the world’s wine regions and resided in the heart of California’s Napa Valley for close to a decade.

The Vidal-Duart Wine Studies program will be featured at SOBEWFF® in February. Other community events and the first student cohort under the program’s new name are scheduled to begin in spring 2024.

FIU Business online master’s program ranked in nation’s Top 10 and No. 1 in Florida by U.S. News & World Report

Cynthia Corzo — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 14:40:00 -0500

The online business master’s and online MBA programs in FIU's College of Business (FIU Business) have been ranked among the best in the United States by U.S. News & World Report in its 2024 rankings released Feb. 7. FIU’s online business master’s program is ranked No. 9, up from No. 21 in 2023, and the top ranked program in Florida. FIU joins programs in the top 10 that include those at Carnegie Mellon University, the University of Southern California, Arizona State University and Boston University. The FIU Business online MBA program is ranked No. 29, up from No. 44 in 2023.

“FIU Business was a pioneer in online business education, having launched online programs more than 20 years ago,” said William Hardin, dean of FIU Business. “Our reputation for offering first rate online programs at an affordable cost has grown significantly since then, resulting in top national rankings as we see with this latest U.S. News report.”

FIU Business now offers eight online specialized master’s programs including those in accounting, finance, international business, health informatics and analytics, human resource management, international real estate, marketing, and logistics and supply chain management. It also offers a fully online MBA program and a fully online Healthcare MBA program. 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.

Other FIU programs that went up in the ranks were the overall online bachelor’s, which went from No. 60 to No. 32, and online education, which went up from No. 43 to No. 35.

Consortium visits DC to position new South Florida Climate Tech Hub

Contributing Author — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 09:18:00 -0500

Bermuda Triangle mystery: FIU dean offers theories on most famous lost ship

Stephanie Rendon — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 14:15:00 -0500

The USS Cyclops disappeared more than 100 years ago. A new examination of the case has researchers posing questions about the vessel’s dangerous cargo to neurotoxicologist Tomás R. Guilarte.

Lessons I learned from a tennis GOAT and a hospitality king

Contributing Author — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 14:00:00 -0500

A Chaplin School student shares takeaways from Serena Williams, DJ Summit and other celebs-turned-entrepreneurs who visited FIU’s most-popular class

Whether of politicians, pop stars or teenage girls, sexualized deepfakes are on the rise

Contributing Author — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 10:00:00 -0500

Asia A. Eaton, professor at FIU, and other researchers write in The Conversation.

Mosquitoes turn egg-laying into exclusive pool party

JoAnn Adkins — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 07:54:00 -0500

New research has revealed deadly Aedes aegypti may avoid large crowds when laying eggs, but still want to congregate with other egg-laying females.

Que rico! Florida leaders visit Chaplin School to promote healthy eating

Contributing Author — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 13:30:00 -0500

FIU supported the lieutenant governor and surgeon general’s efforts with a cooking demo for local seniors that featured low-fat, low-sugar twists on popular Hispanic dishes.

Bermuda Triangle mystery: FIU dean appears on History Channel’s “Into Cursed Waters”

Stephanie Rendon — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 15:15:00 -0500

Renowned neurotoxicologist Tomás R. Guilarte discusses the 1918 case of a missing ship carrying dangerous cargo.

FIU leads conversation on AI in higher ed

Cesar Cabot — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 09:30:00 -0500

The Jack D. Gordon Institute invited academic leaders to discuss policies, training and education to help students and faculty embrace the positives of the technology and guard against negatives.

All in the family for MDCPS Teacher of the Year

Ayleen Barbel Fattal — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 11:00:00 -0500

Vanessa Valle (left) celebrates her 2021 Miami-Dade County Teacher of the Year win with FIU instructor Melanie Morales.

Celebrity sightings: Popular hospitality professor David Grutman brings more A-list guest speakers to class

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 17:31:00 -0500

Bad Bunny and Jason Momoa are among the latest celebrities sharing insight and inspiration.

Suicide has reached epidemic proportions in the U.S. − yet medical students still don’t receive adequate training to treat suicidal patients

Contributing Author — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 10:07:00 -0500

Rodolfo Bonnin, Leonard Gralnik and Nathaly Shoua-Desmarais, psychiatry and behavioral health researchers at FIU write in The Conversation.

Playing pants: One opera student’s journey into ‘trouser’ roles in "Dido and Aeneas"

Michelle Vires — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 10:42:00 -0500

There is a history in opera of female singers stepping into male roles. On Feb. 1 and 2, an undergraduate mezzo-soprano will do just that at The Wertheim.

Take our quiz for January 2024

Alexandra Pecharich — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0500

Answer four quick questions to see just how much you know about what's been going on around here.

FIU’s Adam Smith Center names a former Latin American president and other distinguished global leaders to serve as Senior Leadership Fellows for spring

Contributing Author — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 13:06:00 -0500

FIU’s Adam Smith Center for Economic Freedom will host four distinguished Senior Leadership Fellows in the spring of 2024

The surprising reason why insects circle lights at night: They lose track of the sky

Contributing Author — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 11:07:00 -0500

"How does a simple light change fast, precise navigators into helpless, flittering captives?"

Millennia-old mystery about insects and light at night gets new explanation

Angela Nicoletti — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 11:00:00 -0500

A good grasp of gravity is mandatory for all animals.

American Express offers jobs, internships to 25 FIU students

Contributing Author — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 09:30:00 -0500

The students, the majority of them women studying computer science, spent three weeks at the company as part of a new mini-internship program facilitated by Break Through Tech Miami.

From startup to $2 billion empire: Alumnus founder to share ‘secrets of success’ on campus

Contributing Author — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 14:35:00 -0500

Gaston Taratuta MBA ’98 arrived in the United States from Argentina with empty pockets. The 2022 Entrepreneur of the Year will reveal his winning formula at a Feb. 7 presentation open to all.

On the shoulders of giants: next generation of authors and poets hone their craft at FIU

Gisela Maria Valencia — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 11:46:00 -0500

Your next great read might just be by an FIU grad. Meet a few rising stars here.

By the book: FIU’s creative writing program is a force to reckon with

Gisela Maria Valencia — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 11:45:00 -0500

To celebrate Literacy Week, we share the success of FIU authors and poets who are changing the world with words and feeding our love for good stories.

Got an FIU Alert? Provide feedback in this short survey

Contributing Author — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 17:24:00 -0500

Please assist us in assessing the effectiveness of the emergency alert sent earlier today.

FIU launches first-of-its-kind Center for Fraternity and Sorority Enrichment

Clara-Meretan Kiah — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 13:51:00 -0500

The new space in GC will support a holistic collegiate experience by preparing students in the areas of leadership, social responsibility and community impact.

Ninth Annual Holocaust and Genocide Awareness Week features thought-provoking themes and explorations

Todd Ellenberg — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 12:33:00 -0500

Several events open to the public will take place on campus Jan. 25-Feb. 1.

Even among immigrants, English is the preferred language in Miami

Angela Nicoletti — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 10:40:00 -0500

A new study by sociolinguist Phillip Carter finds that bilingual speakers rely heavily on English.

FIU Business launches certificate program for condominium board members and owners

Cynthia Corzo — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 11:21:00 -0500

FIU Business has launched a training certificate program designed for newly elected condominium board members and condo owners.

Benjamín León Jr. makes landmark gift to FIU’s CasaCuba

Maydel Santana — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 10:33:00 -0500

Leon Medical Centers Chairman and Founder Benjamín León Jr. has given FIU CasaCuba a $10 million gift to help build its new home.

Benjamín León Jr. hace regalo histórico a FIU CasaCuba

Maydel Santana — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 10:23:00 -0500

Benjamín León Jr., chairman y fundador de Leon Medical Centers, ha realizado una donación de $10 millones a FIU CasaCuba para ayudar a construir su nuevo hogar.

Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum-FIU presents “Kacey Jeffers: Multitudes”

Contributing Author — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 09:47:00 -0500

The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum-FIU announces the opening of New York-based artist Kacey Jeffers’ solo museum exhibition: Multitudes. On view through May 4, 2024, Multitudes features photographs of communities and people on the Caribbean island of Nevis, Jeffers’ native country.

The exhibition includes twenty-five photographs from various projects, all created on Nevis, that consider the aftermath of colonialism on Nevisian culture—examining aspects such as school uniforms, family life, tourism, cultural celebrations, and the act of photography itself—prompting contemplation of the humanity that populates an island often thought of only as a tourist destination.

He illuminates his interest in authentic representation throughout each body of work in this new exhibition.

“These images express my fascination with using my personal and cultural stories to picture a shared humanness,” said Jeffers, in his extensive artist essay. “I hope this exhibition encourages you to reflect on the idea that by rejecting the limitations of singular narratives, we actively contribute to the revival of empathy and compassion for those different from us.”

Jeffers began his professional photography career in 2015 after securing an artist visa and moved from Nevis to New York. Upon moving back to Nevis in 2018, he began to use photography as a way of connecting again with his family, community and culture. Multitudes encapsulates his career up to this point.

“Jeffers’ keen sense of observation and thoughtful consideration of his subject matter will inspire our visitors to think in new ways about the communities in which they reside,” said Jordana Pomeroy, director of the Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum. “As a community-oriented museum, we find in Jeffers’ practice a respect for humanity, a value that Dr. Martin Luther King taught us.”

Kacey Jeffers: Multitudes is part of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Exhibition Series, which aims to serve as a catalyst for dialogue and to enrich the community with new perspectives. To learn more about FIU’s Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Celebration please click here.

The Frost Art Museum will host an opening ceremony for this exhibition on January 24, 2024, from 4 to 6 p.m. The event takes place at the Frost Art Museum, located at 10975 SW 17^th St. and is free and open to the public.

Everyday Hustlin’: Popular Chaplin School course taught by globally renowned entrepreneur David Grutman kicks off with surprise guest

Ivonne Yee-Amor — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 12:45:00 -0500

The wildly successful innovator brings in celebrity friends – such as, this week, music and business mogul Rick Ross – as he gives students advice and inspiration to jumpstart their careers.

How Ecuador went from being Latin America’s model of stability to a nation in crisis

Contributing Author — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 08:54:00 -0500

Eduardo Gamarra, professor of politics and international relations at FIU, writes in The Conversation.

Welcome to Spring 2024 at FIU

Contributing Author — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 14:33:00 -0500

President Kenneth A. Jessell shared the following welcome message with the FIU community as we kick off a new year and a new semester.

Plan for a successful spring semester

Clara-Meretan Kiah — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 10:35:00 -0500

Here are some ways to prepare for success in Spring 2024.