June 21, 2022 Volume 68 Issue 37

With a vision to strategically bridge the gap between pediatric and adult care for individuals with Williams Syndrome, a $25 million gift from Michael R. Armellino, W’61, will establish the Armellino Center of Excellence for Williams Syndrome at Penn Medicine. The center will serve as a model for coordinated care across the lifespan and provide social support and pioneering research for individuals with the genetic condition.

Williams Syndrome, which is caused by deletions on chromosome 7q11, affects one in every 7,500 people. Children with Williams Syndrome generally have unusual social abilities while also navigating intellectual disability, anxiety, executive function challenges, predisposition for cardiovascular and metabolic disease, and a variety of other medical conditions. Seeking to develop a comprehensive program that meets the needs of patients with Williams Syndrome and their families throughout all stages of life, Penn Medicine will collaborate closely with Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), which is home to one of the largest Williams Syndrome clinics in the country, to enhance clinical and social services and advance scientific discovery to encompass the social, psychological, genetic, metabolic, and clinical complexity of Williams Syndrome.

Mr. Armellino, a resident of New Jersey who is retired after a long career at Goldman Sachs, has three sons and seven grandchildren. His partner, Beverly Karch, has a granddaughter, Maelyn, who is living with Williams Syndrome, as well as a grandson.

“Maelyn, along with her younger brother and my grandchildren, are the lights of my life,” Mr. Armellino said. “I am so impressed by Maelyn’s parents Jenna and Corey, and all the parents I’ve met who are part of the Williams Syndrome community. This gift is my way to advance genetic research and to help create a bright future for individuals with Williams Syndrome.”

The new Armellino Center aims to ensure robust and expanded clinical experiences for individuals with Williams Syndrome that exceed the current standard of care. This will include integrated lifelong clinical care, behavioral health and executive function support, and social services coordination. The center will also spearhead basic, translational and clinical research on Williams Syndrome.

“The Armellino Center of Excellence for Williams Syndrome will be a hub and international model for clinical care and research but, most importantly, it will be a welcoming home for those touched by this condition,” said J. Larry Jameson, executive vice president of the University of Pennsylvania for the Health System and dean of the Perelman School of Medicine. “Individuals with Williams Syndrome face physical and intellectual challenges, coupled with a complex and uneven clinical care landscape. Long into the future, this generous gift will pave the way for improved care and scientific breakthroughs that will help us better care for individuals with Williams Syndrome, creating the highest possible quality of life for this community.”

Penn Medicine and CHOP are the ideal places to integrate clinical care and biomedical research for Williams Syndrome across the lifespan. The new center will be overseen by Daniel J. Rader, chair of the department of genetics and chief of the division of translational medicine and human genetics in the department of medicine at the Perelman School of Medicine. Dr. Rader also serves as chief of the division of human genetics in the department of pediatrics at CHOP, where the Williams syndrome clinic is directed by Sanmati Cuddapah.

“I’ve dedicated my career to stimulating collaborations that bring together some of the best clinicians and scientists from various disciplines to focus on common goals,” Dr. Rader said. “Combining our passion for excellent care and discovery with the enthusiastic Williams Syndrome community will lead to more support, advocacy and—hopefully—more answers than ever before.”

Jocelyn Krebs, former president of the Board of Trustees of the Williams Syndrome Association and a researcher who studied a gene in the Williams Syndrome deletion before having a child of her own with Williams Syndrome, is helping to launch the Armellino Center. An international recruitment process for a founding director of the Armellino Center is actively underway.

“CHOP and Penn Medicine have a long history of collaboration to provide a continuum of care for patients with rare conditions like Williams Syndrome,” said Joseph W. St. Geme, Physician-in-Chief, Chairman of the department of pediatrics, and the Leonard and Madlyn Abramson Endowed Chair in Pediatrics at CHOP. “Our multispecialty Williams Syndrome clinic has provided critical services for many pediatric patients, and this new center will allow us to meet all of their care needs as they transition from childhood through adulthood.”

The Williams Syndrome deletion on chromosome 7q11 includes 27 genes, but the effect of the deletion of most of these genes is not understood. Scientific discovery through the center will deepen understanding of the roles of multiple genes underlying Williams Syndrome, will accelerate translational research in novel diagnostics and therapeutics for Williams Syndrome, and will permit the detailed study of individuals with Williams Syndrome throughout the lifespan. Rapid scientific advances present major opportunities to gather and analyze data in new ways, allowing researchers to better understand how deletion of specific genes leads to particular Williams Syndrome symptoms and point to new pathways for therapeutic development.

Kathleen Shields Anderson was appointed Vice President of Public Safety, effective June 1, 2022.

Ms. Shields Anderson joined Penn in 2012 as executive director of operations and chief of staff. In this position, she was responsible for, among other priorities, supporting the Vice President in the management of seven departments; acting as public information officer of the Penn Police Department; serving as a liaison with other Penn offices and divisions; and overseeing compliance with federal, state, and local crime reporting data and policy requirements under Clery, Title IX, and the Uniform Crime Reporting Act.

Since January, Ms. Shields Anderson has served as Interim Vice President of Public Safety (Almanac December 14, 2021). Through her command of this role and her work at Penn over the past 10 years, she has skillfully demonstrated her ability to effectively lead and manage the division, consistent with Penn’s larger culture, goals, and aspirations. She is a strong collaborator across Penn, and she looks forward to deeper relationships there and across the health system. One of her first priorities will be to commence the search for the University’s Chief of Police.

Her appointment represents the first non-sworn leader of the Division of Public Safety since its formation in the mid-1990s. In a very strong and competitive pool, Ms. Shields Anderson emerged as the right leader for Penn’s Division of Public Safety.

As the Vice President of Public Safety, Ms. Shields Anderson will ensure a positive campus experience for Penn’s diverse and learning-focused community. She will work to maintain an inclusive educational and working environment that fosters collaborative relationships with students, faculty, and staff. She will also provide comprehensive vision, strategic leadership, and effective management for fire and emergency services; the Penn Police Department; PennComm and emergency communications; security services; security technology; special services; and finance and administration. Furthermore, she will focus on implementing best practices in her field; prioritizing prevention and community caretaking; using procedural justice initiatives to guarantee impartiality, transparency, fairness, respect, and dignity; and serving as Penn’s liaison to external law enforcement agencies, neighborhood security associations, and other external entities on public safety and emergency response issues.

Before joining Penn, she served as Assistant District Attorney in the Philadelphia District Attorney’s office. In this role, she was part of a team that designed and implemented new “charging protocols,” including the creation of arrest diversion programs and review of appropriate charging levels for criminal prosecutions.

Ms. Shields Anderson earned her BA from the College of the Holy Cross; her JD from Villanova University’s Charles Widger School of Law; and her MBA from Temple University’s Fox School of Business.

Penn Engineering is pleased to announce the recipients of four scholarly chairs: Haim Bau, Tal Rabin, Aaron Roth, and Eric Stach.

Haim Bau has been named the Richard H. & S. L. Gabel Professor of Mechanical Engineering. Dr. Bau is a professor in the department of mechanical engineering and applied mechanics. He earned a PhD in mechanical engineering from Cornell University and joined Penn that same year, in 1980.

Dr. Bau is the recipient of numerous awards, including Penn’s 2015 One Health Award, along with Changchun Liu (Almanac November 17, 2015), for their work with the health schools on point-of-care molecular diagnostics, a 2013 Provost’s Award for Distinguished PhD Teaching and Mentoring, and his 1993 election as a fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.

Dr. Bau’s research interests include nano- and micro-fluidics, with applications such as liquid and particle transportation via nanopipes, and laboratories-on-chips for disease detection at the point of care. As a member of the Nano/Bio Interface Center and the Institute for Medicine and Engineering, his interdisciplinary scholarship builds bridges between Penn Engineering, Penn Medicine, Penn Dental and Penn Vet.

The Richard H. & S. L. Gabel Professorship was established in 1991 by the family of Richard H. Gabel, ME ‘32, a world-renowned industrialist and an exceptionally active undergraduate who was class valedictorian. Mr. Gabel was founder and CEO of Superior Tube Company.

Tal Rabin has been named the Rachleff Family Professor. Dr. Rabin is a professor in the department of computer and information science. She joined Penn in 2020 after several years at IBM. She is an alumna of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, where she received her PhD in 1994.

Dr. Rabin is the recipient of numerous industry awards and recognitions. Most recently, in 2021 she and her advisor received one of the field’s highest honors, the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) 30-year STOC Test of Time Award. She is also a 2019 recipient of the RSA Award for Excellence in the Field of Mathematics, a 2017 ACM fellow, a 2016 member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, a 2015 International Association for Cryptologic Research (IACR) fellow, and in both 2018 and 2019 Forbes named her one of the world’s Top 50 Women In Tech.

Dr. Rabin’s research is in the area of cryptography and network security. She works on the design of efficient and provably secure cryptographic algorithms, and on secure distributed protocols and the theoretical foundations of cryptography. She also works on number theory, theory of algorithms and distributed systems. Her research has been cited over 15,000 times.

The Rachleff Family Professorship was established in 1999 by Andrew S. Rachleff, W’80, PAR’14, and Debra Rachleff, PAR’14, to support a standing faculty member who is a leader in the field of computer and information science and who has demonstrated potential to establish SEAS as preeminent among its peer institutions. Andrew Rachleff is a University Trustee and a member of Penn Engineering’s Board of Advisors.

Aaron Roth has been named the Henry Salvatori Professor of Computer & Cognitive Science. Dr. Roth is a professor in the department of computer and information science. He holds a PhD from Carnegie Mellon University and conducted postdoctoral research at Microsoft Research before joining Penn in 2011.

Highlights of Dr. Roth’s many awards include the prestigious Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE) in 2013; a Google Faculty Research Award for 2015-2016; an Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellowship in 2015, and an NSF CAREER Award spanning 2012-2017. His 2019 textbook with Michael Kearns, The Ethical Algorithm: The Science of Socially Aware Algorithm Design, won the American Association of American Publishers’ 2021 PROSE Award in the Computer and Information Sciences Category.

Dr. Roth’s research focuses on differential privacy, algorithmic fairness, game theory, and learning theory. He aims to embed constraints of social norms directly into the design of algorithms, using game theory to make predictions about the effects of algorithmic interventions in dynamic environments, and developing algorithmic principles that lead to rigorous statistical guarantees regarding the reliability of data.

The Henry Salvatori Professorship was established in 1977 by Henry Salvatori, who earned a BS in electrical engineering at the University of Pennsylvania in 1923. Mr. Salvatori was a well-known industrialist, philanthropist, and pioneer in the oil exploration industry.

Eric Stach has been named the Robert D. Bent Professor of Engineering. Dr. Stach is a professor in the department of materials science and engineering. Before joining Penn in 2017, he held leadership positions at two national laboratories, Lawrence Berkeley National Lab and Brookhaven National Laboratory, was a tenured professor at Purdue University and was the Chief Technology Officer and co-founder of Hummingbird Scientific (a position he continues to hold). He is an alumnus of the University of Virginia, where he received his PhD in 1998.

Dr. Stach serves as the director of the Laboratory for Research on the Structure of Matter. Highlights of his many awards include his 2021 election as a fellow of the Materials Research Society, his 2017 election as a fellow of the American Physical Society, his 2013 election as a fellow of the Microscopy Society of America, the ISI Highly Cited Researcher “Cross Field” award in 2018 and the Microscopy Society of America’s Burton Medal in 2009.

Dr. Stach’s research focuses on the development of advanced in situ and operando imaging and characterization techniques, which enable functional materials to be analyzed on the smallest scales while in the environments they normally work.

The Robert D. Bent Professorship was established in 1978 by a grant from the Atlantic Richfield Foundation to honor Mr. Bent, an alumnus of chemical engineering who served as a member of the Board of Advisors for the (then) College of Engineering and Applied Science.

Desmond Upton Patton has been named the University of Pennsylvania’s 31st Penn Integrates Knowledge University Professor, effective July 1. The announcement was made on June 7 by Interim President Wendell Pritchett and Interim Provost Beth Winkelstein.

Dr. Patton, a pioneer in the interdisciplinary fusion of social work, communications, and data science, will be the Brian and Randi Schwartz University Professor, with joint appointments in the School of Social Policy & Practice and the Annenberg School for Communication along with a secondary appointment in the department of psychiatry in the Perelman School of Medicine.

“Desmond Patton’s innovative work embodies the goals of our Penn Integrates Knowledge program, which seeks to share knowledge and understanding across disciplines,” said Interim President Pritchett. “Dr. Patton’s research on the relationships among youth, gang violence, and social media and the expression of grief, identity, and well-being through online communication places him at the forefront of his field. Through his ground-breaking combination of substantive social work knowledge with the predictive and evaluative power of machine learning, his work crosses disciplinary boundaries and advances our understanding of the role of technology in society. We are thrilled to have him join our distinguished faculty as a Penn Integrates Knowledge Professor.”

Dr. Patton is currently a professor of social work and sociology, as well as the senior associate dean for curriculum innovation and academic affairs, at the School of Social Work at Columbia University, where he has taught since 2015, following three years at the University of Michigan. His research employs both qualitative and computational data to better understand the relationships among young people, gang violence, and social media, including how violence and grief are expressed on social media, how social media facilitate youth and gang violence, and how gang-involved youth conceptualize threats on social media. He has expanded this research by working with communities, youth, social workers, and computer scientists to develop innovative algorithms for analyzing social media posts, which have been widely adopted by tech companies and others.

He serves as associate director of diversity, equity, and inclusion at the Data Science Institute of Columbia University and as founding director of SAFElab, a research initiative that brings together methods from social work and computational data science to better understand and intervene in violence involving youth of color. He is the author of Facing Gakirah: Lessons on Violence, Loss and Humanity from the Digital Streets of Chicago (University of California Press, forthcoming), and his work has been cited across a wide range of media, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, NPR, and Nature, in addition to numerous articles in scholarly books and journals. He received a PhD from the Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice at the University of Chicago; an MSW from the School of Social Work at the University of Michigan; and a BA with honors in anthropology and political science from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

“Desmond Patton’s path-breaking work exemplifies our faculty’s strong commitment to finding new solutions for the world’s most intractable challenges,” said Interim Provost Winkelstein, “His research shows how the most powerful new approaches can emerge from bringing together the methods of different disciplines. This work is changing the lives of young people and their communities around the country, as it is also redefining approaches to social media, algorithm development, and data science.”

The Penn Integrates Knowledge program was launched by Penn President Emerita Amy Gutmann in 2005 as a University-wide initiative to recruit exceptional faculty members whose research and teaching exemplify the integration of knowledge across disciplines and who are appointed in at least two schools at Penn.

The Brian and Randi Schwartz University Professorship is a gift of Brian Schwartz, W’89, and his wife, Randi Schwartz. Mr. Schwartz is vice chair of the Board of Advisors of the School of Social Policy & Practice. He is co-president of H.I.G. Capital, a global alternative investment firm.

Andrew M. Hoffman, Gilbert S. Kahn Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania (Penn Vet), has named P. Jeremy Wang, an internationally recognized reproductive biologist, the Ralph L. Brinster President’s Distinguished Professor.

Dr. Wang holds an extraordinary record of scholarly accomplishments. His research program focuses on the cellular, molecular, genetic and epigenetic controls of meiosis, the process of cell division that is unique to germline cells and influences genetic diversity. Dr. Wang seeks to understand the generation of gametes through in vitro meiosis, which could remedy infertility in animals and humans; he also seeks to identify abnormal meiosis, which can result in spontaneous pregnancy loss or human congenital conditions. He has received NIH support totaling $16 million at Penn and is currently principal investigator on two NIH grants. He has mentored more than 28 students and fellows from across the United States and the world.

“Dr. Wang’s scientific work has appeared in over 60 peer reviewed publications in high-impact journals,” said Ellen Puré, chair of the department of biomedical sciences and the Grace Lansing Lambert Professor of Biomedical Science. “His outstanding achievements have garnered him numerous awards, including the prestigious Society for the Study of Reproduction Research Award. Dr. Wang has published in journals such as Nature Genetics, Science Advances, Genes & Development, and Nucleic Acids Research. He is highly sought after by editorial boards and grant review panels, and as a presenter for more than 50 invited and named lectures.”

Dr. Wang received his MD from Peking University Health Science Center and his PhD in molecular biology and genetics from Cornell University. Following a post-doctoral fellowship with David C. Page at MIT’s Whitehead Institute in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Dr. Wang joined Penn Vet’s department of biomedical sciences in 2002 as an assistant professor of developmental biology. His career advanced to associate professor, to professor, and then to director of the Center for Animal Transgenesis and Germ Cell Research. Dr. Wang also serves on the faculty at the Center for Research on Reproduction and Women’s Health at Penn’s Perelman School of Medicine and at Penn’s Institute of Regenerative Medicine.

“The Ralph L. Brinster President’s Distinguished Professorship was intended for a prominent reproductive scientist who embodies the passion, rigor, and pioneering spirit of Dr. Ralph Brinster, our eminent faculty member in the same area of study, and National Medal of Science laureate,” said Andrew Hoffman, the Gilbert S. Kahn Dean of Veterinary Medicine. “Dr. Jeremy Wang personifies those qualities, and as such, he has been selected among his peers, both here at the University and across the globe, to hold this illustrious position. I am delighted to have him on our faculty.”

The awarding of a named, endowed professorship is the highest honor bestowed upon a faculty member at the University of Pennsylvania and reflects a commitment to scientific discovery, mentorship, and service. Established in 2017 through a gift from former Penn Vet board of advisor s member Henrietta Alexander, the Ralph L. Brinster President’s Distinguished Professorship was named in honor of Dr. Brinster, Penn Vet’s Richard King Mellon Professor of Reproductive Physiology.

Senior Vice Provost for Research Dawn Bonnell has announced the appointment of Richard C. Wender as executive director of the Center for Public Health Initiatives (CPHI), effective July 1, 2022.

“Richard Wender is uniquely qualified to lead CPHI,” said Dr. Bonnell. “He is committed to leading teams who share his passion for addressing the social determinants of health to pursue health equity and social justice. His career in medicine and public health has demonstrated his lifelong focus on primary care, population health, and narrowing health disparities. As we emerge from a public health crisis, this is a crucial moment to reinvigorate public health education, research, and practice across Penn’s campus “

Dr. Wender is a professor and chair of the department of family medicine and community health in the Perelman School of Medicine. Before joining Penn in August 2020, Dr. Wender served as the first Chief Cancer Control Officer of the American Cancer Society from 2013-2020 and spent 33 years in the department of family and community medicine at Thomas Jefferson University, including 12 years as alumni professor and chair.

As Chief Cancer Control Officer of the American Cancer Society, Dr. Wender launched a transformative national initiative to achieve 80 percent colorectal cancer screening rates, a national and global campaign to increase HPV vaccination rates, and an enterprise-wide effort to help build healthier communities.

The CPHI, founded in 2007, is a University-wide center that advances public health research and practice, fosters multi-disciplinary collaboration, and promotes meaningful community/academic partnerships. It also acts as the organizational home and academic base for Penn’s multi-disciplinary, inter-school Master in Public Health (MPH) degree program. Dr.

Wender succeeds Jennifer Pinto-Martin, the Viola MacInnes/Independence Professor of Nursing, who is stepping down after leading the center since 2013.

Dr. Wender earned a BS from Princeton University and MD from Penn and completed his family medicine residency at Thomas Jefferson University.

J. Dean Amro, C’97, and Amira Amro have made a gift to Penn Arts & Sciences to establish the J. Dean Amro Endowed Lectureship Fund. This fund will provide financial support to energize Arabic language instruction and curriculum development, with a focus on Arabic pedagogy in the department of Near Eastern languages and civilizations (NELC).

“This gift will make a lasting impact on the study of Arabic language at Penn,” said Steven J. Fluharty, Dean and Thomas S. Gates, Jr. Professor of Psychology, Pharmacology, and Neuroscience. “The J. Dean Amro Endowed Lectureship will have a ripple effect across the department by enhancing courses that appeal to both beginners and heritage learners, and by creating opportunities for deeper, more engaged learning.”

A lecturer will be named each year in perpetuity to the J. Dean Amro Endowed Lectureship in Arabic Language and Study. The gift will also support areas including public lectures, teaching development initiatives, the production of texts and other materials centered on student learning and the Arabic language program, with particular attention to literature, the arts, and humanistic scholarship more broadly.

As an undergraduate, Dean Amro greatly enjoyed his time studying the Arabic language through classes in NELC. “We are excited to create this fund that has the potential to help Penn become the top place to study Arabic,” he said. “In this way, we hope to impact the many students who will pass through the program. When students get a firm grasp of Arabic, they will more likely appreciate the rich history and dynamic culture.”

The gift is in recognition of Mr. Amro’s 25th reunion this spring. The Amros have previously supported the Penn Arts & Sciences Dean’s Discretionary Fund and the department of Near Eastern languages and civilizations. Dean Amro graduated from the College of Arts & Sciences with a degree in international relations and a minor in economics. He is a principal at the Brodsky Organization, a family-run business that develops, owns, and manages residential and mixed-use real estate in New York City. He also serves on the Board of Governors of the Real Estate Board of New York. For the last ten years, Mr. Amro has been a trustee of the Lycée Français de New York and was recently elected chairman of its board.

Penn has announced an expansion of its SNF Paideia Program, starting July 2022. A new grant from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) will enable the SNF Paideia Program to support additional courses each year; grow the fellows cohort; and provide more campus-wide programming, as well as assist student organizations to effectively incorporate robust but respectful dialogue into their activities. This renewed partnership will strengthen a shared commitment to the civic mission of higher education at Penn and beyond. 

“The SNF Paideia Program has been a tremendous resource for students to obtain the knowledge and skills to foster lives of citizenship, service, and wellness,” said Interim President Wendell H. Pritchett. “We are extraordinarily grateful to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation for their continued commitment to this critical program.  With increased course offerings and expanded outreach to students, the SNF Paideia Program is poised to increase its impact exponentially.”

Since the program’s launch in early 2020, nearly 1,250 students from all four of Penn’s undergraduate schools have enrolled in one or more SNF Paideia-designated courses, which are designed to help undergraduate students develop as civic-minded citizens who embrace wellness, practice productive dialogue across difference, and pursue service-oriented roles to enhance the lives of others. 

“True to its name, in less than three years, the SNF Paideia Program has cemented its place as a new model for educating the whole person by providing Penn students with the concepts and tools they need to become thriving and conscientious citizens of the world,” said Michael X. Delli Carpini, faculty director of the SNF Paideia Program. “This generous grant will enable even more Penn students to experience the lifelong benefits of the SNF Paideia Program.”

“Since SNF first collaborated with Penn to create and support the SNF Paideia Program, the need for its thoughtful work to foster civil discourse and civic engagement has only become more pressing,” said SNF co-president Andreas Dracopoulos. “We are thrilled that with this ongoing growth and expansion of the program, more students will be able to experience the chance to connect across divides, to encounter new perspectives, and to build the skills and habits that shape a lifetime of active and productive citizenship.”

Increased support from SNF will allow the SNF Paideia Program to enhance the number of yearly course offerings and reach 1,000 students annually. A portion of the SNF grant will also expand the SNF Paideia Fellowship Program, which provides selective cohorts of Penn students with an immersive three-year experience designed to connect their general education and major requirements to public engagement, dialogue, and community building. With the expansion, the program will be able to support 25 fellows per cohort, increasing the total number of fellows from 60 to 75 each year.

The final portion of SNF’s expanded grant will support new SNF Paideia Program events that facilitate broader exposure to robust and civil dialogue on issues related citizenship, service, and individual and community wellness. To date, SNF Paideia events and programs have been attended by nearly 15,000 people on campus and beyond. With increased funding, the program will be able to expand its sponsored and co-sponsored events, create new skill sharing opportunities, assist student groups in integrating dialogue into their work, and strengthen collaboration with existing campus programs devoted to creating a culture of civic dialogue and engagement at Penn. 

“The SNF Paideia Program offers students the opportunity to engage in thought-provoking dialogues with their peers,” said Tori Sousa, a junior studying philosophy, politics, and economics in the College of Arts and Sciences. “It equips students to appropriately utilize dialogue as a tool to dissect the societal issues that many of our studies center around, in a manner that is productive, rather than pointless or ineffective. In such a divisive political climate, the SNF Paideia Program has proven, for me, to be incredibly relevant to my coursework and even my conversations outside of a classroom setting.”  

Susan Barker Baird, G’89, a former research associate at Penn’s School of Nursing, passed away on March 30. She was 79.

Raised in East Hanover, New Jersey, Ms. Baird graduated from the John Hopkins Hospital School of Nursing in 1963, then settled into a life of raising her children and working night shifts as a nurse. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Ms. Baird ran a bed-and-breakfast in Nantucket and a restaurant in New Hampshire before returning to nursing with a position at New London Hospital. This post reignited her interest in oncology, and she spent the next two decades as an administrator and researcher at several institutions around the U.S. These included the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Norris Cotton Cancer Center, National Institutes of Health, Oncology Nursing Society, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Meniscus Limited, and, from 1988 to 1990, Penn’s School of Nursing. During this productive career, she earned BA, MPH and MA degrees from New England College (1977), Boston University (1979), and University of Pennsylvania (1989), respectively. Ms. Baird racked up a distinguished record of professional service and received Distinguished Service Awards from the American Cancer Society (1990) and Oncology Nursing Society (1994).

Later in her career, Ms. Baird switched gears and worked in camp nursing, serving at Incarnation Center, Nature’s Classroom, and Sargent Center for Outdoor Education. She retired in 2007 and moved to Cape Cod, taking an active role at the Keystone Place senior living community. 

Ms. Baird is survived by her daughter, Leslie Montejano; two grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; her sisters, Mary Perry and Carolyn Fraley; two nephews; three grandnephew/nieces; and other cousins and extended family. A private family service and burial at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Wilton, NH will follow at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations would be welcomed in Ms. Baird’s memory to Incarnation Center, PO Box 577, Ivoryton, CT 06442, www.incarnationcenter.org. 

Douglas Arthur Canning, the former chief of urology at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and a professor of surgery in the Perelman School of Medicine (PSOM), passed away on May 30 following injuries sustained in a bicycle accident. He was 65.

The son of an architect and a nurse, Dr. Canning grew up in Groton, CT and attended Robert E. Fitch High School before leaving for New Hampshire to attend Dartmouth College, where he earned his BA in chemistry in 1979. He then began a medical degree at Dartmouth’s Geisel School of Medicine. After graduating in 1982, he took an Armed Forces Scholarship for his post-graduate urology training at the Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. He held a pediatric urology fellowship at the Brady Urological Institute at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, then served in the U.S. Navy at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego for four years.

In 1992, Dr. Canning came to CHOP, where he joined the urology staff. Two years later, PSOM brought him on board as an assistant professor of urology in the division of surgery. In 1997, he became the division chief of urology at CHOP, and three years later, he was promoted to associate professor in PSOM. Under Dr. Canning’s leadership, CHOP developed one of the largest and most comprehensive pediatric urology programs in the world. The division grew to encompass 12 surgeon-scientists, 21 advanced practice health professionals, and six endowed chairs. The CHOP Urology academic program trained more than 30 fellows and more than 100 residents during his tenure. Dr. Canning eventually became the Leonard and Madlyn Abramson Endowed Chair in Pediatric Urology. He also served as the vice chair for clinical affairs in CHOP’s department of surgery. 

“Doug was deeply committed to his patients and their families, many of whom had his personal cell phone number on speed dial,” said N. Scott Adzick, CHOP surgeon-in-chief and a colleague of Dr. Canning. “He worked tirelessly to ensure that each patient he encountered received the best possible care. And he brought out the best in everyone.”

Dr. Canning was a worldwide expert in bladder and cloacal exstrophy and hypospadias, rare urological conditions that require sophisticated care. In 2010, Dr. Canning and colleagues at CHOP, Boston Children’s Hospital, and Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin launched the Multi-Institutional Bladder Exstrophy Consortium (MIBEC), a group dedicated to improving care and functional and cosmetic outcomes of children with all forms of bladder exstrophy, a complex birth defect in which the bladder develops outside the fetus. Dr. Canning authored or co-authored more than 130 peer-reviewed publications, four textbooks, and more than 1000 editorials in urology. He was an internationally recognized expert in all areas of pediatric reconstructive urology, with a particular interest in the care of children with complex urological conditions. Dr. Canning lectured on five continents on diverse topics across the subspecialty. 

Dr. Canning was heavily awarded and recognized for his research. He was consistently named one of Philadelphia Magazine’s Top Doctors in Pediatric Urology, as well as receiving similar accolades from many other publications. In 2016, he was awarded the Society for Pediatric Radiology’s Thomas L. Slovis Award for the Best Basic Science Paper, and he received several teaching awards over the years from his residents at PSOM. He served as president of the Society for Pediatric Urology and the Society of Academic Urologists and was an elected member of many other professional societies. 

Outside of his professional obligations, Dr. Canning was devoted to his family and to nature, enjoying skiing, sailing, bicycling, fishing, and hunting with loved ones. He was particularly fond of Brittany dogs, of whom he owned seven during his lifetime. 

Dr. Canning is survived by his wife, Annabelle; his children, John (Alexia Katrine Pereira), Caroline and Anne; his brothers William and Peter; and many other relatives, including many nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, the Canning family asks for donations to an endowed fund at CHOP: www.chop.edu/dougcanning. 

Nicholas D. Constan, L’64, a former adjunct professor in the Wharton School’s department of legal studies and an administrator in the Wharton School, passed away on May 2 from complications of Parkinson’s disease. He was 83. 

Born in Beirut, Lebanon, Mr. Constan was the son of Americans working in Lebanon. In 1951, Mr. Constan’s mother moved him and his brother to Brockton, Massachusetts, where he attended high school. Mr. Constan then received a BA in political science from the University of Massachusetts in 1960 and a JD from Penn’s Law School in 1964, where he concentrated in foreign affairs. While earning the latter degree, Mr. Constan served as an instructor in the U.S. Military Reserves Service, a position he held until 1968. 

Mr. Constan joined Penn’s staff before its faculty. Between 1965 and 1975, he served as an interviewer in Penn’s office of admissions, assistant to the dean of admissions, and director of Harrison College House. During this era, he also worked as a lecturer in political science at Rutgers University Camden and as an adjunct professor of law and political science at Widener University. In 1975, he joined the faculty of the Wharton School as an adjunct professor of legal studies (a subject that is now part of the department of legal studies & business ethics at Wharton). He retired from Penn in 1996 and taught classes until 2019. “He became a beloved professor, adored and respected by over 3,000 students,” said Mr. Constan’s family in an online tribute. “His intelligence, his commitment to young people, his unique teaching style and great wit were appreciated by all who were fortunate to interact with him, as students, colleagues, friends, and family.”

In addition to his teaching duties, Mr. Constan held several administrative roles at Penn. While teaching, he also served as a personnel relations administrator (leading Wharton’s compensation program), director of Wharton’s graduate division (a role in which he led the MBA program), an administrative fellow in the University Council Service, and from 1986 to 1994, assistant to Penn president Sheldon Hackney and interim president Claire Fagin. When hiring Mr. Constan as his assistant, President Hackney said, “Nick Constan’s career at the University has touched a variety of bases [and] he has received high marks from those he has served. He is deeply involved in campus life and cares a lot about our community and all its members. I am greatly pleased that he will be joining us on July 1” (Almanac July 15, 1986). In a 1979 Almanac profile (October 18, 1979), Mr. Constan compared himself to the Road Runner because of all the running he had to do to keep up with his busy schedule. 

Aside from his career-related duties, Mr. Constan was active at Penn. He held advisory roles with several student organizations, including Sigma Chi and the women’s track and cross-country teams (for all of whom he cooked renowned waffle breakfasts), and served as parliamentarian of the University Council and on several other community-wide committees. In 1980, he served as chair of the Administrative Assembly, the precursor to today’s Penn Professional Staff Assembly, which represented monthly-paid staff members at Penn. Mr. Constan chaired the President’s Task Force on the Freshman Experience, which helped shape Penn’s New Student Orientation program. He was also a champion of accessibility, chairing the Executive Committee on University Accessibility for the Handicapped. From the 1970s to the 1990s, Mr. Constan wrote Pennsylvania, a series of popular “double-crostic” puzzles that appeared in the Penn Gazette. In 1987, he was named an Honorary Friar of Penn. 

Outside of Penn, Mr. Constan had board roles at Liberty Medical Transport and Optimum Funds and was a marketing representative at Crystal Sales & Marketing, Inc. In his leisure time, he was an avid squash player, rower, and horseback rider. 

Mr. Constan was pre-deceased by his brother, Samuel. He is survived by his sister-in-law, Phyllis Constan; his nephews, Andrew and Theodore (Alison); his niece, Katherine Constan Dandy; four grandnephews; and four grandnieces. 

Norman Aaron Newberg, a former associate professor and senior fellow at Penn’s Graduate School of Education (GSE), passed away peacefully on May 8. He was 87. 

The son of corner grocery store owners in the Ludlow neighborhood of Philadelphia, Dr. Newberg overcame a reading disability and became the first member of his family to attend college. He received a BA (1956) and an MA (1961) in speech and dramatic arts, both from Temple University, then received an EdD in 1978 from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Dr. Newberg joined Penn’s faculty in 1980 as an associate professor and a director of business administration in the Graduate School of Education. In 1985, he became a lecturer at GSE, and in 1988 an adjunct professor. In 1991, his title was changed to senior fellow, a position he held until retiring from Penn in 2006. As a teacher at GSE, Dr. Newberg helped train a generation of superintendents, principals, and teachers to use novel strategies to make urban public education more effective for students, particularly those who benefit from non-mainstream approaches to pedagogy. He conducted research about education practices in public schools nationwide, writing peer-reviewed articles about his observations in Germany, Israel, and Japan. 

While at Penn, Dr. Newberg used his position to do significant good for West Philadelphia public schools. He launched the Collaborative for West Philadelphia Public Schools, a program in which over 500 Penn students tutored students in the School District of Philadelphia. In 1987, Penn alumnus and philanthropist George Weiss initiated the “Say Yes to Education” foundation, which guaranteed a college education to 112 students at the Belmont School at 41st and Brown Streets, and through his roles at GSE and the Fels Institute of Government, Dr. Newberg served as executive director of the program. “Say Yes to Education” programs have since proliferated nationwide in response to Dr. Newburg’s vision and Mr. Weiss’s generosity. In 2005, Dr. Newberg wrote a book, The Gift of Education: How a Tuition Guarantee Program Saved the Lives of Inner-City Youth, that chronicled the history of “Say Yes to Education” programs nationwide. Dr. Newberg also helped implement Affective Education, Schools for All Ages, and Bridging the Gap programs at the School District of Philadelphia.

Outside of his professional roles, Dr. Newberg was active at the Germantown Jewish Center in Philadelphia, where he was one of the founding members of the Chavurah and Reconstructionist Minyanim movements. He frequently led prayers during weekly Shabbat services, and led the Kol Nidre and Neilah services that start and conclude Yom Kippur. 

Dr. Newberg is survived by his wife, Adina; his daughter, Noga; his sons, Liam and Jeremey; his son-in-law, Andrew and daughter-in-law, Fran; as well as four grandchildren. A funeral was held on May 10. Donations in his memory can be made to Hazon (https://donate.hazon.org/give/275350/#!/donation/checkout) or YEAH Philly (https://yeahphilly.org/get-involved/#donate).

James Robert Riedel, the former executive director of Penn’s English Language Programs in the School of Arts and Sciences, passed away on May 25 after a long illness. He was 66.

Mr. Riedel was born in Algona, Iowa and graduated from Algona High School in 1973. He went on to graduate from Luther College in Decorah, Iowa with a degree in English. He later obtained an MBA in accounting and a MA in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) from San Francisco State University. After graduating, he took a position as an auditor for an accounting firm in Oakland, California, but then left to pursue his passion for teaching and international travel. He accepted a position as an associate lecturer at the English School of Policy Studies at Kwansei Gakuin University in Kobe, Japan and remained there for six years.

After leaving Japan, Mr. Riedel joined the English Language Programs (ELP) in Penn’s School of Arts and Sciences as a language specialist. He rose to become coordinator of the ELP’s Business English programs and later director and executive director of the unit. During his tenure he traveled extensively as an ambassador for the field of TESOL and for the ELP. He established partnerships around the globe and recruited thousands of students to learn English at Penn and prepare for university study in the U.S. Mr. Riedel continued to teach throughout his time at Penn, despite his growing administrative responsibilities, and was consistently one of the most highly rated instructors in the department. He developed innovative programs to meet the interests and needs of international audiences and spearheaded a successful series of massive open online courses (MOOCs) created with a grant from the U.S. Department of State. These free online courses expanded access to more than 2.5 million English language learners around the world.

In his leisure time, Mr. Riedel loved to travel, collected art, was a gourmet cook, enjoyed classical music, and was very interested in WWII history. He spoke multiple languages, including Japanese and French, and was known for his sense of humor and his love of entertaining.

Mr. Riedel is survived by his father, Robert (Bob) Riedel; sisters, Connie (Mark) Sams and Judy (Henry) Erk; nieces, Allison (Jonathan) Edwards, Sheila Erk, Paige (Bob) Secrest; nephew, Jordan (Ashley) Erk; and several grandnieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother Dolores (Dee) Riedel. A campus memorial service is planned for late July. For details, contact the English Language Programs (elp@sas.upenn.edu).

Pursuant to the Faculty Senate Rules, formal notification to members may be accomplished by publication in Almanac. The following is published under that rule.

TO:    Members of the Faculty Senate
FROM:    Megan Ryerson, Chair, Nominating Committee
SUBJECT:    Senate Nominations 2022, Part Two

In accordance with the Faculty Senate Rules, official notice is given of the Senate Nominating Committee’s remaining slate of nominees for the incoming Senate Officers. The nominees, all of whom have indicated their willingness to serve, are:

Secretary-elect:

• Megan Ryerson (Weitzman)

At-large Members of the Senate Executive Committee
to serve a 3-year term beginning upon election:

• David Eng (SAS/English)
• Nancy Hirschmann (SAS/Political Science)
• Shu Yang (SEAS/Materials Science and Engineering)
• TBD

to serve a 2-year term beginning upon election:

• Daniel Hammer (SEAS/Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering)
• Kenneth Margulies (PSOM/Medicine)
• Li Shen (PSOM/Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics)

Assistant Professor Members of the Senate Executive Committee
to serve a 2-year term beginning upon election:

• Masoud Akbarzadeh (Weitzman)

Senate Committee on Economic Status of the Faculty
to serve a 3-year term beginning upon election:

• Iourii Manovskii (SAS/Economics)
• Petra Todd (SAS/Economics)
• TBD

Also in accordance with the Faculty Senate Rules, you are invited to submit additional nominations, which shall be accomplished via petitions containing at least twenty-five valid names and the signed approval of the candidate. All such petitions must be received no later than fourteen days after circulation of the nominees of the Nominating Committee by email to the Faculty Senate, senate@pobox.upenn.edu, or Tuesday, July 12, 2022.

Under the same provision of the rules, if no additional nominations are received, the slate nominated by the Nominating Committee will be declared elected.

The June 10 stated meeting of the Board of Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania was held at the Inn at Penn and was open to the public via BlueJeans. University Chaplain and Vice President for Social Equity and Community Charles Howard gave the invocation. Chair of the Board of Trustees Scott Bok remarked on two successful Commencement ceremonies last month. He added that the University looked forward to welcoming M. Elizabeth Magill as Penn’s Ninth President on July 1, 2022.

Vice Chair Ann Reese presented a resolution to re-elect Scott Bok chair of the Board of Trustees for the period July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023. The motion passed unanimously.

Interim President Wendell Pritchett presented a resolution of appreciation for John Zeller upon his impending retirement as Senior Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations. Mr. Zeller led the University’s record-breaking Making History and Power of Penn campaigns. Interim President Pritchett also presented a resolution to appoint Kathleen Shields Anderson Vice President for Public Safety, effective July 1, 2022. Both resolutions passed unanimously.

Interim Provost Beth Winkelstein presented the academic report. She presented a resolution on faculty appointments and promotions which included the appointment of M. Elizabeth Magill as the Trustees University Professor in the Carey Law School. The resolution passed.

Senior Executive Vice President Craig Carnaroli presented the finan- cial report. He reported that Penn’s total net assets were $28.3 billion, an increase of $6.7 billion, largely due to the favorable performance of the financial markets. A change in net assets from operations reflected an increase of $944 million ($557 million above the prior year). Total revenue of $7.1 billion was $1 billion above the prior year, largely driven by the success of the mRNA vaccine, and expenses of $6.2 billion were $474 million above the prior year.

J. Larry Jameson, Dean of the Perelman School of Medicine and Executive Vice President for the Health System, presented the Penn Medicine report. He cited mRNA technology as one example of the innovations in immune health made by the Penn Medicine team. A strong fundraising year propelled Penn Medicine’s efforts to enhance its facilities and strengthen initiatives.

 Dean of Admissions Whitney Soule gave the admissions report. The undergraduate Class of 2026 was selected from nearly 55,000 applicants, with a 6.5 percent admit rate. The team was inspired by the prospect of the contributions the class will make and she thanked the admissions staff for their support during her first year at Penn.

The Trustees heard reports from committees and approved a number of resolutions, including to: dissolve the departments of romance languages and Germanic languages and literatures in the School of Arts and Sciences and create two new departments of Spanish and Portuguese and French and Francophone, Italian and Germanic Studies; establish a master of nutrition science in the School of Nursing; authorize the spending rule for fiscal year 2022-2023; authorize the operating budget and capital plan for the academic component for fiscal year 2022-2023; authorize the operating and capital budgets for the University of Pennsylvania Health System; and declare the University’s intent to reimburse capital costs with proceeds of borrowing. All of the resolutions were approved. Among the capital projects approved  were the  Ott Center for Track and Field, the restoration of the west wing of College Hall, and phase one of infrastructure projects at Pennovation Works. Mr. Bok presented resolutions for appointments to the Penn Medicine and other Boards. Several resolutions from the Nominations Committee resulted in the re-election of Ann Reese as Vice Chair of the Board, members of the Executive Committee, and members of the Investment Board. A resolution of appreciation was also passed for James C. Johnson upon the completion of his term as a Trustee.

Finally, Mr. Bok presented a resolution of appreciation for Penn President-emerita Amy Gutmann, Penn’s longest serving president, having led Penn from 2004 to 2022. After the resolution was unanimously approved, Dr. Gutmann, now U.S. Ambassador to Germany, thanked the Trustees for their support.

2022-2023 Executive Committee

Chair: Anne Corcoran-Petela, Associate Director, Faculty Compensation, Wharton School Executive Education
Chair-Elect: Natalie Dury Green, Director of Operations, Master in Law Program, Carey Law School
Past Chair:  J. Patrick Walsh, Executive Assistant, Faculty Senate

Members at Large (2-year terms)

2022-2024 Term:

• Kyle Czarnecki, Research Specialist B, The Heller Lab, Systems Pharmacology, Perelman School of Medicine
• Dawn M. Deitch, Executive Director, Office of Government and Community Affairs
• Atiya German, Director of Facility Rentals and Project Coordinator, Penn Museum
• Katherine Toder, Research Project Manager, Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine

2021-2023 Term:

• Tonya Bennett, Director of Educational Technology, School of Veterinary Medicine
• Matthew MacDonald, Clinical Research Regulatory Compliance Specialist Senior, Perelman School of Medicine
• Kathy Tang, Senior Clinical Research Operations Specialist, Perelman School of Medicine
• Rhina El-Amin, Associate Director, Office of Student Life for MBA Student Life, Wharton School (one year term, 2022-2023)

Note: The new term limit will become effective as of July 1, 2023 and will apply only to those hired on or after this effective date. Current postdocs and those hired prior to July 1, 2023 retain the current 5-year term limit at Penn, regardless of previous experience.  All other terms in the postdoc policy are effective as of July 1, 2022.
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Postdoctoral trainees are valued members of Penn’s research community.  The contributions of our postdocs help to create the collaborative, dynamic and innovative research environment that is so special to Penn.  The Office of the Vice Provost for Research recently reviewed and updated the Policy for Postdoctoral Trainees at the University of Pennsylvania.  Key new components of the policy include a defined grievance process and an Extramural Activities section. A nondiscrimination statement was added, as well as a sexual misconduct policy. Additionally, clarifications were made throughout the policy, with an emphasis on the Ombuds, Training Program, Duration of Appointment and Termination sections.

The revised policy has been reviewed by the Provost’s Council on Research, the Office of General Counsel, Postdoctoral Trainee Stakeholders, Senior Management Group, Council of Deans, the Academic Budget and Planning Committee, the Faculty Senate Tri-Chairs, and was posted for comment in the Almanac. This policy becomes effective on July 1, 2022 and supersedes the prior version, which was published on July 13, 2010. 

—Dawn Bonnell, Senior Vice Provost for Research
—Beth Winkelstein, Interim Provost

Policy for Postdoctoral Trainees at the University of Pennsylvania

Effective July 1, 2022

Preamble

Postdoctoral trainees (PDTs) come to the University for further training in their chosen discipline. An individual who has been designated as a PDT by their school receives training conducted in an apprenticeship mode under the supervision of an established faculty member who serves as a mentor. As dictated by the nature of the program, the trainee may be undertaking scholarship, research, service, and teaching activities, all of which provide training essential for career development. Because education is a pre-eminent mission of the University and because PDTs are professionals in training, it is important that PDT programs be designed to advance their careers. This policy is intended to address the distinct position of PDTs in the University community.

This policy applies to all three categories of postdoctoral trainees that are identified in the payroll system of the University, based upon funding source: postdoctoral researcher (supported from a research grant), NRSA-postdoctoral fellow (supported by an individual or institutional National Research Service Award), and postdoctoral fellow (supported by a private foundation, non-profit charitable organization, or other sources). Funding sources may have their own guidelines governing participation in their programs. In instances where these guidelines differ from the University policy, the guidelines of the funding source take precedence. 

Appointment and Resignation

Letter of Appointment 

When a faculty member offers an appointment to a PDT candidate, a letter should be written to the candidate prior to commencement of training. This letter should set forth the period of appointment (dates of appointment), the stipend amount, any benefits, and a statement that the candidate’s appointment is subject to all University policies. The letter must be accompanied by a copy of the University Patent Policy and the corresponding Participation Agreement. If the appointment is renewed or extended, that action should be documented by a letter, which includes the aforementioned information. 

The candidate must return a countersigned copy of each letter of appointment or renewal indicating acceptance of the terms set forth, as well as a signed Patent Policy Participation Agreement. The letters (countersigned copies) and signed agreement or electronic record of the appointment/agreement should be maintained by the office of the appropriate department. If the faculty member is not affiliated with a specific department, the file may be kept in the office of the institute or center with which the faculty member is associated. The letters of appointment and renewal should indicate whether the mentor has available funding to fulfill the terms of the appointment; if not, the letter should indicate the duration of assured funding. When the appointment is to be coterminous with external funding, research grant, contract, training grant, etc., that fact should be included in the letter of appointment, including the end date of the funding even if renewal is expected.

Proof of Doctoral Degree 

Eligibility for appointment as a PDT requires a candidate to hold, or to have completed the requirements for, an advanced degree, e.g., PhD, MD, or equivalent. Candidates from non-U.S. universities must hold advanced degrees equivalent to those awarded in U.S. institutions in order to qualify for appointment as postdoctoral fellows. It is the candidate’s responsibility to provide transcripts and/or a diploma certifying that the postdoc has received their degree, and although this may be delegated, it is the mentor’s responsibility to review this documentation and ensure that it is satisfactory and included in the candidate’s file. Candidates who have completed the requirements for an advanced degree, but not yet been awarded such degree, must be able to demonstrate in a manner verifiable by the University that such requirements have been completed. In no event shall a PDT be reappointed without the degree having been awarded.

Duration of Appointment

Postdoctoral appointments are for one year and may be renewed annually based on satisfactory performance and availability of funding. Under current University policy, the cumulative PDT experience should not exceed five years total. Under exceptional circumstances, such as a prolonged period of leave (e.g., extended medical leave) or other extraordinary situation (e.g., pandemic) during any of these five years, upon request of a faculty mentor, an extension may be granted by the appropriate Dean or Vice Provost for Research. 

Termination

Mentors may terminate a PDT during an appointment period for any reason with three months’ written notice. The letter of termination must state the reason for termination using the PDT obligations as guidelines (see below). 

Under certain circumstances, it may be appropriate to terminate a PDT immediately. Such circumstances may include (but are not limited to) gross or willful misconduct, gross insubordination, prohibited harassment, unethical behavior (including disclosure or misuse of confidential information, misuse of University resources, or other violations of University policy). In such event an appropriate administrative office (e.g., The Office of the Vice Provost for Research) must be consulted and approve the termination.

Stipend Level 

Minimum stipend levels for PDTs are set annually by the Vice Provost for Research, in consultation with the Provost’s Council on Research, representing all of the schools of the University. When a funding sponsor mandates stipend levels higher than the University minimum, mentors are obligated to pay the higher amount. 

PDT Notice of Resignation

PDTs are expected to provide at least 20 business days’ notice of resignation provided to both the mentor and the department or school business office. When appropriate to the discipline, it is the obligation of the PDT to ensure that all research materials and records/databases are left in a state to allow continuation of the project. Records include both hard copies and electronic materials, properly labeled and shared in secure servers as per laboratories/funding source protocols.

Benefits and Leave 

Health Insurance 

PDTs are required to have health insurance. PDTs are eligible to receive single person insurance, as provided under the Basic University of Pennsylvania Postdoctoral Insurance Plan. This benefit is in addition to the stipend, and no premium should be deducted from the PDT’s stipend. If the PDT elects family coverage, the difference between the single and family premium can be paid from one of three sources: (1) it can be deducted from the PDT’s stipend; (2) it can be paid by the funding source if it is an allowable expense; or (3) it can be paid by the unit that recruited the PDT. If PDTs elect to waive health insurance coverage through the University, PDTs must certify that they have alternate health insurance that provides at least comparable coverage. 

Vacation and Mentor-Approved Flexibility of Observed Holidays and Winter Break

In any appointment year, a PDT may elect to take up to ten University business days as paid vacation days, on which days the PDT will continue to receive their stipend. PDTs are also entitled to the eight official holidays observed by the University and are eligible to take the University’s special winter vacation, during which time the University is typically closed. If a PDT wishes to work and/or perform research during an official holiday or special winter vacation, the postdoc can use the equivalent time as additional paid vacation days. PDTs forfeit any unused vacation days or holidays at the end of any appointment year.  

Sick Leave

PDTs may continue to receive stipends for up to 15 University business days of sick leave per year. PDTs forfeit any unused sick leave at the end of the appointment year. Under exceptional circumstances, a period of leave due to illness or incapacity may be extended at the discretion of the mentor. Mentors may request for any extended absence medical documentation from a health care provider, to be provided to an appropriate administrative office consistent with confidentiality. Additional sick leave may be approved in the discretion of the mentor. 

New Child Leave

PDTs are entitled to receive stipends for no more than 60 calendar days of leave per appointment year for adoption or birth of a child. Either parent is eligible. PDTs must discuss the use of new child leave in advance with the mentor. A mentor may not deny a request to use new child leave without the authorization of the appropriate administrative office. Unused sick leave or vacation days may be used, with approval, to extend the period of new child leave. Additional new child leave may be approved at the discretion of the mentor.

Unpaid Leave

PDTs requesting extended periods of time away from their training experience, including leave in excess of available sick and/or parental leave, must obtain approval for a leave of absence without stipend continuation. Approval for such leave must be requested and approved by the mentor in advance.  

Record of Paid and Unpaid Leave

All paid and unpaid leave must be approved in advance by the mentor; additional leave may be approved at the mentor’s discretion. PDT and mentors are responsible of keeping accurate record of paid and unpaid leave.

Obligations and Responsibilities 

Obligations of Mentors

Mentors’ responsibilities include: (i) developing in consultation with the PDT a mutually satisfactory research project or scholarly program; (ii) encouraging PDTs to present their work and to publish their results in a timely fashion; (iii) encouraging PDTs to acquire and enhance their knowledge and technical skills as dictated by their current and future needs; (iv) arrangement and oversight of teaching opportunities as appropriate to their discipline and program; (v) encouraging PDTs to apply for training and research support as appropriate; (vi) meeting regularly with their PDTs to discuss progress in their research; (vii) providing an annual review of performance that includes a discussion of the individualized development plan (IDP) or equivalent performance document; (viii) ensuring that PDTs are aware of University policies regarding postdoctoral training and are instructed about research policies of the University; and (ix) providing career counseling.

Obligations of Postdoctoral Fellows

PDTs have certain obligations to their mentor, the group in which they are working, the department with which they are associated, the sponsor whose funds support them, and the University. These obligations include but are not limited to: (i) the conscientious discharge of their research, scholarly, and teaching responsibilities, as applicable; (ii) conformity with ethical standards in research and scholarship; (iii) compliance with good scholarly practice, including the maintenance of adequate research records; (iv) observation of appropriate guidelines regarding human subjects and due observation of University standards regarding use of isotopes, chemicals, infectious agents, animals, and the like, if applicable; (v) open and timely discussion with their mentor regarding possession or distribution of tangible property such as materials, reagents, and the like; (vi) discussion of laboratory records or scholarly materials, if relevant; (vii) prior disclosure of appropriate scholarly information, findings or techniques proposed for dissemination privately, at scholarly meetings, or in publications; (viii) collegial conduct toward all members of the University community; (ix) compliance with all applicable University policies; (x) completing IDPs or equivalent performance appraisal with mentor yearly at the beginning of each appointment year starting year 2; and (xi) attending a minimum required contact hours of Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) training per career stage.

Extramural Activities

At times a PDT may wish to engage in activities outside of the University and/or beyond the scope of their appointment. Before undertaking such activity, the PDT must secure approval, in writing, from their mentor and business administrator. The approval for such activities should include a description of the activity, include a specific end date no longer than one year later (which may be subject to renewal) and must be signed by both the mentor and the PDT. These activities may not give rise to a conflict of interest or divert or diminish the training of the PDT, and they should be reviewed regularly if approved. Approval may be withdrawn if the activity no longer is appropriate under policy or interferes with the PDT’s appointment. It is the PDT’s responsibility to update this documentation and notify their mentor should there be any changes.

Research Records 

Primary research records created by PDTs during the tenure of their training at the University of Pennsylvania are the property of the University and are retained by the University when the PDT leaves. If a PDT obtains written permission from their mentor, they may retain a copy of such records as agreed upon by the mentor and the PDT. 

Exceptions to this practice may be granted, subject to written prior approval of the Provost’s Office, in fields where it can be convincingly demonstrated that there is a well-established practice that individual scholars retain ownership of data generated through their research efforts. In such cases the PDTs may be permitted to retain notes and records associated with their research and publish their findings subsequent to leaving the University, provided an appropriate acknowledgement is made of the University’s contribution to the work (e.g., in the form of funding).

Training 

Orientation

A compendium of information should be provided to each PDT upon arrival at the University. This compendium should be available on an appropriate University website and could include a registration form to be completed by the PDT; a copy of these guidelines; conflict of interest and financial disclosure policies; intellectual property policies; Procedures Regarding Misconduct in Research; the Sexual Misconduct Policy and Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Policy and nondiscrimination policies; parking policies; a clear statement about benefits; information regarding taxation; a list of sources of information within the University; and information regarding the Office of the Ombuds. Faculty mentors are encouraged to conduct orientation sessions for all new PDTs. Departments should arrange e-mail accounts for their PDTs.

Training Program Elements 

PDTs are considered professionals in training. One goal of their professional experience at Penn is to provide training relevant to the performance of responsible and high-quality research. All postdocs must receive training in the responsible conduct of research (RCR). Key elements of this training should include scientific rigor and reproducibility and mitigating unconscious bias. NIH recognizes that the following topics¹ have been incorporated in to most acceptable training plans, as appropriate to the individual trainee, and therefore should be included in the postdoc training plan: (i) data acquisition and analysis; laboratory tools (e.g., tools for analyzing data and creating or working with digital images): recordkeeping practices, including methods such as electronic laboratory notebooks; (ii) secure and ethical data use; data confidentiality, management, sharing and ownership; (iii) mentor/mentee responsibilities and relationships; (iv) responsible authorship and publication practices; (v) peer review, including the responsibility for maintaining confidentiality and security in peer review; (vi) collaborative research, including collaborations with industry and investigators and institutions in other countries; (vii) policies regarding human subjects, live vertebrate animal subjects in research, and safe laboratory practices; (viii) research misconduct and policies for handling misconduct; (ix) conflict of interest–personal, professional and financial–and conflict of commitment in allocating time, effort or other research services; (x) the scientist as a responsible member of society, contemporary ethical issues in biomedical research, and the environmental and societal impacts of scientific research; (xi) safe research environments (e.g., those that promote inclusion and are free of sexual, racial, ethnic, disability and other forms of discriminatory harassment). When PDTs engage in teaching, appropriate training and didactic experience should also be provided. 

Application for Grants 

Each school should establish a policy, consistent with section 1.5 of the Sponsored Projects Handbook (online at www.upenn.edu/researchservices/manual/sponsoredprojectshandbook.html#_Toc84300102) regarding whether PDTs may apply for grants as principal investigator. If school policy permits such applications, it is suggested that the school require approval by a knowledgeable member of the standing faculty as well as the appropriate department chair’s and Dean’s endorsement and chair’s acceptance of responsibility.

¹These topics reflect the NIH guidelines as of the date of this policy. However, the current NIH guidance should always be followed (NOT-OD-10-019: Update on the Requirement for Instruction in the Responsible Conduct of Research (nih.gov))

Additional Items of Importance

University of Pennsylvania Nondiscrimination Statement

The University of Pennsylvania values diversity and seeks talented students, postdocs, faculty and staff from diverse backgrounds. The University of Pennsylvania does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected class status in the administration of its admissions, financial aid, educational or athletic programs, or other University-administered programs or in its employment practices. Additional information can be found online at Penn: Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Programs: Policies, Handbooks and Procedures (upenn.edu).

Sexual Misconduct Policy

The University of Pennsylvania is committed to providing a working and learning environment free from sexual misconduct. It therefore is the policy of the University that sexual misconduct is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Detailed information regarding the Sexual Misconduct Policy can be found online at Almanac Supplement- August 14, 2020 PDF (upenn.edu) and Resources | Associate Vice President for Equity and Title IX Officer (upenn.edu).

Office of the Ombuds 

It is recognized that from time-to-time disagreements may arise between a PDT and a mentor. In such instances, the PDT may wish to utilize the services available through any ombuds in individual schools, and through the University’s Office of the Ombuds, Home | OMBUDS (upenn.edu).

The Ombuds Office welcomes any member of the Penn community who is experiencing difficulty, conflict, or confusion at work, within their studies, or throughout their life at the University more broadly. The office offers an accessible and safe place to resolve differences, explore matters of concern, improve communication, and generate and evaluate options. If interested, PDTs are encouraged to contact the Ombuds Office at the earliest stages of a problem so that assistance can be offered before the issue escalates.

Grievance Process

The University of Pennsylvania strives to promote an optimal training and educational experience for its PDT community through a professional and respectful environment. Open and routine communication between supervisors/mentors and PDTs throughout the PDT appointment is encouraged in order to clarify expectations, provide an ongoing and timely mechanism for constructive feedback from both parties, as well as offer the opportunity to identify, address/resolve any potential matters as they may arise. It is the expectation that this communication between supervisors and PDTs occurs openly and regularly.

This grievance process has been developed to provide a mechanism for resolution of PDT grievances which may include matters that have resulted in a perceived or actual negative impact upon the training/educational experience of a PDT. A matter is grievable only if it is not currently addressable through any other avenue such as University policy or division procedure (thus, for example, complaints of sexual misconduct must be addressed through the University’s Sexual Misconduct Policy). At any point, if the PDT feels as if the matter has been resolved, they may discontinue the grievance process.

Steps to address a grievance:

1. Efforts should be taken to address a matter informally:

• If possible and appropriate, a discussion should occur between the parties who are directly involved with the issue of the dispute. 
• The PDT may consult with any individuals they feel comfortable discussing the matter, such as trusted faculty members, advisor or departmental/programmatic resources.
• Additional resources that may assist in resolving matters or providing confidential counseling include: 
  • Ombuds Office, Home | OMBUDS (upenn.edu)
  • Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Programs, Penn: Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Programs (upenn.edu)
  • African American Resource Center, Home | Penn AARC (upenn.edu)
  • Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Center, LGBT Center at the University of Pennsylvania – LGBTC (upenn.edu)
  • Office of the Chaplain and SPARC, the Spiritual and Religious Life Center, The Office of the Chaplain | SPARC (upenn.edu)
  • Penn Women’s Center, Penn Women's Center – Penn Women's Center (upenn.edu)

2. Consultation by the PDT with the Program Director, Division Chief or Department Chair to discuss the matter is encouraged.

3. If informal steps as suggested above have not resulted in a resolution to the matter, a written grievance may be submitted to the Dean of Research or Dean of the applicable school. The grievance should describe the matter and include specific facts supporting the grievance as well as any available supporting documentation; the names of any parties to the matter; any witnesses known to the grievant; as well as the desired outcome. The grievance should be submitted in a timely manner and no later than 90 days after the occurrence of any event giving rise to the grievance.

• The Dean or Dean’s designee will notify all involved parties of the grievance.
• The Dean or designee will review the grievance. 
• The Dean or designee may obtain any information felt necessary to evaluate and make a determination regarding the grievance.
• The Dean or designee may elect to meet with the involved parties.
• Any or all functions to be performed by the Dean or Dean’s designee under this section 3 may be referred by such person in their discretion to a committee of one or more persons convened for the purpose, in which case the committee shall report its findings and conclusions to the Dean or designee.
• The Dean or designee will provide the involved parties with a response regarding the matter in writing. This response will occur within a timely manner, but generally within 60 days (unless circumstances require a longer period for review) and will include a determination as well as a summary of the basis for such determination. 

4. If the PDT believes the decision of the Dean to be inappropriate, the PDT may submit a written appeal to the Office of the Vice Provost for Research (VPR) specifying the basis for disagreement with the decision. Appeals are limited to complaints regarding policy or procedure.

• The written appeal must be submitted no later than 30 days after receipt of the Dean’s determination.
• General dissatisfaction with the decision is not sufficient reasoning for an appeal.
• New issues may not be raised for the first time on appeal.
• The VPR or a designee will review the Dean’s determination.
• Any or all functions to be performed by the VPR or VPR’s designee under this section 4 may be referred by such person in their discretion to a committee of one or more persons convened for the purpose, in which case the committee shall report its findings and conclusions to the VPR or designee.
• The VPR or designee will notify the parties to the grievance in writing of the decision and the grounds for the decision, generally within 45 days after the receipt of the appeal (unless circumstances require a longer period for review).
• The decision of the VPR is final within the institution.

5. In the event a grievance is resolved without recourse to the VPR, the VPR should be notified of the grievance and resolution. Please see bullet under Additional Considerations below.

Additional Considerations:

1. University policy prohibits retaliation against any member of the community who participates in good faith in a University compliance, investigative, or review process. For more information, see Policy Against Retaliation (upenn.edu).

2. At any point in the grievance process, formal proceedings can be put aside in favor of voluntary mediation agreed to by all parties directly involved in the matter. The University Ombuds Office may be of assistance in pursuing mediation, Home | OMBUDS (upenn.edu).

3. The time frames set forth in this process may be extended by the relevant administrative officer in their discretion for good cause.

4. The Office of the Vice Provost for Research may periodically review past grievances to address recurring issues or consider modifications to this policy.

Questions concerning the grievance process should be directed to the Office of the Vice Provost for Research.

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The Excellence Through Diversity Fund, an annual University-wide initiative awarded by the Office of the Provost to foster diversity and inclusion, has been awarded to:

Beverley Ann Crawford, Associate Professor, School of Dental Medicine, for Penn Experience Course

Melissa E. Sanchez, Donald T. Regan Professor, School of Arts and Sciences, for Trans-Inclusive Pedagogy

Joseph Francisco, President’s Distinguished Professor of chemistry in the School of Arts and Sciences, has won the 2022 Centenary Prize of the Royal Society of Chemistry.

Dr. Francisco is applying new tools from experimental physical and theoretical chemistry to solve atmospheric chemical problems. His research is advancing scientific understanding of chemical processes in the atmosphere at the molecular level so that we can make better choices and decisions for a sustainable planet. This approach has led to important discoveries of new chemistries occurring at the interfaces of cloud surfaces and fundamental new types of chemical bonding that control these processes. Learning that there is more chemistry occurring than previously known is exciting and brings us closer to thinking about innovative solutions to our present environmental challenges.

The Centenary Prize is awarded for “pioneering and creative applications of computational chemistry to the field of atmospheric chemistry, and for excellence in communication.” The Royal Society of Chemistry is a British learned society whose goal is to advance the chemical sciences and which has roots dating back to 1841.

After the first COVID-19 surge largely emptied the campus in late spring of 2020, a group of Penn’s academic, administrative, public health, and clinical leaders recognized that a complex, institution-wide effort would be required to protect the health of those remaining on campus and facilitate the eventual resumption of in-person teaching and research. This effort, branded “Penn Cares,” delivered an in-person semester to students by spring 2021 and gave that year’s undergraduate class an on-campus Commencement experience. Not only did this success help fulfill Penn’s mission, but it also gave the University the framework to navigate an existential threat.

For this reason, the University acknowledges the many members of the Penn Cares team, comprised of University and Health System faculty and staff working through the pandemic across myriad disciplines and duties, with the 2020-2022 University of Pennsylvania Commitment to Excellence Award. Penn introduced the Commitment to Excellence program in 2004 to recognize outstanding contributions to university goals in the face of unprecedented external circumstances.

Read about the team’s contributions on the 2022 Commitment to Excellence Award webpage and access the 2022 Commitment List of Honorees.

Joyce Kim, Laura Ogburn, and Erin Purvis were recently named the 2022-2024 Provost’s Graduate Academic Engagement Fellows.

PGAEF at the Netter Center is an opportunity for PhD students across all schools and fields at the University of Pennsylvania. Fellows are outstanding students whose scholarship significantly involves Academically Based Community Service (ABCS) and related activities, including locally based community problem-solving, engaged scholarship, service learning and learning by teaching in public schools. The fellowship involves participation in an interdisciplinary faculty-student seminar on community-engaged research and teaching, the opportunity to design and teach an ABCS course or engage in other kinds of research and teaching in connection with the Netter Center, a $5,000 research fund for each fellow, additional support to attend and present at conferences, and a full fellowship in the students’ second year.

Joyce Kim, Sociology and Higher Education Division, School of Arts & Sciences and Graduate School of Education

Faculty Advisor: Amalia Daché, Associate Professor, Higher Education Division, Graduate School of Education

Ms. Kim plans to design and teach an ABCS course that critically examines how a university can be a site of social change, particularly through activism that focuses on solidarity across various racial and ethnic communities in Philadelphia. Her research interests include social movements on college campuses and career-decision making of first-generation, low-income students. Before beginning her PhD, Ms. Kim worked in research and education roles in Boston, the U.K., the Bay Area, and Seoul. She is excited to be working with the Netter Center again, which was a formative part of her undergraduate experience at Penn.

Laura Ogburn, Teaching, Learning & Teacher Education Division, Graduate School of Education

Faculty Advisor: Rand Quinn, Associate Professor, Teaching, Learning, and Leadership Division, Graduate School of Education

Ms. Ogburn plans to design and teach an ABCS course on education reform, in which Penn students and Philadelphia public school students collaborate to propose solutions to educational issues they identify and address questions about whose expertise matters in conversations about education. Her research interests include student involvement in education reform, how adult decision-makers respond to youth advocacy, and ideas about whose expertise matters in conversations about education. Before coming to Penn, Ms. Ogburn taught kindergarten and pre-K in West Philadelphia and Atlanta and did college access work with high school students in Boston and Austin.

Erin Purvis, Biomedical Graduate Studies, Perelman School of Medicine

Faculty Advisor: Lori Flanagan-Cato, Associate Professor, Psychology, School of Arts & Sciences

Ms. Purvis plans to design and teach an ABCS course for biomedical graduate students in which they facilitate hands-on engagement with Paul Robeson High School students, develop science education policy proposals, and critically reflect on the connection between local engagement and Penn’s academic research. Additionally, she plans to lay the groundwork for a Community Engagement Graduate Certificate. Ms. Purvis’s dissertation research harnesses a stem cell source in the adult brain to engineer a new treatment strategy for traumatic brain injury. She is interested in creating a greater connection between community and scientific training for doctoral students at Penn. She plans to create a formalized academic program for graduate students in the Perelman School of Medicine to get involved in community engagement in West Philadelphia. Before starting her PhD at Penn, Ms. Purvis worked as a laboratory technician and manager in a neuroscience laboratory at the University of California at Santa Barbara.

Tyra Moore, a doctor of social work (DSW) candidate in the School of Social Policy and Practice, was awarded the Joy Award from the Boris L. Henson Foundation in recognition of her steadfast commitment to mental health care for Black Americans. The foundation, started by his daughter, actress Taraji Henson, received over 500 nominations from around the country and Ms. Moore was one of 10 award recipients. Later this month, the foundation and Black Entertainment Television (BET) will fly Ms. Moore and the other nine award winners to Los Angeles for a symposium on mental health and the for the award ceremony.

At SP2, Ms. Moore completed coursework and has institutional approval for her dissertation research. For her dissertation, she is seeking to understand how Black social workers in child welfare create, sustain, and repair relationships with Black teens in foster care who are parenting, and how they navigate the tension between providing support and actively monitoring these teens’ parenting on behalf of the state. The critical research has the power to spark change in how the child welfare system actively incorporates relational repair and healing into care.

As part of Penn Dental Medicine’s commencement ceremony for the Class of 2022, the school recognized Sharon Smith, Associate Provost for University Life, with a special certificate of appreciation for her service to students. In her role at the University, Ms. Smith oversees a number of campus support programs and endeavors to holistically serve students navigating Penn. 

Presently a member of Penn Dental Medicine’s Committee for Cultural Growth, Ms. Smith supports Penn Dental Medicine students and the administration in wide-ranging areas, including assisting with issues such as personal and academic emergencies, food insecurity, provision of urgent medical care, and providing assistance to the school’s international students.

Ms. Smith came to Penn in 1987, serving in various leadership positions throughout campus, including the Penn College Achievement Program, New Student Orientation, and Open Expression.  She was instrumental in helping to create the mission and framework of the Student Intervention Services Office (SIS), which leads Penn’s response to emergencies and critical incidents involving students.

“For over 20 years, Sharon has been a dedicated and passionate supporter of Penn Dental Medicine students,” said Uri Hangorsky, Associate Dean for Student Affairs. “She has selflessly made herself available to work with us not only during regular working hours, but also during nights, weekends, and major holidays. She embodies the very best humanity has to offer—wisdom, compassion, integrity, and dedication.”

With eyes toward the future and a humble nod to the past, Penn Live Arts has announced its 50th anniversary 2022-2023 season, which will celebrate the richness of five decades of performance while continuing its penchant for innovation.

“The Annenberg Center opened in 1971 and was meant as a place for experimentation in the performing arts and was centered around this idea that the performing arts are a universal mode of communication—a way for disparate cultures and people to connect,” said Christopher Gruits, executive and artistic director of Penn Live Arts. “I think it’s fulfilled that mission well for 50 years. Coming out of the pandemic, we’ve planned a new season around major pillars that include residencies, premieres, and continued commitment to experimentation and innovation centered on new work, pieces of dance, theater, and more.”

A marquee attraction of the new season is Alice & John: A Coltrane Festival, which will focus as much on the work of Alice Coltrane, an accomplished jazz pianist, harpist, and composer, as that of her more widely known husband, John Coltrane. Performances tied to the festival, happening in the second half of October, will explore their collective impact on jazz and other genres of American music. Artistic advisor Lakecia Benjamin, a rising star saxophonist, is curating the programs—which will consist of a performance by son and fellow saxophonist Ravi Coltrane, as one example—and will also collaborate with choreographer Pam Tanowitz to create a brand-new piece based on Alice Coltrane’s music. Ms. Benjamin will perform live in October alongside the Pam Tanowitz Dance Company.

“A lot of how we structured this season is looking back and looking forward,” said Mr. Gruits. “Looking at the legacy of musicians and their albums and art that was happening at that time, and also looking forward to the next generation of artists.”

Another performer for the Coltrane festival will be Brandi Younger, a harpist who will perform her original works in the Prince Theatre. There will also be lectures led by Coltrane experts that complement the festival. Ms. Benjamin said she wants listeners to get a sense of the personalities of the legendary jazz couple.

“This is paying tribute to them, but also is about how people can get an insight into the personalities they were; that’s another indication of the music,” she said, explaining that at times listeners can feel transported to Alice Coltrane’s Sai Anantam Ashram through her use of the organ. “You can’t play who you aren’t.”

More broadly, but also in tandem with the Coltrane festival, Penn Live Arts is also partnering with the Negro Ensemble Company (NEC), a New York-based theater company and workshop started in 1967. They will partake in a residency spanning the 2022-23 season that includes a one-act play festival, Our Voices, Our Time, that will stage in the fall and aims to amplify Black voices, stories, and perspectives. Three plays will be selected by a group of judges and will premiere at the Annenberg Center in October, before moving on to performances in New York. 

The NEC residency further entails a curricular collaboration with the fall 2022, multi-generational and community-partnership-oriented August Wilson and Beyond course in the School of Arts & Sciences, co-taught by Herman Beavers, a professor of English and Africana studies, and instructor of English Suzana Berger. Brandon Dirden, a popular actor who has starred in many of the August Wilson plays that the class typically examines, will speak with the class, and NEC artistic director Karen Brown will be present during a workshop class session in which students begin creating their own performance that is inspired by interviews in the West Philadelphia community.

“[Karen Brown] will be with us that day, so she and any company member with us can talk about NEC’s founding goals and values and how that may have changed through the years in response to their communities and audience, and our students will have that really concrete and powerful example with them as they generate their own goals and get feedback right there, on the spot, in the process,” said Ms. Berger.

“This is a great opportunity and what I think I love about it is that it once again reminds me of what I love about Philadelphia, which is that it shrinks that distance between movers and shakers, people like us on the ground,” said Dr. Beavers, who also noted that this will be the 10th anniversary of the August Wilson course. “I don’t know that this would happen in a city like New York, because there’s too many layers between people who are influencers in the theater world and people like us doing something on a small scale. This is amazing and a great opportunity.”

The NEC residency will end with the world premiere of a new play in February 2023 directed by Denise Dowse, juxtaposing the Civil Rights Movement with recent social justice movements.

ListenHear, meanwhile, is a new series that celebrates brand-new music and profiles four contemporary composers.

“Penn has a legacy of composition, a renowned program, and so we found living composers who will do pre-concert chats before performances where an audience can get contexts for a composer’s style and why they chose a particular piece,” Mr. Gruits said.

November will feature a Philadelphia premiere of “Falling Out of Time,” by Argentine orchestral composer Osvaldo Golijov, as well as a performance by Terence Blanchard, a renowned jazz composer who will perform based on work by the African American photographer and filmmaker Gordon Parks.

Rounding out the season’s offerings are continued presentations of leading dance companies like the Martha Graham Dance Company and Ballet Hispánico, in addition to the Coltrane-related performances by the Pam Tanowitz Dance Company. Dance represents 10 of the season’s offerings between October and June.

Also ongoing is the hybrid-livestream model Penn Live Arts began last season, continuing in September with an in-person and digital performance from four-woman folk band Kardemimmit, playing the Finnish instrument kantele. Curator-at-large for film Maori Karmael Holmes will continue to organize film screenings, particularly for the BlackStar Film Festival at the Annenberg Center from August 3-7.

Also formalized this season is the Penn Live Arts Accelerator Program in support of new work across dance, music, and theater. Inaugural Accelerator Program artists are the Crossing, Dance Theatre of Harlem, the Negro Ensemble Company, Pam Tanowitz Dance, and Rennie Harris Pure Movement, who will build out pieces at Annenberg before taking them elsewhere, with resource support from Penn Live Arts. NEC is perhaps the most prominent example of the group, as a company that will immediately take their Philadelphia-cultivated one-act plays to New York.

“When we looked at Philly, we saw a gap in Black theatre and storytelling, and Annenberg has always been committed to diverse artists—that’s a legacy we have had,” said Mr. Gruits, explaining how the collaboration with NEC came about. “We were the first to introduce Philly to August Wilson and his work, and we wanted to honor that legacy and think, moving forward, how to support Black storytelling. There’s no better partnership for that than NEC. They have a long history of being committed to new Black artists and Black playwrights.”

In sum, Mr. Gruits added that this season is a “celebration season,” and one that reasserts the Annenberg Center’s history of investing in “the very best” in the arts.

“I think it also provides a platform for really important artists today to communicate what they’re doing, and to address a lot of issues we’re trying to address as a society,” he added. “These are artists you can’t otherwise see in Philadelphia, and these programs are very special. We hope audiences are engaged with them and take away something meaningful from their experience.”

Adapted from a Penn Today article by Brandon Baker, May 5, 2022. 

The Penn Relays is excited to announce that the Penn Relays Summer Showcase presented by Toyota will return to Franklin Field on July 9, 2022. Athletes can register to participate here. 

“We are thrilled to be able to open up the gates of Franklin Field to runners of all ages for the Penn Relays Summer Showcase,” said Aaron Robison, associate director of the Penn Relays. “This annual event will allow runners of all abilities, ages, and experience levels to race on this historic track. Come see what the magic is all about!”

The day will begin at 5 p.m., spreading across four hours of five different individual track events. Visit www.PennRelays.com to view a tentative schedule.

“Toyota is very proud to be the presenting sponsor of the Penn Relays Summer Showcase, which provides so many local athletes with the opportunity to pursue their dreams,” said Paul Muller, President of the Tri-State Toyota Dealers Association. “Helping support athletes of all ages is a core part of Toyota’s overall belief in mobility for all. As the local Toyota dealers, we are excited for the return of this special summer event in its second year and the opportunity to cheer on the athletes as they continue to ‘Start Their Impossible’ while competing at Penn’s iconic Franklin Field.” 

The event is open to all ages with heats being created according to competitive times.

For complete details and updates, please go to www.PennRelays.com and follow @PennRelays on social media.

Children’s Activities

Penn Museum
Online events. Info: https://www.penn.museum/calendar.

6/28     At-Home Anthro Live: Making a Mosaic; 1 p.m.

Exhibits

Penn Museum
Online and in-person events. Info: https://www.penn.museum/calendar.

6/24     Virtual Global Guide Tour: Middle East Galleries; 2:30 p.m.

6/25     Greece Gallery Tour; 11 a.m.

            Global Guide Tour: Africa Galleries; 2:30 p.m.

6/26     Rome Gallery Tour; 11 a.m.

            Global Guide Tour: Middle East Galleries; 2:30 p.m.

Films

6/28     Premiere: A Foolproof Guide to Relationships; Tamia Harvey-Martin, C’23, presents the premiere of a film about being on the asexual spectrum; 4 p.m.; location TBA; info: https://tinyurl.com/lgbt-center-calendar (LGBT Center).

Fitness & Learning

6/28     School Wide Flexible Work Options Meeting; a presentation on Penn’s options for flexible, hybrid, fully remote, and fully on-site work in the fall of 2022, particularly as they pertain to the Carey Law School; noon; Zoom webinar; join: https://tinyurl.com/carey-info-session-jun-28 (Carey Law School).

Center for Undergraduate Research & Fellowships (CURF)
Online events. Info: https://www.curf.upenn.edu/curf-events.

6/22     Introduction to the Fulbright U.S. Student Program; noon.

            Maintaining Mental Wellness and Emotional Self-Care as a Student Researcher; noon.

Graduate School of Education (GSE)
Online events. Info: https://www.gse.upenn.edu/news/events-calendar.

6/22     LGBTQ Plus Allyship for Parents and Family Members; 2 p.m.

Talks

6/21     50th Anniversary of Title IX; Dwayne Bensing, attorney; Maya Reddy, former professional golfer; noon; Zoom webinar; register: https://tinyurl.com/bensing-reddy-jun-21 (Carey Law School).

6/22     Amazing Stories of a Collector; Börje Bengtsson, Bengtsson Fine Art; 5:30 p.m.; Zoom webinar; register: https://libcal.library.upenn.edu/calendar/kislak/Bengtsson (Penn Libraries).

6/23     Special Briefing on States Cutting Taxes: Relief Now, Shortfalls Later; panel of speakers; 11 a.m.; Zoom webinar; register: https://tinyurl.com/penn-iur-talk-jun-23 (Penn Institute for Urban Research).

            Distribution of COVID-19 Vaccines Across the US: A Geographic Information Systems Approach; Inmaculada Hernandez, University of California San Diego; 9 a.m.; BlueJeans webinar; join: https://bluejeans.com/873734674/4747?src=join_info (Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics).

6/24     Caregiving NOW! Julian Harris, ConcertoCare; noon; Zoom webinar; register: https://tinyurl.com/harris-talk-jun-24 (Nursing).

6/27     Microtechnology-Based Single Cell and EV Profiling; Jina Ko, pathology and bioengineering; noon; room 337, Towne Building (Psychical Sciences Oncology Center).

            Entropy as an Operad Derivation; Tai-Danae Bradley, SandboxAQ; 2 p.m.; Zoom webinar; join: https://upenn.zoom.us/s/93725935963 (Mathematics).

6/28     Bringing Safe and Effective “Curative” Interventions for HIV and Sickle Cell Disease to Resource-limited Parts of the World; Mike McCune, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation; 9:30 a.m.; Zoom webinar; register: https://tinyurl.com/mccune-talk-jun-28 (Wistar Institute).

Penn Dental
Online events. Info: https://www.dental.upenn.edu/news-events/events/.

6/27     How to Make an Impact with Your Research: An Editor’s Wish List; Robert Weyant, University of Pittsburgh; 5:30 p.m.

Medical Ethics & Health Policy
Hybrid events at room 252, BRB, and online webinars. Info: https://medicalethicshealthpolicy.med.upenn.edu/events.

6/21     The Promise of Sweetened Beverage Taxes; Christina Roberto, health policy; noon.

This is an update to the Summer AT PENN calendar, which covers the months of June, July, and August and is available online. To submit an event for a future monthly calendar or weekly update, email almanac@upenn.edu.

University of Pennsylvania Police Department Crime Report

Below are the Crimes Against Persons, Crimes Against Society and Crimes Against Property from the campus report for June 6-12, 2022. View prior weeks’ reports. —Ed.

This summary is prepared by the Division of Public Safety and includes all criminal incidents reported and made known to the University Police Department for the dates of June 6-12, 2022. The University Police actively patrol from Market St to Baltimore and from the Schuylkill River to 43rd St in conjunction with the Philadelphia Police. In this effort to provide you with a thorough and accurate report on public safety concerns, we hope that your increased awareness will lessen the opportunity for crime. For any concerns or suggestions regarding this report, please call the Division of Public Safety at (215) 898-4482.

18th District

Below are the Crimes Against Persons from the 18th District: 5 incidents (4 assaults and 1 aggravated assault) were reported for June 6-12, 2022, by the 18^th District, covering the Schuylkill River to 49th St & Market St to Woodland Avenue.

June 7, 2022

The Division of Public Safety (DPS) is committed to the safety and well-being of the Penn and West Philadelphia communities we serve.

As we enter the summer season on campus, we would like to acknowledge the national increase in violent crime. This rise is also occurring here in Philadelphia, most recently reflected in the shooting on South Street on Saturday night. While this tragic incident occurred several miles from our campus, we recognize the impact it may have on those living, working and studying in our community.

Public Safety Resources

Throughout the summer months, Public Safety maintains the same deployment levels, regardless of campus population. Additionally, Penn Police and Allied Security have increased the frequency of targeted patrols in certain areas in response to crime trends as they occur. As a reminder, the Penn Patrol Zone extends from 30th Street to 43rd Street (east to west) and Market Street to Baltimore Avenue (north to south).

We will continue to work with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners to ensure the safety and security of our community.

DPS offers safety presentations, self-defense courses and emergency procedures training to the Penn Community. Groups may request presentations via the form on our website.

If you should have any concerns or see someone exhibiting suspicious behavior, call the PennComm Emergency Communications Center at 215-573-3333. We are here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, call anytime. If you feel unsafe outside of the Penn Patrol Zone, call 911 for local police (in the U.S.).

Your safety and well-being remain our highest priority.

Emergency Contact Information

• Emergencies: Dial 215-573-3333 or 511 (from any campus phone). Dial 911 outside of the Penn Patrol Zone.
• Penn Guardian App: Penn Guardian is a free app that allows Penn affiliates the ability to rapidly provide information about themselves to the Division of Public Safety during an emergency.
• Blue Light Emergency Phones: If you observe a potential safety hazard, require assistance, notice suspicious activity, feel unsafe or need a walking escort, you can reach Public Safety directly through any emergency phone on campus. Just pick up the receiver or press the button.

Additional Safety & Wellness Resources

We encourage you to use the free services below, provided for your safety and well-being.

• Walking Escort: 215-898-WALK (9255). Public Safety officers provide walking escort services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week between 30th to 43rd Streets and Market Street to Baltimore Avenue. Call 215-898-9255 (898-WALK).
• Penn Transit Ride Service: 215-898-RIDE (7433). Penn Transit’s buses and shuttles help students travel between campus and the neighboring communities safely and efficiently. Penn Transit Services are free of charge to all Penn community members holding a valid PennCard.
• The HELP line: 215-898-HELP (4357). Any member of the Penn community may call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to request mental health resources and information.
• Special Services: 215-898-4481 or 215-898-6600 (24 hours). Members of the Penn community may inquire and receive support services when victimized by any type of crime. Highly trained personnel are available to offer immediate assistance, including crisis intervention, accompaniment to legal and medical proceedings, options counseling and advocacy, and linkages to other University and community resources.
• Student Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS): 215-898-7021. CAPS services are part of Wellness at Penn, and are here to support you throughout your Penn experience.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): 1-866-799-2329. Penn’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can provide counseling and referral services to you and your families, as well as connect you to resources to help you work through the grief these events can create. EAP offers materials for coping with traumatic experiences and ways to help those who struggle with feeling safe at school, home, or work.
• UPenn Alert Registration: Visit http://www.publicsafety.upenn.edu/upennalert for information on how to register or update your contact information.
• Penn Guardian: Use the Penn Guardian App to stay in touch with Public Safety.
  • Penn Guardian is a free app that allows Penn affiliates the ability to rapidly provide information about themselves to the Division of Public Safety during an emergency.
  • Calls from a registered phone will allow Penn Police to determine the GPS location of the caller’s cell phone, which can expedite response time. This information will only be available to Penn Police when the subscriber calls PennComm directly, either through the app or at 215-573-3333.
  • If a call is made to PennComm, and the caller is unable to speak - perhaps because of an allergic reaction - a call taker will send a text message to the caller’s phone, allowing for communication directly via text.
  • The app provides a confidential way to submit a tip to Penn Police - with a photo, if necessary - through a text message.

—Division of Public Safety

June 3, 2022

Penn Police have recently received reports of burglaries in the area of 40th to 42nd Streets from Pine to Spruce Streets. Most of these incidents appear to be crimes of opportunity, with suspects entering properties through unsecured doors and windows, while individuals are out of the property, even for a brief period of time. Public Safety will continue to investigate these incidents, and offer a few general reminders about securing properties:

• Always keep your doors locked.
• Do not leave doors propped open.
• Secure windows when leaving a room.
• Do not let anyone you don’t know into your building.
• Verify service provider’s identity with your landlord.
• If you see suspicious behavior, call Penn Police immediately at 215-573-3333.

The safety and well-being of our community is our highest priority. We encourage you to use all of the free services available to you and offer the below reminders:

• Use Walking Escort to walk with you to any location in the Penn Patrol Zone, between 30th Street and 43rd Streets, from Market Street to Baltimore Avenue 24/7; as well as within the UCD zone, west to 50th Street and north into Powelton between 10 a.m. – 3 a.m.
• Use PennRides for free transportation to both the West Philadelphia and Center City areas.
• For a medical emergency, call 215-573-3333 for the Alternative Response Unit (AR-1).
• Call 215-898-HELP 24/7 for members of the Penn community who are seeking time sensitive help in navigating Penn’s resources for health and wellness.
• Request a safety presentation by going to: https://www.publicsafety.upenn.edu/contact/presentation-request-form/
• If you see something, say something. Report suspicious behavior immediately to Penn Police at 215-573-3333.

—Division of Public Safety

The Office of the University Registrar announces the release of the 2022-2023 University Catalog for the University of Pennsylvania as of May 31, 2022. This new edition of the University Catalog will serve as a single source of information about all academic programs at Penn, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, as well as courses at all levels of study. The catalog also includes the Pennbook, a collection of University policies that relate to student life, the Faculty Handbook, and other important academic policies and resources.

As a result of the NGSS project, the 2022-2023 catalog is the first catalog to incorporate 4-digit course numbers. This edition of the catalog is available thanks to the many people who contribute enormous time and effort to prepare for this publication, including central offices and other partners from across campus. Thank you!

The University Catalog can be found at https://catalog.upenn.edu. 

Please send all questions and comments to catalog@registrar.upenn.edu.

—Margaret Kip, University Registrar
—Rob Nelson, Executive Director for Academic & Technology Planning, Office of the Provost
—Matthew Sessa, Associate Vice President, Student Registration and Financial Services