The University of Washington is proud to be a part of the global research community and to participate in international research collaborations, here in Washington and around the world. We are part of the fellowship of those united by academic curiosity and scientific inquiry, and we welcome talented scholars and students from many nations.
Category: Archive
In memoriam: Marvin Oliver, ’73, artist and professor emeritus
Today, we mourn the loss of Marvin Oliver,’73, a giant of the art world, a treasured professor emeritus of American Indian Studies and a graduate of University of Washington. It’s painful to lose someone who has been so integral to our culture and community, but we can reflect with joy and gratitude on his enormous and lasting contribution to our world. His impact will always be felt here, not only through his seminal artwork, but through his efforts to advance the cause of equity through teaching, mentorship, and community building.
Only a few months ago, we had the privilege of presenting Marvin with the Charles E. Odegaard Award, which honors individuals whose leadership in the community exemplifies the former UW president’s work on behalf of diversity, at the UW Office of Minority Affairs & Diversity’s annual Celebration. Marvin, of Quinault and Isleta-Pueblo heritage, perfectly embodied that spirit. Across his career spanning more than four decades, his soaring, breathtaking sculptures merged, in his words “the spirit of past traditions with those of the present to create new horizons for the future.” In the process, he greatly advanced the development and recognition of Native American contemporary fine art in the art world and within the broader culture.
Here at the UW, where he earned his M.F.A. in 1973, he will be best remembered as an inspiring teacher who connected deeply with students. He loved introducing students to the discipline and technique of his craft while also encouraging them to discover and celebrate their own identity. Early in his tenure, he began a tradition of an annual dinner, now known as Raven’s Feast, to celebrate the accomplishments of American Indian and Alaska Native graduates. In the years since he founded it, Raven’s Feast has grown into a cornerstone of the UW Native community.
Marvin will be missed by all who knew him and experienced his incredible impact, whether in the classroom, the studio or simply by being in the presence of his phenomenal work. His legacy remains a vibrant part of our campus, from his influence at the Burke Museum to his powerful works like “Raven’s Journey” in the HUB and “Soul Catcher” at the School of Public Health. Above all, he lives on in the many people and places he touched with his art and wisdom. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and loved ones in their time of loss.
What we are doing to prepare for I-1000
I-1000, which enables state agencies and public universities to factor in characteristics such as race, gender, ethnicity, and veteran status when making admissions, hiring and contracting decisions, was passed by the state legislature this session and is currently scheduled to take effect in late July. To prepare the University of Washington for this change in state law, I have initiated a staff review of our current practices in admissions, hiring, and contracting to lay initial groundwork for implementation.
Congratulations and thank you for a year of excellence
As we wrap up another academic year at the University of Washington, we have much to celebrate. I am deeply grateful to be marking this milestone with all of you – students, faculty, staff, alumni, friends and neighbors who make up our diverse and vibrant community.
Thank you, Grant County, for being great neighbors in the UW’s time of need
Yesterday’s visit to Quincy High School in Grant County with the Husky Band was a fabulous opportunity to say THANK YOU to all the members of this community.
Celebrating the life of Vikram Jandhyala
On May 9, we’ll come together as a community to celebrate the life and impact of Vikram Jandhyala. Vikram was so many things: a scholar and innovator, mentor and entrepreneur, friend and colleague, son and father.
I hope you’ll join me in remembering this remarkable man and his many contributions to our University, region and world.
Celebrating the life of Vikram Jandhyala
Thursday, May 9, 2019
4 p.m.
The HUB Ballroom
Husky Giving Day: Why I give
On our first annual Husky Giving Day, I invite every member of our community to consider what they care about and how we can come together to support the students, programs and causes that create meaningful impact on our world.
In Memoriam: Dr. Benjamin D. Hall
Today, we mourn the loss of Dr. Benjamin D. Hall, whose impact on the world and the University of Washington is both lasting and profound. Over a career that than spanned more than 60 years, Ben made groundbreaking discoveries that changed the course of medicine and saved millions of lives.
Attack on Christchurch mosques is an attack on values we ALL share
Today we join the global community in grief and sympathy for the victims of the attacks on the Al Noor and Linwood Mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, one of Seattle’s sister cities. This despicable act of terror aimed at Muslims is an assault on the values honored by ALL people of good faith: love, peace, friendship and awareness of our shared humanity.
Mourning the loss of Vikram Jandhyala
This has been a difficult quarter for our community. We’ve experienced several heartbreaking losses, including some recent tragic losses in our student community. Some of these losses have been private, and some well-known, and all are profoundly felt by the family and friends left behind. I’m deeply saddened to report another loss for our community. Vikram Jandhyala, UW vice president for innovation strategy, has died by suicide.