Dear UAlbany Friends and Supporters,
I am proud to present this look back at a year of tremendous accomplishments at the University at Albany throughout 2024.
The past year marked UAlbany’s 180th anniversary and included major milestones, growth toward our strategic priorities, and celebrations of our community.
The Year in Review highlights new facilities that opened on our campus including the new College of Nanotechnology, Science, and Engineering building on the Downtown Campus, the new Well at Colonial, an Esports arena, an updated Presidents Reading Room, and the unveiling of our AI Supercomputer.
Other highlights include the establishment of a new college and many new academic programs, the official naming of the Massry School of Business, new national accolades and improved rankings, athletic achievements, and investments in the health and well-being of our campus community.
As you will see from the stories below, the UAlbany community has been hard at work over the past year in classrooms and laboratories, on athletic fields, in our community, and beyond.
I encourage you to review the 2024 highlights below and take the opportunity to celebrate our successes and envision all that we will accomplish together next year.
Thank you all for your commitment, engagement, and support for the University at Albany – the accomplishments listed below are a credit to the power of this incredible community.
Sincerely,
Havidán Rodríguez
President
Study: UAlbany Generates More than $1B for Capital Region Economy
University News
The University at Albany generates $1.1 billion in economic activity throughout the Capital Region, according to a report conducted by the Capital District Regional Planning Commission. The report focused on an assessment of the overall economic impact of several main drivers: student, faculty and staff spending; construction projects; and the University's purchasing of the goods and services.
Student Work Shines at Second Annual Showcase
Student Success
More than 2,000 graduate and undergraduate students presented their research, creative and academic work at Showcase, including posters, music and dance performances, group panels and art exhibitions. The annual campus-wide event attracted students, faculty and staff, family and community members, government and community leaders and nearly 1,000 middle and high school students from 25 schools — from Albany to Brooklyn.
'Massry School of Business' Recognizes Decades of Support for UAlbany Students
Giving
In April, three generations of the Massry family joined President Havidán Rodríguez to celebrate the newly re-named Massry School of Business in recognition and thanks for nearly four decades of philanthropic support for UAlbany students by the Massry family. The family's most recent gift to the school created four endowed professorships; established the University’s largest endowed scholarship program; supports students’ transition from classroom to career; and provides unrestricted funds that will allow the school to seize new opportunities and innovate.
New Teacher Certification Programs Mark Return to UAlbany's Roots
Student Success
In January, the School of Education launched three new undergraduate teacher certification programs, marking a return to the University’s roots as a teachers college. The programs, which had been in development for some time, were accelerated to help fill the gap caused by the closure of The College of Saint Rose, one of the leading teacher prep colleges in the region.
New CNSE Building Dazzles in Renovated Former Albany High School
University News
In May, UAlbany unveiled the new home of its College of Nanotechnology, Science, and Engineering, the University's most significant expansion in midtown since the Downtown Campus was completed in 1929. The current renovation spans 62,600 square feet — about half the building’s total 129,000 square feet. The approximately $85 million project was broken up into phases, and construction will now shift to the north wing and auditorium.
New AI Supercomputer Powers Research at the Frontiers of Technology
Research
In October, Gov. Kathy Hochul helped UAlbany unveil its new NVIDIA AI supercomputer — the most powerful within the SUNY system and among the most powerful at any U.S. university. The new hardware was designed for performance and speed to propel UAlbany's cutting-edge research in weather, climate, mathematics, biomedical science, data and computer science, social sciences, semiconductor engineering and many other fields.
Biologist Awarded $3.3M for Research on Reproductive, Olfactory Development
Research
This fall, Paolo Forni received two NIH grants totaling more than $3.3 million to support his work studying Kallmann syndrome and related disorders affecting fertility and olfaction. The research aims to clarify the biological causes of these disorders, in order to improve diagnostic methods and develop new treatments.
College of Integrated Health Sciences Unites Public Health, Social Welfare & Nursing
University News
In August, the University at Albany took a significant step towards addressing the interconnected issues that impact health and wellness with the formation of a new College of Integrated Health Sciences, which aligns its exemplary programs in Public Health, Social Welfare and Nursing.
UAlbany Ranked a Top U.S. School, Noted for Improving Social Mobility of Students
University News
UAlbany continued its run of success as one of New York's premier universities, offering students opportunities in STEM research, affordable degree programs and diverse cultural experiences. The University is consistently recognized among the best colleges for social mobility and educational equity.
$4M DOE Grant Fuels Work to Improve Completion Rates, Reduce Financial Barriers
Student Success
UAlbany was awarded a $4 million Postsecondary Student Success Program grant from the U.S. Department of Education to increase retention, persistence and graduation rates for its students. The grant will be used to launch UAlbany FACTS (Financial Assistance Coaching & Tools for Success) to assist students in developing realistic and individualized financial plans that will reduce financial barriers and allow students to focus on their academic success.
New Game Design Major and Graduate Program Tap Into Growing Sector
Student Success
In December, the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity announced a new Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development and a Master of Science in Strategic Game Design and Applied Development. Both programs will be offered starting in Fall 2025.
Rockefeller's Strategic Trade Control Work Surpasses $25M
Research
This year, the Project on International Security, Commerce and Economic Statecraft (PISCES) led by Rockefeller College Associate Dean Bryan Early surpassed $25M in total funding. In October alone, PISCES was awarded seven grants from the U.S. Department of State totaling more than $6 million to work with governments to protect a wide range of newer technologies from being misused.
Gillibrand Touts Federal Cybersecurity Scholarships for UAlbany Students
Student Success
U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand was at ETEC in November to encourage UAlbany students to apply for the Department of Defense Cyber Service Academy scholarship program. The scholarship covers significant expenses such as tuition, books and lab fees, and includes a stipend for room and board, in return for federal service post-graduation.
Sullivan Award Supports CNSE Student Scholarship
Student Success
Thanks to funding through the John J. Sullivan Professional Development Award, College of Nanotechnology, Science, and Engineering doctoral students Maria Belen Paredes-Espinosa, Shadi Omranpour, Ezra Pasikatan and Jeelka Solanki have been able to take part in prestigious conferences that have advanced their research and scholarship.
UAlbany Announces ‘1+2+1’ Bachelor's of Science in Nursing Program
University News
Launched in November, UAlbany’s new “1+2+1” program allows aspiring nurses to complete their BSN in four years. Offered at the College of Integrated Health Sciences, in partnership with St. Peters Health Partners, students in the “1+2+1” program will simultaneously work toward two degrees: an Associate Degree in Nursing and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Research & Entrepreneurship Week Celebrates Science, Creativity and Innovation
Research
Artificial Intelligence, climate science, research excellence and fostering an entrepreneurial culture were just some of the topics at this year's second annual Research & Entrepreneurship Week at UAlbany. The four-day event ran from Oct. 21-24 at the ETEC research and development complex and featured an entire day dedicated to AI innovation and thought leadership in the Capital Region.
‘University at Albany Week’ Airs on The Academic Minute
Research
Albany’s WAMC Northeast Public Radio aired five segments from UAlbany faculty in October during “University at Albany Week” on The Academic Minute. The series features a two-and-a-half-minute segment each day, Monday through Friday, from researchers at different colleges and universities around the world, keeping listeners abreast of what's new and exciting in higher education research.
Cold Case Center Opens in School of Criminal Justice
Public Engagement & Service
The Cold Case Analysis Center moved to UAlbany under the leadership of Camela Hughes after the College of Saint Rose closed. Beginning in the Fall Semester, students were able to help investigative agencies and the community solve cold cases — including missing persons and unsolved crimes — through internships at the center.
UAlbany, UB & Nebraska Partner on Energy Efficient Microelectronics
Research
UAlbany is partnering with the University at Buffalo and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to develop new, high-speed microelectronics that require less power than traditional silicon-based products. Powered by a $1.9 million grant from the National Science Foundation, the project aims to reduce the stress on electrical grids challenged by power-sapping artificial intelligence (AI) systems including the hardware needed to train and operate AI tools such as ChatGPT.
UAlbany, Leibniz Institute Launch Center for Biophotonic Technology and Artificial Intelligence
Research
Igor Lednev, a chemist at UAlbany, and Jürgen Popp, scientific director of the Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology in Germany, launched the Center for Biophotonic Technology and Artificial Intelligence in October. Based at UAlbany, the joint center is equipped with novel instrumentation from the Leibniz Institute and will set up new pathways for collaborative research opportunities.
UAlbany Receives Awards for Its Commitment to Diversity
Diversity & Inclusion
The University continues to be recognized for its efforts to support campus-wide diversity and inclusion, receiving accolades from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, Campus Pride Index, and others.
Faculty Experts Featured in National Media Coverage on Hurricane Helene
Research
As people looked for insight on Hurricane Helene, national media outlets turned to UAlbany's expertise in extreme weather, emergency preparedness and response. Hurricane Helene made landfall in October as a Category 4 storm, leaving millions in the Southeast U.S. stranded without water, power or cell service.
UAlbany Chemist Advances Tool for Complete RNA Sequencing
Research
In October, Shenglong Zhang received two Small Business Technology Transfer grants totaling over $620,000. Jointly awarded to the University and UAlbany spinoff company DirectSeq Biosciences, Inc., the funding will support the development of critical new technologies for RNA mapping, enabling an unprecedented view of RNA modifications responsible for hundreds of human diseases.
Victoria Rizzo Named Director of the Center for Healthy Aging
University News
In October, Victoria Rizzo, senior vice dean of the College of Integrated Health Sciences and director of the School of Social Welfare, was named inaugural director of UAlbany’s new Center for Healthy Aging. Housed within the Institute for Social and Health Equity, the Center will leverage UAlbany’s longstanding strengths in biology, public health, social welfare, and public administration and policy to address and improve all aspects of aging.
Digital Forensics Garners Prestigious Cybersecurity Designation
Research
The Massry School of Business undergraduate program in Digital Forensics has been recognized by the National Security Agency/Central Security Service (NSA/CSS) for excellence in cyber defense research. The program, which prepares students for careers in industry, law enforcement and government to tackle cyberattacks, data breaches, fraud, financial crimes or other malicious activity, has received a new 5-year designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Research (CAE-R).
UAlbany a Top-10 Fulbright Producing University
International
Eight faculty members from UAlbany were selected for Fulbright awards for academic year 2023-24, placing UAlbany among the top 10 doctoral institutions for U.S. scholars this year. The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs recognized the University as one of the colleges and universities with the highest number of faculty and administrators selected for the Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program in the doctoral institution category.
AI Expert Tapped to Lead AI Plus Institute
Research
In September, a well-regarded computer scientist and expert on human-computer interaction was named the inaugural permanent director of the University at Albany’s AI Plus Institute. Prabha (Balakrishnan) Prabhakaran will join the Institute in January after more than two decades on the computer science faculty at The University of Texas at Dallas, where he also served as associate vice president for research centers and institutes.
Climate Scientist Leads Project to Improve the Resiliency of Puerto Rico’s Power Grid
International
Jorge González-Cruz of the Atmospheric Sciences Research Center is leading a project with a team of student researchers to reconstruct past major weather events in Puerto Rico and gather new data to help improve the island’s power grid resiliency. The project is supported through federal funding from the National Institute of Standards and Technology.
Stunning New Esports Arena a Playground for Gamers
University News
In September, UAlbany unveiled a new 4,000-square-foot arena to meet the growing needs of UAlbany Esports, which is among the country’s largest collegiate competitive video gaming programs. The arena is open for competitive team practices and matches, as well as general student use between 5 and 10 p.m. daily.
Researchers Use Virtual Reality to Improve Disaster Preparedness for Older Adults
Research
In September, researchers at the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity were awarded $549,943 from the National Science Foundation to lead a new project focused on using virtual reality to reduce disaster vulnerabilities for older individuals and others who are disproportionately affected. The research team is exposing participants from the general public to disaster environments using Meta Quest VR headsets, which offer immersive experiences in 3D spaces.
First MSBA Graduate Applies Classroom Lessons to Career
Student Success
UAlbany student Reilly Coleman has become the first student to graduate from the Massry School of Business with a Master's Degree in Business Analytics (MSBA). The new program provides students with the skillset to harness large datasets in order to efficiently design effective business policies. Students learn techniques derived from various fields, including business, economics, statistics and computer science.
Great Dane Dialogues Encourage Engagement, Civil Discourse
University News
Against the backdrop of the Presidential election, global crises and rising activism on college campuses, UAlbany hosted the Great Dane Dialogue, a cross-campus effort of programs and online engagement to promote civil discourse and inclusivity, and to celebrate free speech, which are foundational to scholarly inquiry and higher education.
My Library Story with President Havidán Rodríguez
University News
In honor of the opening of the President's Reading Room at the University Library in September, UAlbany President Havidán Rodríguez sat down for an interview about his experience with libraries.
$1.6M Grant Backs Research to Clean PFAS from Farms
Research
In September, a research team led by the UAlbany's College of Nanotechnology, Science, and Engineering was been awarded $1.6 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to more fully understand how so-called forever chemicals infiltrate soils and how to prevent that potentially harmful contamination from entering the food supply.
Semiconductor Startup Receives $207K to Advance EV Charging
Research
In September, UAlbany-supported power semiconductor start-up NoMIS Power won nearly $207,000 from the U.S. Department of Energy to develop advanced power modules that will revolutionize electric vehicle charging and enhance electric grid infrastructure. NoMIS Power will collaborate with DOE’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory to develop the silicon carbide (SiC) devices.
UAlbany Hosts U.S. Health Promoting Campuses Network Summit
University News
UAlbany hosted the third summit of the U.S. Health Promoting Campuses Network. Designed to provide a better understanding of the key aspirations of the Okanagan Charter, the multi-day, in-person event provided innovative approaches, strategies and practices to support a whole-system approach promoting well-being for students, faculty and staff at higher education institutions.
UAlbany Welcomes New Great Danes for Fall 2024 Semester
University News
The University at Albany welcomed students back in August for the start of the Fall 2024 semester, including 5,430 new Great Danes. More than 2,800 first-year students joined the campus community, along with 1,000 transfer students and 1,630 graduate students.
Colonial Quad Boasts Renovated Residence Halls and 'The Well' Rec Center
University News
UAlbany and the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York completed a major $46.9 million renovation of Paine and Zenger Residence Halls on Colonial Quad, which opened to students in August. The renovation included the transformation of the former dining hall into the Colonial Wellness Center, a new recreation and wellness center nicknamed The Well.
New Semiconductor Engineering Programs to Help Fill CHIPS Act Jobs
University News
In August, the College of Nanotechnology, Science, and Engineering launched three new programs in semiconductor engineering. The programs, housed within UAlbany’s Department of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, include graduate certificates in Semiconductor Manufacturing, Semiconductor Patterning and Processing and Semiconductor Metrology.
UAlbany, Girls Inc. Encourage Students to be Life-Long Learners
Public Engagement & Service
Now in its 12th year at UAlbany, Eureka! is a free program created by Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region that provides girls with an introduction to science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Throughout the summer, middle and high school students took part in activities that range from field trips to the Ion Beam Lab at UAlbany, WildPlay, where the girls challenged themselves on a high ropes course, as well as the New York State Mesonet at ETEC where the girls helped launch a weather balloon.
Researchers Identify New Driver of Antimicrobial Resistance
Research
In August, UAlbany researchers led by Cheryl Andam identified a new genetic mechanism that allows antimicrobial resistance to spread among the bacterium Klebsiella pneumoniae — the third leading cause of blood infections globally. The work shines new light on how these bacteria develop resistance against lifesaving antibiotics that are losing their power as bacteria evolve.
Summer Research Program Fosters Hands-On Experience
Student Success
UAlbany junior Alma Kolakji spent her summer trying to help make rocket fuel more environmentally friendly. The student, who was born in Damascus and whose family escaped the Syrian Civil War, is among more than 40 students taking part in the College of Nanotechnology, Science, and Engineering (CNSE) Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP).
UAlbany Hall of Famer Claxton Embraces Motherhood, Olympics
Athletics
Entering her second Olympic Games representing Puerto Rico, UAlbany alum Grace Claxton fondly remembers her time as a Great Dane. Eight years after competing in the 400m hurdles at the 2016 Olympics in Rio, much has changed for Claxton as she balances being a new mom with training for Paris. Claxton carries the love of her family, her country and UAlbany with her when she steps into the starting blocks at the legendary Stade de France.
Flash Illuminates UAlbany's Role in National Lightning Network
University News
In July, a lightning strike on Mohawk Tower during a ferocious summer storm created an iconic image of campus and helped highlight the pivotal role played by UAlbany's Department of Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences in developing the National Lightning Detection Network. It was among six cloud-to-ground strikes on campus over a two-minute span.
New York State Mesonet Opens Lake Placid Weather Station
Public Engagement & Service
In June, the New York State Mesonet, a statewide weather observation network operated by the University at Albany, celebrated the opening of a new weather station at Uihlein Farm in Lake Placid. The new location marked the first Mesonet site to be added to the network in partnership with a private entity.
Piseno Named National Defensive Player of the Year
Athletics
Long-stick midfielder Jake Piseno has been named the recipient of the prestigious William C. Schmeisser Award, given by the United States Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association (USILA) to the top defensive player in Division I men's lacrosse. It's the first time in UAlbany history that a Great Dane has earned the honor.
Study: Thunderstorms and Power Outages Increase Respiratory Emergencies
Research
With findings published in June, UAlbany researchers examined the joint effects of thunderstorms and power outages on respiratory-related emergency department visits in New York State. Understanding the connections between severe storms, outages and health effects can inform health plans for at-risk individuals and help medical facilities better anticipate certain respiratory cases driven by extreme weather.
Students Support Menstrual Health in the Capital Region
Public Engagement & Service
Master of Public Health students Brynn Watkins and Claire Jennings are expanding access to menstrual products and education as members of the New York State Public Health Corps. Together with UAlbany alum Annabelle Rieseler, the team started "Capital Region Menstrual Health," a nonprofit organization that has procured over $20,000 in financial support and donations.
UAlbany Celebrates Class of 2024
University News
More than 4,650 students in the Class of 2024 were celebrated during UAlbany’s 180th commencement festivities, which stretched from May 9 to May 12. Among the graduates were an estimated 2,934 undergraduates and 1,719 graduate students, including recipients who completed their degrees last summer and fall as well as over the winter.
Great Danes Advance to NCAA Softball Tournament
Athletics
UAlbany's softball team will compete in the Bryan-College Station Regional after winning the America East Championship on May 11. Meanwhile, the men's lacrosse team put up a great fight against defending national champion Notre Dame but ultimately fell, 14-9 in the First Round of the NCAA Tournament.
Women's Golf, Men's Lacrosse Earn Bids to NCAAs
Athletics
The men's lacrosse and women's golf teams won conference championships and advanced to the NCAAs. Meanwhile, the women's and men's track and field teams have earned postseason success, with the women winning their 15th consecutive America East title and the men placing second at the America East Championships in May.
Andy Berglund Receives Inaugural Keith Hynes Endowed Professorship in STEM
Giving
In May, RNA Institute Director Andy Berglund was named as the inaugural recipient of the Keith Hynes Endowed Professorship in STEM. Established by a gift from Keith Hynes '74, the professorship recognizes outstanding UAlbany faculty members in STEM disciplines, including the University’s artificial intelligence initiative. The endowment provides funds for the holder’s teaching and research, including field projects and new technology acquisition.
UAlbany Celebrates New Center of Excellence in RNA Research and Therapeutics
University News
This spring, UAlbany's RNA Institute was designated a "Center of Excellence in RNA Research and Therapeutics" in partnership with University of Rochester's Center for RNA Biology. Funded by Empire State Development's Division of Science, Technology and Innovation, the new Center will focus on developing RNA-based therapies and training the next generation of New York’s biotechnology workforce.
Students Experience Totality Through NASA Eclipse Ballooning Project
Student Success
During the April 8 total solar eclipse, a team of students from the Department of Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences took shifts launching weather balloons for 30 consecutive hours from Fort Drum, N.Y. The students were part of NASA's Nationwide Eclipse Ballooning Project which aimed to collect and analyze atmospheric data from locations on the totality path across the U.S.
CTG UAlbany Deploys AI to Assist Local Governments
Public Engagement & Service
The Center for Technology in Government is deploying artificial intelligence to aid the city of Schenectady monitor the use of city assets. CTG UAlbany’s system, the Community Asset Tracker, uses a mobile Internet of Things (IoT) sensor network on government vehicles and AI to provide near real-time identification and notification of safety or other significant issues with government-owned infrastructure and properties around the community.
Engineering Students Aid Workers with Disabilities
Public Engagement & Service
Working in the class of Electrical and Computer Engineering Professor of Practice Jonathan Muckell, seniors Shak Williams, Jordan Jung and Jacob Bruno o developed a mail-sorting device to aid workers at the Center for Disability Services (CDS) Mail Fulfillment Center in Colonie. The students’ work was sponsored by the New York State Industries for the Disabled.
UAlbany Hosts 14th Annual 'Out of the Darkness' Walk
Public Engagement & Service
In April, UAlbany hosted its 14th annual "Out of the Darkness" walk for mental health awareness and suicide prevention. Coordinated by Counseling and Psychological Services, with strong student leadership, the event supports the Capital Region chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, which leads critical work to promote mental health and prevent suicide in our community.
Students Credit CFA Challenge With Career-Shaping Skills
Student Success
Each year, the CFA Institute brings together students from 95 countries and more than 1,000 universities for the CFA Institute Research Challenge. In April, a team of students from the Massry School of Business became the first in UAlbany history to reach the Americas-region finals, where it was one of the last six schools in the western hemisphere competing for a spot in the global finals.
School of Business EY LEADs Program Wins Insight Into Diversity Award
Diversity & Inclusion
In April, UAlbany’s Massry School of Business was highlighted by Insight Into Diversity for its ongoing leadership in social mobility. The school has won the 2023-24 Inspiring Programs in Business Award for its EY Leadership Education in Accounting and Diversity (EY LEADs) Program.
School of Social Welfare Students Spearhead Legislative Education Advocacy Day 2024
Student Success
In April, UAlbany Master of Social Work students Alexis Candido and Jacob Schoff played leading roles in organizing "Legislative Education Advocacy Day" — an annual event that gives New York social work students a platform to speak directly to state legislators and advocate for bills with strong potential to benefit the populations that social workers serve.
Researchers Patent Novel PFAS Removal System
Research
In April, UAlbany’s John Paccione and David Dziewulski patented a new system to treat water for PFAS, or “forever chemicals.” The system is designed to be efficient, scalable and adaptable, with potential to treat water and wastewater from manufacturing facilities that use PFAS, aide in the disposal of fire suppressant foams, and remove harmful chemicals from drinking water.
Chemists Develop Color-Changing Test for Rapid Salmonella Detection
Research
In April, UAlbany researchers published a new method for easy, fast-acting salmonella detection. Designed to be quick, cost effective and eventually portable, the test is a breakthrough in accessible food safety. The team is now working to adapt the system for other foodborne pathogens.
Cybersecurity Response Studio Awarded $1.25M in Federal Funding
Public Engagement & Service
U.S. Sens. Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced in March that UAlbany will receive $1.25 million to purchase advanced technologies and support faculty involved with a new Cybersecurity Incident Response Studio. The initiative has brought cyber and crisis management researchers from across campus together to support training and simulation exercises for public, private and non-profit sector partners.
Girl Scouts Earn Cybersecurity Badges with CEHC
Public Engagement & Service
As part of a growing partnership between the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity and the Girl Scouts of Northeastern New York, CEHC hosted dozens of scouts from across the Capital Region in March at the ETEC research and development complex to participate in hands-on activities and discussions on their way to earning three Girl Scout cybersecurity badges. The field trip was part of a growing partnership between .
Researchers Connect Declining Atmospheric Sulfur Dioxide to Rise in Legionnaires’ Disease
Research
With findings published in March, UAlbany researchers studied links between sulfur dioxide, Legionnaires’ disease incidence, and the role of cooling towers in harboring Legionella bacteria, with a focus on disease hotspots in New York State. Their results, which highlight correlations between cooling tower proximity and disease incidence, could inform management approaches in vulnerable communities.
EPA and Tonko Celebrate $1M for UAlbany-led Air Quality Research
Public Engagement & Service
UAlbany researchers have been funded $1 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to lead two community air monitoring projects in New York. To celebrate the awards, the EPA joined Congressman Paul Tonko and several other elected officials in February for a press conference at Giffen Memorial Elementary School, a future air monitoring site in Albany’s South End.
Trailblazing Judge Seth Marnin Discusses Leadership and Life at UAlbany
Public Engagement & Service
In February, New York State Court of Claims Judge Seth Marnin (BA '92, MA '94) was a featured guest at UAlbany's Leading Questions series. Marnin spoke to President Havidán Rodríguez, SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. and a crowd of UAlbany students about leadership; his time studying sociology and women's, gender and sexuality studies; and his path to the bench as the first out transgender judge in New York.
UAlbany First to Receive Prototype IBM AI Hardware
Research
In February, UAlbany was the first institution in the world to receive a cluster of prototype IBM Artificial Intelligence Unit (AIU) chips as part of the new Center for Emerging Artificial Intelligence Systems. The center's joint research projects will use the AIU to design complex circuits more efficiently, optimize LLMs for use in mental health applications, improve wireless signal processing, develop advanced mathematical applications and forecast extreme weather in urban environments.
UAlbany Launches the Institute for Social and Health Equity
University News
With a formal launch in February, the Institute for Social and Health Equity is a new research and training hub designed to harness UAlbany’s existing strengths, together with community engagement, to address longstanding societal problems related to health disparities and inequity in the Capital Region and beyond. The Institute will provide a “home” for multidisciplinary research collaborations, with regional partners in academia, government, nonprofit institutions and the private sector.
CNSE Earns ABET Accreditation in Environmental, Nanoscale Engineering
University News
In January, the College of Nanotechnology, Science, and Engineering earned ABET accreditation for its bachelor of science (BS) in environmental and sustainable engineering. In addition, following the reunification with the Department of Nanoscale Engineering, the college confirmed ABET accreditation for its bachelor’s degree in nanoscale engineering.
Professor Kehe Zhu Becomes UAlbany's First AMS Fellow
Research
UAlbany Professor of Mathematics Kehe Zhu was named fellow of the American Mathematical Society (AMS) in 2024, the first professor at the University at Albany to receive the distinction. The honor recognizes members who have made “outstanding contributions to the creation, exposition, advancement, communication and utilization of mathematics.”
Launch of the AI in Complex Systems Laboratory
Research
In January, M. Abdullah Canbaz, an assistant professor in the Department of Information Sciences and Technology at the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity, launched the AI in Complex Systems Laboratory. The cutting-edge research facility is dedicated to the study and advancement of AI within the context of complex systems and networks.
Scientist Funded to Commercialize Molecular Tool Against Alzheimer’s Disease
Research
In January, Scott Tenenbaum, founder of UAlbany spinoff company sxRNA Technologies Inc., received a $500,000 Small Business Technology Transfer grant to study how aging brain cells shape the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. The work will advance signature molecular technologies that could inform new therapeutics for preventing and treating Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.