January 12, 2026

Michigan Technological University has appointed Brenda Krueger as chief human resources officer (CHRO).

Krueger has served as interim CHRO since October, providing steady and thoughtful leadership during a period of transition for the University. In this role, she has focused on strengthening day-to-day operations, advancing organizational and process improvements, and reinforcing a culture of accountability and service within Human Resources. Her leadership has contributed to increased stability and positive momentum across the division.

Appointing Krueger to the permanent role ensures continuity in Human Resources leadership and positions the University to continue building a strong, responsive and effective HR organization that supports faculty and staff and aligns with the University’s strategic priorities.

Please join us in congratulating Krueger on her appointment.

Houghton High School students taking part in Michigan Tech’s CyberHusky program achieved their best-ever results in the 2025 CyberPatriot National Youth Cyber Defense Competition.

Yu Cai, who leads the CyberHusky program, said the three CyberHusky teams from Houghton High School turned in impressive results in the fall 2025 CyberPatriot event. Cai is the associate dean of Tech’s College of Computing, a professor of cybersecurity and associate director for the University’s Institute of Computing and Cybersystems.

Led by Michigan Tech professors and students, CyberHusky is offered at no charge to area students from middle and high school grades. The program gives participants the opportunity to experience cybersecurity and machine learning concepts and put them into practice. The CyberHuskies then test their prowess in competitive state and national events.

Find out more about the winners and what the CyberHuskies are tackling in 2026 on the Computing News Blog.

To better support the safety and security of our faculty, staff and students abroad, Michigan Tech introduced a formal University policy regarding international travel and three supporting procedures, effective Oct. 27, 2025:

• University Policy 1.23 — International Travel, Study Abroad, and Use of Technology Abroad
• Procedure 1.23.1 — Student Travel to International Locations
• Procedure 1.23.2 — Staff/Faculty/Other Travel to International Locations
• Procedure 1.23.3 — International Technology Use

Whether you are traveling for research, conferences or study abroad, all University travelers should be aware of several critical updates:

• Advance Approval: Complete a Concur Travel Request at least 45 days prior to your planned trip to ensure travel is approved at least 30 days prior to departure. Travelers without access to Concur should use the paper form linked in the policy.

• Technology Security: University-owned technology devices may only be taken abroad with Michigan Tech Information Technology approval due to cybersecurity concerns. Loaner laptops and phones are available through IT upon request to help mitigate cybersecurity risks.

• Mandatory Registry: All international travel must be registered with the University’s International Travel Registry so that you can be provided prompt support while abroad.

• Insurance: Travelers must be covered by University-approved travel insurance, including health and emergency evacuation coverage. Employees traveling on University business are automatically covered at no charge.

• Destination Reviews: All travel to destinations with a Level 3 or Level 4 travel alert from the U.S. Department of State will be reviewed by the International Travel Review Committee, which will make the final determination regarding travel. Additional destinations may be similarly reviewed and approved at the discretion of the University.

Failure to follow University policy, including failure to request travel 45 days before departure, could lead to delays, denial of travel or denial of reimbursement. For a full breakdown of the requirements and to access the necessary forms, visit the Policy 1.23 page.

Questions about the policy and procedures or requests for exceptions may be directed to the risk and compliance manager in the Office of General Counsel at risk@mtu.edu.

Students traveling in a Study Abroad program will meet the policy requirements during enrollment and pre-travel procedures. Study Abroad programs have additional requirements related to program development and management. Questions about Study Abroad should be directed to the manager of Study Abroad and Away Experiences at studyabroad@mtu.edu.

If you are traveling solely for pleasure and not performing University work while abroad, you are not required to follow University policy, although you may register with the International Travel Registry to allow for better communication in the event of an emergency. However, if you are planning to complete work for the University while on personal travel, please review the policy and applicable procedures. Personnel with security clearances must continue to follow the procedures for cleared personnel, which do not conflict with the policy.

This is a reminder for departments to continue communicating procedures regarding weather-related absences.

During times when weather conditions deteriorate, each member of the University community must exercise personal judgment about their ability to get to or from campus safely. Interruptions in work due to weather are no different from other events that cause us to leave work early or arrive late.

If any employee’s work schedule is affected by winter weather, the first thing they should do is contact their supervisor directly and explain the situation. Hourly employees may use vacation or comp time to make up for hours missed due to bad weather. Exempt employees are expected to fulfill their regular job responsibilities.

Employees should contact Human Resources at 906-487-2280 with questions or concerns.

Proposals are being solicited for the Research Excellence Fund (REF) program, an internal award of the Vice President for Research Office.

Proposals must follow standard internal deadlines in coordination with the Sponsored Programs Office. The final proposal deadline is 5 p.m. on March 5. This due date will be strictly enforced. Early submissions are encouraged.

Please note that the REF program has changed in a number of ways in recent years. Be sure to review the current guidance carefully. Changes implemented recently include a limit of one REF Research Seed award per principal investigator during their eligibility period, expansion of Scholarship and Creativity Grant eligibility to include teaching faculty, eliminating cost sharing, and adding eligibility for instructional-track faculty with research appointments for the Research Seed program.

For additional information, see the Research Excellence Fund webpage. Questions can be directed to REF-l@mtu.edu.

Spring Career Fair takes place on Feb. 17 from noon to 5 p.m. in the Student Development Complex. Details can be found on the Career Services website. Please reach out to us at career@mtu.edu with any questions.

In preparation for the event, we’re seeking volunteers from across the Michigan Tech community to help make the event a success.

A variety of shifts, tasks and roles are available, offering flexible ways for faculty and staff to participate. Your support helps create a welcoming, meaningful experience for students and employers, and contributes directly to the career readiness and future success of our Huskies.

If you’re interested in assisting, please visit the Spring Career Fair Volunteer Sign‑Up Form to select a shift that fits your schedule.

Thank you for your time, energy and continued commitment to our students!

The Van Pelt and Opie Library is pleased to announce the inaugural Michigan Tech Authors and Creators Reception, a celebration honoring current students, staff and faculty at the University who have released a book or other major creative endeavor within the previous year.

We look forward to recognizing works which have been authored, edited or translated by Michigan Tech writers as well as music, film and media by Michigan Tech creators. The library has already identified many accomplishments from 2025 to celebrate, but we also encourage and welcome you to submit your work for inclusion to ensure that our recognition is as complete as possible.

Mark Your Calendar: The reception will be held at the Van Pelt and Opie Library on March 13 from 4-5 p.m. We hope to see you there!

National Geographic Live: Earth after Dark
Friday, Jan. 16 | 7:30 p.m.
Rozsa Center Theatre
Michigan Tech Presenting Series

With the winter solstice just behind us, January nights in the U.P. continue to be long affairs. There’s no better time of year to remind ourselves of the beauty and splendor on display all over the world after the sun sets. The Rozsa Center invites the public to embrace the evening, free of charge, with National Geographic Explorer Babak Tafreshi as he uncovers the stories that happen when night falls here on Earth.

Tafreshi has spent his career documenting wildlife, humanity and the cosmos — from dark national parks to bright urban areas — with the belief that people everywhere can connect through the shared experience of simply looking up.

“I have been absolutely amazed by all of the local photographers that have told me that Babak is somebody that they’ve followed for years and that they’re thrilled to have him here to speak at the Rozsa,” said Kiersten Birondo, executive director for the Rozsa Center.

In coordination with Tafreshi’s visit to the Rozsa, the Keweenaw Land Trust, a community partner, has organized the Nature by Night event series. Nature by Night events are also free to the public and details can be found on the KLT website.

“There are so many great outdoor activities to enjoy here in the winter!” said Tiff DeGroot, KLT community engagement manager. “We hope Nature by Night gets you outside to try a new adventure. Join us to listen for owls, try evening cross-country skiing, or share stories by the campfire. You may just leave with a deeper appreciation of winter.” 

From the Milky Way to meteor showers to fireflies that emerge at dusk on neighborhood streets, our eyes open a little wider at the stunning photos and videos of National Geographic Explorer Babak Tafreshi. Don’t miss this free engagement, including a Q&A session and accompanying events from Jan. 15-18.

*****

Reception for Through the Quiet Hours: Night Sky Art Exhibit
Friday, Jan. 16 | 5-7 p.m.
Rozsa Art Galleries
Michigan Tech Art Series

Also in coordination with Babak Tafreshi’s “National Geographic Live: Earth After Dark” presentation, Rozsa Galleries Director Terri Jo Frew, with assistance from local artist Thomas Oliver, has curated a showcase of works by local artists inspired by the Keweenaw after nightfall. A reception for “Through the Quiet Hours: Night Sky Exhibit” will take place in the Rozsa Art Galleries just before Tafreshi’s presentation.

“I don’t think that the Keweenaw night skies are just inspiring for artists, rather they are inspiring for all who view them,” said Frew. “Who knows the Keweenaw night sky better than those residing locally? This show is also a chance for the Rozsa Galleries to represent local artistic voices — something that is important.”

Attendees of Tafreshi’s presentation are encouraged to arrive a little early to enjoy the exhibit. “Through the Quiet Hours” will be open to the public Jan. 16-23 during regular gallery hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday 1-8 p.m.

Join Carved and Crafted Catering at Michigan Technological University for the C-Cubed Luncheon, being held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Thursdays in the Memorial Union Alumni Lounge (MUB 107). All faculty and staff, along with their guests, are invited.

Menu for Thursday, Jan. 15:

• Chicken Tikka Masala (AG) (PR)
• Potato, Garbanzo and Pea Coconut Curry (VG) (AG)
• Basmati Rice (VG) (AG)
• Garam Cauliflower and Chickpea (VG) (AG) (CF)
• Garlic Naan (V) (PR)
• Kachumber Salad (VG) (AG)

The C-Cubed lunch buffet menus are created and prepared by the catering culinary team. As the name suggests, the meals are meant to foster conversation, community and collegiality. Attendees may bring their lunch instead of purchasing the buffet. Fruit-infused water, coffee, tea and desserts are available free to all attendees.

The buffet lunch is $16 per person. Cash, credit cards and gift cards are accepted. Gift cards can be purchased in the Memorial Union office (MUB 101). Meals are dine-in only and personal containers/tupperware or to-go meals are not permitted.

Submit C-Cubed Feedback • Sign Up to Receive Weekly Menus

Department of Physics graduate students will be presenting their research progress at this week's Physics Colloquium:

• Krishna Teja Vedula (advised by Tiffany Lewis)
• Raksha (advised by Yoke Khin Yap and Dongyan Zhang)

This will be an in-person event. The students will give their talks at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 15, in Fisher 139.

Event details, including the students’ presentation titles and abstracts, are available on the University Events Calendar.

Job Posting for Monday, Jan. 12, 2026

Staff and faculty job descriptions are available on the Human Resources website. For more information regarding staff positions, call 906-487-2280 or email humanresources@mtu.edu. For more information regarding faculty positions, contact the academic department in which the position is posted.

Business Intelligence Analyst, Information Technology.

Michigan Technological University is an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution/Equal Opportunity Employer that provides equal opportunity for all, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Accommodations are available. If you require any auxiliary aids, services, or other accommodations to apply for employment or for an interview at Michigan Technological University, please notify the Human Resources office at 906-487-2280 or humanresources@mtu.edu.

WLUC TV6 quoted Taylor Piering (SLI) and Amanda Jackson (Husky Eats) in a story about Michigan Tech’s Winter Involvement Fair and campus resources that support student engagement and food security.

EcoAméricas quoted Jared Wolfe (CFRES) in a story examining growing evidence that climate change is driving steep declines in tropical bird populations. Wolfe discussed large-scale rainforest experiments investigating how rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns affect bird survival. The research was the subject of a story on MTU’s Unscripted Research Blog.

The Keweenaw Report quoted Lauren Furey (SS/OSR) in a story about Michigan Tech’s 2026 Sustainability Film Series, which begins this week. The series features film screenings and facilitated discussions on environmental and social topics.

Visit Keweenaw featured Michigan Tech’s Winter Carnival in an episode from its video series “The Crossing Place.”  The episode, titled “Shaping Memories from Snow and Ice,” highlights Winter Carnival’s century-long tradition, student-built snow statues, and role in bringing together the Michigan Tech and Copper Country communities.

R&D World mentioned Michigan Tech in a story about an R&D 100 Award-winning medium-duty truck engine developed in collaboration with national labs and university research partners, including MTU.

India’s Mint mentioned Michigan Tech in a story highlighting notable newly released books, including a memoir written by Kanwal Rekhi ’69 (M.S. Electrical Engineering) that reflects on his journey from MTU student to Silicon Valley leader.

Research Development Hosting Info Session for Spring 2026 DC Trip

Research Development is hosting a virtual informational session next week to share details and answer questions about our spring 2026 research trip to Washington, D.C.

Michigan Tech’s D.C. Trip connects faculty and research staff with federal funding agencies, program officers and collaboration opportunities in Washington, D.C.

Join the Research Development team on Thursday, Jan. 15, at 10:30 a.m. for this Info + Q&A Session to learn about the spring 2026 trip structure, timeline, cost-share support and how to prepare for a successful visit.

This trip is open to all researchers, so please bring your questions!

Join the Info Session on Zoom.

Key Details:

• Trip Dates: Week of May 4 (core dates TBD)
• Application Deadline: Feb. 26
• Application Form
• Full Timeline

*****

Mileage Rate Changes

The Internal Revenue Service has announced the mileage rates for 2026. As of Jan. 1, the standard mileage rate for business travel is 72.5 cents per mile. The mileage rate for moving purposes is 20.5 cents per mile.

*****

CTL Workshop: Introduction to Panopto

Are you looking for a way to incorporate video recordings to increase student engagement or provide course materials to be viewed in preparation for class? Perhaps you’re seeking a recording tool for lectures or meetings which can capture multiple video sources at the same time, and then easily edit and share them?

Compatible with multiple operating systems and file formats, Panopto is a robust and straightforward tool to fit those needs and many more. Join the William G. Jackson Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) for an "Introduction to Panopto" workshop on Wednesday, Jan. 14, at 10 a.m. in Library 243.

Register for the Panopto Workshop (registration is required).

Contact the CTL at elearning@mtu.edu with any accommodation requests and questions about this workshop or using Panopto in your class this spring semester.

*****

Michigan Tech Alumni Center Updates Room Numbers

Please be informed that the room numbering system in the Michigan Tech Alumni Center (formerly the Advanced Technology Development Complex) has been updated to improve navigation and align with the numbering system used in other campus buildings. 

Effective Jan. 5, all rooms have new room numbers, with all first floor rooms beginning with "1". Previously, rooms were organized and numbered by suites.

Updated room number signs have been ordered and will be installed, and revised floor plans are available through ASPIRE or by request.

We kindly ask everyone to begin using the new room numbers in all correspondence, directions and documentation. If you have any questions, please contact Facilities Management’s Planning and Construction department at facilities@mtu.edu.

Thank you for your cooperation.

To have your event automatically appear, please submit them to the University Events Calendar.

Robot in 3 Days 2026

Monday, January 12, 12–12 p.m. | Makerspace

Join Copper Country Robotics for the Robot in 3 Days 2026 challenge, and help us bring Michigan Tech to glory amongst all the other Robot in 3 Days teams across the countries. RSVP on this event to indicate your interest. More details will be released closer to the event. Excited to have you on board.

Huskies Swim Training - Session 1

Monday, January 12, 4–5 p.m. | Student Development Complex (SDC), Pool

Huskies Swim Training is a program that provides additional attention and competitive guidance to advanced swimmers looking to focus on stroke technique and efficiency. Sessions will be designed to improve swimming through stroke drills and swimming sets focused on endurance, speed, and race strategy. Coaches will provide feedback and stroke correction in a group environment with an emphasis on promoting a love for competitive swimming and lifelong skills such as discipline, dedication, and teamwork. Come be part of the pack! Competitve swimming opportunities are now availabe to current Huskies Swim Training participants!

AIChE General Meeting

Monday, January 12, 5–6 p.m. | ChemSci 211

Join AIChE for a presentation from Axalta Coating Systems along with free pizza.

Parent & Child Aquatics (Ages 6 mo-3 yrs) - Session 1

Monday, January 12, 5:10–5:50 p.m. | Student Development Complex (SDC), Pool

Come make a splash in Huskies Group Swim Lessons! American Red Cross Parent & Child Aquatics levels are being offered at the SDC Pool for ages 6 months to 3 years old. A parent is required to be in the water with each participant.

Preschool Aquatics (Ages 4-5 years) - Session 1

Monday, January 12, 5:10–5:50 p.m. | Student Development Complex (SDC), Pool

Come make a splash in Huskies Group Swim Lessons! American Red Cross Preschool Aquatics levels are being offered at the SDC Pool for ages 4 to 5 years old.

HARC Weekly Meeting

Monday, January 12, 8–9 p.m. | Wadsworth Hall Cherry Room 138W

Join the Husky Amateur Radio Club as we hold our weekly meeting, Mondays at 8pm in the Cherry Room! Licensure need not be required, and we are not restrictive to amateur radio. Come one, come all!