MacInnes Drive Closing for Emergency Repairs Today

Due to a water main break, MacInnes Drive will be closed to vehicle traffic for emergency repairs starting at 7:30 a.m. today (April 7). Pedestrians are advised to use an alternate route if possible.

The closure will affect MacInnes between Seventh Avenue and Fairview Drive and will last until the repairs are complete. Please plan ahead to avoid this section of the road on your way to and from campus. 

Along with the road closure, a temporary water outage is also anticipated between 8 and 9 a.m.

Volunteers Needed: Virtual Unboxed Challenge Outreach Event

The Center for Educational Outreach (EdO) is looking for volunteers to help us host a virtual outreach event Wednesday (April 13) for eighth-grade students featuring our Unboxed: Galaxy Challenge.

Unboxed Challenges are escape room–style activities where students will apply their STEM knowledge to solve a series of puzzles and develop their soft skills. 

Wednesday's event will take place on Zoom. Volunteers will be in a breakout room with a team of four students to give hints and help as needed. Volunteers can log on from wherever they choose — and for most of the session, will be able to be keep their mic and camera off. Volunteers will also be provided with an answer sheet, and no STEM experience is required!

We are hosting two sessions from 1-2 p.m. and 2-3 p.m. Volunteers do not have to be available for both sessions, but will need the ability to log on promptly at 1 p.m. or 2 p.m. and stay for the full hour. Training will be provided via a recorded webinar that will walk volunteers through each puzzle included in our Galaxy theme.

Students, staff and faculty are all welcome to volunteer! Please email Jannah Tumey at jrtumey@mtu.edu to sign up or for more information.

Applications Open for Innovation Award at Design Expo

Husky Innovate and the Office of Innovation and Commercialization (OIC) are offering an innovation award of $500 split among three Design Expo teams that demonstrate an innovative customer value proposition that displays a clear understanding of their customer’s needs.

The winning teams' solutions will be distinctive when compared to alternatives and demonstrate the potential for positive economic and/or societal impact. All teams are encouraged to apply and must submit our application form by 11:59 p.m. Tuesday (April 12) to be considered.

Three prize winners will be announced at Design Expo on April 21.

Winners will receive:

  • First place — $250
  • Second place — $150
  • Third place — $100

OVPDI Announces Sense of Belonging Speakers Series

The Office of the Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion (OVPDI) announces the launch of the Sense of Belonging Speakers Series with two virtual panel discussions scheduled for spring 2022.

These free virtual events gather academic diversity leaders and retention experts to discuss and share proven best practices with Michigan Tech and the wider higher education community.

  • Chief Diversity Officers (CDO) Panel Discussion —
    Thursday, April 14, at 1 p.m. | Register to attend
    Featuring prominent higher educational leaders for a conversation on institutional best practices for winning and achievable diversity, equity, inclusion and sense of belonging (DEIS) goals.

  • Impacts of Culturally Responsive Mentoring Panel Discussion —
    Tuesday, April 19, at 5 p.m. | Register to attend
    Includes former Bridges to the Doctorate Program trainees and their mentor to discuss culturally responsive mentorship and its relationship to retention and career success outcomes for underrepresented graduate students.

This series is co-sponsored by OVPDI and ADVANCE at Michigan Tech.

Bad Info Presenting 'Reinventing Journalism' Talk

The Bad Info project presents a talk by award-winning ProPublica journalist Craig Silverman: “Reinventing Journalism in the Age of Mis/Disinformation.”

The talk will be held from 5-7 p.m. next Thursday (April 14) in person in the East Reading Room of the Van Pelt and Opie Library and virtually via Zoom.

Light refreshments will be provided. Joshua Vissers, founder of Copper Beacon, will moderate a Q&A session.

Reinventing Journalism in the Age of Mis/Disinformation
Journalists around the world are contending with an information environment filled with false and misleading claims, manipulated media, influence campaigns and viral hoaxes. This talk examines the global growth of the mis/disinformation beat within newsrooms, the techniques used in this work and the challenges and risks facing reporters and the public.

Craig Silverman
Silverman is an award-winning journalist and author and one of the world's leading experts on online disinformation, fake news and digital investigations. He recently joined ProPublica as a reporter investigating voting, platforms, disinformation and online manipulation. He's also the editor of the European Journalism Centre’s Verification Handbook series.

Silverman previously served as media editor of BuzzFeed News, where he pioneered coverage of digital disinformation and media manipulation. He received a George Polk Award in 2021 for a series of articles about Facebook, and is the recipient of the Carey McWilliams Award from the American Political Science Association, which honors “a major journalistic contribution to our understanding of politics.” His 2019 series exposing a global Facebook advertising scam was also named investigation of the year by the Canadian Association of Journalists. His journalism and books have also been honored by the Mirror Awards, U.S. National Press Club, National Magazine Awards (Canada) and Crime Writers of Canada.

Film Board Presenting 'Sing 2'

This weekend, the Film Board will present "Sing 2," rated PG for some rude material and mild peril/violence.

Summary: Buster Moon and his friends must persuade reclusive rock star Clay Calloway to join them for the opening of a new show.

Showings:

  • Saturday, April 9 — 5:30 p.m.*, 8:30 p.m., 11:30 p.m.
  • Sunday, April 10 — 2:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 8:30 p.m.

* 5:30 p.m. showtimes will be shown with subtitles! 

Located on Michigan Tech's campus in Fisher 135.

Tickets are $3 and concessions are $1. We hope to see you at the movie this weekend — and have a great day.

Upcoming Employee Financial Health Webinars

Join the Benefits Office for these free live webinars scheduled this spring. Regardless of which investment company you invest with, you are encouraged to attend the following webinars presented by Fidelity:

  • Learn the Basics of When and How to Claim Social Security
    Friday, April 15 — Noon
    This webinar will cover:
    • Understanding Social Security.
    • Considerations for claiming Social Security benefits.
    • Deciding when to take Social Security benefits.
      Register for the April 15 webinar.
  • Prepare for the Reality of Health Care in Retirement
    Friday, April 29 — Noon
    This webinar will cover:
    • Estimating retirement health care costs.
    • Understanding available options before and after age 65.
    • Planning for retirement health care costs.
      Register for the April 29 webinar.

These webinars count toward Option 2 in your Husky Health Checklist.

Follow Michigan Tech Wellness on Facebook for upcoming health and wellness initiatives supported by the Benefits Office, which may count toward your 2022 Husky Health Checklist.

Lunch and Learn: Navigating Working Parenthood

Please join the Benefits Office at noon Tuesday (April 12) in MUB Alumni Lounges A and B as we welcome Jen Wall (REC) and Shannon Rinkinen (COB), who will discuss the challenges of working parenthood during our next Lunch and Learn — "Toddlers to Teens: Navigating Working Parenthood." 

The trials of parenting are real and managing them can be chaotic! From finding child care to monitoring social media, join Wall and Rinkinen for an hour of authentic conversation. Participants can expect to feel supported, make new connections, learn a little and laugh a lot!

Please email benefits@mtu.edu to reserve your seat today.

This Lunch and Learn counts toward Option 2 in your Husky Health Checklist.

Follow Michigan Tech Wellness on Facebook for upcoming health and wellness initiatives supported by the Benefits Office, which may count toward your 2022 Husky Health Checklist.

PhD Defense: Erin Eberhard, BioSci

Ph.D. in Biological Sciences candidate Erin Eberhard will defend their doctoral dissertation from 1-2 p.m. tomorrow (April 8) in person in GLRC 202 and virtually via Zoom.

Eberhard's dissertation is titled "Spatial Heterogeneity of Nitrogen Cycling Within and Across Freshwater Ecosystems."

From the abstract:
Dinitrogen (N2) fixation and denitrification are two nitrogen (N) cycling processes that despite differences in environmental requirements and constraints, have been found to co-occur in aquatic ecosystems. The overall goal of this dissertation was to evaluate how spatial heterogeneity of environmental variables 1) drive hot spots of N2 fixation, denitrification rates and gene abundances in streams, 2) facilitate co-occurrence of these processes across wetland – stream – lake interfaces, and 3) affect differences in microbial community composition in streams across U.S. ecoregions.

MS Defense: Jacob Colling, ME-EM

M.S. in Mechanical Engineering candidate Jacob Colling will present their master's defense at 3 p.m. tomorrow (April 8) in person in MEEM 1021 and virtually via Zoom.

Colling's defense is titled "Development and Validation of a Force Measuring Device for a Laboratory Wave Tank."

Colling is advised by Gordon Parker.

MS Defense: Jacob Bonessi, GMES

M.S. in Geology candidate Jacob Bonessi will present his defense at 9 a.m. today (April 7) virtually via Zoom.

Bonessi's defense is titled "Thermomechanical Evolution of a Magmatic System During a Caldera Cycle: Okataina Volcanic Center, New Zealand."

From the abstract:
Caldera forming eruptions represent some of the largest releases of mass and energy on the planet and pose a looming risk on a global scale. The study of the underlying magmatic system is integral in understanding what leads to these large eruptions. This approach pairs a suite of major and trace element profiles from plagioclase with a grain texture classification and statistical analysis using Polytopic Vector Analysis (PVA) as proxies to explore changes in the thermomechanical state of the magmatic system at Okataina Volcanic Complex (OVC), New Zealand through its most recent caldera cycle. 

MS Defense: Spencer Snider, BioSci

M.S. in Biological Sciences candidate Spencer Snider will present their master's defense at 1 p.m. tomorrow (April 8) in person in Dow 708 and virtually via Zoom.

Snider's defense is titled "Evolutionary Conservation of the DREAM Subcomplex MuvB."

From the abstract:
As the publications of annotated genomes from species representing most domains of life continue to grow exponentially, we are gaining more insight into how proteins, cellular pathways, and protein complexes evolved. We are interested in understanding how each protein in the 8-subunit transcriptional repressor complex called DREAM interacts with each other. DREAM consists of 3 main components: an E2F-DP transcription factor heterodimer, a pocket protein, and the highly conserved 5-subunit subcomplex called MuvB. We hypothesize that the mechanism of DREAM’s formation on chromatin dictates how DREAM functions to turn off target gene expression. 

ADVANCE Equity Workshop for New Faculty

Michigan Tech’s ADVANCE program is hosting a workshop just for new faculty on April 19 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Ballroom B3 in the Memorial Union. In this workshop, we will present research on challenges related to faculty diversity and equity nationally and at MTU; we will also equip you with tools to create a beneficial academic climate for everyone.

This in-person workshop is open to tenure-track and lecture-track faculty hired in 2020 and 2021. Lunch will be provided for a variety of dietary needs.

Following a welcome and introduction, we will present national and MTU data on common patterns of inequity in academia and explore tools and approaches we can use at MTU to improve the environment for professional success and advancement. The workshop will include small-group discussions and will focus on specific issues related to research, teaching and service.

To give us an estimate of numbers and dietary needs, please register in advance. A Google Calendar invite will also appear soon.

Jesse Jacobusse, Ryan Schwiderson Named Athletes of the Week

Following strong performances at the Michigan State Spartan Invitational last week, Michigan Tech outdoor track and field athletes Jesse Jacobusse and Ryan Schwiderson have earned GLIAC Athlete of the Week honors. 

Jacobusse had a breakthrough day in middle distance, running a time of 2:13.47 in the 800 meters, which was first overall by more than three full seconds. She also competed well running a leg of the women's 4x400 meter relay, helping the Huskies place fourth with a time of 4:09.11.

Schwiderson set personal bests in both the 100- and 200-meter sprints. He placed third overall in the 200 meters with a time of 22.22 and fifth in the 100 meters at 11.06 seconds.

Read more at the Michigan Tech Athletics website.

Justin Misiak, Tommy Parrottino Sign with Idaho Steelheads

Michigan Tech hockey forwards Justin Misiak and Tommy Parrottino have signed with the Idaho Steelheads in the ECHL for the remainder of the 2021-22 season.

The Steelheads are based in Boise and are affiliated with the NHL's Dallas Stars and AHL's Texas Stars. There are five games remaining in the team's 2021-22 regular season. 

Read more at the Michigan Tech Athletics website.

Dirk Hembroff Named Director of Athletic Partnerships and Ticket Sales

Michigan Tech Athletics has named Dirk Hembroff as the director of athletic partnerships and ticket sales. In his role, Hembroff will secure, manage and fulfill advertising partnerships, as well as work with the external relations team to market Michigan Tech Athletics and Recreation to all partners.

Hembroff will continue his award-winning play-by-play duties for Michigan Tech hockey on Mix 93.5-FM WKMJ — a position he has held for 20 seasons.

Read more at the Michigan Tech Athletics website.

New Funding

Alex Kostinski (Physics/CQP) is the principal investigator on a project that has received a $96,230 research and development contract from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.

The project is titled "Theoretical Support for Gas-Gun Experiments: Towards Suppression of Shockwave Instabilities and Jetting."

Reminders

Today's C-Cubed Luncheon Menu

  • St. Louis Ribs with Kansas City BBQ Sauce
  • Baked Cheese Grits (Gluten Free, Vegetarian)
  • Sweet & Smoky Baked Beans (Gluten Free, Vegan)
  • Lemon Herb Fingerling Potato Salad (Gluten Free, Vegetarian)
  • Pepper Jack Mac and Cheese (Gluten Free, Vegetarian)
  • Memphis Style Coleslaw

Dining Services presents this week's C-Cubed Luncheon being held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. today (April 7) in the Memorial Union Alumni Lounge (MUB 107). All faculty and staff, along with their guests, are invited.

The C-Cubed lunch buffet menus are created by executive chef Eric Karvonen and prepared by Karvonen and his 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, cookies and fruit are available free to all attendees.

The buffet lunch is $12 per person. Cash, credit cards and gift cards are accepted. Gift cards can be purchased in the Memorial Union office, MUB 101. You can submit C-Cubed feedback using this Google form. To join the C-Cubed Google group and receive weekly menus, email business-support@mtu.edu.

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EF Faculty Candidate Lesson

The Department of Engineering Fundamentals (EF) is conducting a faculty search. Please join us for the active and collaborative first-year engineering lesson by candidate Jennifer Lovely.

The lesson will be held at 10 a.m. tomorrow (April 8) via Zoom.

All are welcome to attend and participate.

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ChE Research Seminar

The Department of Chemical Engineering (ChE) would like to invite you to attend the seminar given by Tina Jeoh from 10-11 a.m. tomorrow (April 8).

Jeoh will give a seminar on "Overcoming Cellulose Recalcitrance by Understanding Interfacial Enzyme Hydrolysis Kinetics" in Chem Sci 201. The seminar can be attended in person with limited capacity or remotely via Zoom. After the seminar, a recording will be available upon request.

Jeoh is currently a professor in the Biological and Agricultural Engineering Department at the University of California Davis. She earned her B.S. and M.S. in biological systems at Virginia Tech, her Ph.D. in biological and environmental engineering from Cornell University, and conducted her postdoctoral training at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colorado.

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PhD Defense: Shijia Yan, Math

Ph.D. in Mathematical Sciences candidate Shijia Yan will defend his doctoral dissertation at 1:30 p.m. today (April 7). This event is virtual only via Zoom

Yan's dissertation is titled "Statistical Methods for Controlling Population Stratification and Gene-Based Association Studies."

He is advised by Shuanglin Zhang.

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ME-EM Graduate Seminar Speaker

The next Mechanical Engineering-Engineering Mechanics (ME-EM) Graduate Seminar Speaker will present virtually at 4 p.m. today (April 7).

Rita Raman will present “Neuromuscular Actuators for Medicine and Machines.”

Raman is the d’Arbeloff Career Development Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at MIT. Her lab is centered on engineering adaptive living materials for applications in medicine and machines.

Join the seminar via Zoom.

Today's Campus Events

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

Teal Ribbons

Have you seen teal ribbons? Help raise awareness for Sexual Assault Awareness Month by scanning the QR code and participating in SAVE and Title IX's Octopi project and get the...

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Tech Arts Festival

Tech Arts Fest - A Day in the Keweenaw – Join us in celebrating the beauty of our snowy home with the Michigan Tech Arts Festival, from Monday, April 4 to Saturday, April...

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Master's Defense: Jacob Bonessi

Geology Advisor: Chad Deering Thermomechanical Evolution of a Magmatic System During a Caldera Cycle: Okataina Volcanic Center, New Zealand Attend Virtually:...

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PhD Defense: Shijia Yan

Statistics Advisor: Shuanglin Zhang Statistical Methods for Controlling Population Stratification and Gene-Based Association Studies Attend Virtually:...

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Master's Defense: Austin Johnson

Biological Sciences Advisor: Casey Huckins Anthropogenic Influences on the Decline, Restoration, and Eco-Evolutionary Dynamics of Lake Superior's Coaster Brook Trout Attend...

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Workplace Excellence Training - Adapting to Change

Get ready to win at one of our five free workshops. These workshops are presented by MichiganWorks! and will cover communication, time management, understanding the employer's...

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Youth Indoor Rock Climbing Spring 2022 Session 3

Is your child looking for a new challenge? Sign up now for the OAP Youth Indoor Rock Climbing Class and let them climb our wall! We try to meet each participant at their level...

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Photography in Black and White Keynote and Reception - Nick Brandreth,

Photography in Black and White Apr 6 - Apr 30 Copper Country Community Art Center The exhibit explores truth and manipulation in relation to photography. It features the...

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Adult Huskies Swim Lessons Spring 2022 Session 3

Adult Huskies Swim Lessons provides aquatic education for the beginner to the intermediate swimmer who is looking to become more comfortable in the water and learn the...

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Adult Huskies Swim Training Spring 2022 Session 3

Adult Huskies Swim Training provides additional attention and competitive guidance to swimmers ages 18 and older who are looking to improve their swimming skills and fitness...

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The Lode - Weekly Meeting

Join the Lode (Michigan Tech's student newspaper) for our weekly general meeting! This is a great way to see if the Lode is a good fit for you. We are always looking for...

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Monthly General Meeting _ Spring 2022

Hi folks, This mail serves to notify us that we will be having our monthly general meeting on the last Wednesday of the month 6 - 7 PM at Chem Sci. 211 or via Zoom. Feel...

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Open Rock Climbing

All ages (we can allow all ages to climb as long as we have the proper fitting equipment). No need to sign up, just stop by the Climbing Wall between 6 and 8 pm Monday through...

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The Thanksgiving Play by Wolf's Head Theatre Co

ROZSA PRESENTING SERIES The Thanksgiving Play By Larissa Fasthorse Directed by Jaime Weeder Performed by Wolf's Head Theatre Company Dinner at 6:45 p.m.

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Cheer Team Open Practice

Everyone is welcome to join us at practice on Thursday! We accept people with any variety of cheer experience even if its none at all! If you want to learn what cheerleading...