People & Community
Illuminating the past
A groundbreaking DNA analysis initiative launched by a professor emeritus has identified family members and villagers executed in Greece during World War II.
Cuban student organization celebrates a Week of Cuban Culture
The week’s events, organized by the Federación de Estudiantes Cubanos, includes a movie screening of “Hijos de la Diaspora” that explores the lives of the children of Cuban exiles.
Reading: An act of empathy
As National Reading Month kicks off, faculty and staff highlight their favorite books and celebrate the magic of reading—especially novels and longer forms—to convey a shared sense of humanity and bridge divisiveness.
University trustee George Feldenkreis passes away
Feldenkreis, who emigrated from Cuba in 1961, started a clothing empire and gave generously to the University, making a landmark gift to the College of Arts and Sciences' Judaic Studies Program, which is now named in his honor.
Encouraging the next generation of diplomatic leaders
Retired Ambassador Ronald E. Neumann offered students a behind-the-scenes look at a career in the Foreign Service.
Breaking barriers, building futures
Donors and scholarship recipients came together at the 2025 Scholarship Donor Celebration to share stories of impact, gratitude, and opportunity.
The story behind ‘My Dead Friend Zoe’
The A-list Hollywood movie was co-written by A.J. Bermudez, a visiting assistant professor in the Department of English.
Sparking a love of science
Through the BioReach program, faculty and graduate students from the Department of Biology are inspiring future scientists at local elementary and middle schools.
Telling life stories through recipes
Students in the Anthropology of Food course create cookbooks that share their personal journeys.
Paddling for life
For University of Miami faculty member Gema Pérez Sánchez, it is the deep human connection she found on a local dragon boat team that launched her recovery after surgery for breast cancer.
Trailblazing professor Whittington Johnson passes away
Called Dr. J by his students and Whitt by his colleagues in the Department of History, Johnson became the first Black tenured professor hired by the University of Miami, inspiring countless students and conducting research that still has an impact today.
Award recognizes efforts to promote diversity and inclusion
Shirelle Jackson, executive associate athletic director of student-athlete development, and Marvin P. Dawkins, professor of sociology, received the ACC UNITE Award for their commitment to social justice.
Inspiring future diplomats
A generous gift from Ambassadors Sue and Chuck Cobb will expand knowledge of diplomacy on campus.
Join the excitement of the Miami Book Fair
From Nov. 17–24, The U Creates will partner with the Miami Book Fair to celebrate literacy and arts from around the world. University instructors who are authors will discuss their work as part of the event. In addition, students and faculty and staff members are eligible for discounted tickets to attend the street fair on Saturday, Nov. 23, or Sunday, Nov. 24.
