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5 things to know this week

A weekly series designed to highlight events, benefits, perks, and items of interest for the University of Miami community.

Wellness Webinar: ‘Practical Steps to Quiet Your Mind’
Tuesday, Jan. 27, noon and 4 p.m.
Tired of the mental noise? Stop letting rumination—the exhausting habit of relentlessly focusing on past events and distress—drain your energy and block your progress. Open to University faculty and staff members, this 30-minute webinar will show participants how to quickly identify the destructive cycle of overthinking and equip them with actionable, proven strategies to quiet their mind and take back control of their focus. Register.

The 11th Annual Toppel Awards
Nominations are open through Jan. 30.
The Toppel Awards recognize outstanding University of Miami students, student organizations, faculty and staff members, and employers who exemplify a commitment to the professional development of themselves and/or others. Canes can nominate an individual or group for the 2026 Toppel Awards now through Jan. 30. Browse a list of 10 award categories from which to nominate and learn more about eligibility requirements. Save the date for the virtual awards ceremony on Friday, Feb. 20, from 1-2 p.m. 

How to prepare for and upgrade to Windows 11
As Microsoft recently announced, Windows 10 will be retired and all users are required to upgrade to Windows 11. As part of the University’s commitment to maintaining a secure, efficient, and modern working environment, IT will be upgrading all eligible University-issued computers from Windows 10 to Windows 11 over the next several months. Visit the IT informational page for more details, including how to prepare for the Windows 11 upgrade.

Canvas transition information and training opportunities
Throughout 2026, the University is transitioning to Canvas, a next-generation learning management system. University students and faculty and staff members can get ready to adopt Canvas with ease this spring by exploring transition resources, training, and support offerings. Please note that Blackboard Original will be retired by Dec. 31 and will no longer be used for teaching at the University.

New Southern Loop Trolley
The City of Coral Gables recently launched a one-year pilot of a new Southern Loop Trolley route. This free route extends trolley service from the Douglas Road Metrorail Station to Red Road (SW 57 Ave.) via Ponce de Leon Blvd., improving access to key destinations including the University of Miami, medical offices, schools, and other community hubs. The route, operating Monday-Saturday from 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m., is a no-cost option to get to and from campus and connects with Metrorail and the two other Coral Gables trolley routes. Track the trolley in real-time and view stops

Review submission guidelines and share your ideas for consideration in 5 Things You Need to Know. 

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