One Book, One U: Keynote event with author Brit Bennett
Thursday, Feb. 12, 6-8 p.m.
The community is invited to hear author Brit Bennett discuss her book “The Vanishing Half,” the 2025-2026 One Book, One U selection for the University of Miami. Longlisted for both the 2021 Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction and the 2020 National Book Award for Fiction, Bennett’s novel about family and relationships explores the lasting influence of the past as it shapes a person’s decisions, desires, and expectations. Weaving together multiple strands and generations of a family, from the Deep South to California and from the 1950s to the 1990s, Bennett produces an emotional family story that explores the American history of passing. Looking well beyond issues of race, the New York Times bestseller considers the multiple reasons and realms in which people sometimes feel pulled to live as something other than their origins. Register for this keynote event at the Kislak Center at the University of Miami, which includes a discussion followed by a Q&A. The author will be available to sign books at the conclusion of the event.
Women’s Commission awards nominations
Deadline Friday, Feb. 13, 6 p.m.
The Women’s Commission at the University of Miami is accepting nominations for the prestigious Louise P. Mills, May A. Brunson, and Rita Deutsch Awards. These awards recognize individuals who have made outstanding contributions to advance women’s issues and have impacted women and women’s interests at the University. Award winners will be announced at the Women’s Commission Annual Breakfast on March 17 at 8:30 a.m. in the Donna E. Shalala Student Center Grand Ballroom. Nominate a candidate.
Student Experience Arts + Ideas Series
Multiple dates and times
Join us in the Learning Commons at the Otto G. Richter Library for a vibrant series of events designed to spark creativity, build community, and help start the year with purpose and connection. Each event offers an engaging, hands-on opportunity to explore your interests, meet fellow students, and cultivate skills that support personal growth and well‑being. Whether you’re looking to express yourself, unwind, or simply try something new, this series offers a welcoming space to learn, create, and enjoy your journey at the U. View the line up of events.
Mindfulness Sessions Spring 2026
Wednesdays, 4-4:45 p.m.
The University of Miami Libraries offer weekly introductory mindfulness sessions designed to support inner resilience. These 45-minute online sessions introduce the fundamentals of mindfulness meditation and movement with periods of guided practice and opportunities for reflection and questions. Register for a free session.
Coral Gables community concert series
Multiple dates, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
The annual Music at McBride Plaza concert series features student artists from the Frost School of Music performing for a growing audience. The free outdoor concerts take place every other Thursday from January through March, each featuring a different talented ensemble from the Frost School. Enjoy these outdoor concerts in the heart of downtown Coral Gables from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Review submission guidelines and share your ideas for consideration in 5 Things You Need to Know.
