These are undeniably challenging times— unpredictable, stressful and sometimes overwhelming. Which is why it is more important than ever to look around and notice the things that are going right. And here at the University of Washington, there’s a lot to be proud of.
Last October, UW biochemist David Baker, director of UW Medicine’s Institute for Protein Design, became the eighth UW faculty member to receive the Nobel Prize. He joins a group of UW-connected laureates that includes 13 alumni. It’s another reminder that world-changing scholarship and innovation happen on our campuses every day.
The UW in July was rated by U.S. News & World Report as the No. 8 university in the world, and No. 2 among public universities. This recognition reflects work across many disciplines—from developing a handlebar sensor to help cyclists identify dangerous routes, to using coffee grounds and mushroom spores to create a 3D printed compostable alternative to plastics, to housing the country’s only collaborative institute focused on Merkel Cell Carcinoma, a rare and aggressive skin cancer.
Our legacy of impact stretches back decades. Ceramic tiles for the Space Shuttle, pioneering bone-marrow transplants to treat leukemia, the development of home-based kidney dialysis and entire fields like bioengineering and pain medicine have roots at the UW.
But our University is not just about discovery; it’s about people. At our 150th commencement this past June, 18,833 students received degrees across our three campuses. Among them were record numbers of transfer and first-generation students—proof of our long-standing commitment to access.
Our student-athletes continue to impress, too. This year, UW men’s crew won its 21st national championship, and 10th in the past 19 years. Husky Track and Field finished fourth nationally in the NCAA indoor and outdoor track championships, winning national titles in the women’s and men’s 1500 meters and women’s pole vault. And 169 student-athletes from 11 spring sports earned Big Ten All-Academic honors.
Remember that you are part of a thriving and deeply connected community. That’s something in which we can all take heart.