BEST BETS
NEW COMPUTING CENTER EXPANDS INNOVATION OPPORTUNITIES — A new high-performance computing center at The University of Alabama will enhance innovation and discovery while enriching student experiences that ready them to meet the challenges of tomorrow. The UA System Board of Trustees recently provided Stage 1 approval for construction of the High Performance Computing and Data Center on the eastern edge of campus. It allows the campus to host a large, connected computing system that will be the fastest in the state and on par with peer research institutions. For more information, contact Adam Jones, UA Strategic Communications, at adam.jones@ua.edu.
UA, SHELTON STATE STRENGTHEN TIES WITH NEW AGREEMENT — UA and Shelton State Community College have signed a transfer agreement to create a seamless pathway to earning a bachelor’s degree from the Capstone for Shelton State students. According to the terms of the agreement, Shelton State students with a minimum 2.0 grade point average and 24 transferable credit hours are guaranteed a seamless transfer process to UA. Both institutions will provide designated admissions counselors to identify eligible students, facilitate a smooth transfer to UA and maximize students’ transferable coursework. For more information, contact Bryant Welbourne, UA Strategic Communications, at bryant.welbourne@ua.edu.
WHY SHARKS MATTER — The inaugural presentation of the John S. Steiner Endowed Lecture Series will feature award-winning marine biologist Dr. David Shiffman visiting UA Sept. 16. Shiffman will give a free presentation titled, “Why Sharks Matter: The Science and Policy of Saving Sharks,” at 11 a.m. in 1001 Math and Science Education Building. Immediately following the lecture, Shiffman will be signing copies of his book, “Why Sharks Matter: A Deep Dive with the World’s Most Misunderstood Predator,” during a reception with light refreshments at the Alabama Museum of Natural History’s Grand Gallery. The presentation and reception are free, but registration is required.
CURRENT COMMENT
DEALING WITH BACK-TO-SCHOOL STRESS — “The beginning of the new school year typically creates new stress(ors) for both children and adults,” Dr. John Burkhardt, associate professor with UA’s department of psychiatry and behavioral medicine. “Stress typically falls into one of four categories: time, situational, anticipatory and encounter. We naturally possess a psychological immune system that typically functions unconsciously that aids us in building resiliency to cope with our stress and anxiety. A few suggestions for how to manage new life stressors include prioritizing the right amount sleep, nutrition and exercise as these areas are important for building resilience and stress management; create and write down a new daily routine to account for the new school year to add structure to your day, help you focus, be organized and reduce feeling overwhelmed; and remind yourself this new change is temporary and research shows we adapt to change quickly with less difficulty than we initially believe.” To schedule an interview, contact Burkhardt at jeburkhardt@ua.edu.
EVENTS
BUILT FROM THE FIRE: A CONVERSATION WITH AUTHOR VICTOR LUCKERSON — The public is invited to join a free conversation with author and 2012 UA alumnus Victor Luckerson about his recently published book, “Built From the Fire,” Sept. 12 at 5 p.m. in the Yellowhammer Room of Gorgas Library. Luckerson will discuss the history of Black Wall Street and the Tulsa Race Massacre. Copies of his book will be on sale during the event.
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The University of Alabama strives to remain neutral on public policy issues. Strategic Communications may facilitate interviews or share opinions expressed by faculty, staff, students, or other individuals regarding policy matters. However, those opinions do not necessarily reflect the views of the University or its leadership, and do not constitute a statement on behalf of the University unless explicitly designated.