May 31, 2024
(Image source: Rob Potter/Western Communications)
Explore the mysteries of bird physiology and migration in the face of climate change, examine the paradoxical role of plastic in our lives and discover the transformative potential of AI in the newly released spring edition of the Western Alumni Magazine. Four different cover designs feature a unique bird illustration on each one. View the digital version often to see a new bird!
University College (Photo source: Western Communications)
Sarah Shortreed, an experienced engineering executive and passionate advocate for Western's strategic plan, has been elected chair of the university’s Board of Governors, while Marlene McGrath, a former senior vice-president at 3M and dedicated community volunteer, has been elected vice-chair, both beginning their two-year terms on July 1.
European Space Agency's Rosalind Franklin rover. (Photo source: ESA/Mlabspace)
Earth sciences professors Gordon Osinski and Livio Tornabene are leading an international team to better understand how clays formed on Mars. Supported by a three-year grant from the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), the researchers will make important contributions to the European Space Agency’s ExoMars 2028 Rosalind Franklin rover mission.
Also covered by: CBC London Morning
Jessica Grahn (Photo source: Sylvie Li/Shoot Studio)
Psychology professor Jessica Grahn, who studies music as a form of therapy for neurological conditions, will give a talk on the power of music ahead of a concert by London-based chamber choir Chor Amica on June 1. Nearly half the choir members are Western students, faculty, alumni or staff.
Also covered by: CBC London Morning
The Impact Project
Explore how the Western community is collectively contributing to meaningful change in the world, today.
Demo Kaltabanis (Image source: Crystal Carter/Western Communications)
Demo Kaltabanis: How adopting compassion can make a difference.
Coming Up
June 1 (10 a.m. to noon)
Replanting in the coves: A closing celebration
Celebrate the closing of McIntosh Gallery’s recent exhibit unclaim. unsettle. belong. During this free event, participants will be invited to move the plants grown during the exhibition, transplanting them to land within the Coves following a guided community walk. Meet in the parking lot of the German Canadian Club.
June 4 (12:10 to 12:50 p.m.)
Yoga with Living Well @ Western
Improve your posture, balance, coordination, strength and breath control by practising a series of physical postures. Please bring your own yoga mat. Arts & Humanities Building, Room 2B15. Register online.
Working at Western
(Photo source: Western Sustainability)
Western’s farmers’ market
Western’s farmers’ market is returning to campus next week. The market will run every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in front of McIntosh Gallery. Find fresh produce, baked goods, candles and more.
Friends of the Gardens annual plant sale
Looking for some new flowers to brighten up your outdoor space? The Friends of the Gardens is hosting weekly plant sales on Mondays from noon to 2 p.m. in the garden located southeast of the Biological and Geological Sciences Building. Payment by cash, e-transfer or personal cheque.
Photo of the Week
Western hosted the inaugural Inclusion, Diversity, Decolonization, Equity and Accessibility Leadership Symposium (ID2EALS), bringing together over 70 professionals from 17 universities and eight colleges to share best practices, discuss common challenges and network. (Photo source: Western University on LinkedIn)
Western in the News
In addition to the news above, your colleagues have been featured in the following media outlets.
Carrie Anne Marshall (Photo source: Western Communications)
CBC Radio
New animation video project aims to destigmatize homelessness
In an effort to address homelessness stigma, occupational therapy professor Carrie Anne Marshall has launched an initiative called, "At Least Five Ways.” She discusses how she hopes to engage youth through the project.
Forbes
Humans really are the most terrifying predator on the planet
Biology professor Liana Zanette explains her research which shows Australian marsupials, including kangaroos and wallabies, flee at the sound of human voices more than any other predator.
The New York Times
Life in the dirt is hard. And climate change isn’t helping
Zoë Lindo, a soil biodiversity expert and professor, discusses a new analysis revealing heat and drought, often intensified by climate change, are decimating tiny soil creatures that play a crucial role in the carbon cycle by breaking down organic matter.
