University News

A hand passing off a blue diploma to another hand

2026 UConn Commencement Speakers and Honorary Degree Recipients

Speakers from a broad range of fields and backgrounds will share their wisdom with UConn's Class of 2026

The golden cupola of Wilbur Cross framed by branches of a cherry tree.

UConn To Hold Memorial Service For Students Who Have Passed Away

This annual ceremony will take place in the Student Union Ballroom at UConn Storrs

Post-doc Dr. Pengyu Zong with poster

UConn Post-Doctoral Researchers Win Prestigious NIH Pathway to Independence Awards

Congratulations to Dr. Jessica Flori and Dr. Pengyu Zong of UConn School of Medicine.

Petra Clark-Dufner, Director, CT AHEC (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health photo).

Governor Lamont Proclaims April 15 as Petra Clark-Dufner Day in Recognition of Statewide Leadership

The proclamation honors her more than three decades of service in strengthening Connecticut’s health professions pipeline and expanding access to health care services in under resourced communities.

Professor Sir Cato T. Laurencin Othmer Medal

The Othmer Gold Medal for 2026 Awarded to Sir Cato T. Laurencin of UConn

Professor Sir Cato T. Laurencin, MD, Ph.D., KCSL, has been named the winner of the 2026 Othmer Gold Medal by the Science History Institute.

Three students posing for a photo inside a building

Three UConn Students Named Goldwater Scholars

The Goldwater Scholarship was established by Congress to honor the late U.S. Sen. Barry M. Goldwater, with the purpose of identifying students of outstanding ability and promise and encouraging them to pursue advanced study and research careers

Michael Raizin

Commencement Student Speaker Spotlight: Michael Raizin

After graduating with his UConn MPH degree on May 11, 2026 Michael is joining the Peace Corps in the Philippines.

Jane Grant-Kels MD, FAAD (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health photo).

UConn’s Dr. Jane M. Grant-Kels Elected Next President-Elect of the American Academy of Dermatology

Grant-Kels will be installed as AAD president-elect in March 2027 and then president in March 2028.

Professor Sir Cato T. Laurencin Galien Africa

UConn Professor Sir Cato T. Laurencin and Mentoring of Young African Entrepreneurs

Dr. Laurencin’s mentoring in Africa is characterized by high-level institutional partnerships aimed at building scientific capacity and fostering a global network of young researchers.

Nine people posing for a photo, holding an award

Employees Honored At 2026 UConn Spirit Awards Ceremony

Every year, the ceremony recognizes the efforts of employees, especially staff, in building community and promoting civility at the University