Midyear Milestones
From the Editor
Across campus, we are striding into familiar routines while marking milestones with intention and care. In our winter issue, we capture some of the transitions that signify moments of rebuilding and change.
The voices of our college magisters and student leaders take center stage via “The Kids Are All Right,” our feature that explores the lasting impact of the pandemic’s challenges to our residential college system — and how campus leaders are thoughtfully rebuilding in the midst of impending growth.
Freelance writer Laura Furr Mericas learned about some of the creative ways magisters devised to keep their culture and connections alive — activities like outdoor exhibits of student photography, intimate group dinners and masked-up karaoke nights. “The residential college system meant that we were all in it together. And I think that that’s what allowed us to get through it,” says senior Kirsty Leech, Wiess College president.
The residential college system meant that we were all in it together. And I think that that’s what allowed us to get through it.
That the pandemic transformed the college system — in ways both positive and deeply challenging — is undeniable.
The Oct. 22, 2022, inauguration of Reginald “Reggie” DesRoches marked a joyous milestone in Rice’s 110-year history. Our opening photo spread teases a more complete picture of the day online.
And speaking of milestones, our friend and colleague Tommy LaVergne has put down his camera after 30 years documenting life at Rice. We included a minute selection of his decades of photographs and diverse assignments in print — with more images online here.
In other news: Our departments shine a light on campus life (Rice Bikes, BeReal and First-year Writing Intensive Seminar); research and teaching news (celebrating Kiese Laymon’s MacArthur Fellowship, exploring an active volcano, honoring the legendary Robert Curl ’54 and transforming the energy economy); and profiles of always interesting Rice alumni following their passions.
Your feedback is valuable and welcomed. Please share your comments, criticisms and certainly your appreciations with me at lynn.gosnell@rice.edu.