Faculty and Staff News

Clear Bag Policy to be Implemented Jan. 1, 2020

Beginning Jan. 1, 2020, the University of Idaho will implement a clear bag policy for all events in the Kibbie Dome and for events on the Moscow campus with more than 500 people in attendance. Nearly all large event facilities have adopted a clear bag policy. The U of I has evaluated the policies adopted by other universities in an attempt to maintain consistency and best practices. This new policy is intended to improve and maintain public safety and event security and to improve bag check efficiency at events. Learn more.

Give Your Feedback Concerning the Budget

The University of Idaho is facing significant budget challenges. We are taking these challenges head-on in a thoughtful, deliberate way. And we need your help. You have a voice in the conversation as we develop strategies to meet our budget challenges, and we want to hear it. Send us your ideas for generating revenue, achieving efficiencies or cost savings by Jan. 1, 2020. These ideas will be reviewed and considered as we begin developing more detailed plans. No idea is too small. Submit your ideas.

Architecture Students to Present Designs for a Sustainable School for Girls Dec. 13

U of I senior and graduate architecture students have designed a sustainable school for girls in Togo, West Africa. Students will exhibit their designs 2-5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, in Art and Architecture North Shop Crit. The facility is for S H E | Style Her Empowered, a non-profit that was founded by a U of I alumna to create education and employment opportunities for women in Notsé, Togo.

Athena Happy Hour Dec. 12

Join Athena for happy hour at Hunga Dunga 5-6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12. All are welcome to attend and celebrate the end of the semester. Athena is U of I's professional association dedicated to creating an inclusive and equitable climate for women on campus. Learn more about Athena.

Campus Mail Holiday Hours

During the holiday, Campus Mail Services will be closed Dec. 23, 24, 25 and 26; and closing at noon Dec. 27 and 30. Mail and parcels will be sorted and delivered to selected locations. Campus Mail will also be closed Dec. 31 and Jan. 1, 2020, and will reopen with a normal schedule on Jan. 2, 2020. Read more.

Kudos and Acknowledgments

“The Vandal Theory” Podcast Featuring Jenny Durrin — The Potato Nursery

How many species of potato are stored at U of I? More than 300. Jenny Durrin discusses why it's necessary to have a heap of potato species available on "The Vandal Theory" podcast. Listen and subscribe to “The Vandal Theory” on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify and Google Play.

Alumni Awards for Excellence Celebrates 40 Years

The Office of Alumni Relations celebrated the 40th anniversary of its Awards for Excellence program on Dec. 5. They recognized 42 outstanding graduating seniors and the students’ mentors during the annual dinner. A full list of winners is available online. The Office of Alumni Relations would like to thank the campus community for nominating and supporting the program.

Job Opportunities

• Dean, College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences
• Dean, College of Natural Resources
• Associate Dean, College of Education, Health and Human Sciences
• Landscape Maintenance Technician, Facility Management
• Research Hydrogeologist, Idaho Water Resources Research Institute
• Postdoctoral Fellow-Statistical Modeling, Institute for Modeling Collaboration and Innovation

View a complete listing of career opportunities available at the University of Idaho.

Employee Notices

Reminder: U of I is a Tobacco-Free Campus

In order to protect the health of all of our students, employees and community at large, the University of Idaho is proud to be 100% tobacco-free. The use of cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes (vaping), smokeless tobacco, hookahs and any other tobacco-based products, is banned on all U of I property, research facilities and in university vehicles. Vandal Health Education has numerous resources for students, faculty and staff who would like to reduce their tobacco use, including free cessation materials and local classes. Learn more about tobacco cessation resources.

Join the U of I Employee Facebook Group

Want to engage with audiences and peers online? Visit the U of I Faculty and Staff News and Events Facebook page. This closed group is managed by the University Communications and Marketing Office, with support from members of Staff Council. It is intended to help U of I employees engage with each other and stay informed about activities on campus.

Faculty and Staff News

Donate to the Vandal Food Pantry as Payment for Fines Through Dec. 20

The U of I Library will accept food donations as payment for overdue book fines as part of the Food for Fines program. Drop off food donations at the Information Desk on the first floor of the library through Dec. 20. The donations will benefit the Vandal Food Pantry, which provides students in need the opportunity get food with no questions and complete anonymity. Read more.

Write-Ins Writing Workshop Tomorrow

A Write-In Writing Workshop will take place 5-8 p.m. tomorrow, Dec. 10, in Library Room 120. The focus of this session is on supporting students working on thesis and dissertations. Any graduate students or postdocs interested in getting writing/studying done in a quiet group environment are welcome. Snacks will be provided by the College of Graduate Studies.

Stress Relief for Finals

Free yoga classes for students, faculty and staff will be available on campus Dec. 9-13. See the class schedule.

Therapy Dogs at the Library Dec. 11 and Dec. 12

Relax, unwind and de-stress at the library with therapy dogs from Palouse Paws 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11, and Thursday, Dec. 12. Drop in any time during the event to make some furry new friends.

"Cosmic Goulash" MFA Art Exhibition Open House Friday

University of Idaho Art and Design MFA candidates will host an exhibition of their fine art productions at the Ridenbaugh Gallery Dec. 10, 2019, through Jan. 31, 2020. A public reception will take place 4-6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13.

Sixth Annual Student Ceramics and Print Sale Dec. 14

The Sixth Annual Student Ceramics and Print Sale is 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Prichard Art Gallery in downtown Moscow. The event is presented in association with Visual Arts Community and Vandal Printmakers' Guild and Print Club. View and purchase original student print and ceramic works. All proceeds return to the student artists and studios.

University of Idaho Foundation Holiday Hours

The University of Idaho Foundation will be closed Dec. 23-26, Dec. 31, and Jan. 1. The office will be open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 27 and Dec. 30. Vandals can plan year-end giving accordingly and contact the foundation at 208-885-4000.

2020 MLK Art and Writing Contest

To commemorate the life, work and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., U of I students enrolled for the 2020 spring semester are invited to create a written work or piece of art in response to a prompt about equality and social, racial and ethnic justice. Read more.

Safe Walking in Winter Weather

Snow and ice will be here soon and while it might be nice to stay indoors where it is warm and dry and watch the snow fall, at some point we all need to get out during the winter months. Whether going to work, class or the grocery store or heading out to sing carols, there are several things you can do to make your winter walking safer. Read the featured tip of the week from I-Safety for details.

Feature Stories

Enjoy Student-Created Holiday Recipes

Students in CALS' Margaret Ritchie School of Family and Consumer Sciences have created holiday-themed recipes to share with the Vandal Family. Showcasing Vandal Brand Meats, the recipes reflect the joy and comfort of coming home for the holidays to celebrate this special season. The 2019 recipes, plus an archive of past recipes, are available online.

Kudos and Acknowledgments

U of I Professor Emeritus Dean Edwards Receives Highest Distinction as Academic Inventor

University of Idaho College of Engineering Professor Emeritus Dean Edwards has been named a 2019 National Academy of Inventors (NAI) Fellow. The NAI Fellows Program highlights academic inventors who have demonstrated a spirit of innovation in creating or facilitating outstanding inventions that have made a tangible impact on quality of life, economic development and the welfare of society. Election to the program is the highest professional distinction accorded solely to academic inventors. Read more.

Interdisciplinary Art and Field Research Receive CLASS Summer Grants

The College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences (CLASS) has named the awardees of its 2020 CLASS Summer Research Grants. These grants support tenure-track and tenured faculty in the creation of a sustainable research or creative project. This year's recipients are Ruby Fulton, assistant professor in the Lionel Hampton School of Music; Tobias Wray, director of the Creative Writing Programs; and Kate Kolpan, assistant professor in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology. Read more.

PLOS Ranks ARI Grad Student Paper among Top 10% for Citations

Jacob Bledsoe, a doctoral candidate housed at U of I's Aquaculture Research Institute (ARI), placed in the top 10% of 2016 PLOS One articles in the citations category. The article, titled "Ontogenetic Characterization of the Intestinal Microbiota of Channel Catfish through 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing Reveals Insights on Temporal Shifts and the Influence of Environmental Microbes," was cited 27 times since publication. Readers viewed it nearly 3,350 times. PLOS One is a peer-reviewed, open access scientific journal published by the Public Library of Science. Between its launch in 2006 and 2017, PLOS One published more than 200,000 peer-reviewed articles. Bledsoe is a student of Brian Small, professor and director of the Hagerman Fish Culture Experiment Station.

Job Opportunities

• Associate Dean, College of Education, Health and Human Sciences
• Landscape Maintenance Technician, Facility Management
• Director, Annual Giving, University Development
• Research Hydrogeologist, Idaho Water Resources Research Institute
• Postdoctoral Fellow-Statistical Modeling, Institute for Modeling Collaboration and Innovation

View a complete listing of career opportunities available at the University of Idaho.

Employee Notices

Faculty Senate Meeting No. 15 Tomorrow

Faculty Senate Meeting No. 15 will be held 3:30 p.m. tomorrow, Dec. 10, in the Paul J. Joyce Faculty-Staff Lounge in Brink Hall. The agenda and supporting materials will be emailed to Faculty Senate members and may also be obtained by contacting facsec@uidaho.edu.

Faculty and Staff News

Engineering Design Mini EXPO and Snapshot Day Today

Experience the many ways U of I students are making a difference and solving real-world problems at the Engineering Design Mini EXPO/Snapshot Day, 8:30-10:15 a.m. today, Dec. 6, in the Gauss-Johnson Engineering Laboratory Design Suite Room 108. This event showcases projects that are part of the college's nationally recognized Senior Capstone Design Program. Engineering students work in interdisciplinary teams on creative projects that emphasize the design process and the creation of a thoughtfully engineered, tested and validated outcome or prototype. Many projects are mid-completion and will be formally presented during the Engineering Design EXPO on May 1, 2020. Learn more.

Faculty Success Seminar Dec. 11: M.J. Murdock Trust Commercialization Initiation Program Info Session

Join the Research and Faculty Development team 12:30-1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11, in IRIC 305, for an info session on the Murdock Trust Commercialization Initiation Program. The Murdock Commercialization Initiation Program supports the commercialization of bench discoveries in the natural sciences, medicine and engineering. During this seminar, learn strategies and tips to help align commercialization projects to the trust's funding priorities. Also, review the U of I's limited submission timeline and process and discuss the ideal time to submit a proposal to this program. Read more.

New Service Animal Guidelines for Employees

Service animals provide individuals with disabilities a way to participate in daily life activities. Under the guidance of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the ADA Advisory Committee in collaboration with the Office of Civil Rights and Investigations has created service animal guidelines for University of Idaho employees. Contact ocri@uidaho.edu with questions, training requests or for more information.

Faculty Invited to Apply for Idaho Department of Commerce Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission Grant Program – Round Three

The Research and Faculty Development team in the Office of Research and Economic Development invites eligible faculty members to submit a notice of intent indicating their interest in submitting an application to the Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission Grant Program, a limited submission funding opportunity. The deadline to submit a notice of intent is Monday, Dec. 16. Learn more and apply.

Recruiting Pregnant Women Planning to Breastfeed

Shelley McGuire and colleagues from the Margaret Ritchie School of Family and Consumer Sciences are recruiting soon-to-be-breastfeeding moms in the Moscow/Pullman and Lewiston/Clarkston areas to participate in an investigation on whether variation in milk composition is related to risk of developing mastitis — a painful condition experienced by nearly one-third of breastfeeding women. Participants need to be planning to breastfeed for the first six weeks after delivery, during which time milk samples and other health data will be collected weekly. Study participants will receive a $100 gift card for their efforts related to the study. Contact Christina Pace at 208-301-3740 for more information.

Kudos and Acknowledgments

U of I Researchers Named as Some of the Most Influential of the Past Decade

Four researchers from the University of Idaho, Jeffrey Hicke, John Abatzoglou, Luke Harmon and Paul Hohenlohe, have been recognized as being among the world’s most influential researchers of the past decade. The list, compiled by Web of Science Group, recognizes the work of influential researchers around the globe who have produced multiple highly cited papers that rank in the top 1% by citations for field and year. Search the Highly Cited Researchers 2019 list.

Dynamic Virtual Protein Project Wins International Award

A University of Idaho team recently presented at the 25th VRST Symposium in Sydney, Australia, and won the Best Demo Award for their project "Dynamic Virtual Proteins: Visualization, Interaction and Collaboration in Virtual Reality." In the world of virtual reality, the Symposium on Virtual Reality Software and Technology (VRST) is among the top 10 conferences in the world. The Dynamic Virtual Proteins project team consisted of Jean-Marc Gauthier, Virtual Technology and Design associate professor, Jagdish Suresh Patel, Department of Biological Sciences research assistant professor, and Ian McGrath, 2019 graduate of the College of Art and Architecture. The interdisciplinary research is part of a $6 million EPSCoR Track-2 grant from NSF and supported by the Institute for Modeling Collaboration and Innovation. Read more.

Job Opportunities

• Associate Dean, College of Education, Health and Human Sciences
• Landscape Maintenance Technician, Facility Management
• Director, Annual Giving, University Development
• Research Hydrogeologist, Idaho Water Resources Research Institute
• Postdoctoral Fellow-Statistical Modeling, Institute for Modeling Collaboration and Innovation

View a complete listing of career opportunities available at the University of Idaho.

Faculty and Staff News

U of I Service Centers Discussed at Today’s IRIC Lunch and Learn

During the next IRIC Lunch and Learn, noon today, Dec. 5, in the IRIC Atrium, IRIC Facility Manager Russ McClanahan will discuss the university's more than 50 service centers located across the state. These centers are ready to help students, faculty and their collaborators engage in research, scholarly and creative activity. These centers provide expertise and equipment that can help with high-performance computing, data analysis, the fabrication of materials, developing new experimentation models and many other essential functions of research. All students, faculty and staff are welcome to attend the discussion. Read more.

Join the U of I Symphony Orchestra and Vandaleers for Seasonal Favorites Tonight

Join the U of I Symphony Orchestra and Vandaleers for a performance of seasonal favorites 7:30 p.m. today, Dec. 5, in the U of I Administration Auditorium. The program will feature holiday choral selections by Britten, Sandström and Matthias sung by the Vandaleers. Enjoy selections from Tchaikovsky's ballets “Swan Lake” and “The Nutcracker,” including the Christmassy “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” and “Trepak.” The event will conclude with Bob Chilcott's fanciful and genre-bending style in “The Twelve Days of Christmas” for choir and orchestra. Tickets will be available at the door.

Giving Tree Gifts Due to the Student Recreation Center Tomorrow

Help give local children a happy holiday by taking a tag from the Giving Tree in the Student Recreation Center. The deadline to return gifts to the Student Recreation Center is tomorrow, Dec. 6. The Recreation and Wellbeing's Giving Tree is part of the Latah County Christmas for Kids program, which provides gifts and warm clothing for children in Latah County. Contact Kristin Strong at 208-885-9747 with questions or for more information.

Give Your Feedback Concerning the Budget

The University of Idaho is facing significant budget challenges. We are taking these challenges head-on in a thoughtful, deliberate way. And we need your help. You have a voice in the conversation as we develop strategies to meet our budget challenges, and we want to hear it. Send us your ideas for generating revenue, achieving efficiencies or cost savings by Jan. 1, 2020. These ideas will be reviewed and considered as we begin developing more detailed plans. No idea is too small. Submit your ideas.

Call for Nominations for Excellence in Research and Creative Activity Award

The Office of Research and Economic Development encourages faculty and staff to nominate colleagues for its annual Excellence in Research and Creative Activity Award, which recognizes one individual for excellence in scholarly research or creative activity. President Scott Green and Provost John Wiencek will present this and other University Awards of Excellence at a reception on Wednesday, May 6, 2020. Learn more about nominee guidelines, then submit your nominations before Friday, Jan. 24, 2020, to vpresearch@uidaho.edu.

Participate in the 2020 MLK Art and Writing Contest

To commemorate the life, work and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., U of I students enrolled for the 2020 spring semester are invited to create a written work or piece of art in response to a prompt about equality and social, racial and ethnic justice. Read more.

News Releases

University of Idaho to Host 30th Annual Holiday Concert

Hundreds of local school-aged singers will join the University of Idaho’s Jazz Choir for the 30th annual Jazz Choirs Holiday Concert at 7 p.m., Friday, Dec. 13, in the ASUI-Kibbie Activity Center. Admission is free, but cash donations for the Lionel Hampton School of Music student scholarships will be accepted at the door. This family-friendly holiday tradition features performances from U of I’s Jazz Choirs, Lionel Hampton School of Music ensembles and nearly 1,000 local and regional elementary, junior high school and high school choir members. There will be special guest performances by Adrian Crookston, an accordion player who performs Brazilian forró music, and Navin Chettri, a percussionist who blends Nepali folk music, Indian classical influences, West African sounds and jazz. This year’s event also features new compositions and arrangements by U of I faculty members Ruby Fulton, Vern Sielert and Dan Bukvich. Read more.

IGEM Funds U of I – Industry Project to Make Sheep Genomic Testing Cost Effective

A project to provide genetic testing for sheep to help producers minimize the impact of diseases and improve valuable traits will receive a grant from the Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission Council. The $209,595 grant to University of Idaho animal science professor Brenda Murdoch and Meridian-based RILE Ag will help sheep producers employ an inexpensive test to greatly reduce economic losses to diseases and enhance their flocks’ productivity. Read more.

Kudos and Acknowledgments

Partnership Leads to Discovery which Could Potentially Inhibit the Spread of West Nile, Zika and Dengue Viruses

A discovery by a Washington State University-led research team, which includes researchers from University of Idaho and University of Utah, has the potential to inhibit the spread of West Nile virus as well as Zika and dengue viruses. In a study recently published in the journal Cell Reports, researchers demonstrated that mammalian insulin activated an antiviral immunity pathway in mosquitoes, increasing the insects’ ability to suppress the viruses. Read more.

Job Opportunities

• Landscape Maintenance Technician, Facility Management
• Director, Annual Giving, University Development
• Research Hydrogeologist, Idaho Water Resources Research Institute
• Postdoctoral Fellow-Statistical Modeling, Institute for Modeling Collaboration and Innovation

View a complete listing of career opportunities available at the University of Idaho.

Employee Notices

Show Your Vandal Spirit Every Friday

Are you proud of being a member of the Vandal Family? Let your enthusiasm show by participating in Vandal Spirit Fridays. Each Friday, all university employees and students statewide are encouraged to wear Vandal gear and show their silver and gold colors.

Faculty and Staff News

Clear Bag Policy to be Implemented Jan. 1, 2020

Beginning Jan. 1, 2020, the University of Idaho will implement a clear bag policy for all events in the Kibbie Dome and for events on the Moscow campus with more than 500 people in attendance. Nearly all large event facilities have adopted a clear bag policy. The U of I has evaluated the policies adopted by other universities in an attempt to maintain consistency and best practices. This new policy is intended to improve and maintain public safety and event security and to improve bag check efficiency at events. Learn more.

Visit Santa's Workshop Today

After getting your picture taken with Santa, stop by the ASUI Vandal Student Lounge to decorate a cookie and an ornament with Vandal Entertainment from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. today, Dec. 4. This event is free and open to all.

Mobile Food Pantry Today

In partnership with the Idaho Foodbank, the Department of Student Involvement is hosting the final Mobile Food Pantry of the semester from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. today, Dec. 4, in Parking Lot 108, behind the Student Recreation Center and on the corner of Reyburn and Paradise streets. The Mobile Pantry is open to anyone and provides perishable and non-perishable food items. Email volunteer@uidaho.edu with questions.

University Honors Program Research and Creative Scholarship Forum Today

All are invited to attend the University Honors Program Research and Creative Scholarship Forum 4-6 p.m., today, Dec. 4, in the IRIC Step Auditorium. Contact the University Honors Program for more information.

Join the U of I Symphony Orchestra and Vandaleers for Seasonal Favorites Tomorrow

Join the U of I Symphony Orchestra and Vandaleers for a performance of seasonal favorites 7:30 p.m. tomorrow, Dec. 5, in the U of I Administration Auditorium. The program will feature holiday choral selections by Britten, Sandström and Matthias sung by the Vandaleers. Enjoy selections from Tchaikovsky's ballets “Swan Lake” and “The Nutcracker,” including the Christmassy “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” and “Trepak.” The event will conclude with Bob Chilcott's fanciful and genre-bending style in “The Twelve Days of Christmas” for choir and orchestra. Tickets will be available at the door.

Students to Present Solutions to Design Competition Challenge During Open Session Dec. 9

U of I senior Interior Architecture and Design students will participate in the International Interior Design Association's (IIDA) 2020 Student Design Competition. Students will present their solutions in a marketplace format 2:30-4:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9, in the ISUB Aurora Room. The challenge for the competition is to design a digestive health clinic within a new medical office building in Scottsdale, Arizona. The IIDA Student Design Competition provides emerging professionals the opportunity to showcase their work and gain exposure in the interior design industry.

Next University Faculty Meeting Dec. 11

The next University Faculty Meeting will take place 2:30-4 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11, in the International Ballroom of the Bruce M. Pitman Center and approved off-campus sites in Twin Falls: Twin Falls Research and Extension Center, Room B66; Boise: Idaho Water Center, Seminar Room 348A; Idaho Falls: Tingey Administration Building, Room 350A ; and Coeur d'Alene: Harbor Center, Room 242G. Learn more about faculty meetings.

Hazardous Waste Management Workshop for Laboratories Dec. 12

Topics covered in the next Hazardous Waste Management Workshop for Laboratories, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12, in Agriculture Sciences Building Room 62, include the accumulation and storage of chemical waste in a laboratory setting, submitting chemical collection requests, regulatory background, waste minimization, regulatory compliance and background and spill response. This workshop is recommended for anyone working in a laboratory setting. Enroll through NetLearning to attend this workshop.

Next Deadline for IRIC Space Applications is Jan. 9, 2020

The Integrated Research and Innovation Center (IRIC) Facility Committee is considering applications for space in the IRIC facility. U of I faculty and staff can access application forms online. The deadline for the next round of consideration is 4 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9, 2020. Read more.

Nominations for University Awards for Excellence Now Open

Nominations for the University Awards for Excellence are now being accepted. The award ceremony will take place Wednesday, May 6, 2020, following the University Faculty Meeting. Contact Joana Espinoza or call 208-885-7941 with questions about the awards or the ceremony. Nominate a colleague or student and learn more about the specific awards and deadlines.

Kudos and Acknowledgments

Satellites on the Homestead

Ranchers have used farming tools for hundreds of years to manage their land, but now they are using a more unconventional tool — satellites. The RangeSAT project is a collection of user-based web tools for ranchers and land managers that aims to improve land management practices for grazing. It uses vegetation information from satellite imagery to help farmers sustainably graze their livestock. This project embodies collaboration between U of I researchers, as well as ranchers and several outside organizations. Read more.

In Memoriam

Kathleen Zillinger Funeral Dec. 6

Kathleen Zillinger’s graveside service will take place 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at Beulah Cemetery north of Troy. All are welcome to attend. A memorial service for Zillinger will take place in the coming weeks. More details on the memorial service will become available in the future.

Job Opportunities

• Landscape Maintenance Technician, Facility Management
• Director, Annual Giving, University Development
• Research Hydrogeologist, Idaho Water Resources Research Institute
• Postdoctoral Fellow-Statistical Modeling, Institute for Modeling Collaboration and Innovation
• Manager, Donor Engagement, Advancement Services

View a complete listing of career opportunities available at the University of Idaho.

Employee Notices

Today, Join in a Celebration of Linda Strong Gollberg’s Retirement

Linda Gollberg has been an integral part of U of I for years, most recently managing the Dual Credit Program and shepherding it through accreditation. Join in celebrating Gollberg’s retirement 2-4 p.m. today, Dec. 4, in College of Education, Health and Human Sciences Building Room 220. Refreshments will be served.

Growing a Statewide State of Mind

Beyond the main Moscow campus, the University of Idaho has centers in Boise, Coeur d’Alene and Idaho Falls, plus Extension offices in 42 of Idaho’s 44 counties. When planning an event, consider whether or not Vandal Family at-a-distance can attend via Zoom. The events submission form now includes a place to add Zoom info. Keep in mind all U of I locations south of Riggins are in the Mountain Time Zone. Submit an event.

Create a Branded U of I Signature with the Email Signature Generator

The U of I Brand Resource Center is full of tools to implement our brand, which defines who we are, who we serve and how we project the best of ourselves and our university to the world. An easy, yet impactful, place to start is with email signatures. Just fill out a form and the Email Signature Generator will create a sharp, on-brand signature for emails. Create your signature.

Faculty Invited to Subscribe to PI Listserv

Faculty members who want to receive weekly funding opportunity bulletins, announcements of limited-submission funding opportunities, training and workshop events, and agency updates from the Office of Research and Faculty Development can subscribe to the Office of Sponsored Programs PI listserv.

Faculty and Staff News

Thirty Days Until Microsoft Shifts to Windows 10: Update Now

To ensure the security of university data, University of Idaho is required to participate in Microsoft Operating System updates and improvements. If using Windows 7, it is time to shift to Windows 10 to get the latest features and security. ITS will help update to Windows 10 through December 2019. After the deadline of Jan. 14, 2020, Microsoft will no longer provide support to U of I employees on Windows 7. Learn more on the Microsoft website. Read more.

Celebrate Giving Tuesday

Celebrate the kick-off of the giving season this year by supporting one of seven U&I Give campaigns this Giving Tuesday. This year U&I Give is focusing on U of I programs that have greater impacts around the state including 4-H Robotics, the Dig'nIT internship program, Jazz in the Schools, TRIO Inspire, FACES of Hope Victim Center, Canyon County School Supplies Drive and WWAMI's Project ECHO. Campaigns end at midnight tonight.

Giving Tree Gifts Due to the Student Recreation Center by Dec. 6

Help give local children a happy holiday by taking a tag from the Giving Tree in the Student Recreation Center. The deadline to return gifts to the Student Recreation Center is Friday, Dec. 6. The Recreation and Wellbeing's Giving Tree is part of the Latah County Christmas for Kids program, which provides gifts and warm clothing for children in Latah County. Contact Kristin Strong at 208-885-9747 with questions or for more information.

Tomorrow’s University Honors Program Research and Creative Scholarship Forum Has a New Time

All are invited to attend the University Honors Program Research and Creative Scholarship Forum from 5-6 p.m., tomorrow, Dec. 4, in the IRIC Step Auditorium. Contact the University Honors Program for more information.

U of I Service Centers Discussed at Dec. 5 IRIC Lunch and Learn

During the next IRIC Lunch and Learn, noon Thursday, Dec. 5, in the IRIC Atrium, IRIC Facility Manager Russ McClanahan will discuss the university's more than 50 service centers located across the state. These centers are ready to help students, faculty and their collaborators engage in research, scholarly and creative activity. These centers provide expertise and equipment that can help with high-performance computing, data analysis, the fabrication of materials, developing new experimentation models and many other essential functions of research. All students, faculty and staff are welcome to attend the Dec. 5 discussion. Read more.

Next University Faculty Meeting Dec. 11

The next University Faculty Meeting will take place 2:30-4 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11, in the International Ballroom of the Bruce M. Pitman Center and approved off-campus sites in Boise, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho Falls and Twin Falls.

Receiving Applications for CAES Summer Visiting Faculty Program

The third annual Center for Advanced Energy Studies (CAES) Summer Visiting Faculty Program is now open for FY20 applications. The deadline for applications is midnight Dec. 22, 2019. This program seeks to facilitate collaborative proposals between university faculty and Idaho National Laboratory scientists. The opportunity provides faculty members with a $10,000 subcontract to support efforts in writing a collaborative proposal to an external funding agency. A week of proposal development will be held May 18-21, 2020, at the CAES building in Idaho Falls. Proposals are presented for review on Aug. 6, 2020. Travel support to Idaho Falls is provided in addition to the subcontract on an as needed basis. Review application materials distributed via the OSP listserv or email the U of I-CAES Associate Director at jtrussell@uidaho.edu. Submit applications to Lisa Aldrich.

News Releases

U of I Winter Commencement Dec. 14 Celebrates 612 Graduates

Graduating students are eligible to receive a combined 612 degrees this December at the University of Idaho 2019 Winter Commencement. Candidates applied for 444 baccalaureate degrees, 132 master’s degrees, 22 doctoral degrees, nine law degrees and five specialist degrees. A total of 612 students statewide are eligible for graduation from U of I this semester. This winter’s commencement brings the university's all-time totals to 122,848 graduates and 131,315 degrees. Read more.

Don’t Get Skunked: U of I To Spray Evergreens to Deter Christmas Tree Thefts

Everyone enjoys the smell of the holidays: fresh-baked cookies, cinnamon and cloves, fresh-cut evergreens, skunk scent and fox urine. At least those last two aromas are what the season will smell like for anyone tempted to cut down a Christmas tree from the University of Idaho’s Moscow campus. Each year, the landscape crew at U of I sprays about 100 trees on campus with a natural repellent of skunk scent and fox urine, as well as a sticking agent, to protect them from theft and destruction during the holiday season. Read more.

Kudos and Acknowledgments

“The Vandal Theory” Podcast Featuring Jon Waterhouse — Modern and Indigenous Science

What's the best way to teach about modern science and indigenous science at the same time? A virtual world. Our own Jon Waterhouse discusses this Virtual Technology Labs' project on "The Vandal Theory" podcast. Listen and subscribe to “The Vandal Theory” on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify and Google Play.

CLASS Awards FY21 Key Grant Supporting Undergraduate Collaborative Research

The College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences (CLASS) has named the FY21 awardee of the CLASS Undergraduate Collaborative Research Key Grant. This award is designed to encourage collaboration between CLASS faculty and undergraduate students on scholarly or creative projects. The FY21 grant will continue the work of Porsche Burns, a senior majoring in psychology, and Traci Craig, professor in the Department of Psychology and Communication Studies. Funding will allow Burns to travel to the Midwestern Psychological Association conference in May 2020 to present the findings of the pair's yearlong research titled "Juror Deliberation and Race."

In Memoriam

In Memoriam of Kathleen Zillinger

Kathleen Zillinger passed away unexpectedly on Dec. 1. Zillinger worked in a variety of roles across many campus units over the past 12 years, serving under the STARS program. She worked several years, off and on, in Facilities, where she often managed the front desk, greeting customers and shepherding incoming work. Zillinger is remembered for her many traits; she was kind, loving, gentle, caring and always with a hint of rebellion under the surface. She remains an inspiration to many and will be missed by all.

Job Opportunities

• Landscape Maintenance Technician, Facility Management
• Director, Annual Giving, University Development
• Research Hydrogeologist, Idaho Water Resources Research Institute
• Postdoctoral Fellow-Statistical Modeling, Institute for Modeling Collaboration and Innovation
• Manager, Donor Engagement, Advancement Services

View a complete listing of career opportunities available at the University of Idaho.

Employee Notices

Join the U of I Employee Facebook Group

Want to engage with audiences and peers online? Visit the U of I Faculty and Staff News and Events Facebook page. This closed group is managed by the University Communications and Marketing Office, with support from members of Staff Council. It is intended to help U of I employees engage with each other and stay informed about activities on campus.

Faculty and Staff News

Clear Bag Policy to be Implemented Jan. 1, 2020

Beginning Jan. 1, 2020, the University of Idaho will implement a clear bag policy for all events in the Kibbie Dome and for events on the Moscow campus with more than 500 people in attendance. Nearly all large event facilities have adopted a clear bag policy. The U of I has evaluated the policies adopted by other universities in an attempt to maintain consistency and best practices. This new policy is intended to improve and maintain public safety and event security and to improve bag check efficiency at events. Learn more.

Free HIV Testing on Campus Tomorrow

Vandal Health Education is hosting free rapid HIV testing offered by Inland Oasis noon to 2 p.m. tomorrow, Dec. 3, in the Vandal Health Clinic. Free resources and safer sex supplies will be available.

University Honors Program Research and Creative Scholarship Forum Dec. 4

All are invited to attend the University Honors Program Research and Creative Scholarship Forum from 4-6 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 4, in the IRIC Step Auditorium. Contact the University Honors Program for more information.

Responding to Disclosures of Interpersonal Violence Dec. 4

University of Idaho faculty and staff are invited to a 90-minute training session on handling disclosures of interpersonal violence from students 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4, in the ISUB Whitewater Room. The training is hosted by Violence Prevention Programs and the Office of Civil Rights Investigations. Read more.

Engineering Design Mini EXPO and Snapshot Day Dec. 6

Experience the many ways U of I students are making a difference and solving real-world problems at the Engineering Design Mini EXPO/Snapshot Day, 8:30-10:15 a.m. Friday, Dec. 6, in the Gauss-Johnson Engineering Laboratory Design Suite Room 108. This event showcases projects that are part of the college's nationally recognized Senior Capstone Design Program. Engineering students work in interdisciplinary teams on creative projects that emphasize the design process and the creation of a thoughtfully engineered, tested and validated outcome or prototype. Many projects are mid-completion and will be formally presented during the Engineering Design EXPO on May 1, 2020. Learn more.

Participate in the 2020 MLK Art and Writing Contest

To commemorate the life, work and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., U of I students enrolled for the 2020 spring semester are invited to create a written work or piece of art in response to a prompt about equality and social, racial and ethnic justice. Read more.

Winter Commencement is Dec. 14

U of I will host Winter Commencement Saturday, Dec. 14, in the ASUI-Kibbie Activity Center on the Moscow campus. Purchase reserved premium seating tickets online or call the Idaho Ticket Office at 208-885-6466. Learn more about winter commencement.

Women's Leadership Conference 2020 Call for Proposals; Deadline for Submission is Jan. 24, 2020

The University of Idaho and Washington State University are partnering to host the annual, one-day Women's Leadership Conference, and proposals are now being accepted. The deadline for proposal submissions is Jan. 24, 2020. Learn more or submit a proposal. The event will be held in April 9, 2020, in Moscow. Learn more.

Library's Digital Initiatives Homepage and Collections Have a New Look

The Digital Initiatives site and the more than 70 collections Digital Initiatives builds and maintains have been redesigned to make the collections more inviting and their items more easily discovered. The Digital Initiatives department digitizes photographs, scans books, converts legacy files and processes born-digital files. Digitization is the foundation by which the library builds collections and websites and through which institutional, local and scholarly material and resources can be digitally preserved. Each digital collection features its own customized browsing interfaces, often featuring clustered maps, extensive timelines and other visualizations to assist user discovery. Contact Digital Initiatives Librarian Olivia Wikle for more information.

Sand Cans for Slippery Sidewalks

U of I Facilities is seeking faculty, staff and student help in reducing slippery, icy areas on campus — by using the "Sand Can." Sand Cans are garbage cans or buckets, labeled "SAND" on top, that can be used by anyone to spread on slick areas. If you see a bucket out of sand, want to request a Sand Can or notice a hazard on campus, contact Facilities at 208-885-6246, facilities@uidaho.edu or fill out an online Safety Concern form. For additional information, visit the I-Safety website.

Free Transportation Between U of I and Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport

Finals to Flights is a new trial shuttle service offering free transportation via the Joe Bus from U of I to Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport the week of Dec. 16-20. Transportation back to U of I will be available Jan. 11- 14, 2020. See the schedule and on-campus pick-up/drop-off locations and then reserve your seat for this free service. Call 208-885-6424, email parking@uidaho.edu or stop by Parking and Transportation Services at the corner of Sweet Avenue and Railroad Street with questions. This program is funded by Parking and Transportation Services.

Feature Stories

University of Idaho Co-op Program Combines Classwork and Career

Luke Hill has a knack for seeking out the most efficient and productive path. So when the Sagle native came to the University of Idaho as a nontraditional student, he was naturally drawn to the new Cooperative Education Program (Co-op) — combining well-paid, on-the-job experience with his education. Read more.

Kudos and Acknowledgments

Grad Student Develops Program to Increase Accuracy of Community Formation Processes

Doctoral candidates Megan Ruffley, Katie Peterson and Bob Week recently published a paper in Ecology and Evolution titled "Identifying Models of Trait-Mediated Community Assembly Using Random Forests and Approximate Bayesian Computation." This publication is the second chapter of Ruffley's dissertation and the culmination of her lab rotation in Luke Harmon's lab. Ruffley designed a program called Community Assembly Model Inference, or CAMI. It uses a stochastic algorithm to simulate communities assembled under environmental filtering, competitive exclusion and neutral species assembly processes. The paper and the creation of the accompanying CAMI program involved students and faculty with a wide range of research areas and skill sets. Learn more.

“The Vandal Theory” Podcast Featuring Steve Peterson — The Story of Idaho’s Economy

How do the five tribes of Idaho add to the state's economy? Ask an economist. Our own Steve Peterson discusses how on "The Vandal Theory" podcast. Listen and subscribe to “The Vandal Theory” on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify and Google Play.

Job Opportunities

• Landscape Maintenance Technician, Facility Management
• Director, Annual Giving, University Development
• Research Hydrogeologist, Idaho Water Resources Research Institute
• Postdoctoral Fellow-Statistical Modeling, Institute for Modeling Collaboration and Innovation
• Manager, Donor Engagement, Advancement Services
• Program Manager, Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning

View a complete listing of career opportunities available at the University of Idaho.

Employee Notices

Faculty Senate Meeting No. 14 Tomorrow

Faculty Senate Meeting No. 14 will be 3:30 p.m. tomorrow, Dec. 3, in the Paul J. Joyce Faculty-Staff Lounge in Brink Hall. The agenda and supporting materials will be emailed to Faculty Senate members and can also be obtained by contacting facsec@uidaho.edu.

Dual Credit Program Manager Linda Strong Gollberg to Retire

Linda Gollberg has been an integral part of U of I for years, most recently managing the Dual Credit Program and shepherding it through accreditation. Join in celebrating Gollberg’s retirement 2-4 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4, in College of Education, Health and Human Sciences Building Room 220. Refreshments will be served.

Faculty and Staff News

Elm Street Closed for Leaf Removal Today

Elm Street is closed from Sixth Street to Sweet Avenue for leaf removal 6 a.m. to noon today, Nov. 25. Call Parking and Transportation Services at 208-885-6424 with questions.

ISUB/TLC Closed Through Dec. 1

The ISUB/TLC buildings will be closed through Sunday, Dec. 1. No access to the buildings will be available as crews complete repairs on the building.

Faculty are Invited to Apply to the USDA AFRI Education and Workforce Development Program - Research and Extension Experiences for Undergraduates

The Research and Faculty Development team in the Office of Research and Economic Development is requesting notice of intent to apply to the Research and Extension Experiences for Undergraduates track of the USDA Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Education and Workforce Development program, a limited submission funding opportunity. The deadline to submit notice of intent to the team is 5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 16. Read more and apply.

Hazardous Waste Management Workshop for Laboratories Dec. 12; Register Online

Topics covered in the next Hazardous Waste Management Workshop for Laboratories, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12, in Agriculture Sciences Building Room 62, include the accumulation and storage of chemical waste in a laboratory setting, submitting chemical collection requests, regulatory background, waste minimization, regulatory compliance and background and spill response. This workshop is recommended for anyone working in a laboratory setting. Enroll through NetLearning to attend this workshop.

The Library is Collecting Stories About How Library Resources Are Used

The library is collecting stories from across the campus to highlight in the My Library campaign. This education and engagement campaign highlights the fact that all library users connect with the library in very different ways, which is the fundamental innovation of the modern library. Each user's experience is unique. Share a story about using library resources. Some stories will be featured in future articles, digital ads, videos and posters. Contact cbarnhart@uidaho.edu with questions.

Idaho Chapter of Phi Kappa Phi is Building a List of Members

The University of Idaho Chapter of Phi Kappa Phi is building a list of university employees who are members. This list will help adjust how many members are actually on campus and allow members to subscribe to the University of Idaho Chapter newsletter. If you are a member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society, forward your name to Dean Panttaja, chapter president, at panttaja@uidaho.edu.

Nominations for University Awards for Excellence Now Open

Nominations for the University Awards for Excellence are now being accepted. The award ceremony will take place Wednesday, May 6, 2020, following the University Faculty Meeting. Contact Joana Espinoza or call 208-885-7941 with questions about the awards or the ceremony. Nominate a colleague or student and learn more about the specific awards and deadlines.