Archived web version of the February 2, 2026 issue
Issue 30: February 2, 2025
From Locust Walk
This week’s welcome note is from
J. Larry Jameson, MD, PhD
President, University of Pennsylvania
As I shared in a recent message to the campus community, spring semester has begun with a strong sense of momentum and possibility. This year holds extra special meaning because, throughout 2026, we will commemorate the country’s 250th anniversary and Penn’s significant ties to our nation’s founding.
I am proud of our historic firsts and our many contributions to the world, and I am confident that our founder, Benjamin Franklin, would share this pride. We also share another defining characteristic with Franklin: a relentless, intentional focus on the future.
Across our University, we are investing in ideas, people, and partnerships that will make an impact for years to come. That momentum is reflected in Penn’s many research breakthroughs of 2025, a new gift that reimagines medical education at the Perelman School of Medicine, and the leadership of University Trustee Wendy Holman in aligning philanthropy with Penn’s evolving needs.
I am deeply grateful for the engagement of our alumni and friends as we continue our tireless work in shaping the future together.
Best regards,
FEATURE STORY
From Ancient Tombs to Tiny Robots: 20 Penn Breakthroughs in 2025
These notable research advances are distinguished not only by their ambition, but by how they were achieved. Through collaboration across Schools, methods, and perspectives, the Penn research community is turning bold questions into discoveries that resonate far beyond campus. [Penn Today]
NEW AND NOTEWORTHY
An $8 million gift from the RTW Foundation, led by Rod Wong, M’03, will help the Perelman School of Medicine redesign how physicians are trained—connecting medical education more closely to the realities doctors face in practice. [Penn Medicine]
A $1.5 million gift from Nestlé Purina PetCare Company will support the Penn Vet Working Dog Center, advancing research and training that help working dogs stay healthy, capable, and ready for the demanding roles they play in public safety and service. [Penn Vet]
As demand grows for new solutions to climate challenges, Penn Engineering has launched a master’s program in energy and sustainability—built to help students gain real-world experience and graduate with the skills employers are actively seeking. [Penn Engineering]
What if something you already carry could help protect your heart? With a recent $25 million award, Penn Medicine researchers are launching a major trial to test whether smartphone-based nudges can help people reduce their risk of heart disease. [Penn Medicine]
MORE STORIES OF INTEREST
A Man of Vision
From Lauder College House to global education and community health, Leonard A. Lauder, W’54, transformed the Penn student experience across generations. His philanthropy reshaped campus life while opening new paths for students to turn learning into public good. [Inspiring Impact]
Aligning Passion with Need
What does meaningful engagement with Penn look like over time? Wendy Commins Holman, W’97, reflects on her path from alumna to trustee—sharing insights on service, community, and the lasting value of staying involved. [Inspiring Impact]
Full Circle
Newly named head coach of Penn Men’s Basketball, Fran McCaffery, W’82, is back at his alma mater—this time leading from the sideline at the Palestra. His return blends personal history with the challenge of rebuilding in today’s NCAA. [Penn Gazette]
High-Tech Beanie Brings Calm to the NICU
Developed by Penn students and awarded the 2023 President’s Innovation Prize, a soft, high-tech beanie is being tested at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania to help premature babies feel calmer—reducing stress while allowing parents’ voices to reach infants who can’t always be held. [6ABC Action News]
What’s in a Name?
From laser cutters to large-scale 3D printers, Tangen Hall gives students room to test ideas beyond the screen. Alumni support has helped create spaces where students across disciplines can build, iterate, and learn through hands-on experimentation. [Wharton Magazine]
A Legacy in Ink
The Annenberg School for Communication will preserve and share the work of Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist Tony Auth, whose work chronicled decades of American life—creating new opportunities for students to study how images shape public understanding and democratic dialogue. [Annenberg School for Communication]
SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT
How Has Penn Shaped Your Path?
We’re gathering reflections from Penn alumni for a new campaign called “Because of Penn”—a celebration of the lessons, moments, and experiences that continue to shape who you are today. Whether it was something you learned in class, a mentor who changed your perspective, or a moment that set your path in motion, we’d love to hear your story. Responses may be featured on Penn Alumni social media channels. Submit yours.
Header artwork by Ellie Moniz.
Discover how Penn’s research, leadership, and values continue to inspire impact, and learn more about other timely updates on the University Resources webpage. To read more Penn news, visit Penn Today, the Almanac, or the Pennsylvania Gazette.
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