The Yale University Podcast

Yale Campus Update: Art Events, Night Market, Oktoberfest, Football Highlights, Symphony & Restaurant Week (Sept 29–Oct 6)

Hey Handsome Dan, it's Jenny with your Campus Update for September 29 through October 6. Let's get you set for the week—fast.
First up—the "Mondays at Beinecke" series kicks off today at 4 p.m. with "Unfolding Events: Exploring Past and Present in Artists’ Books" featuring Bill Landis and Jessica Pigza. It's a deep dive into the world of artists' books.
Next—mark your calendar for the New Haven Night Market on Friday, October 4, from 5 to 10 p.m. Expect local vendors, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere right in the heart of downtown.
And—on Saturday, October 5, the East Rock Brewing Company is hosting its annual Oktoberfest from 12 to 4 p.m. Enjoy traditional German fare, live music, and, of course, plenty of beer.
This past weekend, the Bulldogs faced off against Cornell in a thrilling football matchup. The game was a nail-biter, with standout performances from our offense and defense. Looking ahead, our next home game is scheduled for October 12. Stay tuned for more details and come out to support the team!
The Yale Symphony Orchestra is presenting "Dance and Defiance" on Sunday, September 29, from 3 to 4:30 p.m. It's a musical journey you won't want to miss.
In campus culture, the Elizabethan Club, affectionately known as "Lizzie," continues to be a hub for literary enthusiasts. If you're into Shakespearean folios and lively discussions, consider checking it out.
For foodies, New Haven Restaurant Week kicks off on October 6. It's a perfect opportunity to explore the city's culinary scene with special prix-fixe menus at various eateries.
This week in New Haven, expect a mix of sun and clouds with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to high 70s. It's a great time to enjoy outdoor activities, but keep a light jacket handy for cooler evenings.
Your move: Don't miss the "Mondays at Beinecke" event today at 4 p.m. It's a unique opportunity to explore artists' books with experts.
That's your quick Campus Update. I'm Jenny—catch you next Monday morning. Tap follow on your podcast app so you never miss a beat.

Yale News Update: Climate Week NYC Events, Law School Leadership Change, Major Endowment Plans, and Upcoming Campus Highlights

Good afternoon, Yale community. It's Monday, September 22, 2025, and here's what's happening on and around campus.
Today in New Haven, expect mostly sunny skies with temperatures reaching a pleasant 71°F (22°C) by mid-afternoon. A perfect day to enjoy outdoor activities.
Yale is actively participating in Climate Week NYC, an annual international summit dedicated to driving climate action. Today, several key events are taking place:
- : Yale is providing educational materials and expert training to support finalists in the UN Environment Program’s prestigious award for environmental action by young people.
- : This event features successful climate tech founders, professors, and other key players discussing how research is being translated into climate tech startups. The panel will be followed by climate tech pitches from promising university-affiliated startups, judged by an investor panel.
- : Hosted by ClimateHaven’s Water Innovation Hub, this event offers a rare opportunity to connect with leaders shaping the future of water technology.
For more details on these events and Yale's involvement throughout the week, visit the Yale at Climate Week NYC website.
Looking ahead, mark your calendars for these notable events:
- : On September 27, cheer on the Bulldogs as they face off against Cornell. The game kicks off at 12:00 PM. Tickets range from $8.00 to $25.00.
- : Scheduled for November 6-7, this conference will bring together leading experts to discuss clean energy justice, finance, technology, policy, and careers. Stay tuned for more information and registration details.
In recent developments:
- : Heather Gerken, Dean of Yale Law School since 2017, will depart in November to become president of the Ford Foundation, one of the largest philanthropies globally. Yale has not yet named a replacement for Gerken.
- : The university is exploring the sale of up to $2.5 billion in private equity and venture capital assets from its endowment. This move is part of a broader financial strategy, with discussions involving multiple firms.
That's all for today's update. Stay engaged, stay informed, and enjoy the beautiful day ahead.

Yale News: COVID Stratus Variant, Climate Week NYC, Class Size Expansion, and Sustainability Innovations

Hello, and welcome to the latest episode of our campus news podcast. Today is Monday, September 15, 2025, and we've got a lineup of important updates and events happening at Yale University.
As the fall semester kicks off, Yale Health has reported a rise in COVID-19 cases on campus. The new XFG variant, known as "Stratus," presents symptoms similar to previous Omicron strains, including fever, chills, muscle aches, and shortness of breath. In response, Yale Health will offer flu and COVID-19 vaccination clinics across campus starting in late September. Students experiencing symptoms are advised to isolate in their rooms and wear masks, especially around suitemates. For more information, visit the Yale Daily News website.
Yale is actively participating in Climate Week NYC, the largest annual climate event of its kind. Scholars, students, and thought leaders from across the university will engage with global partners in various events, including a two-day summit at the Yale Club of New York City on September 24 and 25. The program will feature over 20 sessions focused on scalable climate solutions, such as the role of artificial intelligence in combating climate change and strategies for decarbonizing existing buildings. For a detailed agenda, visit the Yale at Climate Week NYC website.
Yale College has announced an increase in its class size by 100 students per year, starting with the Class of 2029. This expansion will result in a total undergraduate population of 6,600 students. The university is committed to maintaining its need-blind admissions policy and meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all students. Additional resources will be provided to support student activities and campus life. More details can be found on the Yale News website.
Yale is making strides in sustainability. Yale Printing & Publishing Services has been nationally recognized for using fabric made from recycled plastic bottles for printing research posters. Additionally, a new video released on September 3 offers a behind-the-scenes look at Yale's recycling processes and the professionals working towards the university's sustainability goals. To watch the video and learn more about these initiatives, visit the Yale Sustainability website.
- : On September 10 at 4:00 PM, Pavel Brunssen will present "The Making of 'Jew Clubs': Performing Jewishness and Antisemitism in European Football and Fan Cultures." This lecture will be held on Zoom and is open to all. For more information, visit the YPSA website.
- : Co-hosted by the Yale Center on Climate Change and Health and The New York Academy of Medicine, this event on September 25 will explore the latest research on achieving a more sustainable healthcare system. For details and registration, visit the Yale at Climate Week NYC website.
That's all for today's episode. Stay safe, stay informed, and we'll catch you next time with more updates from around campus.

Yale Fall 2025: Art Premieres, Beyoncé Course, Climate Week, Major Endowment Sale & Campus Safety Updates

Good afternoon, Yale community. It's Monday, September 8, 2025, and here's what's happening on campus.
The Yale Schwarzman Center has unveiled its Fall 2025 season, offering a diverse array of free public programming. Highlights include "Celestial Garden (Yale)," an immersive light and sound installation by alumnus Leo Villareal, running from August 9 to October 10. Additionally, members of the New York City Ballet will perform "Visionary Steps: Balanchine & Beyond the Contemporary" on October 25, celebrating the legacy of choreographer George Balanchine. For more details, visit the Schwarzman Center's website.
In academic news, Yale is set to offer a new course titled "Beyoncé Makes History: Black Radical Tradition, Culture, Theory & Politics Through Music." Taught by Professor Daphne Brooks, the class will analyze Beyoncé's work from her 2013 self-titled album to her recent "Cowboy Carter" album, exploring how her music addresses social and political ideologies within the Black radical intellectual tradition. The course is anticipated to be highly popular, though class size will be limited.
Looking ahead, Yale will participate in Climate Week NYC from September 22 to 25. The university will host a series of events at The Yale Club of New York City, including the Climate Capital Summit on September 24, which will bring together leaders across energy, investing, policy, innovation, and higher education to discuss scalable and transformative climate solutions. For more information and to register, visit the Yale Climate Week website.
In financial news, Yale is reportedly planning to sell nearly $3 billion in private equity holdings. This move comes as the university's endowment, valued at $41.4 billion, has underperformed since 2022. The sale is part of an effort to address budget constraints and sustain current levels of spending.
On the safety front, the Yale Public Safety Department has issued an advisory regarding reckless driving and its risk to public safety. The university urges all community members to exercise caution and adhere to traffic regulations to ensure the safety of pedestrians and drivers alike.
Finally, the weather in New Haven today is sunny with temperatures ranging from 57°F this morning to a high of 73°F this afternoon. Expect mostly sunny skies throughout the day, making it a perfect opportunity to enjoy the campus outdoors.
That's all for today's update. Stay informed and engaged, Yale.

Yale Unveils Beyoncé Course, Reopens British Art Center, Shares Research Breakthroughs, and Faces Changes in Leadership and Finances

Good afternoon, Yale community. It's Monday, September 1st, and here's what's happening on campus.
Yale University is set to offer a new course titled "Beyoncé Makes History: Black Radical Tradition, Culture, Theory & Politics Through Music." Taught by Professor Daphne Brooks from the African American Studies department, the class will analyze Beyoncé's work from her 2013 self-titled album to her recent "Cowboy Carter" album. The course aims to explore how Beyoncé's music addresses social and political ideologies within the Black radical intellectual tradition.
The Yale Schwarzman Center has unveiled its Fall 2025 season, featuring a variety of performances, events, and exhibitions. Highlights include "Celestial Garden (Yale)" by visual artist and Yale alum Leo Villareal, running from August 9 to October 10, and "Magic for Animals," a one-woman show by Liz Toonkel, scheduled for November 14. All events are free and open to the public.
Additionally, the Yale Center for British Art has reopened after a two-year renovation, welcoming scholars, students, and visitors from around the world. The reopening enhances Yale’s ability to serve as a hub for scholarly exchange and cultural connection.
The Yale School of Public Health has released significant research findings. A national study led by Dr. Susan Busch reveals that only 10% of U.S. mental health treatment facilities offer medications for alcohol use disorder, highlighting a critical gap in care. Another study co-authored by Dr. Xi Chen links long-term exposure to surface-level ozone with increased respiratory mortality, including deaths from COVID-19, emphasizing the need for stronger ozone regulation.
In response to potential increases in the endowment gains tax, Yale has implemented a 90-day hiring pause, reduced non-salary expenses by 5%, and delayed several construction projects. These measures aim to navigate financial uncertainties and support the current faculty, students, and staff.
Furthermore, Yale Law School Dean Heather Gerken has stepped down to become president of the Ford Foundation. Gerken, who served as dean since 2017, will begin her new role this month.
The Yale Bulldogs men's ice hockey team is preparing for the 2025–26 season under interim head coach Joe Howe. This follows the retirement of long-time coach Keith Allain. The team looks forward to building on past successes as they enter their 130th season.
The Yale Library will be closed today, September 1, in observance of Labor Day. Regular hours will resume tomorrow.
That's all for today's update. Stay informed and engaged, Yale.

Yale Launches Beyoncé Course, Unveils Arts Season, Highlights Health Research, and Adapts to Financial Shifts in August 2025 Update

Good afternoon, Yale community. Today is Monday, August 25, 2025, and here are the latest updates from around campus.
Currently, it's sunny in New Haven with a temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Expect mostly cloudy skies with a chance of thunderstorms around noon, and temperatures reaching up to 83 degrees by late afternoon.
Yale University is set to offer a new course titled "Beyoncé Makes History: Black Radical Tradition, Culture, Theory & Politics Through Music." Taught by Professor Daphne Brooks from the African American Studies department, the course will analyze Beyoncé's work from her 2013 self-titled album to her recent "Cowboy Carter" album. It aims to explore how Beyoncé's music addresses social and political ideologies within the Black radical intellectual tradition. The class is anticipated to be highly popular, though enrollment will be limited.
The Yale Schwarzman Center has unveiled its Fall 2025 season, featuring a variety of performances, events, and exhibitions that are free and open to the public. Highlights include "Celestial Garden (Yale)" by renowned visual artist and Yale alum Leo Villareal, on display from August 9 to October 10. Additionally, Liz Toonkel's one-woman show "Magic for Animals" is scheduled for November 14. For a full listing of performance dates and building hours, visit the Schwarzman Center's website.
The Yale School of Public Health has released significant research findings this month. A national study led by Dr. Susan Busch revealed that only 10% of mental health treatment facilities in the U.S. offer medications for alcohol use disorder, highlighting a substantial gap in care. Another study co-authored by Dr. Xi Chen found that long-term exposure to surface-level ozone significantly increases respiratory mortality, including deaths from COVID-19. These findings underscore the urgent need for stronger environmental regulations and improved mental health treatment options.
The Yale Film Archive has received a grant from the National Film Preservation Foundation to support the preservation of two films by alumnus Sheldon Renan: "Basic Film Terms: A Visual Dictionary" (1970) and "Basic Television Terms: A Video Dictionary" (1977). Additionally, the Haas Arts Library welcomes Caroline Scheving as the 2024/25 Kress Fellow in Art Librarianship. Caroline will work on various projects at the Haas Arts Library and the Yale Center for British Art.
In response to potential increases in the endowment gains tax, Yale has implemented a 90-day hiring pause and is reducing non-salary expenses by 5%. Several construction projects will be delayed, and annual salary increases for faculty and staff will be lowered. These measures aim to navigate financial uncertainties while continuing to support the university's mission.
That's all for today's update. Stay informed and engaged, Yale.

Yale Updates: Beyoncé Course Launch, Leadership Changes, Faculty Honors, Football Preview, and Russia Ban

Good afternoon, Yale community. Today is Monday, August 18, 2025, and here are the latest updates from our campus.
Starting with the weather, it's currently mostly cloudy in New Haven, with temperatures around 66 degrees Fahrenheit. Expect a high of 78 degrees later today, with a chance of showers around 1 PM.
In academic news, Yale is set to offer a new course titled "Beyoncé Makes History: Black Radical Tradition, Culture, Theory & Politics Through Music." Taught by Professor Daphne Brooks from the African American Studies department, the course will explore Beyoncé's work from her 2013 self-titled album to her recent "Cowboy Carter" album. Students will analyze how Beyoncé's music addresses social and political ideologies within the Black radical intellectual tradition. The class is expected to be highly popular, though enrollment will be limited.
Turning to administrative updates, Dean Heather Gerken of Yale Law School has announced she will step down from her role in August 2025 to become the next president of the Ford Foundation. Gerken has served as the 17th dean since 2017 and will begin her tenure at the Ford Foundation in November 2025.
In faculty achievements, Professor Oona A. Hathaway has been elected President-Elect of the American Society of International Law. She will begin her two-year term as president in 2026. Additionally, Hathaway has been elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and awarded a Guggenheim Fellowship. She was also named a Berlin Fellow at the American Academy in Berlin and awarded the Berlin Prize.
On the athletic front, the Yale Bulldogs football team is gearing up for the 2025 season under the leadership of Head Coach Tony Reno, now in his 13th year. The Ivy League preseason poll, released on August 4, has placed Yale in the third position. The team is preparing for their opening game against Holy Cross, with high hopes for a strong season.
In international news, Russian authorities have declared Yale University an "undesirable" organization, banning its activities within Russia. The Russian Prosecutor General's Office stated that the university's activities are aimed at "violating the territorial integrity of Russia" and "destabilizing the socio-economic and political situation."
That's all for today's updates. Stay informed and engaged, Yale.

Yale News: Leadership Changes, Prestigious Awards, Research Highlights & Campus Events – August 11, 2025 Update

Good afternoon, Yale community. Today is Monday, August 11, 2025, and here are the latest updates from our campus.
Currently, it's sunny in New Haven with a temperature of 76°F (24°C). Temperatures are expected to rise throughout the day, reaching a high of 89°F (31°C) by mid-afternoon. Clear skies will continue into the evening, with temperatures cooling to around 75°F (24°C) by 11 PM.
Heather Gerken, who has served as the dean of Yale Law School since 2017, has stepped down from her role to become the president of the Ford Foundation. During her tenure, Dean Gerken was instrumental in advancing the school's commitment to public service and legal education. The university has initiated a search for her successor and will provide updates as the process progresses.
In its 2025 rankings, *U.S. News & World Report* named Yale School of Medicine one of the best medical schools in the United States for research. The school achieved Tier 1 status, reflecting its excellence in research funding, faculty qualifications, and student achievements. This recognition underscores Yale's ongoing commitment to advancing medical knowledge and education.
The Yale Center for British Art, in collaboration with the Yale Schwarzman Center, is offering student-led "Meet the Artist" tours of "The View from Here 2025." These tours provide an opportunity to engage with student-photographers and explore their creative journeys. The final tour is scheduled for Friday, August 15, from 2 to 3 PM. The event is free and open to the public, but registration is recommended.
A recent study led by the Yale School of Public Health revealed that the majority of mental health treatment facilities in the United States do not offer medications for alcohol use disorder, despite their proven effectiveness. The research emphasizes the need for integrated care and expanded training to address this gap in treatment.
In another study, researchers found that long-term exposure to surface-level ozone significantly increases respiratory mortality in the U.S., including deaths from COVID-19. The findings highlight the urgent need for stronger ozone regulation and public awareness of this invisible yet dangerous air pollutant.
Rishi Shah and August Rios, both from the class of 2026, have been awarded the 2025 Truman Scholarship for aspiring public service leaders. Additionally, Elena Bouldin, also from the class of 2026, has been named a Udall Scholar, and senior Karinne Tennenbaum received an honorable mention from the Udall Foundation. These accolades reflect the dedication and excellence of our students in public service and environmental stewardship.
The university has concluded its five-year initiative, "Belonging at Yale," which aimed to enhance diversity, support equity, and promote inclusion within our community. As this initiative concludes, Yale reaffirms its commitment to sustaining a thriving community that welcomes and supports individuals from all walks of life in the pursuit of knowledge and excellence.
That's all for today's update. Stay safe, stay informed, and as always, stay connected with the Yale community.

Yale News: Law School Leadership Change, Beyoncé-Inspired Course, $2.5B Endowment Deal, Library Tech Upgrade, New Global Affairs Center

Good afternoon, Yale community. It's Monday, August 4, 2025, and here's what's happening on campus.
Today in New Haven, expect sunny skies with temperatures reaching a high of 85°F (29°C) this afternoon. Currently, it's 72°F (22°C) and sunny.
Heather Gerken, who has served as Dean of Yale Law School since 2017, will step down in November to become the president of the Ford Foundation. During her tenure, Gerken led initiatives to increase accessibility, including eliminating tuition for low-income students. Yair Listokin, the Shibley Family Fund Professor of Law, has been appointed interim dean effective August 1, as the university begins the search for a permanent successor. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/legal/legalindustry/yale-law-dean-departs-lead-ford-foundation-2025-07-01/?utm_source=openai), [law.yale.edu](https://law.yale.edu/yls-today/news?utm_source=openai))
Yale is set to offer a new course titled "Beyoncé Makes History: Black Radical Tradition, Culture, Theory & Politics Through Music," taught by Professor Daphne Brooks. The class will analyze Beyoncé's work from her 2013 self-titled album to her recent "Cowboy Carter" album, exploring themes within the Black radical intellectual tradition. This course is expected to be highly popular, though class size will be limited.
Yale University is nearing completion of a significant transaction to sell up to $2.5 billion in private equity and venture capital assets from its endowment. The deal, referred to as "Project Gatsby," is expected to involve a discount of less than 10% and allows buyers to selectively purchase specific funds. Multiple firms, including Lexington Partners and HarbourVest Partners, have evaluated the portfolio.
The Yale Library has launched the new Alma technology platform, providing a foundation for continuous innovation in library operations and services. Additionally, the library has published new AI-related guides to assist researchers in navigating the fast-changing AI landscape.
Yale's Jackson School of Global Affairs has launched the Blue Center for Global Strategic Assessment. The center's research will address interrelated issues in national defense, diplomacy, intelligence, and international economic relations, supporting interdisciplinary teaching and research focused on generating actionable knowledge.
That's all for today's update. Stay informed and engaged, Yale.

Yale Update: Leadership Changes, Endowment Tax Response, Global Recognition, and Innovations in Education, Health, and Security

Good afternoon, Yale community. It's Monday, July 28, 2025, and here are the latest updates from our campus.
Dean Heather Gerken, who has led Yale Law School since 2017, will step down in November to become the president of the Ford Foundation. During her tenure, Dean Gerken spearheaded initiatives to make legal education more accessible, including eliminating tuition for low-income students. She also led a movement challenging the U.S. News law school rankings, prompting significant changes in their methodology. The university has not yet announced her successor.
In anticipation of a proposed increase in the federal endowment tax, Yale has implemented a 90-day hiring pause and a 5% reduction in non-salary expenses. These measures aim to mitigate potential financial impacts on the university's budget. The administration is closely monitoring legislative developments and will adjust strategies as needed.
Yale has intensified its lobbying efforts, spending $320,000 in the second quarter of 2025—a significant increase from previous quarters. The university has engaged prominent lobbying firms to advocate on its behalf, particularly concerning proposed federal policies affecting higher education funding.
The Gilder Lehrman Center for the Study of Slavery, Resistance, and Abolition has launched the inaugural session of the Yale and Slavery Teachers Institute. This program aims to equip educators with resources to teach about slavery's history in New England. Twenty-nine teachers were selected from over 150 applicants to participate in the institute's first session.
Yale School of Public Health students have developed a comprehensive dashboard to assist officials in responding to a measles outbreak in Texas. The tool includes maps, charts, and guidance for containment and treatment, filling a critical information gap during the crisis.
Russia has designated Yale University as an "undesirable organization," alleging activities aimed at undermining its territorial integrity and economic foundations. This designation effectively bans Yale's operations within Russia and poses legal risks for individuals collaborating with the university.
Yale, along with 23 other research universities, has filed a legal brief supporting a lawsuit challenging the federal government's freeze on research funding. The brief emphasizes the critical role of federal investment in scientific research for American innovation and economic growth.
Several Yale students have been recognized with prestigious scholarships. Rishi Shah and August Rios, both from the class of 2026, received the Truman Scholarship for aspiring public service leaders. Elena Bouldin, also class of 2026, was named a Udall Scholar, and Karinne Tennenbaum received an honorable mention from the Udall Foundation. Additionally, six Yale students and a recent alumnus have been awarded the Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans to support their graduate studies.
Yale's Information Technology Services has initiated an enhanced multi-factor authentication process, requiring Duo MFA and removing Microsoft MFA as an option. This change aims to strengthen the university's cybersecurity measures.
The Yale Center for Climate Change and Health co-hosted the Urban Pulse CityXChange Conference in Mexico, bringing together stakeholders from multiple countries to address issues at the intersection of climate change, health, and equity.
That's all for today's update. Stay informed and engaged, Yale.