July 31, 2015

President Barack Obama celebrates his 54th birthday on Aug. 4. On his inauguration day six years ago, President Obama handed Rep. John Lewis a note. It said, “Dear John: Thanks to you. Barack.” Rep. Lewis, a deeply engaged activist since his youth and often called “one of the most courageous persons the Civil Rights Movement ever produced,” has dedicated his life to protecting human rights, securing civil liberties and building what he calls, “The Beloved Community” in America. He will deliver a keynote speech at the U Nov. 10 for the U’s MUSE Project (My U Student Experience), which will dedicate the coming year to exploring the theme of “community.” Mark Matheson, director of the MUSE Project, can discuss Lewis’ visit, how his appearance reflects the year’s theme and Lewis’s graphic novel series, “MARCH,” which will be discussed in classrooms across campus this fall.
Phone: 801-581-3677 | Email: mark.matheson@utah.edu

July 27, 2015

As the final days of July wind down, back-to-school planning kicks into full gear as Utah students prepare to return to the classroom in August. For parents of the state’s youngest students, one question can often nag at them: Is my child ready for kindergarten? Cheryl Wright, an associate professor in the Department of Family and Consumer Studies, can offer commentary on signs of kindergarten readiness and can offer advice on when an additional year of preschool might be beneficial for a young student.
Phone: 801-581-7712 | Email: cheryl.wright@fcs.utah.edu

July 6, 2015

With record-breaking heat on deck for Utah in the coming week, hydration is key. But how do you know if your kids are getting enough water? A new study from Harvard University found that most American kids and teens don’t drink enough water, which is leaving them mildly dehydrated. Mild dehydration can cause health issues such as headaches, irritability, poor physical performance and difficulty learning. How can parents encourage kids’ water intake throughout the day, and is it ok to get fluids from other sources? Scott Youngquist, an emergency physician at University of Utah Health Care, is available to speak on the issue. To schedule an interview, contact Libby Mitchell or Marissa Villaseñor at U Health Sciences Office of Public Affairs.
Libby Mitchell | Phone: 801-587-0945 | Email: libby.mitchell@hsc.utah.edu
Marissa Villaseñor | Phone: 801-581-3102 | Email: marrisa.villaseñor@hsc.utah.edu

June 26, 2015

Summer is officially here, which means campus summer camps and classes are in full swing.Youth Education at the U has more than 250 summer camps and classes for kids ages 2-18, designed to inspire education, imagination and innovation through hands-on learning experiences. Students can continue to learn and grow during their summer vacation by developing new skills and building new relationships while pursuing current interests or tackling new topics. Campers can swim with sharks and learn about marine biology and ecology, create their own video game, learn to write songs, make a movie, build a long board,paint murals or become a captivating storyteller. Nate Friedman, associate director of education for Youth Education, is available to discuss the benefits of summer camps, the importance of exposing children to higher education at a young age and how parents can get their children involved with classes and camps this summer. Media are invited to visit classes and camps.
Phone: 801-585-9781 | Email: nate.friedman@continue.utah.edu