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Air date: 12/7/25

[00:28:17]

Having recorded this episode on Halloween day 2025, the professors couldn’t help but talk about their love for the holiday festivities.   With Professors Matt Mio, Mara Livezey, Stephen Manning, Heather Hill, Danielle Maxwell, Dan Maggio and Dave Chow.

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Air date: 11/30/25

[00:27:15]

We hope that you have a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend, and we’re sharing some Ask The Professor memories from November of 2008.  Host Kathy Bush is joined by Professors Dan Maggio, Lazaros Kikas and Ron Naski.

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Air date: 11/23/25

[00:27:59]

The professors are looking forward to Thanksgiving Day in the U.S. and enjoying some reflections on the holiday.   And we are learning so much about cranberries in this week’s episode.  Host Matt Mio is joined by Professors Heather Hill, Stephen Manning, Danielle Maxwell, Brian Curtis, Jim Tubbs, Beth Oljar, Dan Maggio, Dave Chow and Molly Barlow.

ATP 2612 transcript

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Air date: 11/16/25

[00:27:56]

Host Matt Mio is joined by Professors Heather Hill, Jim Tubbs, Danielle Maxwell, Stephen Manning and Dave Chow.

ATP 2611 transcript

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Air date: 11/9/25

[0028:43]

This week’s episode is the second half of an Ask The Professor show recorded at Detroit Mercy’s McNichols Campus library at Homecoming 2025.  With Professors Matt Mio, Heather Hill, Stephen Manning, Danielle Maxwell, Brian Curtis, Erin Bell, Jim Tubbs and Dave Chow.

ATP 2610 transcript

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Start 2026 with a bang at University Recreation’s New Year’s Rec-Solutions! Save the date for this fun event to help usher in the new year on Tuesday, Jan. 13 from 5-6:30 p.m. inside of the Whitty Student Fitness Center.

Free food is available to the first 100 participants. Also included will be giveaways, raffles, vendors, interactive demos, sports and fitness challenges, music, inflatable games and a few surprises! Stay tuned for more.

The annual Titan Winter Blast, Detroit Mercy’s annual signature winter event, returns Saturday, Jan. 24, followed by a UDM men’s basketball contest with Oakland University, all taking place on the McNichols Campus.

All Titans — students, alumni, staff, faculty, friends, family and guests — are invited for the winter festivities, camaraderie and fun inside of the Whitty Student Fitness Center from 12-3 p.m.

Various teams of chili chefs from across the University’s campuses will turn up the heat at the wildly popular chili cook-off! Snuggle up for some horse-drawn trolley rides and have an indoor winter blast playing cornhole, cookie decorating, games and activities and more! Refreshments will be provided by Eastern Market Brewery.

Following the fun, head over to Calihan Hall to cheer on men’s basketball as they battle rival Oakland at 3 p.m.

Cost for attendance is $5 for students and $20 for alumni, faculty, staff and guests. Children 12 and under are free. Admission includes tastings at the chili cook-off, food and refreshments, all games and activities plus a ticket to the men’s basketball contest.

Register for TWB.

Come out to support the local Detroit community and cheer on the Titans men’s basketball team on Saturday, Dec. 20 at 1 p.m., as they take on Siena Heights inside historic Calihan Hall. Bring a toy for donation and receive a free ticket to the game!

Your toy donation will support local Detroit charities and the Children’s Hospital of Michigan and you’ll enjoy an exciting matchup, all while helping Titan Athletics make an impact on the community.

Fans and children will also have the opportunity for pictures with Tommy Titan dressed as Santa.

Don’t miss this chance to make a difference and root for the Titans!

The deadline for University Ministry’s Civil Rights Service Immersion Trip during the spring break, March 7-13, in Montgomery, Ala., will close on Jan. 21. Students of all faiths or none are welcome to apply.

Service immersion trips are an opportunity to encounter a community outside of your own, offer your gifts and friendship in service, simplicity and solidarity, and immerse yourself in education on the critical issues of our day, in this case, the Civil Rights Movement.

This trip is designed both to learn from the rich history of the area, visiting renowned museums and historical sites. It also includes engaging in current-day civil rights issues around racism, voting access and even joining a historical rally crossing the Selma bridge.

Fill out interest form here.

The application deadline for University Ministry’s Service Immersion Trip during spring break, March 7-13, to the Appalachian Mountains in Washburn, Tenn., will close on Jan. 21. Students of all faiths or none are welcome to apply.

Service immersion trips are an opportunity to encounter a community outside of your own, offer your gifts and friendship in service, simplicity and solidarity, and immerse yourself in education on the critical issues of our day, in this case, sustainability in Appalachia.

We will stay with Narrow Ridge Earth Literacy Center, an organization dedicated to serving the local community, teaching sustainable practices and offering retreat space to cultivate an ethic and spirituality around the natural world. This trip combines service learning (sustainable gardening, trail and forest restoration, and more) with education on the challenges and solutions to sustainable living in our day.

For any questions, please contact seckric@udmercy.edu.

Fill out interest form here.

The Women’s and Gender Studies Program has announced the 2025-26 Jane Schubert Student Grant with nominations being accepted until Jan. 23, 2026. Grants support community and academic projects and activities related to women’s and gender issues.

Current undergraduate, graduate and professional students, as well as University-recognized students organizations are welcome to apply using an online application.

Past grants have been awarded in support of a wide range of activities, community projects, as well as academic projects, such as:

• Bringing an international poet to UDM to recite her work and speak on trauma, journey and the modern stories of Muslim women.
• The publication and performance of a student chapbook of written and visual art that engaged issues of gender.
• A Ph.D. capstone project on vicarious trauma and its effects on sexual assault nurse examiners.
• Travel to an academic conference to present research on mental health interventions for Black women.
• The Chemistry Club’s Women in Science Symposium.

Students should complete the online application form.

Please direct any questions to Lee Eshelman (eshelmlr@udmercy.edu), Women’s and Gender Studies affiliate faculty and chair of the WGS Grants Subcommittee.

UDM giving opportunities.

Looking for a place to study for finals? The McNichols Campus Library is again offering extended hours to support students during final exams week.

Library hours are as follows for the week:

• Monday, Dec. 8 — 8 a.m. to midnight
• Tuesday, Dec. 9 — 8 a.m. to midnight
• Wednesday, Dec. 10 — 8 a.m. to midnight
• Thursday, Dec. 11 — 8 a.m. to midnight
• Friday, Dec. 12 — 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Saturday, Dec. 13 — 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

It’s almost chili time! Calling all faculty, staff, students and alumni for the annual chili cook-off at the Titan Winter Blast, set for Saturday, Jan. 24 prior to the men’s basketball contest against Oakland on the McNichols Campus. The cook-off is from 12-3 p.m., with the Titans game against rival Golden Grizzlies beginning at 3 p.m. inside of Calihan Hall.

Grab a co-worker, fellow classmate, your student organization or club members, or an alumni to join the the chili-cooking fun!

Registration ends Friday, Dec. 12. For more information please contact Arneshia Austin at austinad1@udmercy.edu.

Sign-up today!

In honor of Detroit Mercy’s 150th anniversary, the University will host The Best of Spain: In the Footsteps of St. Ignatius, a remarkable 10-day travel experience from Nov. 2-11, 2026.

Join fellow members of the Detroit Mercy community to explore Spain’s rich cultural heritage and Ignatian history, with stops in Madrid, Barcelona, San Sebastian and many other inspiring locations.

For more information, contact Peggy Pattison at pattisma@udmercy.edu.

Detroit Mercy’s annual Late Night Munchies meal Monday, Dec. 8 from 8-9:30 p.m. inside of Titan Dining Room helps usher in the start of finals week on the McNichols Campus.

The 2025 meal from Metz features chicken and waffles, yogurt parfaits, breakfast tacos, and more to help fuel the prep for finals. Also included inside of TDR are fun activities such as caricatures, henna, a photo booth and music. Everyone is welcome!

University Ministry will host a special time of prayer and reflection for peacemakers Monday, Dec. 8, at 1 p.m., inside of the Holy Spirit Chapel, located in the Student Union, Lower Level.

Together, we will pray the Rosary, a traditional Catholic devotion, in support of Pope Leo XIV’s monthly intention for December: That Christians living in areas of war or conflict, especially the Middle East, might be seeds of peace, reconciliation and hope.

Enjoy free hot chocolate and receive a blessing before finals in a space free of stress with your UDM community.

While the rosary is a traditional Catholic prayer, all are welcome to participate. Rosary beads and easy to follow “how-to” guides will be provided.

For any questions, please contact glafond@udmercy.edu.

University Ministry is hosting the retreat where students can bring school work with them. This retreat, set for Sunday, Dec. 7, is a chance for students to get off campus, study in a quiet and relaxing space and enjoy optional breaks designed to promote both self-care and spiritual well-being.

The retreat will run from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Participants will meet outside the University Ministry office at 9 a.m. to drive together to the retreat location (for those who need a ride). The retreat will be held at the Maxis Spirituality Center, located at 17380 Grange Rd. in Riverview.

During the retreat, we will share home-cooked meals together and enter finals week prepared and equipped with the tools to take care of our whole persons as our mission calls us to through ‘cura personalis’ (the care for the whole person, body, mind and soul).

Space is limited in order to create an ideal study environment for participants. The last day to register is Wednesday, Dec. 3, at 5 p.m.

For questions or concerns, please contact University Minister for Faith Formation Anna Bryson at lawleran@udmercy.edu or 313-993-1925

Register here.

Big papers, projects and deadlines coming up? You don’t have to do it alone!

Join The Writing Center for Community Writing Hours with Content and Outreach Coordinator Brittany Hardy from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5 on the first floor of the McNichols Campus Library. The help entails:

• Writing
• Support
• Accountability
• Community

The assistance will power you through your end-of-term assignments.

Detroit Mercy’s Day of Giving is Tuesday, Dec. 2 — and students are at the heart of it!

This 24-hour fundraising celebration brings together Titans everywhere to support the people, programs and opportunities that make our University special.

Day of Giving isn’t just about making a gift, it’s also a chance for students to connect, have fun and learn how philanthropy shapes your Detroit Mercy experience. Join the University from 12:30-2 p.m. in the Fountain Lounge for student-centered activities, including:

• A hot chocolate bar and snacks
• Fun games and giveaways, that showcase the impact of Titan generosity

Stop by during Dead Hour, enjoy a treat and learn more about programs at the University that are supported by philanthropy. This year, we’re highlighting: The Hive, Titan Equity Nourish Network (TENN), Service Immersion Trips and Rx for Reading Detroit.

Learn more about these mission-driven programs and vote for your favorite — or multiple — to receive a portion of a special Day of Giving donation.

Let’s show what Titans can do when they come together. See you there!

Detroit Mercy will host its annual Day of Giving on Giving Tuesday, Dec. 2.

This 24-hour fundraising campaign is an opportunity for Titans around the world — alumni, community members, parents, family, friends, faculty, staff and students — to come together and show support for the University.

It is also much more than a day of giving. It’s a chance for the entire Titan community to celebrate everything we love about the University and create countless opportunities for UDM students.

On Day of Giving, students will also take part in philanthropy activities, including a hot chocolate bar, snacks, and fun games in the Fountain Lounge from 12:30-2 p.m. These activities are open to everyone, and highlight the impact of giving and showcase mission-driven programs such as The Hive, Titan Equity Nourish Network (TENN), Service Immersion Trips and Rx for Reading.

Gifts of all sizes make a difference! Donors can choose exactly where they’d like to make an impact, supporting the areas and programs they’re most passionate about through the Day of Giving page.

Together, Titans can make a powerful difference, for years to come.

Detroit Mercy’s annual De-Stress Fest, set for Thursday, Dec. 4, from 4:30-7 p.m., is a chance to connect with friends and recharge before finals week at the Whitty Student Fitness Center with delicious food, exciting games, prizes and fun!

Here are some of the things you can do at De-Stress Fest:

• Ride the mechanical bull
• Play multiplayer inflatable games
• Enjoy free massages
• Get creative with crochet and bracelet making
• Snack on treats at the hot cocoa bar and taco stand
• Decorate Christmas cookies with Chef Jessica
• Build your own snowman with Miss Chris
• Plus raffles, pastry decorating and more

All students are welcome!

Titan Athletics is excited to celebrate our incredible faculty and staff for their dedication and support of the University at two Titan basketball games inside of historic Calihan Hall on the McNichols Campus:

• Wednesday, Dec. 3 at 7 p.m. — Men’s basketball vs. IU Indy
• Thursday, Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. — Women’s basketball vs. Cleveland State

Faculty and staff and their guests can get FREE tickets to the games, as well as a FREE Titans beanie at both games.

To claim your tickets and beanie, RSVP at www.detroittitans.com/faculty-staff or email Samantha Cyrus at cyrusse@udmercy.edu.

We look forward to recognizing your role and contributions to the success of our student-athletes and University. Go Titans!

Looking for a space that’s real, supportive and unlike any other club you’ve joined? Blessed To Be Broken, a student-centered community focused on sharing life experiences, finding strength in struggles and building heart-to-heart connections that last, presents the Chrysalis Crew.

This isn’t just another student club. It’s a community built on empathy, resilience and support.

Come discover how the Chrysalis Crew can help you grow, connect and thrive. Join Blessed To Be Broken for an inaugural event on Dec. 3 at 12:45 p.m. in the Commerce & Finance Building, Room 138, and learn more ways to get involved.

Get ready for some affordable holiday shopping! The Christmas Pop-Up Shop is back this year with a new theme: Christmas Five-n-Below Pop-Up Shop, where every item is $5 or less.

The pop-up shop is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, and Thursday, Dec. 4 in the lobby of the McNichols Campus Library.

Find unique gifts while supporting a great cause. All proceeds benefit the McNichols Campus Seed Library.

Detroit Mercy’s Emerging Leaders Program will host a Leadership Slam on Tuesday, Dec. 2, with two alumni who will share how their education, resilience and vision have shaped success.

This is a unique opportunity for students to gain valuable insights and be inspired to take bold steps on their own leadership journeys. All are welcome.

Slam 1 will take place from 2:30-3:45 p.m. with Slam 2 to follow at 4:30-5:45 p.m., both in the Health Professions Facility, Room 124.

Both alumni will be speaking in Slam 1 & Slam 2.

Meet our speakers:

• Angelo Vitale, General Counsel, Rocket Companies (Retired): Vitale provided strategic business and legal guidance throughout his career, serving as the first CEO of Rocket Central and EVP/general counsel of Rocket Mortgage, where he specialized in leasing, litigation and regulatory compliance.
• Michael Birney, CMO, I Natural Way: Birney drives business growth with advanced marketing tech, leveraging his experience as a former Google Growth Strategist and an ML Champion to apply teamwork and strategy for success.

For more information about this event, please contact Program Director Kathleen Zimmerman-Oster at zimmerka@udmercy.edu or 586-873-1743.

Detroit Mercy’s Industrial/Organizational Psychology M.A. Program will host an unscripted chat with alumna Morgan Kruger entitled Real Talk. Real Work Journeys. We Owe it to Each Other on Tuesday, Dec. 2, from 7-8:30 p.m. in the Health Professions Facility, Room 124.

All are welcome to enjoy this evening of insight, networking and exploration of the field of Industrial/Organizational Psychology.

Kruger is a passionate learning and development professional dedicated to helping individuals grow into their next career step. As a regional training specialist at Webasto Roof Systems, a Tier 1 automotive sunroof supplier, she designs and delivers impactful programs in leadership, change management, continuous improvement, lean manufacturing and communication. Since joining Webasto as an onboarding specialist, Kruger has led major organizational projects including the company’s Apprenticeship Program, a $3 Million training grant project, and regional Culture and Change Ambassador programs.

For more information about this event, please contact Program Director Kathleen Zimmerman-Oster at zimmerka@udmercy.edu or 586-873-1743.

UDM students who have worked at the Detroit Mercy Libraries or Varsity News or volunteered with the Titan Equity Nourish Network (TENN), for at least one year — and plan to continue with these activities — may now apply for the Adia J. Palmer Memorial Scholarship. Students pursuing studies in Performing Arts or Communications are also encouraged to apply.

The scholarship is intended to help cover the costs of textbooks and lab fees at the University. The Detroit Mercy Libraries, Varsity News and TENN launched this scholarship in 2023, to honor Palmer’s legacy of creativity, inspiration and elevation, as well as her desire to spread joy, peace and love to make the world a better place.

The deadline for applications for the 2025-26 scholarship is Dec. 1.

While the number and dollar amount of this year’s scholarships is yet to be determined, awardees will be notified by mid-December 2025, and scholarships may be used as early as the 2026 Winter semester. Last year, six $500 scholarships were awarded to outstanding students who exemplified Palmer’s legacy.

For more information about the scholarship or to apply, please visit: Adia J. Palmer Memorial Scholarship website.

Apply here.

University of Detroit Mercy’s McNichols Campus will close for the Thanksgiving holiday Wednesday, Nov. 26, and open for regular business on Monday, Dec. 1.

Have a safe and joy-filled Thanksgiving!

Video: Students on the McNichols Campus share what they’re thankful for at Detroit Mercy.

Don’t miss the excitement as the Detroit Mercy women’s basketball team takes on nationally-ranked Michigan on Wednesday, Nov. 26 at 5 p.m. in historic Calihan Hall.

Free T-shirts will be available to the first 250 fans as the Titans face the Wolverines. Doors open at 4 p.m., and the game will stream live on ESPN+.

For more information, contact Paige Zmudczynski at zmudczpa@udmercy.edu.

Get your tickets here.

The Detroit Mercy chapter of Alpha Sigma Nu, the National Jesuit Honor Society, is holding its annual Sock Drive to support the homeless in our community.

One of the struggles of homeless people is taking care of their feet, especially in the winter. They need warm, dry socks, which are often hard to come by. You can help by donating new or gently used socks to the Alpha Sigma Nu annual sock drive.

This drive begins Monday, Nov. 24, and runs through Friday, Dec. 12. Look for signs and boxes for sock donations at the following locations:

• Chemistry Building
• Engineering Building
• CHASS office in the Briggs Building
• Commerce & Finance Building
• McNichols Campus Library
• CHP
• Student Fitness Center
• Outside the University Ministry Office
• Gesu Parish
• School of Law and School of Dentistry campuses.

All donated socks will be distributed to the Pope Francis Center and other programs serving homeless individuals in the Detroit area.

In the last two years, Alpha Sigma Nu has collected more than 1,200 pairs of socks.

Come out to support the community and cheer on the Titans at the “Cans for Calihan” game on Sunday, Nov. 30 at 1 p.m., where women’s basketball will host Eastern Michigan inside historic Calihan Hall.

Bring a canned food item and receive a free ticket to the game. Your donation helps local families while you enjoy an exciting matchup between UDM and Eastern Michigan.

Don’t miss this chance to make a difference and root for the home team!

Support local businesses and find unique holiday gifts while you enjoy a festive community atmosphere at Small Business Saturday on Nov. 29. In collaboration with the Six Mile Small Business Network, Shop the Smalls is happening along McNichols Road in three locations:

• Design Studio 6 Artisan Holiday Affair, 8626 W. McNichols Rd., 1-6 p.m.: This festive marketplace features handmade handbags, holiday décor, art, jewelry, home goods, popcorn and more. Perfect for finding one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting local artisans.
• Detroit Sip, 7420 W. McNichols Rd., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.: Enjoy a cozy atmosphere while browsing small business offerings. For vendor inquiries, email info@detroitsip.com.
• The Raw Space, 8420 W. McNichols Rd., All Day: Support local businesses and explore unique products in a vibrant pop-up experience. Learn more at www.rawspacedet.com.

Mark your calendar and make it a day of shopping at creative small businesses!

Big papers, projects and deadlines coming up? You don’t have to do it alone!

Join The Writing Center for Community Writing Hours with Content and Outreach Coordinator Brittany Hardy from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21 on the first floor of the McNichols Campus Library. The help entails:

• Writing
• Support
• Accountability
• Community

The assistance will power you through your end-of-term assignments.

Detroit Mercy students are eligible to access programming abroad at other Jesuit schools as part of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities (AJCU) Shared Partner Programming Abroad. UDM students are welcome to attend a virtual information session on Nov. 21 at 1 p.m. to learn how they could spend a summer, fall or winter semester abroad through Loyola’s Rome Center.

Eligible UDM students may qualify for tuition or program discounts through Loyola University Chicago’s (LUC’s) Rome Center, as well as scholarships offered through LUC.

At Loyola’s Rome Center, students don’t just study abroad, they live and learn in the heart of Rome. At the information session, students will learn about the following opportunities:

• Taking classes that may count toward your degree while exploring one of the world’s most historic cities.
• Gaining professional experience through internships. No Italian required.
• Earning credit through hands-on, experiential learning that brings your studies to life.

More details about life in Rome, course offerings and costs will be provided at the information session.

Contact Lara Wasner at wasnerle@udmercy.edu for more information about this session.

RSVP here to receive the Zoom link.

The Titan Equity Nourish Network (TENN) and the Physician Assistant Program are hosting a month-long food drive this November to support our local community, especially as changes to SNAP benefits increase the need for support.

We are collecting non-perishable and dry food items all month long.

Drop-off locations are as follows:

• College of Health Professions
• Student Union Lower Level Lobby
• Fitness Center Lobby
• Library (drop-off begins after Nov. 17)
• SACD Main Office

No items to bring? You can still help. Monetary donations are being accepted via Venmo @William-Beaumont-1 and will be used to purchase food items for families in need. For any questions or want to get involved, email mannincp@udmercy.edu.

The International Services Office (ISO) will host Detroit Mercy’s annual International Night on Thursday, Nov. 20, from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

All UDM students, faculty and staff are welcome to the night, which is being hosted in the Student Union Ballroom. Come and celebrate our cultural diversity through food, entertainment and community.

Sign up here!

The Detroit Mercy Theatre Company announced auditions for its upcoming winter production of Poor Clare by Chiara Atik, directed by Kez Settle. Auditions will take place on Thursday, Nov. 20, from 7-10 p.m., at the new Detroit Mercy Black Box Theatre in the Lower Level of the Student Union on the McNichols Campus.

What to prepare/expect:

• One 60-second (or less) comedic or dramatic monologue from a contemporary playwright.
• Callbacks will take place immediately after auditions and will consist of cold readings from the script.

For more information, including roles available, please visit Detroit Mercy Theatre Company auditions.

Please email theatre@udmercy.edu with any questions.

Detroit Mercy Student Life is hosting the third installment of the Makers Series, a jewelry-making workshop, from 12-2 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18, in the Student Union, Lower Level.

All are welcome to drop in any time and Fer, from Cracks On the Shell Jewelry, will guide participants through hands-on techniques for crafting unique, sustainable jewelry from thrifted materials.

All the tools and materials will be provided, and you will construct a beautiful piece of jewelry to take home with you.

Come out to support the community and cheer on UDM at the Cans for Calihan game on Tuesday, Nov. 18 at 7 p.m., where Titan men’s basketball will host Eastern Michigan inside historic Calihan Hall.

Bring a canned food item and receive a free ticket to the game. Your donation helps local families while you enjoy an exciting matchup between UDM and Eastern Michigan.

Don’t miss this chance to make a difference and root for the home team!

Join the Titan Equity Nourish Network (TENN) for a fun and meaningful way to spread holiday cheer. TENN will create gift bags filled with love and goodies for our community partners on Tuesday, Nov. 18 from 1-2:30 p.m., in the Commerce & Finance Building, Room 104.

Students can earn volunteer hours while making crafts, assembling gifts and helping us brighten the season for our community.

Why join?

• Make a positive impact in your community
• Enjoy a creative, hands-on activity
• Get those much needed volunteer hours before the end of the semester

Let’s come together to craft kindness and share joy this holiday season!

Sign up here.

University Ministry, Office of Equal Opportunity, the Women’s and Gender Studies Program and UDM Pride Club will gather for a short service in observance of Transgender Day of Remembrance on Thursday, Nov. 20 at 5 p.m.

The service will take place by the Peace Pole in Sacred Heart Square, just outside of the McNichols Campus Library on the McNichols Campus. All are welcome to attend.

Transgender Day of Remembrance began in 1999 to honor Rita Hester, a transgender woman killed in 1998. Since then, it has been observed annually to raise awareness of transphobia and the fatal violence that disproportionately affects transgender people, especially women of color.

Stop by the McNichols Campus Library to learn more about the history and experiences of transgender people through its Transgender Day of Remembrance book display and other resources.

University Ministry will host a special time of prayer on Thursday, Nov. 20, at 1:30 p.m. in the Holy Spirit Chapel, located in the Student Union, Lower Level.

Together, we will pray the Rosary, a traditional Catholic devotion, in support of Pope Leo XIV’s monthly intention for November: the prevention of suicide. This is a topic close to the hearts of many, and all members of the UDM community are welcome to share this moment of reflection and hope with Jesus and one another.

Rosary beads and “how-to” guides will be provided, so whether you’re familiar with the Rosary prayers or joining for the first time, you’ll be able to follow along and participate.

Detroit Mercy’s Counseling program hosted its annual Trailblazing TitanCounselor alumni panel discussion and networking event on Oct. 30, and it featured two program alumni and was attended by 40 graduate counseling students.

It provided an opportunity to learn about the specific important work being done by alumni while building connections in the professional counseling community.

The Mission Micro-Grant Evaluation Committee and Office of Mission Integration are pleased to announce the 2025-26 Mission Micro-Grant Award recipients.

The program makes annual grants of up to $200 to any full- or part-time UDM faculty or staff member in support of activities that promote Detroit Mercy’s mission of being a Catholic, Mercy, Jesuit, urban and student-centered University.

Since its start in 2008, the program has supported more than 380 mission-based projects and events. Congratulations to this year’s recipients:

• Jennifer Ahlquist (MSON/CHP): Support for a campus-wide mindfulness collective and book club
• Ashlee Barnes, Sherry McConnell, Rahima Ahmed, Matthew Rios (CHP): Support for a peer-to-peer student mental wellness campaign
• Danielle Bluford, Stacey Stevens (CHP): Support for a campus screening and dialogue featuring Detroit author and activist Dr. Yusef Shakur
• Angela Davis (CHASS): Support to stock a student pantry housed in Briggs Building
• Amy Ferguson (UDMSO): Support for a community dinner and study strategies session for Optometry students
• Sarah Foster RSM, Felicia Hartinger (University Academic Services/Student Success Center): Support to provide menstrual supplies in McNichols Campus Library public restrooms
• Cindy Gillham (McNichols Campus Library): Support for the McNichols Campus Library’s seed library
• Mary-Catherine Harrison, Melissa Converse (CHASS): Support for Rx for Reading Detroit to develop a reading celebration for its United Children and Family Head Start partners
• Sarah James, Kia Hart, Tommie Smith, Tony De La Rosa (CES): Support for meditative coloring supplies for CES students
• Andrea Kwasky (MSON/CHP): Support for a campus presentation by speakers from the National Alliance on Mental Illness
• Thad Lindsay, Chris Nichols (CES): Support to offer a hands-on workshop to local high school students in the McShane Makerspace
• Nour Lyon (CHP): Support for gratitude journals for Physician Assistant students
• Chelsea Manning (Titan Equity Nourish Network/Institute for Leadership and Service) Support for produce deliveries in collaboration with Princeton Street Block Club (PSBC) and Theresa Maxis Senior Apartments
• Molly McClelland, Megan Conrad (CHP/CES): Gift cards for community clients working with Nursing and Engineering student teams in Prototype Design & Assistive Technology courses
• Phillip Olla (CHP): Support for community digital literacy and practical AI training micro courses
• Kahtara Richardsen (CHP): Support to provide menstrual supplies in CHP public restrooms
• Alexa Rihana (CES): Support to stock a student pantry housed in CES
• Jessica Rouser (Scholarship & Financial Aid): Support to stock a student pantry housed in the Student Union
• Justin Williams (AAS/CHASS): Support for site visits for the new course AAS 3000: A Black Studies Tour of Detroit: Place-Based-Humanities
• Valerie Williams (CHASS): Support to stock a hospitality room housed in Reno Hall

Learn more information about the Mission Micro-Grants on its webpage or contact Rosemary Weatherston, director of the Mission Micro-Grant Program, at weatherr@udmercy.edu.

In 1950, a gallon of gas cost just $0.27, and the world had yet to experience color television. Here on the McNichols Campus, our Library first opened its doors — a new home for knowledge, reflection and community.

Seventy-five years later, while the world has gone digital, our Library remains rooted in the same values: curiosity, discernment and the pursuit of truth.

All are welcome to join us on Friday, Nov. 14, at 2 p.m. in the lobby of the McNichols Campus Library as we celebrate its 75th birthday and mark this special moment with a re-blessing of the building led by Fr. Charles Oduke.

Cake and punch will be served.

Kevin Burke, S.J., will give a lecture titled, “Cries of the Heart: Denise Levertov and the Martyrs of El Salvador,” on Monday, Nov. 17, at 5 p.m. inside Room 114 of the Chemistry Building. Fr. Burke has written and edited books on the theology of Ignacio Ellacuria, who was one of the Jesuits martyred in El Salvador in 1989. He will share his reflections and the message of the martyrs for our world today.

The event is organized by the Carney Latin American Solidarity Archive (CLASA) and co-sponsored by the Arthur J. McGovern, S.J. Catholic Studies Program and the Detroit Mercy Mission Effectiveness Team

All are welcome to this free event.

Fr. Burke will also join the UDM community by presiding at a Mass in memory of the UCA Jesuit Martyrs, on the anniverary of their deaths, Sunday Nov. 16, at 8 p.m. The mass will be held at the St. Ignatius Chapel on the first floor of the Commerce & Finance Building.

Fr. Burke has been the vice president for Mission at Regis University in Colorado for the past seven years. Previously, he was Dean and a faculty member at the Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara Berkeley. From 1997 to 2006, he was a member of the faculty of Weston Jesuit School of Theology in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Big papers, projects and deadlines coming up? You don’t have to do it alone.

Join us for community writing hours in the McNichols Campus Library (first floor) for a full day of:

• Writing
• Support
• Accountability
• Community

Dates and times:

• Friday, Nov. 14, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Friday, Nov. 21, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Friday, Dec. 5, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Power through your end-of-term assignments at one or all of these sessions, hosted by Content and Outreach Coordinator Brittany Hardy and The Writing Center.

You can now receive your 1098T tax statement electronically in a fast, secure and convenient manner.

To sign up and complete eConsent:

1. Visit heartland.ecsi.net
2. Register or sign in to your account
3. Go to “Your Communication Center”
4. Choose “Tax Statement eConsent”
5. Click “Add New Consent” and follow the prompts

Deadline to complete eConsent is Dec. 31.

For any questions, visit the Student Accounting Office in the Student Union or email studentaccounts@udmercy.edu.

On Nov. 11, Vice President for Enrollment Management & Student Affairs Debbie Stieffel spoke at “Navigating the Gen Z Shift: Adapting to New Student Expectations,” a webinar hosted by The Chronicle of Higher Education and sponsored by Kaplan. Her talk offered valuable perspectives on Gen Z motivations and provided insight on how to support students for career success.

Learn the basics of self-defense in this free, interactive course, led by a personal safety and martial arts expert, on Thursday, Nov. 13, from 4-5:30 p.m. in the Group Activities Room of the Whitty Student Fitness Center. All students and employees are welcome.

Studies show that self-defense courses improve confidence and reduce women’s vulnerability to violence. Focused on situational awareness, personal assertiveness and verbal and physical strategies for keeping yourself safe, this course teaches self-defense techniques in a fun, empowering environment.

The event is sponsored by the Office of Equal Opportunity and the Women’s and Gender Studies Program at Detroit Mercy.

With any questions, please email Megan Novell, executive director of the UDM Office of Equal Opportunity, at novellme@udmercy.edu.

All Detroit Mercy students are invited to attend an evening of professional and personal development at the Student Alumni Leadership Council (SALC) Annual Student Etiquette Dinner. This event is set for Thursday, Nov. 13 from 6-8 p.m. in The Loft, located in the Student Union.

Business attire is encouraged.

This year, alumni from the Women of Stellantis along with keynote speaker Teresa Thiele, senior vice president of Global Purchasing Programs at Stellantis, will present as well as lead roundtable discussions regarding the following topics:

• The power of saying “no” with confidence
• Innovative problem solving
• Crafting a compelling elevator pitch that leaves a lasting impression
• Mastering negotiation techniques

Complete registration here.

All are welcome for the November gathering of the Creative Writing Collective at 5:15 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13 inside of the Briggs Building, Room 202. Students, staff, faculty, alumni, and friends are all welcome!

The topic for the third collective of the semester is Documentary Poetics with Isaac Pickell.

No expertise or experience is necessary for the Creative Writing Collective. With any questions or for more information on the CWC, please email english@udmercy.edu.

University of Detroit Mercy’s alumni magazine Spiritus won the 2025 Best of District V Award from the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE). This recognition places Spiritus among the top creative and innovative college and university magazines across the Midwest.

The award was announced Nov. 4. CASE made special recognition of the magazine’s outstanding storytelling, design and impact. UDM’s winning edition of the magazine was the spring 2024 issue, which was selected from submissions across District V (Great Lakes District), a part of the country that includes 400+ member institutions from Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin.

Spiritus is delivered to 67,000 households across the country biannually. In addition, the electronic version is read by thousands more. Each issue highlights Detroit Mercy’s past, present and future by showcasing stories from all eight schools and colleges. The magazine seeks to engage a broad audience beyond the University and creatively connect readers to additional news resources, including the University’s website and blog.

Editor-in-chief Ron Bernas and creative designer Gaby Rivas led a thoughtful redesign of Spiritus in 2023 that continues to resonate with alumni and other readers. This CASE recognition reflects their exceptional expertise in feature writing, graphic design and visual narratives.

“We are incredibly proud of our marketing and communications team for receiving the CASE Best of District V Award for Spiritus this year,” said Dennis Carlesso, vice president for University Advancement at Detroit Mercy. “This achievement demonstrates the remarkable creativity and collaboration behind the magazine and highlights MarCom’s dedication to showcasing the spirit and faith in action that define our university.”

CASE District V serves as a leading resource for professionals in alumni relations, communications, development and marketing, with a purpose to help advance the cause of education. The award affirms Detroit Mercy’s commitment to compelling, mission-driven storytelling.

Members of UDM’s MarCom department will attend the CASE District V Annual Conference in Indianapolis, April 27-29, 2026, where they will receive the award.

Learn more about CASE and its awards.

Detroit Mercy’s College of Engineering & Science is set to host the 12th annual Research Symposium on Thursday, Nov. 13, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Student Union Ballroom. All are welcome.

This annual event showcases the work of both graduate and undergraduate students, with more than 100 research posters representing a wide range of disciplines taught at the University.

Attendees, including high school students and alumni, will have the chance to connect with student researchers, learn about their projects and discover the importance of hypothesis-driven research.

Lunch will be served, and prizes will be awarded to students for research excellence in both Engineering and Science categories, as well as a participant-voted People’s Choice award.