Good morning, Washington University community. Today is Monday, September 15, 2025, and here are the latest updates from our campus.

First, a significant development in our university's infrastructure: the Network Modernization Project, initiated in November 2024, is making substantial progress. This initiative aims to replace outdated network equipment with cutting-edge technology, resulting in a tenfold increase in bandwidth. Several buildings on the Danforth Campus, including Crow Hall, the Women's Building, and Eads Hall, have already transitioned to the new network environment. The project is set to extend to the WashU Medicine campus in March 2026, enhancing connectivity across all university facilities.

In career-related news, the WashU Fall Career Expo is scheduled for this week. This premier two-day recruiting event connects students with employers across various industries. Day one, on Wednesday, September 17, focuses on Engineering, Health Care, Sciences, Technology, and Entrepreneurship. Day two, on Thursday, September 18, highlights Business, Government, Social Impact, and Creative Industries. Both sessions will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. at the WashU Athletics Complex, Varsity Gym. Students are encouraged to attend both days to explore a wide range of opportunities.

Additionally, on Thursday, September 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Women in Business & Technology Virtual Fair will take place. This event offers students and alumni the chance to connect with top employers seeking diverse talent in business and tech fields. Participation is free, and attendees can explore full-time, internship, and co-op opportunities.

For those interested in student organizations, "ShowcaseU: Meet the Student Groups" is happening on Thursday, September 18, from 12 to 1 p.m. at the Athletic Complex, Varsity Gym. This event allows student organizations to highlight their missions and achievements, providing a platform for students to engage with various groups on campus.

In university financial news, WashU has announced that there will be no university-wide merit raises for employees during the 2026 fiscal year. Chancellor Andrew Martin cited the recent endowment excise tax and cost imbalances within departments as reasons for this decision. The university estimates that the tax will cost an additional $37 million per year.

On the athletic front, the WashU football team opened their 2025 season with a commanding 49-0 victory over Rhodes College. The game, held under the lights for the first time since 2018, saw standout performances from senior Fred Ware and junior quarterback Levi Moore. The Bears will travel to Carroll University for their next game on September 20.

Looking ahead, mark your calendars for the "Day of Reflection on Climate Change" on Saturday, September 29, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Emerson Auditorium in Knight Hall. This event will bring together community partners, alumni, industry professionals, and university members to discuss global climate action. Notable speakers include Christiana Figueres, former Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, and Michael Brune, Executive Director of the Sierra Club.

That's all for today's updates. Stay engaged, stay informed, and have a great week ahead.