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Provost Announcements

Announcing HAIL, the Hub for AI and Data Science Leadership; Michael Colaresi Appointed Strategic Advisor to the Provost and Director of the Hub for AI and Data Science Leadership

December 8, 2025

Dear Colleagues,

I am pleased to share that I have appointed Michael Colaresi, who currently serves as Associate Vice Provost for Data Science, to serve in a new role as Strategic Advisor to the Provost and Director of the newly established academic Hub for AI and Data Science Leadership (HAIL), effective January 1, 2026.

Anti-Hazing Policy at the University of Pittsburgh - Joint message with Vice Chancellor for Human Resources

September 5, 2025

Note: This notice has been sent to all University employees.

Dear Pitt community,

We are writing to share University Policy CS 32 - Anti-Hazing and remind everyone that hazing in any form is strictly prohibited at the University of Pittsburgh. It is crucial that all members of our community understand and adhere to this policy.

Pitt EDGE Announcement

August 12, 2025

Dear Colleagues,

I am pleased to share an exciting development that reflects the University of Pittsburgh’s ongoing commitment to both academic excellence and innovation in digital education.

Effective July 1, Pitt Online has officially merged with the University’s Center for Excellence in Digital Education (Pitt EDGE). This integration marks a significant step forward in our strategic initiative to expand high-quality online learning and build the internal capacity needed to meet the evolving demands of today’s learners and tomorrow’s workforce.

Interim Leadership at the University Center for Teaching and Learning

Dear Colleagues,

As you likely know, Michael Bridges advised me in February of his decision to retire from his role as Executive Director of the University Center for Teaching and Learning (UCTL) effective June 30, 2025.

To ensure a smooth transition, I am pleased to announce that, effective July 7, Michael Arenth and Bridget Ridge will serve as Interim Co-Executive Directors of the UCTL.

Announcement: New Director of the University Center for Social and Urban Research

May 29, 2025

Dear Colleagues,

After a national search, I am pleased to announce that Shannon Wanless has been appointed as the Director of the University Center for Social and Urban Research (UCSUR), effective July 1, 2025.

In this role, Shannon will report directly to me with a dotted line relationship with the Vice Chancellor for External Relations. She will continue her appointment as a tenured associate professor in the School of Education.