Columbia University is buzzing with activity as a new academic year begins, marked by student achievements, significant historical reflections, and engaging community events. The Class of 2030 at the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and the College of Dental Medicine were welcomed at white coat ceremonies in August, while the School of Nursing celebrated its pinning ceremony.
Among the notable students is Kennedy Targosz, a Columbia General Studies student and New York City Ballet dancer, who recently featured in pop star Olivia Rodrigo's "stupid song" music video. Targosz expressed her shock at the opportunity, recalling the fun of rehearsing and filming scenes across New York City, including a mosh pit in Central Park. Louis Relisieux (GS) reflected on the courage of General Studies students, saying, "We come here with very different expertise and we have the courage to embark on a new journey, often far removed from what has been familiar to us."
The university community will also observe the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks with a day of remembrance and a screening of "9/11: Reclaiming Ground Zero" at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine on Friday, September 11, at 6:30 pm. Historically, the Morningside Heights campus once housed a 63-ton "Columbia" locomotive engine beneath Havemeyer Hall, donated by Baldwin Locomotive Works after the 1893 Chicago World's Fair, capable of running at sixty miles an hour in place.
Looking ahead, Teachers College's "Pursuing the Public Good" podcast is launching a new season, exploring topics such as the future of AI in classrooms, sustainability in education, and youth mental health. On the athletic front, computer science major Sulayman Bah (CC'27) is building on a breakout wrestling season, aiming to become an All-American. Bah said his focus is on "performing and putting on a good show" rather than solely on winning.