A very nice mixture of news and updates this week.

As mentioned in a previous edition, we have moved ahead on the infrastructure improvements and Derby 1070 is now back and rehabbed for our grads. As one resident stated, it is "snug" but nevertheless it is comfortably equipped with desks and a nice new carpet. The new teaching spaces in the basement are not far behind. The new instructional lab in Derby 0135 is in the finishing stages of computer installation and Derby 0140 will have computer replacements done once 0135 is complete. Both labs are on track to be ready for this Autumn 2017

It is worth repeating the good news about the Columbus Smart City Award -- this award from the US Department of Transportation coupled with promised investments from local businesses will inject $140 million to improve many aspects of mobility in Columbus. One of the more intriguing ideas is that the improvement in accessibility in under-privileged communities can potentially help lower infant mortality. The College of Engineering did a nice piece on the overall project, and it is great to see CURA acknowledged there, representing Arts and Sciences well!

FYI grant writers:  On July 25, 2016, the National Science Foundation (NSF) will perform additional automated compliance checks on proposals submitted through FastLane.  Proposers submitting through Grants.gov should be aware that Grants.gov will allow a proposal to be submitted, even if it does not comply with these proposal preparation requirements. Should NSF receive a proposal from Grants.gov that is not compliant, it will be returned without review. You can view a complete list of FastLane auto-compliance checks by clicking:  here.

Happy Canada Day (today) and enjoy the long Independence Day Weekend!