UAB Briefs: Eco-recognition, fighting hunger, magic healing
Welcome to another installment of UAB Briefs.
In this weekly online feature, we keep track of interesting people and events on campus.
Know people, places and programs on the UAB campus that deserve a mention? Email us at jchambers@starnespublishing.com.
UAB recognized in Sustainable Campus Index
The Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education has recognized UAB for its Water Reuse and Recovery Program in the association’s 2017 Sustainable Campus Index, according to a university news release.
The index shines a light on innovative, high-impact eco-initiatives at American colleges and universities.
UAB’s Water Reuse and Recovery Program emphasizes year-round water conservation through a network of tanks and piping to capture and reuse groundwater and condensate from heating and cooling system, the release states.
In 2016, UAB saved about 76 million gallons of water and more than $600,000.
The magic of healing
Kevin Spencer -- a renowned illusionist and a leading authority on the therapeutic use of magic in special education and rehabilitation -- will give two performances at The Alys Stephens Center this weekend, according to a UAB news release.
He will present a family-friendly magic show on Friday, Nov. 17, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students or children.
Spencer will also offer a free sensory-friendly performance -- presented by UAB Arts in Medicine -- on Saturday, Nov. 18, at 11 a.m., for adults and children with sensory sensitivities, including individuals on the autism spectrum. To reserve seats for this performance, email Lauren Edwards at laurenme@uab.edu.
An educator, researcher, consultant and film producer who believes in creating inclusive communities where everyone feels a sense of belonging, Spencer is doing a residency on campus.
The residency, presented by Arts in Medicine, includes workshops and performances at Exceptional Foundation, Children’s of Alabama, Spain Rehabilitation Center and the UAB School of Health Professions.
For tickets to events at The Alys Stephens Center, call 975-2787 or go to alysstephens.org.
Still time to fight hunger on campus
On Friday, Nov. 17, UAB students can make still make donations at the Commons on the Green for the “Pack the Pantry” campaign, which began on Wednesday, Nov. 15, and is meant to help students who may need help obtaining food or toiletry items due to job loss, illness or other factors.
The donations from the three-day event will supply food pantries for Student Outreach, Denman Hall and Blazer Kitchen.
Any remaining items will be donated to the local Birmingham food pantry, Community Food Bank of Central Alabama.
For more information, go to uab.edu/blazersagainsthunger.
A new department
The UAB School of Medicine recently added its 27th department. The Division of Orthopaedic Surgery in the school’s Department of Surgery became the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery on Oct. 1, following approval by the University of Alabama System Board of Trustees, according to a UAB news release. Dr. Steven M. Theiss is serving as interim chair of the department.