ALUMNI
Master of the unexpected
Writer and illustrator Chris Van Allsburg, the author of "The Polar Express" and "Jumanji," creates magical worlds in his picture books.
On Campus
What a difference $3.1 billion makes
More than 360,000 alumni made donations to the Michigan Difference campaign. The gifts have transformed campus, strengthened the faculty, and bolstered student life and financial aid. The money makes possible amazing work by some of the world's most talented people.
Plus:
Images of the month »
A campus transformed
 |
See some of the buildings that epitomize the Michigan Difference. Click image for slideshow |
ideas
Hope for the Middle East?
Aaron David Miller served as a Mid-East negotiator for Republican and Democratic presidents. He's got strong opinions about what the US needs to do in that troubled region.
How will Obama govern?
Audio: Ross Business School professor D. Scott DeRue on President-elect Barack Obama's leadership style. 
Research News
At the magical age of eight, belief synchs with behavior
Until children are at least eight years of age, their beliefs have little or no connection to their behavior. They may believe they are good at math even when they do poorly on tests, for example. But at eight, they understand better who they are and what they can do.
On Campus
Space Physics Research Lab turns 60
As the University of Michigan Space Physics Research Laboratory (SPRL) celebrated its 60th anniversary last month, its instruments were at work across the solar system. Older than NASA, the SPRL is the longest-standing independent University-based laboratory participating in the space program.
Research News
Creating a legacy for someone nearing death improves communication
Family members who spend time creating a scrapbook with photographs or videotaping family stories can strengthen their bond with individuals with chronic, life-limiting illnesses, a University of Michigan study shows. This intervention even lessens patients' breathing difficulty and increases their sense of religious meaning.
ALUMNI
The artist's news
Holly Anne Mitchell's jewelry is literally ripped from today's headlines—and from lottery tickets, candy wrappers and crossword puzzles. 
Research News
U-M researchers uncover new links between stem cells, aging and cancer
Why do we age? How come our bodies slow down and break down over time? U-M scientists have discovered that four key genes switch on and off as cells age to reduce the risk of cancer. In the process, they also shut down stem-cell function in aging tissues, reducing their capacity to regenerate. In other words, that decline in old age may be the body's way of trying to ward off cancer.
Research News
Clean results: U-M researchers learn how bleach kills bacteria
Developed more than 200 years ago and found in households around the world, chlorine bleach is among the most widely used disinfectants, yet scientists never have understood exactly how the familiar product kills bacteria. But now U-M research reveals key details about how bleach works.
Research News
Step back to move forward emotionally, study suggests
When you're upset or depressed, should you analyze your feelings to figure out what's wrong? Or should you just forget about it and move on? According to University of Michigan psychologist Ethan Kross, the best way to move ahead emotionally is to analyze one's feelings from a psychologically distanced perspective.