"3, 2, One KU" Weekly Memo - 8-17-2026



 

Colleagues,
Welcome to "3, 2, One KU," a weekly memo in which I'll share updates and thoughts for the week ahead. The title of the memo is derived from the format: each edition will include three things to know, two things to share, and one reflection on how our "One KU" initiative is enhancing collaboration across our campuses. I hope you find this weekly communication informative.
Respectfully,
Doug


Three things to know

Reminder: Free speech resources

Last week, Provost Arash Mafi hosted an outstanding day-long retreat that included a discussion of free expression on university campuses. As we approach the start of the new semester, I encourage you to take a few minutes to review our Free Speech website, which lists resources available to our KU community.

KU Medical Center names interim dean of School of Health Professions

Please join me in welcoming Jacob Sosnoff as interim dean of the School of Health Professions, effective Aug. 31. Jacob currently serves as the school’s associate dean of research and a professor in the Department of Physical Therapy, Rehabilitation Science and Athletic Training.

I also want to thank outgoing dean Abiodun Akinwuntan for his leadership over the past 10 years. Abiodun has been a terrific colleague, and we wish him all the best in his new role as provost and executive vice president for academic, research and clinical affairs at Kansas City University.

Faculty and staff invited to Traditions Night

Each summer on the Friday before classes begin, KU hosts the incoming freshman class at Traditions Night, an outdoor pep rally that introduces our newest Jayhawks to KU’s history, spirit and traditions. While the event is geared toward our first-year Jayhawks, I can tell you from experience that it’s a blast for everyone. I hope you’ll join us this Friday at 8 p.m. in the football stadium.


Two things to share

Reminder: Annual KU Teaching Summit

The annual KU Teaching Summit is Thursday, Aug. 20, in Lawrence. This year’s theme, Teaching as a Human Endeavor, will explore ways to strengthen teaching and learning through meaningful human connection.

Jayhawks enter ‘The Booth’ for first preseason practice

Last week, our football student-athletes practiced inside David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium for the first time this season. Read what the Jayhawks had to say about the experience in the Kansas City Star.


"One KU"

Learn about the next phase for One KU Strategic Framework

We’re entering the next phase of Strategic Framework development with the formation of Mission Priority Design Teams. These teams will develop metrics, targets and strategies to advance each of our mission priority areas. Learn more about the teams and their work.