Aurora Perilous
The term aurora borealis conjures up images of huge dazzling curtains, streamers, and arches of atmospheric light that are beautiful and wondrous to behold.

Celestial Milestones
At the dawn of humankind, the known universe ended at the horizon. These days, astronomers are looking into the farthest reaches of space. But just how far is that?

Report Warns of Possible Social, Economic Crisis
The United States faces a social and economic crisis unless America succeeds in promoting and taking advantage of racial and ethnic diversity, according to a report issued recently by a coalition of top corporate chief executive officers and university presidents, including Rice president Malcolm Gillis.

Apartments Obtained for New Grad Student Housing
Pity the poor graduate student who has to find good housing in the relatively expensive neighborhoods surrounding Rice. Their task has just gotten a little easier with Rice’s purchase of the Morningside Square Apartments at 2401–2414 Shakespeare.

Energy Focus of Greenspan’s Talk
Alan Greenspan, generally acknowledged as the world’s most influential economist, had a confession. He told a Rice audience on November 13 that he began his professional career as a musician in a dance band and that his interest in economics was sparked by visits to the library during band breaks. He enrolled in New York University for graduate studies, and the rest is economic history.

Hammond Remembered for His Excellence, Talent
Michael Hammond, a composer and visionary leader who took Rice’s Shepherd School of Music to new levels of professionalism, died from complications of cancer on January 29.

Humanities Building Proves Itself a Winner
When the Humanities Building opened in October 2000, the dedication included one of the most elaborate ceremonies yet to dedicate a Rice University building: a site-specific performance event conceived and choreographed by internationally known dance-theater artist Stephan Koplowitz.

Show Your Pearly Whites
It turns out that the price of trust might be only a smile.

Rayzor Hall Renovations Complete
Think of old, tight corridors, low ceilings, small offices, and dim lighting. If you’re reminded of Rayzor Hall, think again. Rayzor’s familiar facade of pinkish brick and stone is still there, but inside, light, airy, modern spaces now greet students and faculty.

Rice University Joins Research Initiative
It used to be that all a biologist needed was a simple lab and a few specimens. These days, biological research is advanced by multidisciplinary teams with ready access to the latest technologies and resources.