Yale Unveils Beyoncé Course, Reopens British Art Center, Shares Research Breakthroughs, and Faces Changes in Leadership and Finances

Good afternoon, Yale community. It's Monday, September 1st, and here's what's happening on campus. Yale University is set to offer a new course titled "Beyoncé Makes History: Black Radical Tradition, Culture, Theory & Politics Through Music." Taught by Professor Daphne Brooks from the African American Studies department, the class will analyze Beyoncé's work from her 2013 self-titled album to her recent "Cowboy Carter" album. The course aims to explore how Beyoncé's music addresses social and political ideologies within the Black radical intellectual tradition. The Yale Schwarzman Center has unveiled its Fall 2025 season, featuring a variety of performances, events, and exhibitions. Highlights include "Celestial Garden (Yale)" by visual artist and Yale alum Leo Villareal, running from August 9 to October 10, and "Magic for Animals," a one-woman show by Liz Toonkel, scheduled for November 14. All events are free and open to the public. Additionally, the Yale Center for British Art has reopened after a two-year renovation, welcoming scholars, students, and visitors from around the world. The reopening enhances Yale’s ability to serve as a hub for scholarly exchange and cultural connection. The Yale School of Public Health has released significant research findings. A national study led by Dr. Susan Busch reveals that only 10% of U.S. mental health treatment facilities offer medications for alcohol use disorder, highlighting a critical gap in care. Another study co-authored by Dr. Xi Chen links long-term exposure to surface-level ozone with increased respiratory mortality, including deaths from COVID-19, emphasizing the need for stronger ozone regulation. In response to potential increases in the endowment gains tax, Yale has implemented a 90-day hiring pause, reduced non-salary expenses by 5%, and delayed several construction projects. These measures aim to navigate financial uncertainties and support the current faculty, students, and staff. Furthermore, Yale Law School Dean Heather Gerken has stepped down to become president of the Ford Foundation. Gerken, who served as dean since 2017, will begin her new role this month. The Yale Bulldogs men's ice hockey team is preparing for the 2025–26 season under interim head coach Joe Howe. This follows the retirement of long-time coach Keith Allain. The team looks forward to building on past successes as they enter their 130th season. The Yale Library will be closed today, September 1, in observance of Labor Day. Regular hours will resume tomorrow. That's all for today's update. Stay informed and engaged, Yale.