Dear Reader,
Snow is falling, the libraries are full, and finals are nearly here. Read on for the Maroon’s latest coverage.
News
The University’s budget deficit shrank by 44 percent in 2025, according to its most recent financial statement released last month. Enterprise Chief Financial Officer Ivan Samstein told the Maroon it’s “probably our biggest singular reduction in any year ever,” outside of an outlier COVID-era year.
Earlier in November, the University announced it would scale down plans for a new science and molecular engineering building amid budget challenges. “We’re at a stage right now where we have to be very, very careful fiscally while still meeting the core needs of our research and our students,” said the Dean of Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering Nadya Mason said.
As demand for Student Disability Services increases, some student advocates say existing accommodations services are not accessible enough.
UChicago Students for Justice in Palestine and UChicago United for Palestine protested John Kirby’s appointment as director of the Institute of Politics last month. Kirby, who previously served as the national security spokesperson in the Biden Administration, has faced criticism for his comments regarding the Israel–Hamas war in Gaza.
The chair of the Center for Research in Security Prices told the Maroon the center’s pending $375 million sale to an investment firm is unrelated to the University’s ongoing financial issues, despite increased scrutiny.
Grey City
A new startup wants to apply generative AI to course registration. Cramwell AI, cofounded by Edward Chun (A.B. ’25), allows students to browse course and professor ratings, create customized calendars, and converse with an AI chatbot.
Viewpoints
Since “Operation Midway Blitz” began, the Maroon has tracked immigration enforcement detentions and sightings in Hyde Park. In a new article, “We call on the University to clearly articulate the steps it will take—and the steps it is already taking—to protect this community’s most vulnerable members,” the Maroon Editorial Board writes.
Arts
Last month, former Chicago Symphony Orchestra music director Riccardo Muti returned to the stage for a program including selections by Johann Strauss II, Paul Hindemith, and Antonín Dvořák.
Sports
International men’s rugby took over Soldier Field on November 1, as Ireland faced the New Zealand All Blacks in a highly anticipated “rematch.” The All Blacks won 26–13.
