Making headlines all summer long: Tulane’s top stories you may have missed

Whether you spent the summer on the job, traveling abroad, interning, conducting research, attending classes or simply taking a well-earned break, Tulane didn't slow down. Across campus and around the world, the university celebrated groundbreaking discoveries, major milestones and achievements that are shaping the future of research, healthcare, education and Louisiana itself.

From announcing its plans to lead the redevelopment of the former Charity Hospital building to launching a new nursing pathway to celebrating pioneering medical breakthroughs, award-winning faculty, major research grants and record-setting sustainability efforts, it has been a busy few months for the university. Here's a look back at some of the biggest Tulane stories you may have missed.

Tulane announces major milestone in planned transformation of former Charity Hospital building

The agreement marks a significant step toward redeveloping the landmark property and expands Tulane's role in the project from tenant to owner and lead developer, positioning the university to guide the building's transformation into a national hub for innovation, education and research in downtown New Orleans.

A first in the Gulf South: Tulane doctor helps to 'functionally cure' sickle cell patient

Daniel Cressy became the first patient in Louisiana and the Gulf South to be functionally cured of sickle cell disease through gene therapy, marking a major milestone for Tulane School of Medicine, LCMC Health and Manning Family Children's and giving Cressy a chance to pursue dreams that had previously been put on hold.

Registration opens for Tulane's flagship Future of Energy Forum, bringing global leaders to New Orleans

Registration is now open for the third annual Tulane Future of Energy Forum, a free, public event that brings together leaders from industry, government, academia and technology to explore the future of energy.

Held Sept. 28-30 on Tulane's uptown campus, the theme of this year's forum is "Connected Power: Connecting Leaders. Powering Progress."

The American Heart Association names trailblazing cardiologist Keith Ferdinand Physician of the Year

Keith C. Ferdinand, a nationally recognized leader in preventive cardiology at Tulane University School of Medicine, was named the American Heart Association's 2026 Physician of the Year. The award recognizes more than four decades of groundbreaking research, patient care and advocacy that have helped improve hypertension control and reduce cardiovascular health disparities, particularly in underserved communities.

Tulane professor helps secure New Orleans' place on 'Irreplaceable America' list

New Orleans was named one of 10 sites on the World Monuments Fund's inaugural "Irreplaceable America" list, the only entire city included on the list, which recognizes places whose preservation is essential to telling the nation's story.

Tulane historic preservation professor Heather Veneziano co-led the nomination, highlighting New Orleans' unique architectural heritage and living cultural traditions.

Study finds being female is not a universal stroke risk factor for patients with AFib

A new Tulane study is challenging the long-held belief that being female automatically increases stroke risk for patients with atrial fibrillation. The findings could shift thinking on how often women are prescribed blood thinners versus men who have otherwise similar risk profiles.

Summer upgrades prepare Tulane's uptown campus for the academic year

From major infrastructure improvements to ongoing campus enhancements, Tulane made the most of the quieter summer months and completed projects that will enhance campus safety, sustainability and the student experience.

Global mangrove forests rebound, offering hopeful sign for climate and coastal resilience

Mangrove forests around the world are rebounding after decades of decline, a turning point that reflects the growing impact of conservation policies and restoration programs worldwide.

Nursing track launches for Newcomb-Tulane College students

Tulane is expanding opportunities for aspiring nurses with a new academic pathway that allows Newcomb-Tulane College students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Developed by the Tulane School of Medicine Program of Nursing, the new offering is a seamless route into one of the nation's fastest-growing healthcare fields.

New bipartisan report finds that Americans share the same struggles despite deep political divides

As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary this year, a new report from Tulane University's State of the Nation Project offers a comprehensive assessment of the well-being of all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Six new Tulane Fulbright grant recipients announced for 2026-27

From Berlin to Kathmandu, see where six Tulane graduates are headed after receiving Fulbright grants recipients for 2026-27. The grant recipients represent the School of Liberal Arts, the Celia Scott Weatherhead School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine and the School of Science and Engineering.

Distinguished business leader, devoted alumna Libby Connolly Alexander named chair-elect of Board of Tulane

Tulane alumna, business leader and philanthropist Libby Connolly Alexander has been named chair-elect of the Board of Tulane, the university's governing body. Her appointment reflects decades of leadership, service and philanthropy that have helped advance Tulane's research, academics, athletics and strategic growth.

Trash to Treasure expands efforts to keep reusable items out of landfills

Tulane's Trash to Treasure program collected a record 92,400 pounds of reusable items during spring move-out, diverting nearly 18 dumpsters of waste from local landfills. More than 24,000 pounds of furniture, household goods and dorm essentials were made available at the program's largest-ever Move-In Sale, and the remaining items were donated to more than 30 New Orleans nonprofits.

Bacteria-produced molecule shows promise in slowing cancer spread

Researchers at Tulane Cancer Center have discovered that a naturally occurring molecule produced by bacteria may help prevent cancer from spreading.

The study found that the molecule significantly reduced the spread of aggressive breast cancer cells in preclinical models while showing minimal toxicity, offering a promising new avenue for developing safer therapies.

Howard Boyd named Tulane University general counsel

Howard Boyd, a member of Tulane's Office of the General Counsel since 2015 and deputy general counsel since 2022, will lead the university's legal team as Tulane continues its growth and expanding research mission.

He succeeds Victoria "Tori" Johnson, who is now general counsel emeritus after more than 30 years of service.

Tulane researchers advance new therapies for spinal cord injury and surgical infection prevention

Can function be restored in paralyzed limbs? A Tulane researcher is developing innovative therapies that could help restore movement after spinal cord injuries while reducing the risk of infections following surgery.

As America turns 250, Tulane sees 'resurgence' in ROTC participation

ROTC participation at Tulane University has nearly doubled over the past five years, with the university's Air Force, Army and Navy units all meeting enrollment goals this year.

University leaders credit stronger collaboration between admissions and ROTC leadership, along with expanded financial support and renewed interest in military service, for fueling the resurgence and building on Tulane's long tradition of preparing future military leaders.

Tulane and LumaWave awarded $1.5 million to improve fetal monitoring during labor

Tulane researchers received a $1.5 million award from the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) to develop a groundbreaking fetal monitoring technology capable of directly measuring oxygen levels in fetal tissue during pregnancy and labor.

New interim dean looks to expand access, advance careers at School of Professional Advancement

As Tulane's new interim dean of the School of Professional Advancement, Christa Payne understands firsthand the challenges adult learners face. After balancing work, family and graduate school to earn her MBA from Tulane while raising three daughters, Payne now leads SoPA with a deep appreciation for the needs of working professionals.

Study reveals how kidneys rebuild immune defenses after injury

Tulane researchers have discovered new details about how the kidneys rebuild their immune defenses after injury, shedding light on a process that could lead to improved treatments for kidney disease.