Institute for Astrophysical Research Formed
The Institute for Astrophysical Research (IAR) opens with a mission to promote and facilitate both research and education in astrophysics at Boston University. IAR members carry out research in a wide variety of astronomical fields including star formation, the interstellar medium, galactic structure, stellar variability, active galaxies, high-energy astrophysics, galaxy clusters, gravitational lensing, and dark matter. Graduate and undergraduate students are active, vital participants in IAR's research programs.
Center for Cosmetic & Laser Surgery
The Center for Cosmetic & Laser Surgery opens at Boston University. Affiliated with both the Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, the Boston University Center for Cosmetic & Laser Surgery has earned the highest reputation for providing outstanding cosmetic plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures. Its research efforts are constantly pushing forward the science of beauty by developing more effective and less invasive techniques.
Gary Locke Keynote
Commencement speaker Gary Locke (LAW'75), governor of Washington and first Asian-American governor in the country, told the 5,000-plus degree candidates who filled Nickerson Field on May 17 that they were the American dream personified.
In 2009, US President Barak Obama chose Gary Locke as his new Secretary of Commerce, and he was sworn into office on March 26, 2009.
"Our family story is no different from the stories of every family here—whether you are a first-generation immigrant or a sixth. Your stories are made of similar journeys—journeys fueled by the American dream of freedom, hope, and opportunity. And this Commencement ceremony is what generation after generation of Americans and people all across the globe have dreamed of and sacrificed for."—Gary Locke
Learning Resources Network (LERNet) Starts Up
Many BU faculty members currently run educational and enrichment activities for middle- and high-school students to share the University's resources with them and stimulate their interest in various academic disciplines. LERNet is designed to serve as a resource center and clearinghouse to help with ongoing events and to assist faculty who are interested in planning new programs.
The Historical Society Opens
The Historical Society is an effort to reorient the historical profession and revitalize the teaching and broad dissemination of historical knowledge. The society embraces people of every ideological and political tendency and offers a place to debate those views in the context of historical study.
The Center for Congregational Research & Development
The Center for Congregational Research & Development bridges theology and congregational life through research, education, and networking. The work is oriented toward the discipline of practical theology and guided by critical reflection on the actual practice and lived faith of Christians in congregations around the world. The center was later renamed the Center for Practical Theology.
BioSquare 2 Breaks Ground
In April, BioSquare 2, a 192,000-square-foot building which will include research facilities for the School of Medicine, breaks ground. The building is dedicated in May 2000.
DeWolfe Boathouse
Construction begins on a new boathouse, which opens in the fall of 1999.
Juan Julio Wicht Rossel Keynote
Jesuit priest Juan Julio Wicht Rossel, S. J., addresses the graduating class at Commencement.
Quantum Aspects of the World Debuts
Quantum Aspects of the World offers a portal to Boston University courses, support materials, and tools to explore the quantum aspects of the world.
