Graduate Students Game Night

Date: October 2
Time: 4-6PM

Venue: Commons 331

We've got a great lineup of games waiting for you—Codenames, Sequence, Sushi Go Party, Exploding Kittens, and more! Also, chances to win great cash prizes! 

1st Prize - $100 
2nd Prize - $75 
3rd Prize - $50

Whether you're a board game pro or just looking to unwind, this is the perfect chance to connect, laugh, and have fun. Don't miss it—bring your friends and join the fun! 

Register here. You can also scan the QR code on the poster attached below. 

Implementation of NIH Research Security Policies

Notice Number:

NOT-OD-25-154

https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-25-154.html

Purpose:

Research Security Program Policy:

In alignment with the OSTP memorandum, NIH will require two-part compliance for both covered institutions and individuals as outlined below:

1.            Covered institutions (i.e., participants in the U.S. R&D enterprise receiving federal science and engineering support "in excess of $50 million per year"). Covered institutions will certify to the NIH that the institution has established and operates a research security program. Each research security program must include elements relating to (1) cybersecurity; (2) foreign travel security; (3) research security training; and (4) export control training, as appropriate.

2.            Covered individuals (i.e., each individual identified as a senior/key person). Covered individuals will certify that they have completed the requisite research security training that meets the research security training requirements within 12 months prior to application submission.

Compliance will be effective for applications submitted on or after January 25, 2026. NIH is participating with NSF other Federal research agencies to develop resources for each of the required elements and to develop a centralized process for recipients to certify compliance. NIH will issue more information on the central certification process as it becomes available.

Please refer to the full notice linked above for further details.

Should you have any questions, please contact the Office of Sponsored Programs.

In today's diverse college classrooms, providing students with options for how they engage with course materials is not just a convenience - it's a critical component of effective teaching. By proactively incorporating alternative formats that support diverse learning needs, we can create a more inclusive environment that fosters success for all students.

Leverage Ally's Alternative Formats

An effective tool for utilizing alternative formats is Anthology Ally, available in Blackboard, which automatically transforms course content into a variety of accessible formats. By using Ally, instructors can provide students with the power to choose the format that best suits their learning style, device, or situation. 

Ally can generate alternative versions of PDFs, Microsoft Word and PowerPoint files, and even content created within the learning management system's editor. These alternative formats include:

• Audio (MP3): Great for students who learn best by listening, or those who want to review content while commuting or performing other tasks.
• Mobile-Friendly HTML and ePub: Perfect for students accessing content on a smartphone or tablet, as the text adapts to the screen size, eliminating the need to zoom in and out.
• Immersive Reader and BeeLine Reader: These formats use features like color gradients and improved spacing to enhance focus and readability, which can be a game-changer for students with dyslexia, have other reading-related challenges, or want to reduce eye fatigue.

Three Ways to Integrate Ally into Your Course

1. Let Students Know This Option Exists

Many students are unaware of the alternative formats available to them. Make it a point to highlight this feature early and often.

• Syllabus Statement: Include a brief section in your syllabus explaining what Ally is and how to access its features. Include a tutorial video or student guide.
• Course Announcement: Post an announcement at the beginning of the term and periodically remind students about the options, especially before heavy reading weeks.
• Point it Out: When uploading files, make a note in the description to draw attention to the Ally "A" icon, helping students make a visual connection to the tool.
  

2. Connect Formats to Learning Needs

In addition to pointing out Ally to your students, explain how different formats can support different learning styles. For example, suggest the audio format for auditory learners or highlight the HTML version for students who prefer to read on their phone. This helps students recognize how these options can benefit their preferred learning styles.

3. Encourage Students to Choose for Their Situation 

Frame alternative formats as a flexible tool for everyone, not just for those with official accommodations. A student might choose to listen to an audio file while preparing dinner, or they might prefer a mobile-friendly version for reading on the bus. This approach helps destigmatize the use of accessibility features and reinforces the idea that learning is not a one-size-fits-all process.

New Staff & Apprentice Application Forms 

WMBC is looking for new staff and apprentices! Applications for both positions can be found here. Not sure what position would fit you better? Apprentices learn from management and prepare to assume a management position once the current officer graduates/leaves, while staff help management carry out their teams' duties.

Zine Submissions

If you're interested in having your artwork or writing featured in the next edition of WMBZine then listen up! We are accepting art and writing submissions until October 1st!

Writing: We're accepting fully written articles, poems, opinion pieces, album reviews, and more! All you have to do is fill out the form and be sure to attach a PDF/Word document and a description of your written piece. Access the form here. 

Art: We're accepting finished art pieces of any kind (paintings, collages, drawings, comics, sculptures, textile work, etc) all you have to do is fill out the form and upload a high quality picture of your artwork. Access the form here. 

If you have any questions email wmbc@umbc.edu or DM @wmbc_radio on Instagram

GBM

Reminder that our GBMs are biweekly this semester! Our next GBM is next Thursday (9/25). It will be from 5-6:30pm in ILSB 116B. We hope to see you all there! 

Modest Mouse Giveaway

Thank you to everyone who attended our DJ on the Quad event last Wednesday. The winner of our Modest Mouse ticket giveaway is Prachi S.! If you see Prachi, make sure to congratulate them (maybe they'll give you their extra ticket)!

Join our discord server or come hang out with us in UC 214! We're open from 12pm to 8pm, Monday through Friday!