University of Rochester

The University of Rochester operates several distinct campuses, each dedicated to specific academic and research activities. The main River Campus, located approximately two miles south of downtown Rochester along the Genesee River, spans 154 acres and serves as the primary academic hub.

This campus is home to the School of Arts and Sciences, the Hajim School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, the Simon Business School, and the Warner School of Education and Human Development.  Adjacent to the River Campus, which is known for its vibrant student life featuring more than 250 student-run clubs, comprehensive sports facilities, and numerous events, is the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), a leading center for medical education, research, and patient care. URMC encompasses the School of Medicine and Dentistry, the School of Nursing, Strong Memorial Hospital, Golisano Children's Hospital, the Wilmot Cancer Institute, and the Eastman Institute for Oral Health. Located in Rochester's East End cultural district, the Eastman School of Music was founded in 1921 with the support of George Eastman, the founder of Eastman Kodak Company.

This campus features the renowned Eastman Theatre (now known as Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre), the Sibley Music Library — the largest academic music library in North America — and student housing in the Student Living Center. The South Campus, located in Brighton, is home to the Laboratory for Laser Energetics, a national laboratory funded by the Department of Energy, as well as the Larry and Cindy Bloch Alumni and Advancement Center.

The University of Rochester offers a vibrant student life with more than 250 student-run organizations encompassing club sports teams, performing arts groups, academic and professional societies, and cultural and community engagement groups. Campus Community Connection (CCC) serves as a hub for these organizations, facilitating student involvement and leadership development. The university is home to beloved a cappella groups such as the nationally recognized Midnight Ramblers.

Additionally, the club sports program is one of the most active in the country, offering students the opportunity to participate in a wide range of sporting activities, whether for competition or recreation. Traditions and annual events play an important role in fostering school spirit and community at the University of Rochester. Meliora Weekend, established in 2001, brings together alumni, parents, students, faculty, staff, and friends for a weekend of events each fall, combining alumni reunion, family weekend, and homecoming activities.

Another cherished tradition is the Boar's Head Dinner, an annual medieval-themed banquet that began in 1934 and continues to be one of the most significant events of the academic year.

The University of Rochester has an extensive alumni network of many distinguished individuals who have achieved outstanding success in various fields. Notable alumni of the university include: 

• Mary Calderone
• Arthur Kornberg
• J. C. R. Licklider
• Herbert York
• Galway Kinnell
• Donald Henderson
• Masatoshi Koshiba
• Harvey J. Alter
• E. C. George Sudarshan
• Ron Carter
• Chuck Mangione
• Robert Forster
• Renée Fleming

among others.