STEM & Research Expansion: WVSOM is pressing ahead with a $35M expansion of its Fredric W. Smith Science Building in Greenbrier County, adding 28,523 sq. ft. to grow research and gross anatomy lab space, with construction activity already reshaping parking and walkways on campus. Energy Innovation: WVU leads the RETI Consortium, selected for an NSF Regional Innovation Engines award that could bring up to $160M over a decade, with total support reaching $321M, aiming to spur energy tech, startups, and jobs across the region. Public Health Watch: The CDC says cyclosporiasis cases have climbed to 4,173 confirmed infections across 41 states, with thousands more suspected; the outbreak remains tied to iceberg lettuce and the Taylor Farms recall, even as FDA lab testing gets disputed. Food Safety & Accountability: FDA retracted a positive Cyclospora lab result tied to Taylor Farms but stressed the recall and epidemiological link still stand—keeping consumer guidance to avoid recalled lettuce front and center. Local Tech & Privacy: Huntington’s $2.1M Flock Safety surveillance contract is facing legal and public backlash, with the ACLU of West Virginia filing suit and residents raising constitutional privacy concerns. Healthcare Access: Gov. Morrisey announced $11M+ to expand virtual care and mobile health clinics through the Rural Health Transformation Program, targeting underserved communities. Community STEM Outreach: WVU will support the National Scout Jamboree in Fayette County with hands-on “Science Behind the Sport” activities for thousands of Scouts.