Celebrating 2021

Message from the President

UC President Neville G. Pinto

Dear UC Community,

The year 2021 will be upheld as among the most significant years in the history of the University of Cincinnati. Though we were largely locked down and forced apart during the first half of the year, the last half of 2021 brought us together like never before.

Our first large-scale gathering took place under blue skies in April when our graduates and their loved ones were able to celebrate inside Nippert Stadium for the first of three in-person commencement ceremonies this year. What an incredible joy to see our spaces re-energized by our students, faculty, staff and community during fall semester. Despite the challenges presented by COVID-19, we landed another record class by welcoming the largest-ever enrollment at our Uptown campus.

No single day in recent memory stands out quite like September 10, the day we accepted an invite to the Big 12; announced signature investments in diversity, equity and inclusion; and celebrated the renaming of a building to honor a powerful bond between a student and his mentor. We also continued to make significant progress with our Next Lives Here strategic direction, including the launch of Research 2030, as we strive toward leading urban public universities into a new era of innovation and impact.

I know all of you join me in congratulating our undefeated Bearcats who became the first-ever non-Power 5 team invited to the College Football Playoff. I look forward to cheering them on versus Alabama on New Year’s Eve.

As we set our sights on 2022, I wish you all happy holidays.

Year in Review: 2021

1

David Becker

BEARCATS FOR LIFE

During my time at UC, I’ve been surrounded by people who genuinely care about helping others find direction

2

Shauniece Steele

BEARCATS FOR LIFE

Shauniece Steele credits the University of Cincinnati for shaping her leadership, courage, and confidence — lessons that continue to guide her as an athletic administrator and proud Bearcat for life.

3

Sarah Mullins

BEARCATS FOR LIFE

From student to alum, Sarah Mullins carries the Bearcat spirit wherever life takes her—proof that being a Bearcat for Life truly never ends.

4

Samantha Hillman

BEARCATS FOR LIFE

UC gave her a fresh start — and a lifelong connection. From student life to a career telling UC’s story, this Bearcat found her home and her purpose right here on campus.

5

Jac Kern

BEARCATS FOR LIFE

UC alum Jac Kern found her way back to Cincinnati—and to UC—where she now shares the powerful stories that remind her what it means to be a Bearcat for Life.

6

Annelise Atkinson

BEARCATS FOR LIFE

From life-changing internships to lifelong friendships and love, UC gave her everything — experiences, confidence, and a forever Bearcat family.

7

Maddie Bell

BEARCATS FOR LIFE

Discover how UC alumna Maddie Bell turned her Bearcat experience into a lifelong passion for community and purpose. Her story proves that being a Bearcat doesn’t end at graduation — it’s just the beginning.

8

Ishika Yadavalli

BEARCATS FOR LIFE

Bearcats for Life - Ishika Yadavalli

9

Cashmere Wright

BEARCATS FOR LIFE

From standout Bearcat to lifelong ambassador, Cashmere Wright reflects on how his time at the University of Cincinnati shaped his drive, leadership, and lasting connection to UC.

10

Abby Revetta

BEARCATS FOR LIFE

Discover how third-generation Bearcat Abby Revetta ’17 found her purpose at the University of Cincinnati. From internships to lifelong friendships, UC shaped who she is — and who she’ll become.

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Year in Videos

46,710
Record high enrollment at UC’s Uptown campus