Pi Day at Einstein: Infinite Avenues for Fun
March 14 is a special date at the College of Medicine. While it’s Pi Day, which is commemorated at institutions of higher learning around the world, we get to enjoy an extra layer of fun, because we also recognize our namesake, Albert Einstein, who would turn 143 this year. Somewhere in the time continuum he is celebrating!
Einstein would be 143 this Pi Day. Will this year's pi recitation champion reach that many digits beyond the decimal point? The reigning champion got as far as 125!
Continuing a new tradition, begun last year as we countered the COVID-19 pandemic and the necessity of being apart in a virtual state, Einstein’s office of development and alumni relations is again teaming with the graduate division of biomedical sciences, and offices of student affairs, student activities, and human resources to offer a variety of Pi Day festivities.
This year’s insPIring activities include:
- A “grab ‘n go” at the Einstein Café, where you can get a free slice of pie along with a coloring page and stickers featuring our beloved mascot, Uncle Albert. (The two items are also available to download and print from the Pi Day giving page!)
- A “Where’s Uncle Albert?” scavenger hunt that can be played on campus or virtually (find full details on the site as well).
- Our annual pi recitation contest.
You can visit the special webpage to learn about all of the various opportunities for Pi Day fun. In taking part, alumni and other members of the Einstein community can also participate in a special giving day. Like last year, the fundraising component of Pi Day allows alumni and other friends of Einstein to help support medical education, innovation, and discovery at the College of Medicine.
“Last year’s giving day was a tremendous success,” said Min Um-Mandhyan, senior director of alumni relations. “We exceeded our fundraising goal of $31,400 by more than double, thanks to the generosity of so many who took part in the activities we offered.”
In all, $63,560.43 was raised to support Einstein students and a variety of programs at Einstein. Donors can choose among several options regarding what their donation will support. “This year, there will be robust matching that will help create a greater impact,” added Min. “And, like last year, there will be opportunities to participate no matter where you are, and to post on social media.
“We’re excited to offer ways for our campus community to participate in Pi Day activities” noted Renee Rodriguez, manager of special programs and events for the graduate division. “Whether using your Einstein knowledge to scour campus looking for Uncle Albert, showing off your artistic flair to share on our art wall, or demonstrating your prowess at memorization, we hope you’ll join us!”
Thus far, the top recitation among Einstein community members occurred during the 2019 contest when Srinivas Aluri, Ph.D., an associate in molecular pharmacology recited Pi to the 125th decimal place.
Interested participants are asked to come to Main Street at 12:30pm on March 14. And, of course, start practicing!
Posted on: Tuesday, March 08, 2022