Emory Report
Weekly Edition | September 14, 2026
Hi, Emory friends!
Whether it’s treating brain cancer in a young father, addressing antisemitism in democratic societies, ensuring historical accuracy in a hit drama or expanding ethical AI research, find out how Emory is making a difference.
We’re also reflecting on the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. Keep scrolling to read a firsthand account from an Emory alum who was in the North Tower when it was struck.
Thanks for being here — we’ll see you next week with more news.
— The Emory Report team
This week’s stories
From Waffle House to Winship: How a 25-year-old man became a patient of Emory’s new Brain Tumor Center
Joe Bowers was waiting to be seated at Waffle House with his family when, suddenly, he fainted. Bowers was initially diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, but then an MS specialist examined the pattern of masses in his brain. As Bowers remembers it, he was told: “Nah, it’s probably cancer. You should go to Emory.”
Historian Deborah Lipstadt founds Emory institute to address antisemitism
The Emory Policy Institute on Countering Antisemitism, founded by renowned historian Deborah Lipstadt, will examine how governments and institutions across the globe respond to antisemitism.
Mellon Foundation awards Emory $1.8 million to expand ethical AI research
The Mellon Foundation funds will help support the Atlanta Interdisciplinary AI Network and advance ethical, human-centered AI research related to community partnerships, education and more. Emory professor Lauren Klein is the grant’s principal investigator.
Tune in to the Emmy Awards tonight and cheer on ‘The Gilded Age’
Erica Dunbar, Emory professor of African American studies, ensures historical accuracy on HBO’s “The Gilded Age” as the show’s co-executive producer and lead historical consultant. The show is nominated for eight Emmy Awards, including “Outstanding Drama Series.” Find out more about how Dunbar makes the past feel present.
Other news and notes
Remembering 9/11 at Emory
The day after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, thousands of Emory students, faculty and staff came together for a candlelight vigil that filled the Quad. Following the 25th anniversary of 9/11, we reflect on all the lives that were lost or changed on that tragic day and honor those who work to keep us safe.
View from the 87th floor: A firsthand account of 9/11
Emory alum Adam Mayblum was in the World Trade Center’s North Tower when it was struck on 9/11. Read his personal account of the day, which Emory Magazine published in 2012.