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4 centralight spring '15 4 U.S. News ranks CMU online among the best in the nation Program also tops the list for state of Michigan U.S. News & World Report's 2015 rankings once again place Central Michigan University's online education programs among the best in the nation and the highest of all Michigan universities. "These standings are a tremendous recognition of the quality of our programs, the faculty who teach them and the student support services provided by our staff," says Peter Ross, vice president of CMU's Global Campus, which oversees the university's online programs. Nationally, CMU ranked No. 5 in best online graduate education programs for teachers and administrators, No. 13 in best online bachelor's programs and No. 25 in best graduate MBA programs. Learn more about CMU's online programs at global.cmich.edu/CMUOnline. • CMU Today CMU faculty member creates simulator tool to get drivers back on the road Brain injury, stroke, neurodegenerative diseases and natural aging often affect driving skills, and for those who have lost their ability to drive, getting to and from rehab appointments can be quite a daunting task. A new tool designed by researchers at CMU will deliver targeted rehabilitation to patients in their homes. "People who live in rural areas or depend on others for transportation may not have the option of going into a clinic," says Rick Backs, director of CMU's Driving Evaluation, Education and Research Center. "Our system eliminates this issue by bringing rehabilitation right to their homes." Backs and DEER Center technology manager Nick Cassavaugh developed a portable simulation tool, which is very much like a video game. The cost- effective tool will enable health care professionals to test a patient's ability to drive and customize rehabilitation programs for the patient to complete at home. "This essentially means clinics don't have to spend $80,000 on large simulators, and they can enable the treatment to happen remotely." • President Ross to remain at Central Withdraws from University of Nebraska presidential search CMU President George E. Ross released a statement in early January regarding his intentions to remain at CMU and withdraw as a presidential candidate at the University of Nebraska. Here's a portion of his announcement: "To the students, faculty, staff, alumni, friends and community of Central Michigan University: "Today I informed the University of Nebraska Board of Regents that I am withdrawing from its search for a new president. "It was a tremendous honor to be asked to interview for the role, and it was rewarding to spend four days experiencing all that is NU. "However, after much soul-searching … Elizabeth and I have determined that our place is here at Central Michigan University. We talked about CMU's expanding academic leadership. We also spoke of CMU being a first-choice university for those who seek not just a large, respected campus, but one where we inspire each other to pursue excellence in a collaborative, caring and encouraging way." The full text of the president's statement can be read here: media.cmich.edu/news/president-ross-to-remain-at-cmu • centralight spring '15

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