Hot off the Press! This month's edition of The Core Report. The Core Report provides Rochester WordPress administrators with helpful news, updates, and resources every month. You're receiving this email because you have WordPress administrator access to a University of Rochester website.

The Core Report | May 2025

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The Core Report

The Core Report provides Rochester WordPress administrators with news and resources every month. You’re receiving this because you have administrative access to a University WordPress site, or serve on the University’s Web Governance Council.

Letter from the editor

Tools that scale, not sprawl

More tools often mean more confusion. You end up with duplicated efforts, inconsistent patterns, and extra work to keep everything running. Rochester Core takes a different approach. Instead of starting from scratch every time, we’re investing in shared tools that scale: components, templates, and systems that do the heavy lifting. The result is simpler collaboration and more time to focus on what really matters.
A smiling man named Phil Sennett wearing a blue shirt, exuding a friendly and approachable demeanor.

Phil Sennett
Director, Web Solutions + UX 

University Marketing and Communications | University of Rochester
University of Rochester clock tower surrounded by vibrant pink flowers in a sunny garden setting.


in this edition

↳ Rochester Core theme updates

↳ Rochester Core in action

↳ Industry insights

↳ Training and resources

Rochester Core theme updates

Rochester Core is the University’s WordPress theme. Explore features that have been released and what's coming next. 
Website prototype featuring a list of event based content layout.

Now available

Event feed component

Display upcoming events in a cleaner, more flexible layout that works across sites. With improved customization options and better accessibility, it’s easier than ever to keep your audiences informed and engaged.
Check out the updated event component »


University of Rochester website design showcasing the logo and a contemporary, user-friendly interface.

in progress

Header and navigation updates

We’re redesigning the primary navigation to make room for more menu items and improve how search and utility links appear. The goal is a clearer, more intuitive experience that works smoothly on all devices. You’ll notice some updates on WDEV now, but final refinements are still in the works.


A visual representation of the University of Rochester's website design, highlighting its modern and accessible features.

in progress

Component refinement project

We’re reviewing every Rochester Core component to ensure consistency in font sizes, functionality, spacing, and behavior. These updates will help your sites feel more polished and aligned without requiring a full redesign.


A person focused on typing on a laptop computer, with hands positioned on the keyboard.

have an idea?

Request a feature for Rochester Core

Rochester Core is always evolving, and your feedback helps shape its future. If you have a feature idea or an improvement request, let us know. We’re always looking for ways to make the platform better.
Submit a request »


Rochester Core in action

Rochester Core runs on over 100 University WordPress sites—serving a wide variety of audience needs and business goals.
Homepage of the Endowment site at the University of Rochester


University Endowment

Built with Rochester Core, the site breaks down complex financial topics into clear, accessible content. It helps visitors understand how the endowment supports students, faculty, and the University's long-term mission.
Visit the site »

Industry insights

This month’s industry insights focus on user experience (UX). Discover strategies, tools, and real-world examples that help teams design with clarity, build trust with users, and create digital experiences that function well.

đź’ˇ Quick tip: Good UX starts with asking questions

Before designing anything, talk to the people who’ll actually use it and don't have the background context you do. Their answers will shape what matters most.


Building better with Rochester resources

Access tools and guidance to create work that reflects the excellence and identity of the University of Rochester.
A man strolls past a wall adorned with various paintings in an art gallery

training guide

Image gallery component

Display photos in a flexible layout that’s easy to browse and easy to build. The image gallery helps you showcase moments, people, and places without extra styling or setup.
Explore the guide »

training session

Introduction to PDF accessibility

đź“Ś  Virtual Session

🗓️ Tuesday, July 29, 11 a.m.

Learn how to create accessible PDFs and ensure documents are usable by everyone—no matter their tools or abilities.
Sign up to attend »
A person focused on typing on a laptop computer, with hands positioned on the keyboard and a screen visible.
A woman sitting on a couch, focused on her laptop, with a cozy living room setting in the background.

University resource

Create a site inventory with WP All Export

Easily export WordPress data into custom spreadsheets. WP All Export lets you filter, format, and download content like pages or posts so you can work with your site data.
Learn how to use it »
A University of Rochester student sits under a tree on the quad, surrounded by colorful fall leaves.

university news

Digital accessibility awareness survey

Help improve digital inclusion at the University by taking the Digital Accessibility Awareness Survey. Participants will receive resources, learning opportunities, and ways to get involved.
Take the survey »

Have a great month, Rochester

You’ll receive the next edition of The Core Report in June.

The Core Report is produced monthly by University Marketing and Communications. You’re receiving this because you have administrative access to a University of Rochester WordPress site, or serve on the University’s Web Governance Council.