From the Dean

As I walk around campus and greet our new and returning students, staff and faculty, I see their excitement, and like them, I have the same feeling of anticipation about what the new academic year will bring. As this newsletter highlights, we are ready to begin a new school year and build on our efforts and successes from a busy summer.

Our efforts to widen and diversify the STEM pipeline continue to attract attention, with PEER & WISE playing a leading role. In one of its newest programs, it has partnered with GE to introduce engineering career paths to high school students through its Next Engineers program. Just as the first cohort arrived on campus for their initial learning day this summer, Insight Into Diversity magazine announced PEER & WISE was the recipient of an Inspiring Programs in STEM Award, one of many such recognitions of its inclusivity efforts.

This month we also highlight our innovative research and outstanding faculty and student achievements. Our faculty are collaborating with scholars from other prominent institutions to conduct multidisciplinary research advancing personalized medicine in the treatment of cancer, shedding new light on creating a sustainable environment and helping to ensure a clean water supply, the latter supported by funding from the National Science Foundation. Not surprising, the impact of the research conducted by our faculty continues to be recognized with prestigious achievement awards. This issue also features the initial recipients of the named professorships provided by Bob and Kaye Stanzione’s Cornerstone Gift and our students who have received Astronaut Scholarships.

As you can see, we have been busy over the summer and are looking forward to capitalizing on our momentum in the 2022-23 academic year. But our success is only possible because of the support of you, our alumni and friends. As Erin and Clint Herring, both alumni of this college, share in this issue, this support, no matter the amount, is a way to stay connected to your alma mater as well as provide programs that enrich students’ lives. Know that any donation you make by clicking the "Make a Gift" tab below is very much appreciated, and I look forward to welcoming you to campus and thanking you in person during the coming year.

Stay safe and healthy, and go Tigers!