Torero Highlights

The University of San Diego is expanding its STEM programs with an exciting new three-story facility designed to bring students and faculty together in innovative ways. The space will feature modern labs and collaborative classrooms that support hands-on learning across engineering and the sciences. This new addition reflects USD’s continued investment in cutting-edge opportunities that prepare students to solve real-world challenges.

The University of San Diego ranks No. 2 nationally for study abroad participation, with a record 89.8% of undergraduates studying abroad. More than 1,500 students traveled internationally last year, reflecting USD’s strong commitment to accessible, transformative global learning experiences.

The Palomar Health Student Wellness Center at the University of San Diego is a dynamic, three-story space designed to help students thrive academically, socially and personally. Built around five pillars — movement, nourishment, restoration, community and learning — the center offers everything from fitness studios and a teaching kitchen to nap pods and group wellness programs.

For Claire Tande, USD provided more than a degree, it offered international experiences, internships and a supportive community that shaped her growth as a marketing and international business professional. Her journey highlights how USD equips students with the skills and perspective to succeed in a global business landscape.

Rhonda Harley, PhD, Assistant Dean at USD’s Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering, has received the 2026 Outstanding Leadership in Engineering Award for advancing student leadership, professional development, and inclusivity.

Maren Mossman, assistant professor of physics at USD, teaches courses from introductory to advanced quantum labs while engaging students in hands-on research on quantum fluids, both on campus and aboard the International Space Station.

Assistant Professor Karen López Alonzo transforms heritage Spanish courses at USD, creating classrooms that honor students’ existing skills and lived experiences. Drawing inspiration from salsa dancing, she designs dynamic, student-centered lessons that build confidence, deepen linguistic understanding and celebrate cultural identity.

USD’s Oliver Tarvet ‘26 made his debut run at Wimbledon, capturing the hearts of fans with his grit and standout performance. Tarvet earned international recognition and celebrated a milestone moment in his tennis career.

The University of San Diego will launch its first NCAA Division I women’s beach volleyball program in spring 2027, marking USD’s 18th varsity sport and 10th women’s program.

NASA Astronaut and University of San Diego alumnus Matthew Dominick ’05 made history as USD’s first graduate to journey into outer space. As commander of the SpaceX Crew-8 mission, he spent over seven months aboard the International Space Station before returning to Earth in a dramatic 34-minute reentry, landing safely in the Atlantic Ocean.

Taylor Wong ’19, a senior product manager at Microsoft working in cybersecurity, balances her technical career with a flourishing music journey as singer-songwriter

Dr. Ricardo Valerdi ’00 founded Science of Sport to make math more engaging by connecting STEM concepts to athletics, beginning with baseball statistics and expanding into a national nonprofit partnered with major professional sports teams.