Dear Alumni, Parents and Friends:

This past year has brought unique challenges to the College of Arts and Sciences and to higher education more broadly. Despite the hurdles, our community of students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends continues to thrive. These challenges have prompted meaningful conversations about how essential a liberal arts education is for preparing thoughtful, ethical and engaged citizens. We are delighted that our shared dedication to this mission has led to the largest incoming class we've ever welcomed. At a time when the liberal arts face increasing scrutiny, we are proud of our steadfast commitment to this educational model.

The College of Arts and Sciences remains deeply engaged in work that not only advances academic excellence but also reflects a responsibility to our community and the world. In this issue, you'll see how that sense of purpose comes to life through groundbreaking research conducted in collaboration with students.

We continue to build a faculty rooted in the full breadth of the liberal arts and sciences. Within the past year, we welcomed 20 faculty members with expertise in subjects such as English, history, French, neuroscience, physics and theatre. As part of the university's commitment to academic excellence, the college works to recruit teacher-scholars who contribute through both exceptional teaching and meaningful scholarship.

I'm also pleased to share that USD, in partnership with the College of Arts and Sciences and the Humanities Center, hosted the KPBS San Diego Book Festival on campus this summer. The event featured award-winning authors — including our own — alongside live entertainment and independent booksellers. It was a celebration of literacy and the written word. Next, we'll host the fifth annual Arts and Culture Festival on Oct. 25, with live theatrical and musical performances from our most creative students and faculty.

In this third edition of Arts & Sciences magazine, you'll read how our faculty are redefining research "from soil to sound," how a new generation of students is preparing for careers in health, science and justice, and how our community is boldly reaffirming the power of the liberal arts in a time of rapid change. You'll also find spotlights on standout students and alumni, innovative faculty projects — from quantum physics to the sociology of dying — and glimpses of our future through new programs, a new neuroscience department and plans for a new Shiley STEM initiative.

Your belief in and support of our mission are deeply appreciated. Together, we are ensuring that the values at the heart of the liberal arts remain strong and relevant.

Noelle Norton, PhD
Dean, College of Arts and Sciences