University of San Diego: College of Arts and Sciences

The University of San Diego, including the College of Arts and Sciences and the Humanities Center, is the presenting sponsor for KPBS's 2024 One Book, One San Diego adult selection, Know My Name: A Memoir. Bestselling author of the book, Chanel Miller, came to the USD campus this week to talk about her journey and the power of storytelling to a packed Shiley Theatre. Miller was in conversation with Associate Dean and Professor of Communication, Dr. Jillian Tullis. Thank you to everyone who came out!

At the event, KPBS and the College of Arts and Sciences also announced that the San Diego Book Festival will happen at USD August 23, 2025. Mark your calendars! USD Humanities Center

Claudia Christina Escobar Avila, PhD, discovered her passion for soil and plants through her Zacatecana roots, which led her to pursue a doctorate degree, conduct post-doctoral research and become an assistant professor in the USD Environmental and Ocean Sciences Department at the University of San Diego, where she aims to inspire students to explore environmental studies and pave the way for future generations.

As an educator, Dr. Avila seeks to empower diverse students by sharing her journey and sparking their interest in environmental research. Watch and learn more about Dr. Avila below!

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Claudia Christina Avila Dr. Claudia Christina Avila discovered her passion for soil and plants through her Zacatecana roots, which led her to pursue a doctorate degree, conduct post...

Tonight at 7 at USD! You can still register at the link below!

Wednesday, September 18 in Shiley Theatre in Camino Hall at USD.

One Book, One San Diego Author Talk with bestselling author Chanel Miller on September 18 at USD!

The University of San Diego, including the College of Arts and Sciences and the Humanities Center, is the presenting sponsor for KPBS's 2024 One Book, One San Diego adult selection, “Know My Name: A Memoir.”

Prior to the author talk with Chanel Miller, the Humanities Center will host its own USD Author Panel in the Vassiliadis Family Black Box Theatre, Camino Hall, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Please reserve your spot.

About Know My Name: A Memoir
Content warning: This book explores mature themes, including sexual assault, subsequent trauma, and other challenging subject matter. Reader discretion is advised.

Details and register in link below.
https://www.sandiego.edu/events/cas/detail.php?_focus=93442

Today at 4 at USD! You can still register at the link below!

USD Author Panel September 18 at USD!

The University of San Diego, including the College of Arts and Sciences and the Humanities Center, is the presenting sponsor of KPBS’s 2024 One Book, One San Diego Author Talk with Chanel Miller. As part of this celebration of the written word, USD will host faculty who have recently published books. Join us for this presentation of works spanning from academic publications to a novella to a work of photography.

Co-moderated by Noelle Norton, PhD, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Brian Clack, PhD, Professor of Philosophy and the A. Vassiliadis Director of the Humanities Center. Details to register and authors in link below!
https://www.sandiego.edu/events/detail.php?_focus=93441

USD Author Panel September 18 at USD!

The University of San Diego, including the College of Arts and Sciences and the Humanities Center, is the presenting sponsor of KPBS’s 2024 One Book, One San Diego Author Talk with Chanel Miller. As part of this celebration of the written word, USD will host faculty who have recently published books. Join us for this presentation of works spanning from academic publications to a novella to a work of photography.

Co-moderated by Noelle Norton, PhD, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Brian Clack, PhD, Professor of Philosophy and the A. Vassiliadis Director of the Humanities Center. Details to register and authors in link below!
https://www.sandiego.edu/events/detail.php?_focus=93441

Wednesday, September 18 in Shiley Theatre in Camino Hall at USD.

One Book, One San Diego Author Talk with bestselling author Chanel Miller on September 18 at USD!

The University of San Diego, including the College of Arts and Sciences and the Humanities Center, is the presenting sponsor for KPBS's 2024 One Book, One San Diego adult selection, “Know My Name: A Memoir.”

Prior to the author talk with Chanel Miller, the Humanities Center will host its own USD Author Panel in the Vassiliadis Family Black Box Theatre, Camino Hall, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Please reserve your spot.

About Know My Name: A Memoir
Content warning: This book explores mature themes, including sexual assault, subsequent trauma, and other challenging subject matter. Reader discretion is advised.

Details and register in link below.
https://www.sandiego.edu/events/cas/detail.php?_focus=93442

Laura Rivard, Teaching Professor and Outreach Coordinator for the Sciences at the University of San Diego, joined the "At the Edge of it All" team to share how an early love for biology led her into a teaching career where she shares her excitement for science.

Rivard also breaks down research that shows the importance of keeping science exciting for kids at an early age and tips for making science fun at home or in school. Click the link below to listen!

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-importance-of-making-stem-fun-for-kids-at-an-early-age/id1644441847?i=1000669158438

Exhibition is now up!

Natural Landscapes and Human Meaning Part Five: The Mountain
Tuesdays, from September 17 to November 5, at 4p.m.
Humanities Center, Saints Tekakwitha and Serra Hall, Room 200

In the fall of 2022, the Humanities Center commenced an ambitious three-year exploration of the connection between the human imagination and the diverse array of landscapes in our world. In the first four parts of this series, we focused on the ocean, the desert, the forest and the frozen realms. This semester, our attention turns to the dizzying heights and sublime allure of mountainous terrains. Our gallery exhibitions this semester are dedicated to this theme, while in a wide-ranging series of panel discussions and presentations, scholars from a diverse array of disciplines will reflect on the power of the mountain to captivate, enchant and repel.

The Mountain: An Introduction and Opening Reception
Tuesday, September 17 at 4 p.m.
Brian Clack, PhD | Philosophy
Beth O’Shea, PhD | Environmental and Ocean Sciences

The Core Curriculum at the University of San Diego is integral to the student experience, as it lays the foundation of a well-rounded liberal arts education.

This past semester, the Core Curriculum and College of Arts and Sciences marketing teams revamped the Core Curriculum website to make information about the Core Curriculum more accessible to both faculty and undergraduate students. More in the link below!

https://www.sandiego.edu/news/cas/detail.php?_focus=93686

An official welcome back for faculty and staff in the College of Arts and Sciences tonight from Dean Norton! Check out exciting news in the College below!

The College of Arts and Sciences is now offering new minors, including one in Law, Justice and Society, which provides a comprehensive understanding of how legal systems interact with and are shaped by social, cultural and political forces. The new Food Studies minor offers an interdisciplinary exploration of the complex issues surrounding food. This minor coincides with the launch of the College’s new Center for Food Systems Transformation which supports scholarship that advances food systems change. The Department of Philosophy introduced an Embedded Ethics certificate, which equips students with the skills to navigate and address the ethical dilemmas posed by emerging technologies. Finally, the Department of Communication now offers a minor in Public Relations that prepares students to build and maintain mutually beneficial relationships between organizations and their stakeholders.

October 1 at USD!

https://www.warwicks.com/event/kenny-g-2024

Illume/Warwick’s Author Series
In Conversation with Kenny G
Tuesday, October 1 at 7 p.m.
Shiley Theatre, Camino Hall

The USD College of Arts and Sciences and Humanities Center, along with Warwick’s bookstore, will host best-selling instrumentalist, Kenny G as he discusses his memoir, Life in the Key of G, with Jeff Malecki, DMA, department chair and associate professor of music.

In this heartfelt, funny and fascinating memoir, Kenny G shares how skinny Kenneth Gorelick, the kid who got hassled for his lunch money in high school, became one of the most celebrated and revered virtuosos in the music industry. Kenny G lets readers behind the scenes to see how he creates his unique sound and unforgettable songs. Along the way, he offers life lessons in discipline, determination, and dedication.

This is a ticketed event that includes a copy of the book Life in the Key of G. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to warwicks.com/event/kenny-g-2024.

Free admission for USD students and staff by registering with your USD email and promo code. The code will be announced in the Humanities Center newsletter, or you may contact us directly at [email protected].

University of San Diego: College of Arts and Sciences USD English Dept University of San Diego Music Department

There is reason to celebrate in the College of Arts and Sciences!

The College of Arts and Sciences' marketing team was recognized with eight awards for their outstanding work over the past year. Director of Marketing and Communications Michelle Kennedy and Creative Manager Tanya Aubin received two 2023 Communicator Awards, including a Gold Award of Excellence for Print Content-Magazine for the college's inaugural Arts & Sciences magazine. This publication showcased faculty, student achievements and experiential learning initiatives. The team also earned a Distinction Award for Educational Institutions for their video, “The Desert Sublime: Where Geology Meets Philosophy,” which captures an interdisciplinary student journey to Death Valley.

Additionally, the team won two 2023 Collegiate Advertising Awards. Their “Liberal Arts at USD” video, highlighting the college's dedication to a holistic liberal arts education, received a Gold for Self-Promotion. Tanya Aubin received a Bronze for Advertising Specialty for her “Heart of USD” bilingual tote bag design. Click the link below for more details!!

https://www.sandiego.edu/news/cas/detail.php?_focus=93455

From Navy SEAL to NASA Astronaut: USD Math Alum Jonny Kim’s Incredible Journey From the Battlefield to Outer Space

NASA astronaut Jonny Kim is set to launch to the International Space Station in March 2025 aboard the Soyuz MS-27 spacecraft with two Russian cosmonauts.

From Navy SEAL to NASA Astronaut: Jonny Kim’s Incredible Journey From the Battlefield to Outer Space NASA astronaut Jonny Kim is set to launch to the International Space Station in March 2025 aboard the Soyuz MS-27 spacecraft with two Russian cosmonauts. During his eight-month mission, he will conduct important research aimed at future space missions. Kim's multifaceted expertise includes experi

Dr. Maren Mossman Receives Prestigious NSF Award to Advance Quantum Research!

Dr. Maren Mossman, the Clare Boothe Luce Assistant Professor of Physics at the University of San Diego, has been awarded a prestigious National Science Foundation (NSF) grant to expand quantum research across the United States. The grant, titled Quantum Analog Simulation with Bose-Einstein Condensates in Flexible Light Fields, marks a great achievement for Dr. Mossman, who is one of only 23 recipients selected to advance these cutting-edge projects.

Dr. Mossmans research focuses on fundamental quantum mechanics, the understanding of which underlies everyday devices such as modern computers, lasers, and MRI machines. "Recently, there has been a significant push to develop even more powerful and sensitive quantum technologies, leveraging quantum mechanics in innovative ways to solve complex problems and push the boundaries of these advanced systems," Dr. Mossman explains. More in the link below!
https://www.sandiego.edu/news/cas/detail.php?_focus=93590

A Political Scientist Breaks Down the Presidential Nomination Process and How to Be a More Informed Voter

Casey Dominguez, chair of the department of political science and international relations, joined the "At the Edge of it All" team to discuss the 2024 Democratic presidential nomination process that led to Kamala Harris' nomination, and the historical context behind it. Dominguez also offers tips on how to become a more knowledgeable voter. Listen to episode below!

A Political Scientist Breaks Down the Presidential Nomination Process and How to Be a More Informed Voter Casey Dominguez, chair of the department of political science and international relations, joined the "At the Edge of it All" team to discuss the 2024 Democrati

One Book, One San Diego Author Talk with bestselling author Chanel Miller on September 18 at USD!

The University of San Diego, including the College of Arts and Sciences and the Humanities Center, is the presenting sponsor for KPBS's 2024 One Book, One San Diego adult selection, “Know My Name: A Memoir.”

Prior to the author talk with Chanel Miller, the Humanities Center will host its own USD Author Panel in the Vassiliadis Family Black Box Theatre, Camino Hall, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Please reserve your spot.

About Know My Name: A Memoir
Content warning: This book explores mature themes, including sexual assault, subsequent trauma, and other challenging subject matter. Reader discretion is advised.

Details in link below!
https://www.sandiego.edu/events/cas/detail.php?_focus=93442

September 18 at USD!

The University of San Diego, including the College of Arts and Sciences and the Humanities Center, is the presenting sponsor of KPBS’s 2024 One Book, One San Diego Author Talk with Chanel Miller. As part of this celebration of the written word, USD will host faculty who have recently published books. Join us for this presentation of works spanning from academic publications to a novella to a work of photography.

Co-moderated by Noelle Norton, PhD, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Brian Clack, PhD, Professor of Philosophy and the A. Vassiliadis Director of the Humanities Center. Details and authors in link below!
https://www.sandiego.edu/events/cas/detail.php?_focus=93441

Associate Professor of Biology Geoffrey Morse, PhD, has been awarded a cooperative agreement from the United States Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS) aimed at developing a smartphone application to identify potentially invasive beetle species.

Dr. Morse studies seed beetles, a group of insects that primarily feed on the seeds of plants–particularly legumes such as beans and peas. Some seed beetle species are harmless, while others pose significant threats as agricultural pests. Due to these threats, USDA APHIS has a stake in making sure that new pest species are not introduced into the United States. Read more below!
https://www.sandiego.edu/news/cas/detail.php?_focus=93395

Professor Molly McClain Receives Preservation Award for Key Role in Preserving La Jolla Park Coastal Historic District

Professor of History Molly McClain, PhD, is being honored by the Save Our Heritage Organisation (SOHO) for her exceptional contributions to historic preservation. Dr. McClain played a key role in the successful effort to include the La Jolla Park Coastal Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places. For her work, she is being recognized with the People in Preservation award, alongside local historians Diane Kane and Seonaid McArthur.

Dr. McClain’s efforts involved extensive documentation and navigating complex approval processes. Her work has ensured the protection of iconic coastal landmarks such as La Jolla Cove and the Children’s Pool, preserving them for future generations. Read more below!

https://www.sandiego.edu/news/cas/detail.php?_focus=93385

College of Arts and Sciences Creative Manager Tanya Aubin just finished up her master’s degree in peace and justice at the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies at USD. Read her story below about a life-changing course that took her across the country to learn about and connect with others.

Opinion: I got a real life lesson on a long train ride. It was a gift. After two weeks of traveling across the country by train, I was at the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport waiting for my flight back to San Diego. The terminal was full of people immersed in…

Tuesday August 6!

Warwick’s presents Amanda Bellows as she discusses and signs her new book, The Explorers: A New History of America in Ten Expeditions, in conversation with USD Adjunct Assistant Professor of History David Miller, PhD.

Amanda Bellows is a historian of the United States and teaches undergraduates at the New School. She received her PhD from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Bellows served as a Project Historian for the New-York Historical Society's major exhibit Black Citizenship in the Jim Crow Era, supported by a significant National Endowment for the Humanities grant, and has published writing in the New York Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, and elsewhere.

She is the author of American Slavery and Russian Serfdom in the Post-Emancipation Imagination, published by UNC Press. Details on tickets below!

https://www.warwicks.com/event/bellows-2024

Homelessness is a pressing and complex issue in the United States, particularly in San Diego. Here, and across the country, there are many ideas and approaches to addressing it. This week, “At the Edge of It All” was joined by Odilka Santiago, assistant professor of sociology, to discuss some of the factors driving homelessness, and the stark realities of those experiencing it. Santiago provided expert insight and explained why there’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.

The "At the Edge of it All" podcast is offered in English and, when available, in Spanish. You can listen to the podcast episode below! https://www.sandiego.edu/news/detail.php?_focus=93132

What an incredible experiential learning experience!

Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry Tammy Dwyer, PhD, has been recognized for her numerous contributions to the University of San Diego Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry with the Drinan Award for Distinguished Service.

The Drinan Award for Distinguished Service recognizes the dedication of faculty commitment to the mission of the university. This award honors faculty members who exhibit exceptional intellectual leadership, which benefits both the College of Arts and Sciences and the broader university community. Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Noelle Norton, PhD, presented the 2024 Drinan Award for Distinguished Service to Dr. Dwyer at the College of Arts and Sciences' End of the Year and 75th Anniversary Reception on May 10, 2024. Check out below! https://www.sandiego.edu/news/cas/detail.php?_focus=93054

Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry Jeremy Kua, PhD, was recently awarded the 2024 Dean’s Award for Teaching Excellence. This award is presented to faculty who have demonstrated a long-standing commitment to the values of a liberal arts education, possess a challenging and engaging intellectual presence in the classroom, make themselves available to students and influence their lives beyond the classroom and who assist in the growth of their colleagues as effective educators.

Dr. Kua earned his BA in chemistry at Reed College and went on to receive a PhD in chemistry from the California Institute of Technology. Kua joined the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry in 2002. Check out article below!
https://www.sandiego.edu/news/cas/detail.php?_focus=93056

Adjunct Assistant Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry Kelli Khuong, PhD, has been awarded the 2024 Perla and Jeff Myers Adjunct Faculty Award for Teaching Excellence. Dr. Khuong joins an impressive list of adjunct faculty who have left positive, lasting impacts on their students' academic experiences at USD.

Established in 2016, the Perla and Jeff Myers Adjunct Award for Teaching Excellence honors exceptional adjunct faculty who have taught 45 units or more within the College of Arts and Sciences. In addition to recognizing excellence in teaching and highlighting the dedication of adjunct faculty, the award became a growth endowment fund in 2020, ensuring its impact on adjunct faculty in the future. Check out full article below!
https://www.sandiego.edu/news/cas/detail.php?_focus=93052

Jesse Perez, program director and Craig Noel Distinguished Professor at The Old Globe and University of San Diego Shiley Graduate Theatre Program, has been named a 2024 Lunt-Fontanne Fellow. The fellowship program at the historic national landmark, Ten Chimneys in Wisconsin, has brought the nation’s top regional theater actors together to work with a world-renowned master teacher for the past 15 years. This year’s program is hosting nine fellows, including Perez, who will work with actor Stephen MicKinley Henderson in an intensive week-long master class.

Henderson’s work includes six Oscar nominated films, various television appearances, and extensive theatrical credits. He's received numerous award nominations and awards, including a Tony nomination for the 2010 Broadway revival of August Wilson's Fences and the 2022-23 revival of Adley Guirgis’ Between Riverside and Crazy. Through the Lunt-Fontanne Fellowship program, Henderson will guide and mentor the fellows through a focus on acting against type. “I look forward to returning to the classroom with such a wonderful instructor--Stephen McKinley Henderson," says Perez. Read full article below!
https://www.sandiego.edu/news/cas/detail.php?_focus=92979

Juneteenth became an official federal holiday in 2021, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. “It’s not about freedom being given, it’s about freedom being proclaimed,” said T.J. Tallie. The director of Africana Studies at USD joined “At the Edge of It All” to talk about the holiday’s history and its future, as it becomes more widely-celebrated. He also explained how everybody can observe the holiday.

The "At the Edge of it All" podcast is offered in English and, when available, in Spanish. You can listen to the podcast episode below!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-meaning-behind-juneteenth-and-how-to-celebrate/id1644441847?i=1000659529450

Reflection and celebration were the key themes of the University of San Diego (USD) third annual Juneteenth in the Ministry Center on Thursday, June 13.

Roughly 175 people attended the 2024 version of the event, a 75 percent increase from last year.

The University of San Diego (USD) celebrated Juneteenth for the first time on June 9, 2022. The event is a partnership between USD's Black Employee Alliance (BEA) and Mission Integration and features several individuals who speak about the history and importance of Juneteenth, a federal holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Read full article below!

https://www.sandiego.edu/news/cas/detail.php?_focus=93005