Dean's Perspective

The pandemic has changed everything for everyone and has made us shift much of our activity in the college to alternate ways of teaching, research, and outreach. We have learned a lot about how to deliver quality programs and classes, and how to continue our research and outreach while maintaining a safe environment. We miss in-person instruction and that face-to-face, hands-on environment that is the hallmark of the college, but we have learned new ways to accomplish our goals.

Thank you to our faculty, staff, and students for moving forward together, maintaining a can-do attitude, and supporting each other. We know that what we are all experiencing and doing to navigate these times is not normal for any of us. Thank you to our many alumni and partners for your continued engagement as you face challenges of your own in your organizations, businesses, and families.

It is a sensitive balance of respectful awareness for me that our first priority remains human safety, as the focus of our faculty and staff is to stay on track and deliver on the obligations and responsibilities that are in front of us each day while keeping an eye toward the future. Even in the most challenging of times, we must think about positioning the college for a successful future; it is the driving force for us all.

We are exploring new curricular initiatives, planning for additional college infrastructure, envisioning expanding our presence in Washington, D.C., exploring ways to grow and diversify our student enrollment, and building stronger relationships with our alumni, partners, and friends. The world needs us. Our work is important, our impact is measureable, and we are creating the future.

This issue of the newsmagazine is full of a variety of rich stories and updates on the exceptional activities in the college. I am impressed with our faculty and often wish I could go back and be in their classrooms and labs, and under their mentorship. Our center pages highlight some of the interesting work in our geography program. We’ve included a faculty perspective that describes one way student learning is accomplished during a pandemic; there are countless more examples of how our faculty have stepped up to deliver quality instruction. Creativity and commitment reigns amidst our faculty!

We wish you a safe journey ahead. Please stay engaged with us. We look forward to seeing you in person one day soon.

Warm regards on behalf of our faculty, staff, and students,

Paul M. Winistorfer
Dean