Dean's Welcome

Dear CSTEM Community,

As we tackle another academic year, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the incredible journey our students are on. Building a foundation of understanding and working toward mastery in fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) can be both challenging and rewarding, and I recognize the hurdles can be daunting. The resilience I have seen in the face of these challenges is truly inspiring.

This year’s theme, "Life is a Group Activity," beautifully reflects our shared belief that we are strongest when we work together. Whether it’s supporting each other in the classroom, collaborating on research projects, or engaging with the community, we are united by the collective experience of learning and growth. This theme echoes our commitment to providing a collaborative environment where you can thrive, both personally and professionally.

As a community, we are driven by the following values:

• Lifelong success of our students, staff, and faculty: Your growth and achievements are our top priority. We are dedicated to supporting you throughout your academic journey and beyond, as you build meaningful and impactful careers.
• Excellence in teaching, research, and mentoring: We are committed to excellence in every aspect of your education, providing you with the tools, mentorship, and opportunities to pursue groundbreaking discoveries and impactful research.
• High-impact practices in education emphasizing active and applied learning: We believe that learning is most powerful when it is hands-on and deeply engaging. Our programs are designed to help you apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges, preparing you for the dynamic environments you will encounter in your future careers.
• Diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect: Our community is enriched by the diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences that each of you brings. We are committed to fostering an environment where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to contribute.
• Welcoming and safe learning and working environments: Your safety and well-being are our utmost priority. We strive to create spaces that are inclusive, supportive, and conducive to both your personal and academic success.
• Partnerships and interdisciplinary collaborations: Innovation happens at the intersection of disciplines. We encourage you to seek out partnerships and collaborations, both within our institution and with external partners, to expand your knowledge and create new opportunities.
• Innovation and continuous improvement: In a rapidly changing world, we are dedicated to continuous improvement. We embrace innovation and are constantly seeking ways to enhance our teaching, research, and the overall student experience.

At the core of all of this is the belief that learning and success are not solitary endeavors. Together, we can accomplish more than we ever could alone. As you move through this year, remember that "Life is a Group Activity"—you have a community of students, faculty, and staff who are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.

Thank you for your commitment to excellence, for your hard work, and for being a part of this incredible community. Together, we will continue to build a future where each of you thrives, and where our collective contributions make a lasting impact on the world of STEM and beyond.

With great admiration and support,
Jackie Trischman
Dean