Message from the Dean, Summer 2020
Dear Human Ecology community,
I am happy to introduce this summer issue of Human Ecology magazine. We have migrated to a completely online format as we adjust to changes related to the novel coronavirus pandemic.
However, the magazine is no less exciting!
Adapting in this way is one example of the far-reaching impact of COVID-19 but also of our collective resilience. As we have navigated so many challenges in the last five months, I am heartened by the innovative ways our College community has implemented creative solutions, continued and expanded our great work, and also looked out for each other, especially by keeping us socially connected while physically distanced.
As you will see, we have the privilege of celebrating so many accomplishments since our last issue of the magazine. After two years as interim dean, I am so honored to have been appointed the Rebecca Q. and James C. Morgan Dean, and to begin the important work of exploring the needs and vision of our community. One of my chief priorities as dean will be leading the College through a strategic planning process that focuses on thinking through our strengths and contributions, identifying areas for further growth and articulating the Human Ecology niche, both within the university and in the larger community.
While the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a delay in starting this process, it has also highlighted the vital importance of our research, education and public engagement. In the online magazine, as always, you will read about our amazing faculty, students and alumni. We feature just some of our important research, including in the areas of nutrition, environmental design, augmented reality and online shopping, pharmaceutical industry policies, on-skin technology, and child development. We also celebrate many student, faculty, staff, and alumni successes and the completion of our comprehensive renovation of MVR Hall. We highlight the College’s history and its connection to the women’s suffrage movement, our critical response to the pandemic, and much more.
As always, I am so grateful for those who engage with and support our exceptional College. Human Ecology magazine is just one way to stay in touch with what is happening here. With the online format, we might be able to offer more issues throughout the year. Stay tuned! And please connect with the College in other ways by following us on social media, attending any of our virtual events, reading the regular eNews Brief, or simply letting us know how you would like to be engaged.
Sincerely,
Rachel Dunifon
Rebecca Q. and James C. Morgan Dean
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