Spring 2023 | Catalyst | UTSA
Student Writers Alex Roush Environmental Science
Gabriela Maldonado Microbiology and Immunology
Kane Sandoval Environmental Science
Md Mohsin
Message from the Dean Greetings from the College of Sciences. As classes began this spring, I was grateful for all the opportunities I had to witness the buoyant school spirit that returned to labs and classrooms across campus. It is always invigorating to see faculty and students come back at the start of a semester to do phenomenal work that will
Physics
advance the sciences.
Mariana SuarezMartinez
We started this year on a high note by celebrating the grand opening of San Pedro I. This $91.8 million, worldclass facility houses the university’s National Security Collaboration Center and the School of Data Science and will usher in a new era of high-tech education, research and innovation. I’m excited for this issue of Catalyst to spotlight how our college will play an integral role in this new facility, especially in the areas of artificial intelligence, computer science and mathematics.
Biology
Pelle Munoz Environmental Science
Sara Timmons Biology
Student Artists Kayla Calderon Art
Ziqi Yu Chemistry
Data Plot Creator
One reason we are eager to utilize this new space to serve our students is because it offers a unique opportunity to grow diversity in the field of data science. UTSA’s School of Data Science is the first school of its kind in the country that will be offered at a Hispanic-serving institution. This important distinction will empower our college to help diversify the nation’s current generation of data science professionals, a cohort that will shape this emerging industry for decades to come. Our college is contributing to several industries and disciplines by producing the next generation of leaders and scientists. During the 2021-22 academic year alone, nearly 1,000 students graduated from the College of Sciences—our largest number yet. Additionally, college enrollment broke new records this spring and exceeded 4,700 students, the highest ever recorded for a spring semester. I also have to mention the amazing quality of faculty talent we are bringing on board to the College of Sciences. We have had a remarkable group of candidates apply for our open faculty positions, and I am very impressed with their skills and experience. I can’t wait to see what they will achieve and the scientific contributions they will make. Under their guidance and mentorship, our students are poised better than ever to discover tangible, real-world solutions and address society’s greatest challenges. Lastly, I am incredibly thankful for the continued support we have received from our community of donors and alumni. Your contributions are paving the way for new discoveries that will advance science. Thank you again for helping us create secure, bold futures for our students and our community. Sincerely,
Marcella Cornejo Computer Science
DAVID R. SILVA, PH.D. Distinguished Professor, Physics and Astronomy Dean, College of Sciences
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